The 17 best gym water bottles of 2026, tested and approved by fitness experts
No matter your workout, our top-tested picks from brands like Yeti, Hydrapak and BrüMate keep your hydration (and energy) flowing.
Our experts independently review everything we recommend. If you buy through our links, we may earn commission.
Having water within reach makes it easier to stay hydrated through a workout — not to mention it directly impacts performance , endurance and recovery . The right water bottle is easy to carry, quick to drink from between sets and unlikely to leak in your gym bag .
In this story
To find the best options, I tested 21 water bottles with Yahoo senior health editor and exercise physiologist Laura Williams . We used them during workouts and evaluated how easy they were to drink from and carry, whether they leaked and how they held up to regular use. These are our favorites.
Best gym water bottle overall
Capacity options:20 and 24 ounces | Materials:High Density Polyethylene, Low Density Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Number of color options:9 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:Yes
This large, insulated HydraPak bottle is perfect for longer bouts of outdoor exercise, but it's a good choice for hitting the gym, too, which is why it tops our list as best overall. It's ideal for long runs on warm days when an insulated bottle like this will keep your water cold for longer than most handheld bottles. Along with the insulation, its sleek and slim design also makes it a good option to stash in a bush or behind a tree if you'd rather circle back for it versus carrying it for your whole run.
This bottle is also a great indoor option as well. Carlos Ponce , a VDOT 02-certified coach in New York City, is a fan of this bottle for indoor workouts at the gym, as it makes for quick and easy sips between cardio sessions or strength sets.
"If you're indoors on a treadmill/spin cycle/pool, this bottle is great because it keeps my beverages cold, doesn’t weigh much, and, unlike metal bottles, can be dropped without risking damage and won't make loud noise to disturb others," Ponce says.
If you're a cyclist, this bottle also fits perfectly for water bottle cage mounts on a bike. So, for spin class or a casual weekend bike ride, the Polar Bottle has you covered.
- Insulated
- Inexpensive
- No handle or case, which might make it harder to grip in the heat
- No pocket storage for nutrition or phone
More top gym water bottles we recommend for 2026
Capacity options:14 oz., 17 oz. | Materials:Plastic | Number of color options:3 (within package) | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:No
When I received a sample pack of these bottles from HydraPak, my first thought was that they seemed pretty basic, with no insulation or carrying mechanism. But they're also perfect for stashing behind a tree in the park or in the shade on the track during a hard workout. I also find these bottles handy for treadmill runs, fitting neatly in my treadmill's cupholders, with enough room left over for a phone, making them a great choice for using on any cardio machine.
It's hard to ignore how budget-friendly they are, too. At just $22 for a pack of three, you're looking at roughly $7 per bottle. If you hit the gym most days a week, you can keep them in rotation, washing them between uses and always having one at the ready. And if you accidentally forget a bottle at the gym, it won't be like losing a Yeti or a BrüMate, which cost considerably more.
These bottles aren't as versatile as other options, though. Since they're not insulated, they won't keep your water cold if you're using them for outdoor exercise. They're also not great for carrying on the run with no handle. If that's the purpose you'd use them for, you're better off spending a few more dollars on something with more features.
- Lightweight
- Fit easily in a machine cupholder
- Easy to hold and drink from
- Not insulated
- Doesn't come with a handle if you want to carry it during outdoor use
Capacity options:23 oz., 34 oz. | Materials:Stainless steel bottle and straw, plastic lid and spout, silicone handle | Number of color options:14 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:Yes; lid is top-rack only
Admittedly, a fair number of bottles on our list are available on Amazon. However, if you're looking for a bottle that checks practically every box and also costs less than many stainless steel competitors, this is the Amazon buy you should grab. The triple-insulated bottle comes in two sizes (23 and 34 ounces) with the smaller version perfectly sized to fit in practically any cardio equipment bottle holder. The flip-top spout is easy to open, drink from and seal, the screw top prevents unwanted leaks and a standout — the stainless steel straw — is durable and easy to clean.
Personally, I prefer the larger 34-ounce bottle to the narrower option. I like that it's less likely to fall over if I set it on the floor between sets, and that, well, it just holds more water. The silicone handle is also easy to grab and carry. It's not quite as handy as an actual handle, but more practical for most workouts. You can also string it through a gym bag or purse strap to make it easy to carry if your bag doesn't have an integrated bottle compartment.
For anyone looking to cut down on plastic exposure, the stainless steel housing and straw are a real bonus, but the plastic spout isn't quite as nice as BruMate's silicone spouts (two of BruMate's products, which also have stainless steel straws, are featured on this list),. That said, the price is considerably lower, so if you're looking for a budget-friendly pick, it's hard to go wrong with the b.box brand. I was also thoroughly impressed how cold the triple-insulation kept my water. I left the bottle in my car overnight on a warm, Texas evening, and the next day when I went to grab it, there was still ice knocking around on the inside.
- Stainless steel housing and straw are easy to clean and durable
- Triple-insulation exceptional for keeping drinks cold
- Screw top is leak proof
- Flip-top spout is convenient and easy to drink from
- Affordable compared to competitors
- For individuals cutting down on plastic exposure, plastic spout isn't as nice as brands with silicone options
Capacity options:18 oz. | Materials:BPA-free plastic, nylon, spandex, polyester (for the handle) | Number of color options:5 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:No
Before testing this bottle from Nathan , I was already a fan of its predecessor, the 14-ounce ExoShot 2.0, which had been my go-to for some time. It's collapsible, compact and lightweight, making it easy to slip into a pocket whether it's filled with water or not. Plus, it comes in my favorite color — hot pink (or, as the company labels it, magenta ). Both of our experts are also fans of Nathan's soft-flask bottles.
"I use this bottle on all runs longer than 30 minutes in the summer and for my long runs in the winter, as well as in my marathons," says Manderscheid. "I love that I can easily toss some powdered electrolytes in there and easily sip every mile or so."
This version has a few key upgrades — a greater fluid capacity and insulation, so it keeps your water colder for longer. Like the hard plastic bottles featured here, it's also easy to fill and freeze ahead of time, melting down quickly in the summer heat to deliver extra cold water.
One downside to the collapsible flask is that it can develop residue buildup if not hand-washed promptly after use (particularly if you're adding electrolyte or other drink mixes to your water), and it's also not dishwasher-safe. Additionally, the flask doesn't have enough storage space for a phone, which could be a significant drawback, especially considering the higher price point of this bottle.
- Collapsible and easy to store in a pocket
- Plenty of fuel storage room
- Insulated
- Not dishwasher-safe
- Harder to clean
- No phone storage
Capacity options:18 oz., 26 oz., 36 oz., 46 oz., 64 oz. | Materials:Stainless steel | Number of color options:14 | Lid options:3 (bottle straw cap and cup cap at an additional cost) | Dishwasher-safe:Yes
Even among non-fitness enthusiasts, Yeti has a reputation for offering high-quality insulated drinkware like this rambler water bottle . We love that this bottle comes in a variety of capacities — from 16 to 64 ounces — and can handle both hot and cold beverages and is dishwasher-safe Best of all, its "chug" spout allows for sucking down extra water after powering through a set of heavy squats or doing a set of burpees. So, for a gym or track-based workout, it's hard to beat.
In fact, for me, it's a go-to for track workouts during the summer. There’s nothing better than stopping for ice-cold water or electrolytes between all-out sprints, and I love that I can trust this water bottle to keep my fluids cold no matter how long my workout takes.
Walking and hiking fans will appreciate the easy-to-carry handle lid, but the biggest drawback is it's on the heavier side, which makes it too awkward to carry during long runs or workouts where you can't keep an eye on it. The 36-ounce size I tested is too bulky to fit in a treadmill or cardio machine cupholder, but the 16- and 26-ounce options might fit, given their more narrow size. Granted, Yeti bottles tend to be a bit more expensive than some other brands, but the high-quality construction often justifies the higher price (and hey, at least they don't cost $300 ).
- Double-wall vacuum seal insulation keeps water cold indefinitely
- Removable chug spout makes sipping and adding ice easy
- Handle lid makes it easy to carry while walking
- Can also be used for hot beverages
- Too heavy to carry while running
- Too large to fit on many gym cardio machines
Capacity options:22 oz., 32 oz., 40 oz., 64 oz. | Materials:Stainless steel | Number of color options:5 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:Yes
It's always a pain when your water bottle isn't cardio-machine-friendly, leaving you with no option but to place it on the floor out of reach. Most cardio machine water bottle cages are smaller than car cupholders (depending on the machine), so even bottles that work in your car won't necessarily work on your treadmill. Most treadmills, ellipticals and bikes can only fit a taller, narrower bottle like the durable, 22-ounce Takeya Sport Insulated Water Bottle .
It has a 3-inch diameter that fits comfortably in hand, and the lid has a spout opening with a built-in ice blocker so you can take easy swigs without breaking a stride and without spills. A quick-drink feature like this is perfect for getting gulps in while playing sports or while catching your breath during a recovery interval on your cardio machine.
Fill-ups are easy with a twist-off lid, and it has a carrying loop for maneuvering. A removable bumper also helps protect the bottle against dings should you drop it by accident.
The bottle is spillproof when the lid is secure — meaning your gym bag won't get soggy — and it's dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
- Insulated to keep drinks cold
- Built-in ice blocker to prevent spills while drinking
- Dishwasher-safe
- One-year limited warranty
- Carry loop
- Heavy for carrying on runs
Capacity options:14, 20, 30, 40 and 64 ounces | Materials:Stainless steel | Number of color options:13 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:Yes
If you're someone who has struggled all your life to make hydration a priority, simply hammering the common guideline to get eight glasses a day probably hasn't ever proven helpful (in fact, it's probably proven overwhelming). But sometimes a designated container that's both cute and functional and designed to keep your water tasting good and at your preferred temperature can be just the ticket.
This STANLEY tumbler comes in a variety of size options that can minimize the task of having to frequently refill it, especially if you don't have a filtered water station readily available and might not feel comfortable drinking what's coming from the tap. Manderscheid is a fan of this bottle in the 30-ounce size, as it's easily portable for everyday tasks.
"It's not as hearty as the OG STANLEY Cup, but it holds enough water to carry with you throughout the day for maximum hydration, and I love that it comes in a variety of colors," Mandersheid says.
In addition to being easily portable to carry on your commute, while driving or at your desk at work, this tumbler can be multifunctional and used during lighter workouts like yoga or during a walk in the park. Its stainless-steel design also keeps hot drinks hot if you want to use it for your morning coffee on the go as well.
- Variety of sizes and colors
- Keeps beverages both hot and cold
- Can be cumbersome to carry during intense workouts
- More expensive than other options
Capacity options:25 oz., 35 oz.| Materials:Stainless steel, silicone | Number of color options:16 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:Yes
Know what I love about this bottle? It's a straw bottle that doesn't look like a straw bottle. The wide-mouth external (silicone) spout makes it easy to gulp down liquids, but you don't have to tip the bottle back to do so — it's attached to an internal stainless steel straw that makes it easy to simply suck water down. The bottle also offers all the features BrüMate bottles are known for — a leakproof lid and stainless steel insulation that keeps drinks hot or cold.
The flip-top makes it easy to access your drink and the carry handle is functional for toting the bottle around. You also don't have to worry about whether the handle will interfere with storage in a cardio machine water bottle holder. The narrower, 25-ounce bottle fits in most machines, although the larger, 35-ounce bottle is less likely to fit unless your tread or elliptical has a larger holder for a bottle.
The screw top lid is also extra wide, which makes it easy to fill with ice. As for cleaning, this bottle is extra nice — all parts are dishwasher safe (although the lid should be top rack only) and the silicone sleeve and spout can be removed for more careful cleaning. And like BrüMate's Era bottle, all parts that come into contact with water or your mouth are plastic-free — a great win for those trying to reduce plastic exposure.
Of course, like most larger, stainless steel bottles, its heavier weight and size makes it less-functional for long distance running workouts. Likewise, the 35-ounce version may not fit every cardio machine holder.
- All parts touching water or your mouth are stainless steel or silicone — may help reduce plastic exposure
- Easy to fill with ice and insulation keeps drinks hot or cold
- Smaller version fits most cardio machine water bottle holders
- Wide spout is nice for gulping down water
- Dishwasher safe
- Larger version may not fit cardio machine water bottle holders
- Not ideal for outdoor running workouts
Capacity options:24 oz. | Materials:Stainless steel | Number of color options:11 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:Lid only
Whether you're looking to shake up a pre-workout supplement or a post-workout protein shake , you may want to carry a shaker bottle with you to the gym. The BlenderBottle Strada Shaker Cup is the perfect double-duty water bottle with a BlenderBall whisk to quickly mix protein and creatine powders into your water without clumps. It's also great to re-fill with electrolyte powder after a sweaty training session when you need to replenish lost minerals .
Plenty of mixer cups exist on the market, but the Strada Shaker Cup is particularly nice because it's stainless steel and insulated, so it'll keep your drinks nice and cold. The stainless steel design also helps reduce the likelihood of lingering odors from supplement powders clinging to the inside of the bottle — not what you want when you use it as a water bottle and a supplement shaker.
The lid of this bottle is also lockable and dishwasher-safe — two handy features. That said, the cup shouldn't be put in the dishwasher. Fortunately, it's easy to wash by hand.
- Great for pre-workout or post-workout supplementation
- Insulated to keep drinks cold
- 16 color options available
- Lid is dishwasher-safe
- Cup must be hand-washed
- Shouldn't be used with hot liquids
Capacity options:14 oz. | Materials:Bottle, BPA-free plastic; sleeve, nylon and polyester | Number of color options:2 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:No
I've been a long-time user of Nathan hydration products, and its handhelds are consistently reliable — they don't leak and are comfortable to carry. I especially like that as you drink, the bottle collapses down, making it easier to carry on long runs.
At 14 ounces, this is a lower-capacity water bottle, which has its advantages and disadvantages. We love that it's light and compact. It's ideal for lower-intensity workouts at the park, hikes, walks or runs along trails or in gyms that have easy-to-access water fountains for regular refills. It's not big enough for longer bouts of activity when you don't have a way to replenish it, though.
It also features a hand strap that allows for grip-free carrying (you don't have to worry about dropping it) and an exterior pocket large enough for keys, a credit card or energy gels, although it may not accommodate a hefty smartphone. If that's an important factor for you, it's worth considering. One more feature we love? The reflective sleeve. For outdoor workouts at dusk or dawn, the added reflection pumps up visibility and safety. Not to mention, if you workout at a track or park, you can set the bottle down and still find it more easily, thanks to those same reflective strips.
- Lightweight and easy to carry during outdoor workouts
- Comfortable to carry while running
- Pocket can easily store gels
- Reflective sleeve is great for low-visibility workouts at night or at dawn
- 14-ounce capacity may not meet all hydration requirements
- Not insulated
Capacity options:101 oz. | Materials:Stainless steel (straw is plastic) | Number of color options:4 | Lid options:1, but has "chug" and straw options integrated | Dishwasher-safe:Yes
Whether you're an athlete or someone who just wants to drink more water, a bottle that provides maximum capacity with a minimal refill requirement may be just what you need. This 101-ounce water bottle (that's more than 3/4 gallons) from Zulu is particularly helpful. Simply fill it up at the beginning of the day and carry it with you to have a constant hydration reminder right at your side.
Not only is this a mega-sized bottle, but it's also great for keeping drinks hot or cold. The vacuum-sealed stainless steel insulation can keep drinks cold for several days or hot for up to 24 hours. We appreciate that the lid is leakproof and offers two options for drinking — a wide-mouth spout for gulping down water or a straw for sipping. The extra-large handle also makes it easier to carry around this super-sized bottle.
Of course, this is a good option for all-day use and workouts at home or the gym, but it's not practical to carry with you while running or riding your bike — it's simply too big and bulky (even unfilled it weighs more than three pounds).
One more thing to love? The price. At less than $50 when on sale, it's significantly more affordable than other, similarly sized insulated bottles. For instance, Hydro Flask's 128 oz. Oasis Water Jug will cost you $125 while Yeti's will set you back $130. If your goal is to increase your water intake and make sure you're drinking enough before, during, and after your workouts, this affordable option does the trick.
- Affordable
- Keeps cold drinks cold for days
- Two drinking options integrated into the lid
- Carry handle is helpful for lugging it around
- Dishwasher safe
- Very heavy when filled (and still heavy when empty)
Capacity options:20 oz. | Materials:Silicone and #5 recyclable plastic| Number of color options:3 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:Yes
I've tried a number of rollable, collapsible and otherwise packable water bottles over the years. This is the only one that I've held on to. While it takes a decided backseat to my larger, insulated water bottles, it's hard to beat when it comes to travel. It collapses to just a few inches tall, its lid screws down tight for a leak-proof seal and it's dishwasher safe, thanks to its silicone construction (I'd still keep it on the top rack only, though). It also feels more substantial than a lot of the other collapsible, travel-friendly water bottles I've tried — it holds its shape and is easy to grip.
All of these features make it a great, lightweight choice for packing in a carry-on bag to have available when you reach your destination for scenic hikes or bike rides. I also appreciate that the mouth is wider than that of many competitors, making it easy to add ice cubes inside. That's a bonus, given that the bottle isn't insulated, so unless you fill it and freeze it in advance, it won't stay cold for very long. Its capacity is also on the lower end, so if you're going to participate in a long or sweaty workout, you'll want to ensure you're near a water fountain or another water source so you can refill it.
- Collapsible and easily packable
- Mouth is wide enough to add ice
- Leakproof screw-top lid
- Dishwasher safe
- Smaller capacity may not suit those who need to carry more water
- Not insulated
Capacity options:20 oz. | Materials:Glass, silicone| Number of color options:10 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:Yes
"Gym workouts" and "glass water bottles" don't sound all that compatible. If you accidentally kick a glass water bottle against the base of a steel-framed squat rack, the result isn't going to be good. But if you're looking for a plastic-free water bottle and you'd prefer a non-stainless steel solution, your only good options are glass or silicone. While silicone has its place (like Stojo's collapsible travel bottle featured above), its flexible construction may not appeal to everyone. So, if you're going to go non-stainless steel? I'd suggest opting for this Ello glass water bottle.
The 20-ounce capacity is good for standard workouts where you won't need extra water, the lid screws on tight for a leakproof seal, the flip-top offers a wide mouth to chug water from and the silicone sleeve helps protect the bottle from bumps and breakage. While the bottle isn't insulated, the lid is wide enough to throw in extra ice and the narrower shape allows it to sit comfortably in most cardio machine cup holders. It's also lighter weight than most stainless steel bottles. And, as you might expect from a glass water bottle, it's also dishwasher safe and won't retain odors — a nice feature if you want to use it for water at the gym and an iced coffee at the office.
Of course, it's not perfect, The bottle, once again, is glass. While the silicone sleeve helps reduce the chance of breakage, you don't want to drop this one by accident. Also, the carry strap is a bit small and not as convenient to hold compared to many of the options on our list. Finally, while the flip top snaps securely, it doesn't feel exceptionally durable — with time and use, it might stop working as reliably (or at all).
- Affordable
- Plastic-free option good for those looking to reduce plastic exposure
- Dishwasher safe
- Wide-mouth opening good for chugging water and lid opening wide enough to add ice
- Fits most cardio machine cup holders
- Despite the silicone sleeve, higher risk for breakage
- Flip-top cap doesn't feel as durable as some brands
Capacity options:1.5L | Materials:Bladder, plastic; vest, nylon/polyester | Number of color options:2| Lid options:NA | Dishwasher-safe:No
A hydration pack isn’t technically a water bottle, but for long outdoor workouts, it’s hard to beat. This lightweight vest comes with a 1.5-liter bladder and an easy-access bite valve, so you can sip hands-free while you run or hike. It also has pockets for essentials like your phone, keys and gels, plus reflective detailing for added visibility.
For longer efforts — especially in colder months when water fountains may be turned off — carrying your own fluids is key. “I recommend a hydration vest that holds more than enough water, or a handheld bottle that’s 14 to 18 ounces,” says Sara Manderscheid , an RRCA-certified running coach.
In testing, I found this pack comfortable and easy to adjust, with no rubbing or chafing. It’s also machine washable (just remove the bladder and tubing first). That said, the bladder takes a bit more effort to clean, so this is best reserved for long runs or outdoor sessions — not everyday gym use.
- Holds 1.5-liters water
- Hands-free sipping is convenient in the middle of longer workouts
- Lots of storage for additional supplies
- Vest itself is machine-washable
- Provides all-over reflection for enhanced visibility during low-light workouts
- Water bladder is more challenging to wash
Capacity options:18 oz. | Materials:Bottle, BPA-free plastic; sleeve, nylon and polyester | Number of color options:4 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:No
Like me, Mandersheid's longtime go-to for on-the-run hydration has been the Nathan Pinnacle 14-ounce soft flask. This one takes it a step further since it holds more fluid, which is key if you're running somewhere without many water fountains or options to easily refill. I especially love that it feels lighter than a hard plastic bottle and once you're finished drinking, you could slide the flattened bottle into your pocket for the rest of your run.
"I love that this new and improved version comes in more fun colors than the 14-ounce, holds more hydration, and comes with a bigger pocket to hold more energy gels," Manderscheid says. "It also still fits comfortably in your hands."
Like the smaller version, it has a hand strap that allows for grip-free carrying so you don't drop it. It also has small pockets to easily stash energy gels, keys or a credit card. It also has a reflective sleeve for added visibility and safety when running in the dark. It unfortunately won't fit a smartphone, though, so you'll want to plan to stash it in a clothing pocket if that's an important factor for you.
Lastly, while Nathan's soft flasks are more lightweight and comfortable to carry, they're not dishwasher safe, so it's important to rinse them out with soap immediately after your run to avoid mold and bacterial growth.
- Compact and lightweight
- Fits in pocket
- Easy storage for other items
- Not dishwasher safe
- More expensive
- Not insulated
Capacity options:6 oz., 11 oz. | Materials:BPA-free, 100% HDPE plastic | Number of color options:1 | Lid options:1 | Dishwasher-safe:Yes
For anyone who is a FlipBelt user or who frequently wears leggings with integrated hip pockets, the FlipBelt Arc Water Bottle is actually a very convenient solution. These bottles are flatter with a slightly curved design, allowing them to easily slip inside one of the brand’s waist belts or the hip pocket of your favorite workout tights. The bottle's curved design also helps it fit more naturally along your body so you're less likely to notice or think about it, especially since it won't be jostling or bouncing around like other belts and bottles might.
"This bottle is great for any outdoor runs under one hour," Ponce says. "It’s convenient for its size and packability and carries enough hydration for the workout."
If you carry the bottle in a FlipBelt brand belt, you'll also still have room to store your phone and some energy gels. The main drawback is the capacity — they only come in 6 or 11-ounce options, which isn’t a whole lot of water.
- Compact
- Can be used with or without running belt
- Inexpensive
- FlipBelt running belt sold separately
- Not insulated
Capacity options:70 oz. | Materials:Nylon, Polyester | Number of color options: 1 | Lid options:N/A | Dishwasher-safe:No
If trail running or hiking is your go-to activity, you're going to want something more durable and with a higher volume capacity to carry your fluids, especially in the summer heat. Hydration packs are a popular option because you can easily wear them and continue moving without having to stop when you're ready to take a sip, which you should be doing frequently during longer and more intense activities.
This pack, which features a 72-ounce bladder, is perfect for when you'll be exercising outside for several hours, especially if you might be on remote trails or in the mountains. Ponce has relied on it for several long runs and even a marathon without needing to refill and is also a fan of the fact that it has multiple pockets to be able to store energy gels or other nutrition items.
"This pack is great because it holds plenty of fluids for my long runs and the straps are adjustable from multiple angles," he says. "The pack also fits as snugly as needed without causing any chafing."
Hydration packs like this one generally aren't dishwasher safe, so you'll have to be mindful of rinsing and keeping the bladder and spouts clean after every use.
- Easy to wear and drink from on the move
- Plenty of storage space for phone and nutrition items
- Not insulated
- Not dishwasher safe
Factors to consider when buying a water bottle
When choosing a water bottle for exercise, it's crucial to first think about how you'll be using it and which features are most critical for your needs. All of these factors may affect which bottle is best for you.
-
Workout environment:For workouts in hot and humid conditions, like outdoors in the summer, sweaty HIIT studios or hot yoga, prioritize insulation to keep your drinks cold. You may also need to consider a larger bottle to ensure you have enough to keep you going throughout your workout if you won't have access to a water source as you exercise.
-
Ease of refills:For indoor workouts or workouts on trails where you have easy access to a water fountain, insulation or size may not be as important. You can choose a larger or smaller bottle, depending on your preference.
-
Ease of transport:If you're a runner or move around the gym a lot, you'll want a water bottle you can easily take with you. Consider handheld options with a comfortable handle and storage for essentials like keys, energy gels or your phone. If holding something in your hand feels cumbersome, look for lightweight or collapsible options that fit in a pocket. While we didn't review any for this piece, you may also want to consider vests that carry multiple water bottles or hydration packs you can wear on your back.
-
Spout:Ensure the bottle has a lid or spout that's easy to sip from during your workout. You may not want options you have to unscrew and screw back on after every sip. Wider-mouth bottles, those with flip caps or squeeze spouts, and those with straws may all be better choices.
-
Weight:Stainless steel and insulated bottles weigh more than plastic bottles. Likewise, larger bottles weigh more when filled to capacity. Consider whether you'll be carrying your bottle with you or if you can store it during your workout. If you'll be carrying it with you, you may want lighter options.
-
Cleaning specifications:You might also consider how easy it is to clean or whether it's dishwasher-safe. However, in my experience, comfort and durability should take priority. My go-to handheld for running is the Nathan ExoDraw 2.0, which isn't dishwasher-safe and must be hand-washed. But to me, that's a fair trade-off for a lightweight hydration system that I can depend on throughout my marathon training season.
-
Trackers for water intake:Some bottles offer markings on the side that show how much water is in the bottle (and how much you've consumed). This can be helpful if you're trying to meet specific goals.
-
Shaker bottle options:Some bottles can be used as shaker bottles to mix up protein drinks, pre-workouts and electrolyte powders. If you like to add supplements to your water, this feature may be important.
-
Width of bottle:If you need to store your water bottle on your cardio machine or in a bike cage, the width of the bottle is important — wider or bulkier bottles are less likely to fit.
How we tested the best gym water bottles
As a marathon runner and USATF Level 1-certified run coach based in Houston — one of the hottest climates in the U.S. — I've tested my fair share of hydration options in both indoor and outdoor conditions.
To round out my expertise, I consulted three additional experts: Chris Mohr , PhD, an exercise physiologist; Sara Manderscheid , an RRCA-certified running coach; and Carlos Ponce , a VDOT 02-certified coach. They provided insight into hydration needs and helped guide which bottle types and features were worth testing.
From there, I researched top brands and selected 21 bottles to evaluate across a range of workouts. With help from Yahoo's senior health editor and exercise physiologist, Laura Williams, I tested each one over several months, assessing factors like insulation, capacity, portability, spout design and ease of cleaning.
We also considered how different workouts call for different features — like storage for outdoor runs or larger capacities for gym sessions — to determine which bottles actually deliver in real-world use. These are the ones that stood out.
FAQs
How much water do I need during a workout?
How much water you need varies based on factors like sweat rate, age, body weight, workout intensity and environment, according to Chris Mohr , PhD, an exercise physiologist and registered dietitian — which makes having water on hand essential.
"It's important to start hydrating before feeling thirsty — a general guideline is to aim for about 17 to 24 ounces — that's about 2-3 cups — before exercise and about 4 to 8 ounces or several large gulps of fluid, every 15-20 minutes during activity," Mohr says.
What is BPA, and why should I avoid it?
When shopping for water bottles, you might notice that many plastic options are labeled BPA-free. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used in the production of certain plastics, including polycarbonate , which is found in products like eyeglasses, windows and some water bottles.
Some studies have suggested a link between BPA exposure and certain health concerns , including cardiovascular issues, liver function changes and certain cancers, though findings vary. These concerns have contributed to increased demand for BPA-free alternatives when choosing plastic products.
How often should I clean my water bottle?
You should clean your water bottle after every use to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and residue buildup, particularly if you're adding supplements or electrolyte solutions to your water. Many bottles aren't dishwasher-safe but are relatively easy to clean quickly by rinsing out with water and some dish soap.
You may also want to invest in a bottle brush cleaning set with a straw cleaner to help you scrub inside taller or more narrow bottles and clean the inside of your straws.
Can I put my water bottle in the dishwasher?
Many hard plastic or stainless steel water bottles are safe to put in the dishwasher. However, if you find a soft-flask bottle more comfortable to exercise with, you can easily keep it clean by hand-washing it daily to avoid bacteria growth and buildup.
What's the best water bottle for running?
As an experienced marathoner, my current preferred water bottle is the Nathan ExoDraw 2.0 . This soft-flask bottle is impressively lightweight, holding 18 ounces of fluid. Whether full or empty, it easily fits into my shorts or sports bra pocket, and it's just as comfortable to carry in my hand.
Other water bottles we tested
-
HydraPak SkyFlask Speed bottle : This soft-flask water bottle is similar to the Nathan ExoDraw 2.0 included on this list but falls short for several reasons. For one, it's not insulated, so water doesn't stay cold once you get moving. It also lacks a pocket to store gels or keys, and the handle isn't as secure as the Nathan bottles. Lastly, I noticed electrolyte residue buildup in the lid spout and around the top of the bottle despite cleaning it shortly after each initial use.
-
Gatorade Gx Water Bottle : While these bottles are fun because you can customize them to display your name on the lid, they're ultimately not the best for outdoor exercise. Since they're plastic and offer no insulation, they won't keep your water or electrolytes cold unless you freeze them, and even then, not for long. They're also too big to carry and don't have a handle or pouch of any sort, so they're better suited for stashing, though you'll have to hope you can find a shaded spot to do that.
-
Nathan ExoShot 2.0 Handheld : This is an old favorite of mine, which was quickly replaced by the Nathan ExoDraw 2.0, as it's slightly bigger in capacity and is insulated. This one still works great in a pinch, though, as it's easily freezable, fits in a pocket and is available in my favorite hot pink color.
-
S'well Traveler : Compact and cardio-machine-friendly, this insulated water bottle is a nice option for general use, but the cap has to be screwed and unscrewed for every swig and there's no carrying loop included. These details make it less appropriate for exercise and gym workouts.
-
Visp Elixir Mixer 2 : This glass water bottle features a built-in stainless steel whisk and offers a silicone sleeve to help prevent breakage. While we wanted to love the product, particularly for mixing up supplements on-the-go, we found the need to recharge the whisk a bit frustrating and the size of the bottle less than ideal for gym settings. The smaller, 12-ounce size is narrow enough for cardio machines, but the capacity is low, while the larger, 24-ounce size was a bit too wide for many of the bottle cages on machines or bikes.
-
On Ultra Vest Pro : We really like this vest for carrying extra supplies during outdoor workouts, and we also like that it comes with two, 500-mL Hydrapak flasks that make it possible to have water always at-the-ready. This may be a great option for long-distance runners who prefer the convenience of the removable, handheld flasks to a pack with a water bladder. That said, at $200 it's pricey and doesn't make a lot of sense for everyday workouts.
Meet our experts
-
Chris Mohr , PhD, an exercise physiologist in Louisville, Ky.
-
Sara Manderscheid , an RRCA-certified coach in Boulder, Colo.
-
Carlos Ponce , a VDOT 02-certified coach in New York, NY.
Update, Mar. 9, 2026: We checked all product prices and availability and added additional categories based on workout needs.. Our No.1 pick for the best gym water bottle is now the HydraPak Polar Bottle based on our most recent testing.
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
