The water bottle industry has seen an incredible transformation over the past decade, driven largely by trends among high school students. From the days of Hydroflask domination to the current Owala obsession, each brand has had its moment in the sun, captivating the attention and dollars of young consumers. This article explores the rise and fall of these trends, with insights from 11th grader Gwen Ford, who has experienced and embraced each phase of this water bottle evolution.
Hydroflasks burst onto the scene in the mid-2010s, becoming an instant hit among middle and high school students. These colorful, durable bottles quickly became a status symbol, decorated with an array of stickers reflecting their owners’ personalities and interests. Gwen Ford recalls, “I had a Hydroflask in middle school because everyone had them. They were super popular, and everyone would put stickers all over them, and just everyone had one.” The Hydroflask trend spread rapidly, becoming almost a rite of passage for young students. The brand’s emphasis on personalization through stickers made each bottle unique, fostering a sense of community among users. However, as with all trends, the popularity of Hydroflask began to wane as new contenders entered the market, each promising to offer something fresh and exciting.
The Stanley cup is a product that initially seemed an unlikely contender for high school popularity. Known for their rugged, outdoorsy design, Stanley bottles and cups were traditionally associated with camping and outdoor activities. However, they found a surprising new audience among high school students looking for something different. Gwen Ford admits her initial skepticism, saying, “Okay at first I thought the Stanley cup was stupid. Over 50 dollars for a water bottle that is barely accessible considering it doesn’t even fit in backpacks, and they’re massive.” Despite these initial reservations, the Stanley cup managed to carve out its own niche. “But then, my mom got me one for Christmas, and I can’t even lie, I love it. It keeps my water so cold, and the straw top is something most water bottles don’t have. I like that there’s a physical straw in it,” Gwen reflects. This trend highlights how products once considered niche or impractical can find new life when reimagined for a different audience.
The latest player in the water bottle game is Owala, a brand that has captured the hearts of students with its vibrant designs and practical features. Gwen Ford is an enthusiastic fan, stating, “I love my Owala. I love the cap, and how colorful they are, and they’re literally the perfect size. My Owala is definitely my favorite out of all of the water bottles I’ve had.” Unlike the bulky Stanley cups, Owala bottles strike a balance between size and functionality, making them an ideal choice for students who need to carry them throughout the day. Owala’s success can be attributed to its keen understanding of what young consumers want: eye-catching aesthetics combined with practical features. The bottles are easy to carry, come in a variety of bright colors, and have innovative caps that prevent spills. This combination of form and function has made Owala the new must-have item, reflecting the fast-paced nature of trends among high school students.
The rapid rise and fall of these water bottle brands show the power of trends among high schoolers. Products like Hydroflask, Stanley, and Owala don’t just become popular by chance; they tap into the social dynamics and preferences of their target audience. Gwen Ford sums it up: “Overall, I think that water bottles can get very overpriced, but I mean, people buy them, a lot. I think it’s good also to be using a reusable bottle every day instead of a new plastic water bottle every day. I think that the Hydroflask, Stanley, and Owala, are all great and very unique products. They all have something in particular that makes them stand out. But in the end, all three are just water.” This statement captures the essence of the water bottle craze: while each brand offers unique features that set it apart, the core appeal remains the same—a reliable, reusable container for staying hydrated.
The water bottle craze, from Hydroflask to Stanley to Owala, illustrates the dynamic nature of high school trends. As new brands emerge and preferences continue to evolve, one thing remains clear: the right product, at the right time, can capture the hearts and wallets of high school students everywhere.
