Just like any trend’s controversy, the increasing popularity of Stanley water bottles has created a debate about whether they are better than Hydro Flask. The rhetoric has recently died down, but at its peak, many people, especially on TikTok, were commenting on their unwillingness to betray their support of Hydro Flask. In addition, other social media users posted regarding their disapproval or support of the new Stanley water bottles.

SHS junior Trinity Rothwell prefers Hydro Flask over Stanley. She believes they keep drinks colder for extended periods and hold more water depending on the size. She likes the water bottle caps that flip up with a straw feature, saying they are easy to clean. Rothwell does not like how most Stanleys leak and spill easily, noting that when Stanleys are knocked over, they end up spilling all over the floor. On the other hand, she does like the Stanley aesthetic, noting that Hydro Flask designs are “basic.” With the controversy, she commented that the brand you own will make you biased toward that specific water bottle. 

On the contrary, SHS junior Allie Ryan, an avid Stanley supporter, would never shame anyone for having one over the other, as she was previously a “loyal” Hydro Flask user. She prefers Stanley water bottles because they fit easily into a car cup holder. She said they can be carried around more efficiently since they have an actual handle. She explained how there is unnecessary controversy, with people influencing others to buy Stanley just as any trend tends to be. Ryan even provided her theory on trends, detailing how there is a new water bottle every year. She cited popular brands such as CamelBak, Hydro Flask, Yeti, Stanley, and even more recently, Owala. With this theory, she said there will always be popularity with water bottle brands. She doesn’t understand why this popularity is present; it is simply a water bottle. 

SHS junior Kelsie Modder has strong opinions on why she prefers Hydro Flask over Stanley. She believes Hydro Flasks are more efficient, keep drinks colder, look better overall, and do not spill everywhere. She enthusiastically discussed how Stanley bottles are “bulky,” a “cup gone wrong,” and a “wannabe Hydro Flask.”

In the middle, SHS Junior Nora Gosnell likes both water bottles. She discussed how, depending on the situation, one may work better than the other. As Stanleys fit in cup holders when in the car or sitting in one place, they are more functional. Hydro Flasks are beneficial for sports, especially on the sidelines. Also, when you’re on the go or walking around between classes, you can fit them in your backpack without worrying about them spilling. Gosnell said Stanleys are more aesthetically pleasing, but Hydro Flasks easily dent. 

Whatever the next mainstream water bottle trend is, there will always be Hydro Flasks vs. Stanleys. The question is, which brand do you prefer?