This January, I’ve reached for my water bottle more often than ever, an unexpected but totally welcome aspiration to stay better hydrated. But, let’s be real: my current water bottle isn’t cutting it. It’s bulky, leaks, and, frankly, not something I’d parade around the library. Owala’s latest releases — the FreeSip Tumbler and Sway — might just be the upgrade you need if you’re also trying to drink more water this year.
But what exactly makes these new Owala bottles and accessories different from your trusty Stanley, emotional-support Swell, or sticker-covered Hydro Flask from 2020? Spoiler alert: they’re not just another cute water bottle. Plus, the brand threw an event to kick off the new additions in Texas this past weekend.
What is the Owala FreeSip Tumbler?
First and foremost, the Owala FreeSip Tumbler is all about functionality and comfort. Perhaps you have been suffering in silence with water bottles that don’t have a comfortable, user-oriented side grip. Unlike its previous models, this one is actually easy to handle and carry and doesn’t feel like you’re lugging around a small child.
But the real star here? Owala’s patented 2-in-1 FreeSip spout. You can sip daintily through the built-in straw or chug as your life depends on it, offering flexibility based on circumstance.
And while your new Stanley might keep things cool with two layers of insulation, Owala’s triple-layer ensures that beverages stay cold longer, making it the ultimate sidekick for long days of pretending you have your life together. Plus, the leak-proof lid with a push-button open feature (and a dedicated lock, because spills are so 2024) adds an extra layer of security.
Cleaning? Something you could do more often thanks to the wide opening, cleaning, and adding ice is effortless. And yes, it actually fits into most cup holders — unlike some of its bulkier competitors that demand they ride shotgun.
What else is Owala releasing?
Let’s talk about the Owala FreeSip Sway — the tumbler’s cooler, more travel-savvy cousin who shows up at the party with a bucket handle and a sense of style. While the FreeSip Tumbler is all about functionality, the Sway is leaning into practicality with more personality.
The standout feature here? That bucket handle. It’s like the Owala team asked themselves, “How can we make carrying a drink feel even easier?” Well, they nailed it — this handle is sturdy and comfortable, making lugging your hydration buddy from point A to point B feel like a breeze. Plus, the contoured shape? It practically hugs your hand, which makes every sip much more enjoyable, unlike some bottles that feel like awkward, cold bricks.
And yes, just like its cousin, the FreeSip Sway rocks the patented 2-in-1 FreeSip spout, triple-layer insulation, a leak-proof lid with a push-button, a wide opening for cleaning and refills, and fits into most cup holders.
What was the event like?
These game-changing sippers debuted Saturday, January 26, at the brand’s biggest launch event yet, A Thirst of Its Kind, at Pearl Park in San Antonio, TX. The event wasn’t just about Owala’s new water bottles — it was an experience with exclusive merch, killer giveaways, and games that kept the place buzzing. And the cherry on top? The epic reveal of massive bottle replicas.
Fans started lining up at 5 a.m. (yes, FIVE) to snag one of these bottles for free. The first 1,000 early risers walked away victorious, while the rest of the crowd settled for the consolation prize of half-priced bottles. The event kept the hype going until 5 p.m. because nothing says “peak hydration” like standing in line for another emotional support water bottle.
The new bottles will be available on January 27 on owalalife.com.