By Anaya Howard ‘27
The basic human need, water, can come to represent many different things. Over the years, reusable water bottles have become fashion statements, ways of expression, and solutions to ongoing problems.
A commonly recognized water bottle brand is Hydro Flask. This brand has gotten the most recognition when the “VSCO” style was trending on social media within Generation Z. The style featured a retro vibe, and Hydro Flasks were a key feature of the style.
According to the company’s website, Hydro Flask was founded in 2009 by Travis Rosbach and Cindy Morse. The founders wanted to solve a common problem: keeping drinks hot or cold for long periods of time.
Hydro Flask emphasizes sustainability by encouraging customers to replace single-use plastic bottles with reusable ones. On the Hydro Flask website it states, “We do it because we believe reusable, refillable and reliable products are key to reducing single-use waste while helping people enjoy the things they like to do in the places they like to be.”
Hydro Flask proved their passion for sustainability by creating a recycling program. On the Hydro Flask website, there is a section to trade in your water bottle. The site displays the six steps that are needed to recycle a Hydro Flask water bottle. The Hydro Flask website states, “You get a $5.00 reward to use on a future purchase.”
Another company that has been recently gaining traction is Stanley. While many people think Stanley became popular overnight, the company has been around for more than a century. According to the website, it was founded in 1913 by inventor William Stanley Jr. The company introduced an all-steel vacuum bottle designed to keep beverages hot for extended periods. Around 2020, the Stanley Quencher tumbler became one of the most sold out water bottles at the time.
Although Stanley gained popularity because of its design, there is more to Stanley’s mission and vision which can be found on the website, “Stanley 1913 is a purpose-driven lifestyle brand built on a foundation of over a century of invention, durability and a commitment to people and the planet.”
A section of the website explains how they apply their mission to real-life. Stanley has partnered with a global nonprofit organization, “charity: water”. They have done projects in over 29 countries with the goal to provide clean and safe water to the people that need it.
Owala is another water bottle brand that was fueled by social media, like Hydro Flask and Stanley. Stated on Owala.com, the brand launched in March of 2020 and invented by Steve Sorenson. Owala’s popular, rounded tumbler features more than 20 fun designs and colors.
Owala thoughtfully designed their bottles for a purpose. The site states, “We love designing things that make life a little bit easier and heckuva a lot more enjoyable.”
The “about page” says, “So we asked ourselves with so many different kinds of water bottles out there, why do 3 out of 4 people still suffer from chronic dehydration?” The structure and designs of Owala’s water bottles motivate people to drink more water, which could combat the problem of chronic dehydration.
Senior Willow Daniel (12) said she chose, “HydroJug because it doesn’t spill. The way the water bottle is shaped fits in cup holders. The colors are vibrant. I love how the water and ice in the cup stays (cold) all day.”
Elosie Bamungwa (12) said she carries an Owala “because it is more secure.”
What started as practical solutions for keeping drinks at the right temperature has evolved into sustainability, missions, and personal well-being. Whether someone carries a Hydro Flask, Stanley, Owala, etc. Today’s reusable water bottles represent much more than just a trend.