Water Bottle Frenzy

Hey Bengals, doesn’t it seem like almost every year there’s a new must-have water bottle? Every corner you turn, someone has that “it factor” water bottle, when just a few years prior, everyone wanted a different one. Three major water bottle companies have had a real impact in the 2020s. These companies are Hydro Flask, Stanley, and Owala. The Blake Beat has the rundown of when and why these water bottles became popular. 

Hydro Flask: 

First up, the Hydro Flask. Hydro Flasks were very popular in mid-to-late 2019 and early 2020. Their popularity was driven by the “VSCO girl” subculture on TikTok. Their search interest peaked in September 2019. The fall Blakes’ class of 2026 was in 6th grade! These bottles were often decorated with stickers, and Hydro Flask sales peaked in late 2020 before declining as newer trends took the stage. 

Stanley: 

The next big thing, Stanley tumblers. In 2019, a partnership with “The Buy Guide” saved the brand after its previous sales had been low. They recognized its potential and bought 5,000 units, which sold out in five days. The 2019 strategy focused on marketing the cups to busy women, focusing on how they fit in cupholders, have a handle, and hold enough ice. The “Stanley Cup” went viral in late 2023, after a TikTok video showed a Stanley Cup surviving a car fire, with ice still inside. The video gained over 95 million views. Stanley had implemented exclusive colors and collaborations (like with Starbucks) to tap into a “sneaker-head” model. Some of these designs have sold out in minutes and created social media buzz. These strategies led to annual sales jumping from $73 million in 2019 to over $750 million in 2023. 

Owala:

Finally, Owala. Owala gained popularity from mid-2023 to early 2024. It went viral due to its “FreeSip spout,” vibrant colors, and leak-proof design. It gained momentum through TikTok reviews, aesthetic lifestyle content, and high-profile viral marketing moments (such as the “Bowala,” a water bottle with bows printed on it). Unlike competitors, Owala bottles are fully leak-proof and easy to clean. They are also lead-free. In late 2025, a viral TikTok video showed a user defending themselves against an intruder at home with an Owala bottle, further boosting the brand’s fame.

Bengals, have you ever seen any of these water bottles? Chances are, there’s one right in front of you! What water bottle brand do you think will take the stage next?