Staying hydrated is one of the most critical components to all our favorite ways to be active. For your next day's hike, snowshoe, or tourist day in the city, your insulated bottle is an unmatched companion. Cool off out there with ice water or warm up with steaming tea. Since Yeti was first known for their competition-crushing line of coolers, it's no surprise that their insulated bottles have stood out in the market since their introduction in 2014. Hydro Flask launched their signature bottles years ahead of Yeti and has now expanded to a full line of insulated food and beverage containers, as well as camp kitchenware, and even a line of soft-sided coolers.
When we compared Yeti versus Hydro Flask insulated bottles, we found that both are solid investments when it comes to functionality. They both come in a range of sizes and colors to suit your specific needs and aesthetics. Both brands also offer tons of accessories and add-ons to optimize your basic bottle. So, we're going to break down the similarities and differences right here to see who comes out on top.
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Yeti Rambler vs. Hydro Flask Wide Mouth
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Yeti Rambler - 26 oz. with Chug Cap
SPECS
- Dimensions: 3.4"W x 10.9"H
- Empty weight: 1.4 lbs.
- Material: Stainless steel
- Size options: 18 oz., 26 oz., 36 oz., 46 oz., 64 oz.
- Warranty: 5-year warranty
The Yeti Rambler 26 oz. Water Bottle with Chug Cap is the self-proclaimed "goldilocks" of the Yeti collection. We love the unique chug cap, which is engineered for the perfect beverage flow without all that wide-mouth pour-water-all-over-your-face bother. The TripleHaul handle is easy to grab, easy to open, and makes an easy attachment point to hang the bottle from a backpack.
But if that's not your thing, there are several interchangeable cap options. The Rambler comes in Yeti stainless and a variety of DuraCoat colors, so it's dishwasher safe and doesn't peel, crack, or chip. With ice retention of up to 24 hours, we needed a refill before a refresh.
What We Like
- 100% leakproof
- BPA-free
- Dishwasher safe
- Customizable
- Chug cap
What We Don't Like
- Considerably heavier than Hydro Flask per ounce of capacity
- Not to be used for carbonate beverages, food, or perishables
BUY: Yeti Rambler with Chug Cap 26 oz.
Hydro Flask - 32 oz. Wide Mouth
SPECS
- Dimensions: 3.55" diameter, 11" H
- Empty weight: 15.5 oz.
- Material: Stainless steel
- Size options: 20 oz., 32 oz., 40 oz., 64 oz.
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
The Hydro Flask 32 oz. Wide Mouth Bottle is the backbone of their extensive lineup. Their signature TempShield double wall vacuum insulation is said to keep beverages cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 12 hours. Hydro Flask built their business on simple design and a clean, nature-inspired aesthetic. Their range of color options are beautifully eternalized with a dishwasher-safe Color Last powder coat. All Hydro Flask products come with a lifetime warranty and are free of BPA and phthalates—fewer things to worry about when you're adventuring.
The classic Hydro Flask lid with a flex handle is soft and comfortable to carry by hand. Consider swapping for the Wide Mouth Flex Sip lid or the Wide Mouth Straw Lid for easy no-spill sipping on the trail, boat, or town.
What We Like
- 16 beautiful color options
- Lightweight
- Dishwasher safe
- Free of BPA and phthalates
- Lifetime warranty
- Customizable
What We Don't Like
- Flex handle—moving parts are not as durable as the rest of the construction
- Easily dented from falls or impacts
BUY: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth 32 oz.
Yeti vs. Hydro Flask
Similarities
These Yeti and Hydro Flask insulated bottles are comparable in many ways. They are both vacuum-insulated stainless steel with similar ratings for ice retention. They're both free of BPA and dishwasher safe. Functionally, the core of each bottle is nearly identical.
Differences
The differences between the Yeti Rambler and the Hydro Flask wide-mouth bottles really lie in the details. Of the details which might be most likely to affect your buying decision, the lid design is probably near the top. Each company offers several lid options for each bottle, so really the world is your oyster on this one. Whether you prefer an open wide mouth, a straw-style lid, or something more sip-worthy, there is an option for you. There is also a considerable weight difference, with the Yeti coming in a bit heavier than the Hydro Flask per ounce of capacity. While both lines top out with a 64-ounce monster option, all other sizes differ between brands. So this may be a factor to consider when choosing, as well. And lastly, due to the close similarities in construction and functionality, aesthetics may end up being the deciding factor for some users. Each brand offers its own line of distinct color options, as well as the opportunity to customize your bottle with text and art.
Which Bottle Is Right for You?
Given the similarities and differences listed above, this one really comes down to personal preference. The Yeti Rambler and the Hydro Flask are both impressive products that fill basically the same needs. We hold them both above other competitors in the market, but in a side-by-side comparison, it's hard to pick a winner. Functionally they are nearly the same, and the differences are generally found more among the accessories and aesthetics.
FAQs About Yeti Rambler vs. Hydro Flask
Is Yeti more durable than Hydro Flask?
Yeti is known for their rugged, unbreakable coolers, so it makes sense that we might expect a more durable product from them. However, seeing as the construction of Yeti and Hydro Flask bottles are really quite similar, we see comparable durability between the two lines. They are both likely to acquire some dents in the stainless-steel exterior over the years, but functionality should not be affected.
Is Yeti or Hydro Flask cheaper?
They are comparably priced. Each brand increases its price as the size of the bottle goes up. As mentioned before, the sizes offered will differ by brand, but the price per ounce is pretty consistent.
How long do Yeti or Hydro Flasks last?
While the Yeti warranty is only 5 years, as compared to the Hydro Flask's lifetime warranty, these products are both long-term investments. They may get dented over the years and show some signs of wear, but the stainless-steel bottles can take quite a beating. Accessory pieces and lids might need occasional replacing, but the core of the bottle will likely endure through the ages.