People tend to be very passionate about their water bottles, and I happen to be one of them. There’s a reason why TikTokers call them “emotional support water bottles.“ I’ve tried most of the viral insulated options out there, and in my book, the Owala FreeSip reigns superior for its utility and functionality.
Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle (24 oz)
- Keeps liquid cold for hours
- Easy flip lid
- Tricky to clean small spaces
Size: 24 oz; also available in 16 oz, 32 oz and 40 oz | Shades: 18 | Features: Double-wall insulation, spout cover, built-in straw and carrying loop
Why I tried the Owala FreeSip
If I'm anything, I'm a very hydrated girl. Not only for skin care reasons, but I also have a fear passing out in public, so I'm one of those people who needs to have water nearby at all times.
I was looking for an option that was easy to carry and could be placed in my bag, and ultimately not spill on my laptop or ruin my favorite book if it accidentally tipped over.
A few of my coworkers and friends have the Owala and raved about it, so I considered myself influenced and got myself a 24-ounce FreeSip.
Why I like the Owala FreeSip Water Bottle
The large opening and hidden straw make drinking easier
The feature that I love the most, is the flip-top and hidden sippy straw. It also has a mouth opening, so you can easily drink (or chug) the rest of your water — without it spilling down your chin. If you've ever been to a workout class where the instructor gives you .3 seconds to take a sip of water, this flip top easily allows you to pop it open and take a quick sip before you move on to the next squat session.
The bottle is double-insulated
It also keeps liquids cold for a really long time and while in extreme temperatures. The brand says it keeps your drink cool for 24 hours, I haven't tested this theory but I do take hot yoga classes where the studio heats the room at 105 degrees and 40% humidity. After a 60 minute class of intense heat, I was shocked (and thankful) to find my water still chilled.
There's a built-in handle
The cap also features a handle that makes it easy to carry around while running errands or walking in the park. And to be honest, because it's stainless steel and has a bit of weight, I feel like I have a low-key self defense item (you can never be too careful in New York City!).
When I'm not carrying it by the handle, it's slim design allows me to fit it into any tote bag. The cap's seal is super tight, too. I've had the bottle tip over in my bag and it didn't leak, easing my anxiety of ruining another laptop.
What to consider
The one caveat to these types of water bottles is that they are a bit hard to clean and could grow mold if you don't cleanse it thoroughly. The Owala does have small crevices that are hard to reach with just a sponge, but I found that a straw cleaner does the trick. The rubber seal on the lid cap comes off so you can take it out and clean it separately, too.
I've been using my Owala FreeSip nearly every day for over a year, and I've loved it so much that I ended up getting the 32-ounce version for tough workout classes and times I need extra hydration. The colors are so fun, I'm even eyeing another one.
More Owala products to shop
Owala 32 oz FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle
- Easy-to-carry
- Multiple sip styles
- Hard to clean small spaces
Size: 32 oz; also available in 16 oz, 24 oz and 40 oz | Shades: 18 | Features: Double-wall insulation, spout cover, built-in straw and carrying loop
In a larger size, this Owala option will hold 32 ounces of liquid in its classic packaging.
Owala 40 oz Stainless Steel Straw Tumbler
- Fits in most cupholders
- Spill and leak-proof
- Some dislike straw placement
Size: 40 oz; also available in 24 oz | Shades: 10 | Features: Double-wall insulation, splash-resistant lid and removable straw
More of a tumbler person? This pick is 40 oz. and encased in stainless steel.
Owala 2-in-1 Bottle Brush
- 2 pieces for bottle and straw
- Clean in dishwasher
Comes with: Bottle and straw brush | Features: Removable head and hanging loop
For an easier cleaning process, try this 2-in-1 bottle brush. The thin brush is perfect for scrubbing straws and the larger one works great on tough-to-remove residue within the bottle.
Why trust Shop TODAY
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources and use our own personal experiences with the product and brand to make shopping easier for our readers.
Shannon Garlin is an associate editor for Shop TODAY. She has been with the team for over three years covering a wide range of topics, including product reviews, viral beauty and sales.
