Best BPA-free water bottles

Fact #1: You are probably chronically dehyrdated. In fact, roughly 75% of Americans are. The old benchmark of eight cups of water a day—originally endorsed primarily because it's easy to remember (8 x 8 ounces)—simply isn't enough.

In reality, the average person expends 10 cups of fluid a day through normal bodily processes like sweating, exhaling and urinating. And when you're out exercising on a hot summer day, it's easy to lose two quarts an hour. For active people, it's key to hydrate in advance. If you're waiting until you're thirsty before reaching for water, it's already too late. But using a reusable water bottle reminds you to drink even when you're not thirsty.

Fact #2: When we finally do drink, it's often out of a cheap, disposable plastic bottle that, more likely than not, will wind up in a landfill. Roughly 29 billion plastic water bottles are sold in the U.S. every year (more than any other country), and only 13% of them are recycled. The rest end up in garbage dumps or, worse, floating in the ocean*. That's not a problem with a high-quality, reusable water bottle.

Fact #3: It's cheaper to buy a quality, reusable water bottle. When averaged out, Americans buy and drink 167 bottles per person per year, which costs roughly $400 per person. The most expensive bottle on our list is $44, and most are $20 or less. It's easy math. Buy just one, refill it with refreshing tap water, take good care of it and save money.

Of course, not all reusable bottles are made the same. There are scores on the market, and they all have their strengths and weaknesses based on materials and functions.

Plastic bottles got a bad rap a while back, thanks to Bisphenol A (BPA), a plastic that leaches harmful molecules that have been implicated in several disorders like heart disease, diabetes, sterility and developmental issues in children. Today, though, most use a safer replacement plastic called Tritan™. Plastic bottles are usually on the cheap end, they're lightweight and simple to clean, although they don’t do well with prolonged exposure to dishwashers.

Glass bottles offer a pure taste, are easily washable, and work well for both hot and cold drinks. Plus, they perform well in microwaves and dishwashers. Just don't drop them. That said, many trendy new glass reusable bottles have a protective exoskeleton to mitigate some falls.

Metal bottles are super durable and relatively lightweight. They do dent if dropped from up high, but that just adds character. Many forgo interior linings and manage to retain no metallic taste. They’re a little more difficult to wash and aren’t the best in dishwashers, but their longevity and overall durability makes them a good partner for the long haul.

We sorted through the bafflingly wide and complex world of reusable water bottles to bring you a dozen that get it right. They're attractive, durable, easy to drink from and clean, leak-proof and perfectly portable. Stay cool—and hydrated—this summer with these water bottles.


Nalgene On The Fly (24oz)
Nalgene’s On The Fly water bottle is an upgrade to its popular On The Go. It’s highly impact-resistant and withstands sub-freezing to boiling temps. Made in the USA with Tritan™ poly, it won’t retain odor over time, and is completely BPA-free. Unlike the Nalgenes of yesteryear, it fits in most standard racks.

Starting at $10; Yahoo! Shopping

Stanley Ninteen13 (34oz)
Stanley has been making tough bottles and thermoses for 100 years, and the Nineteen13 is a sharp looking, stainless steel homage to its rich history. Its one-handed spout (available in camo green…and that's it) hides a widemouth opening for easy drinking and cleaning, and keeps liquid where it should be. Whether at the beach, the gym or down some rocky trail, the Nineteen13 is a reliable companion.

Starting at $19; Yahoo! Shopping

Sigg Performance Green (25oz)
With a new Active Top closure, the PG is completely leak-proof. The integrated straw allows easy access without having to tilt or lift the bottle to quench your thirst. In addition, it also accept carbonated beverages, thanks to a special pre-ventilation system that slowly reduces container pressure before drinking. And because it’s as wash-friendly as the best, there’s no problem cleaning out any beer that might’ve found its way into your training plans.

$25; Yahoo! Shopping

Liberty Bottleworks Straight Up (24oz)
The Straight Up is just that. American-made, it’s the only 100% recycled metal bottle on the market. “Snapping” into place, the twist lock cap lets you know when it’s snugged on. The bottle is certified non-toxic, non-leaching, and comes in 12, 16, 24, and 32-oz sizes. It’s sold in every color of the rainbow to suit almost any taste.

Starting at $16; Yahoo! Shopping

Avex AUTOSPOUT Insulated (22oz)
The Avex is a double-walled insulating bottle that keeps liquids cold twice as long as regular bottles. It fits in most bike cages, and the spout shield covers and protects the spout when not in use. It’s a cinch to operate with one hand, and the spill-proof valve keeps things civilized.

$13; Ebay.com


KOR Delta Hydration Vessel (25.3oz)
One of the most comfortable bottles you’ll ever drink from, the Kor Delta has a simple twist cap and closure that reveals a cylindrical landing bay for your lips. The Tritan™-made bottle also has a cushioned base, ergonomic handle and sophisticated styling that dovetails function with fashion.

Starting at $16.30; Pricegrabber.com

Liquid Hardware Outrigger (27oz)
Another stainless steel soldier, Liquid Hardware has a unique magnetic “Quick Stick” lid that latches to the bottle while you drink. The Quick Stick zone offers plenty of magnetic real estate, and it’s backed by a lifetime guarantee. The top collar has a thread-less interior for a smoother drinking experience. What's more, the Outrigger doesn't use a nasty plastic liner, and even plays nice with dishwashers.

Currently $17.60; Amazon.com

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