Water bottle selection guide
Drinking enough water is one of the most important things we can do for our health, yet many Americans aren’t drinking nearly enough.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, water helps lubricate your joints, protect your spine, regulate your temperature and assist in waste removal.
The first way the CDC recommends drinking more water is by carrying a water bottle; this is especially important in hot weather, when you are sweating more.
The right reusable water bottle for your lifestyle will make it easier to drink more water. Here are some of the different types of water bottles, where to find them and who they are good for.
When choosing a water bottle, ask yourself:
1. What activity are you going to be doing?
If you will be hiking and need your hands, pick a CamelBak or pouch you can slide into your backpack with a long straw-like tube to suck on. If you’re running, pick a bottle that is slender and comfortable to carry. If you’re riding a bike, make sure it fits in your water-bottle holder.
CamelBak Hydration Pack, $78.83 (plus 4% Cash Back), walmart.com
CamelBak Hydration Pack, $78.83 (plus Cash Back), Walmart
2. How durable does it need to be?
If you have an active lifestyle — or even a busy life with kids — pick a durable water bottle, like the hard-shelled Nalgene bottles. These are nearly indestructible and are leak proof.
Another great option for durability is stainless steel from Klean Kanteen. These tend to insulate better, so your water will stay cold longer. However, steel bottles can be heavy and might not be comfortable to carry long distances.
REI Nalgene Wide-Mouth Loop-Top Water Bottle, $10.50 (plus 4% Cash Back), rei.com
Nalgene Wide-Mouth Loop-Top Water Bottle, $10.5 (plus Cash Back), REI
3. Is it made out of safe material?
If you pick a plastic water bottle, make sure it does not contain BPA. Look for BPA-free products.
4. What kind of nozzle do you want?
A quick, pop-up nozzle works for sports. A screw-top lid may be more suited for a desk side water bottle. Make sure the lid secures tightly, and also make sure the top of the bottle is wide enough if you want to add ice to your bottle.
Also ask whether you prefer the bottle to be squeezable, which is a good way to quickly get water into your mouth during a sport.
The Scott Pilates water bottle at Walmart.com has a unique flip-top lid, combined with the pop-up nozzle, to prevent spills while traveling.
Scott Pilates Regenerate Aluminum Water Bottle, $5.34 (plus 4% Cash Back), walmart.com
Scott Pilates Regenerate Aluminum Water Bottle, $5.34 (plus Cash Back), Walmart
5. How easy is it to carry?
Convenience matters. Look for bottles with hooks, handles or a comfortable grip to make carrying easier. The Camelbak Glass Eddy has a textured grip outside and a large handle that you can easily hook on your finger.
CamelBak Glass Eddy bottle, $24 (plus 4% Cash Back), rei.com
CamelBak Glass Eddy bottle, $24 (plus Cash Back), REI
6. Do you need measurements?
Some bottles have measurements on the side, so you know how much you are drinking. This can also be useful for mixing drinks or for cooking outdoors if you are camping.
