There is no question that Gen Z tends to have a new water bottle fixation each year: this year, it is the Owala’s time to shine, after the Stanley cup in 2022-2023 and the Hydro Flask in 2019-2020 but what makes it so special? The Owala first became popular toward the end of last year but has really picked up in popularity recently, it being the new “it” water bottle. Coming in many shapes and sizes, the unique color palettes are the water bottle’s main attraction, ranging from vibrant pink to even glow-in-the-dark.
The Free Sip Owala has become the most popular model because it opens with the press of a button to a built-in straw for sipping and a larger opening for drinking. Not only is it easy to drink out of, but its handle makes it easier to carry. It’s not as messy as other water bottles because there is no worry about cleaning a straw, and the company guarantees they are completely leakproof.
“They are very durable and they have a lid that you can either choose to sip or chug which I like,” junior Priya Williams said. “The Owala has a better design than previous water bottles that I have owned, like the Hydro Flask.”
In addition to the functionality, Owala’s also cost less than the Stanley Cup, the previous “it” water bottle. The 40-oz. Free Sip Owala is priced at $37.99 on their website, in comparison to the 40-oz. Stanley being priced at $45. Many people have begun to utilize the Owala as a fashion accessory, with different colors to compliment their outfits.
With 19 unique colorways, Owala’s have become the latest trend on TikTok and other social media platforms.
“They are cute and preppy which has been a common theme this year with trends,” senior Eliza Markeci said. “I think water bottles are trendy because we carry them around to many places and now they have become almost a fashion statement.”
