People have been drinking from glass containers since 1500 BC. Thankfully, glass bottles have come a long way since the height of the Egyptian Empire. Nowadays, glass bottles are more durable, easier to manage and beautiful to boot. Advances in manufacturing techniques and design, coupled with greater interests in sustainable and ecologically sound products have resulted in a renaissance for the glass bottle.
On Performance and Design…
By its very nature, glass is different. Glass is inert, nontoxic, easy to clean, easy to maintain and easy to recycle. It offers unparalleled purity and preserves the true taste of any beverage. Made from sustainable raw materials, glass is also the most eco-friendly option available. All of which is why some have described glass as the best material we have to create drinking products.
Admittedly for the outdoor purist, glass does have its drawbacks. Tipping the scales at nearly twice the weight as stainless steel, glass bottles are heavy, even when empty. And of course, there is always the risk of breakage — a fate not reserved for their plastic and metal counterparts. But for those unsatisfied with the sometimes bland designs of metal offerings, worried about the potential of leaching chemicals, or for those simply seeking a taste free drinking experience, glass is a tremendous eco-friendly option.
We scoured the market and found our bottles. Then we put them through the rigors of a daily chaotic life that goes from the urban jungle to the mountain trail, and then back home to the recreation center for the kids nightly swim practice. The following five bottles not only survived, but thrived, earning a favored status with our editors. Each of these options are not only infinitely recyclable, but entirely BPA, BPS, lead and Phthalate-free.
Avex Clarity Glass Water Bottle
Both classy and glassy, the Avex Clarity Glass Water Bottle holds all the water you need with a refined look that adds a touch of sophistication to your drinking habits. With a lid constructed of stainless steel and food-grade silicone materials, this 20 oz. Clarity Glass Water Bottle is designed so no plastic ever touches your water. In typical Avex style, the opening provides for easy water intake that has us drinking more water, more often. A silicone sleeve helps protect the bottle, while a see-through window lets you know when a refill is needed. The ergonomic carry handle is not only our favorite of the group, but makes life on the go quick and easy.
avexsport.com; MSRP $19.99
CamelBak Eddy Glass
Love your Camelbak Eddy Water Bottle but prefer the fresh taste of water minus the plastic flavor? Enter the Eddy Glass. Made of French glass overlayed with a silicone sleeve for grip and protection, the Eddy Glass can withstand a 3 foot drop onto concrete. Reusable, taste neutral and dishwasher safe while still providing the benefits of CamelBak’s spill-proof Bite Valve, the Eddy Glass will remind you why people have been drinking from glass containers since 1500 BC. Available in 5 colors.
camelbak.com; MSRP $25
EcoVessel Surf Recycled Glass Water Bottle
Whether you’re hydrating on the beach or at yoga class, the artistic design of the silicone sleeve makes this bottle a stylish companion that will earn you plenty of compliments. But with EcoVessel’s “Drop Shield” technology protecting the base and sides from drops of up to 8 feet, this 22oz. glass bottle can also handle more rugged pursuits. The Surf features approximately 60% Recycled Glass and is available with a choice of 5 colors and two interchangeable tops. A flip spout option for those who enjoy their liquids one sip at a time, or the loop top for those who prefer drinking directly from the smooth glass neck.
EcoVessel.com; MSRP $19.95
Lifefactory
There is a reason that you’re starting to see more of these bottles around town. Available in 12, 16 or 22 ounce options, the crystal clear french glass ensures that you get an odorless, taste free drink experience. A wide mouth opening not only makes for easy drinking, but allows you to add ice or fruit to your favorite water or tea. For those who enjoy their beverage of choice with a side of patriotism, you’ll appreciate that Lifefactory’s modern styled silicone sleeves, teethers and select caps are made in the U.S. All told, the Lifefactory glass bottles ensures that your fluids taste mountain-stream fresh from first sip to last.
Lifefactory.com; MSRP $26.99 22oz, $24.99 16oz, $22.99 12oz
Zulu Athletic Glass Water Bottle
Everything about the Zulu Glass Water Bottle was designed with the athletic lifestyle in mind. Built to take a hit, the Zulu bottles utilize extra thick glass that is annealed for added strength. The silicone sleeve offers grip and protection while the inlaid color lines add an extra pop of style. Featuring overmolded cross brace design, the reinforced lid helps protects the drinking surface from your world of motion. For greater versatility, Zulu offers a One-Touch, Quick-Cap, and Carry-Loop lid design so you can get the bottle that fits your own drinking preference. As an added bonus, the Zulu Bottles are the only bottles on this list that offer a threadless drinking experience.
ZuluAthletic.com; MSRP $14.99