I tend to be skeptical of fads, including the water bottle craze sweeping TikTok and Instagram. So when Stanley cups started stealing the spotlight, I brushed it off as yet another sensation that would surely phase out in no time.
That was until I was gifted my very own Stanley.
About two years ago, my friends got me a Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw Tumbler, in a pretty rose quartz hue (unlike me, they're very in tune with trendy products). So, I swallowed my pride and made the Stanley my go-to water bottle.
I have to admit, it's worth the hype -- and, unfortunately, the high price tag.
You shouldn't get a Stanley just because influencers tell you to (or even because I'm telling you to now). But if you want a water bottle that not only looks sleek but can keep water cold for a ridiculously long time (I've had ice last overnight), then a Stanley might be the answer. The IceFlow is currently available for $35 on Amazon.
What I love about the Stanley tumbler's convenience
I'm a big fan of the IceFlow tumbler because of the handle at the top, which makes carrying it on walks or when out and about easier. The built-in straw makes sipping a breeze, and unlike the more popular Quencher tumbler with the handle on the side, this one is totally leak-proof. (Though the Quencher is a solid choice, if you prefer that design.) I have the 30-ounce option, and it fits well in a cup holder and carries enough water without being too bulky. And hey, if it happens to be trendy, so be it.
A Stanley isn't going to change your life (even if it can apparently survive a car fire and keep water cold all the while), but having a good quality bottle that encourages you to drink more water could lead to healthier habits. Sure, there are plenty of water bottles that keep your ice water refreshingly cold, but out of all the drinkware cluttering my cabinets, this is the one I reach for the most -- whether I'm staying hydrated at home or heading out. It checks all the boxes when it comes to size, quality and functionality.
While the price may not be the most appealing, keep an eye out for discounts on sites like Amazon and Target to make it more affordable. That way, your cash -- like the icy water in your Stanley -- will last longer.
For more, here are our favorite travel coffee mugs.