What’s that one thing you crave for during a long biking trip? Cool water to boost your energy levels and refresh you…aah! Now imagine getting room temperature or worse lukewarm water when you are all hot and sweaty. Disgusting, isn’t it?
No wonder cycling is one of the most strenuous form of physical exercise. Whether you do casual biking or prefer mountain biking, the importance of staying hydrated cannot be emphasized enough. Besides keeping the energy level high and maintaining the right body temperature.
Studies show that when you don’t drink enough water while riding, it results in a decrease in performance. As you sweat, the body weight declines by 2% and this impacts a biker’s overall performance. When the body weight drops by 10%, you can experience heatstroke and circulatory collapse.
Thus, a water bottle is perhaps one of the most important things other than a reliable bike and properly fitting helmet. However, just any water bottle is not enough. On freezing days, a sip of cold water from the bottle can drastically bring your temperature down and make you sick.
Similarly on hot and humid days, you may want to refuel your energy levels with cold water or icy beverages. This is when you really need an insulated water bottle for cycling. They are designed to maintain the right water temperature – hot or cold, during your ride.
If you start looking for insulated water bottles, there are hundreds of options to confuse you. Relax and read on because our team has taken the stress out of decision making. We have tested, reviewed, and compared over a dozen products to help you choose the right one.
| Features | Pro Bike Tool | Travel Kuppe | Polar Bottle | CamelBak | CILLE Bottle | R.M.Stone Bike |
| Weight | 3.52 ounces | 3.04 ounces | 5.1 ounces | 3.49 ounces | 15.2 ounces | 11.4 ounces |
| Capacity | 24 oz | 20 oz | 20 oz | 21 oz | 24oz | 16Oz |
| Insulation type | Double-wall | Double-wall | Double-wall | Double-wall | Double-wall | Double-wall |
| Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | Low-Density Polyethylene | Trutaste polypropylene | Stainless steel | ABS plastic, stainless steel |
| BPA-free | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Lasts | NA | Up to 48 hours | Up to 24 hours | NA | Up to 24 hours | Up to 24 hours |
Read on to find the detailed reviews and our buying guide at the bottom. For those who don’t have the time to read this until the end, we recommend the CILLE Water Bottles as they boast double-wall insulation and a capacity of 24oz. The beverages can also maintain their original temperature for up to 24 hours, which is highly commendable.
#1. Pro Bike Tool Insulated Bike Water Bottle
This double wall insulated water bottle comes from the house of Pro Bike Tool. It includes a foam liner insulation between the two walls to keep water cold or warm twice longer than the single wall insulated bottles. Unlike the heavy metal insulated bottles, these sport a lightweight and easily squeezable design using the flexible High Elastic Technology (HET). It ensures a free flow of liquid with less effort and the valve ensures that you get more water with each squeeze. With a large capacity of 24 oz, you can actually carry a lot of water for longer rides.
Designed for both road and mountain biking, these bottles are easily compatible with the standard bottle holders and cages. The bottle is made from 100% BPA free stainless steel that does not change the taste of water. It is also dishwasher-safe so cleaning is hassle-free. The convenient exterior design makes it easier to get a good grip to hold the bottle even with sweaty hands. Besides using it for cycling, it also comes handy to keep you hydrated in the gym, long treks, and other outdoor activities. We are happy to see that the manufacturer stands behind the product with a full refund or replacement for any product issues.
Product features and specifications
- Weighs 3.5 ounces
- Made from 100% BPA Free
- 24 oz capacity
- Soft Silicone Mouthpiece
- Fast Flow Valve
- Easy Squeeze Bidon
- Dishwasher safe
User/ Customer reviews
Most cyclists are happy with the bottle and they have reported that it helps keep water icy cold for more than 2 hours even at over 80-degree temperature. Users are also impressed with the large inner capacity which is bigger than many other brands of insulated bottles. Some users have said that the squeeze required maybe a little more than regular bottles and it’s more expensive.
Conclusion
When you are riding on a hot summer afternoon, this double insulated water bottle (shop now) can be a boon for you. It is thoughtfully designed with a good grip, nice squeeze-ability, and convenient pout. Although slightly more expensive than competitor products, this bottle is worth the price and must-have for serious cyclists.
2. Travel Kuppe Vacuum Insulated Cycling Water Bottle
Travel Kuppe claims that this is the first-ever double-walled vacuum insulated water bottle designed to fit perfectly in a bicycle bottle cage. While we couldn’t back that claim, but we certainly found the product worth reviewing and including in this list. On getting into the details, we were impressed to find that the bottle and lid are made from 18/8 stainless steel and BPA-free material. It has an inbuilt vacuum insulation technology to give you hot or cold water as required. The seamless construction prevents heat transfer and also does not allow condensation on the outer body.
The avant-garde vacuum insulation helps in keeping hot water hot for a full day, and cold water cold for 48 hours. The full-hammertone coating on the outside provides scratch resistance when compared to normal powder coating. The tough exterior finish also prevents any dings and chips. With a large capacity of 20 oz, these bottles allow you to carry enough beverages for a long trip. Each Travel Kuppe bottle comes with a sip lid and straw lid to allow you to drink cold or hot drinks on the go for quick replenishment of energy.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 10 x 3 x 3 inches
- Weighs 3.04 ounces
- Double-walled Vacuum Insulated
- Stainless Steel and BPA-free material
- Straw lid and sip lid
- 20 oz capacity
- Stays cold up to 48 hours
User/ Customer reviews
People have tested the insulated water bottle by putting it through various challenges and it has come out successfully in every situation. Some users have said that ice added to the bottle stayed good for 5 hours with frequent refills and the water never tasted off. A cyclist who likes going on long trips find it extremely useful as it has a good capacity and keeps water cold for a long time. The finger ring design is also highly appreciated by users as it helps in providing a good grip. A few customers have warned that the outer coating comes off fast when inserting and taking out the bottle from the cage.
Conclusion
If you don’t want to displease your taste buds with plastic flavored or room temperature water on the go, the Travel Kuppe vacuum insulated water bottle is a good choice. It not only looks rugged and attractive on the outside but also delivers a great performance. A well-made product at a great price!
#3. Polar Bottle Sport Insulated Water Bottle
Polar Bottle claims to be the first company that made the original insulated water bottle more than two decades ago. Through numerous tests, trials, and innovation, they have perfected the art of maintaining the temperature of cold or hot liquids. This product boasts a double-wall construction with a thermal barrier comprising of air in between for ultimate insulation. This helps in keeping the heat out and the water inside stays cool and refreshing. The foil layers also create an extra protective layer to keep solar rays away.
Made from 100% BPA-free and phthalate-free materials, the insulated bottles are both durable and lightweight. They are also food-grade approved and dishwasher-safe. With a capacity of 20 oz, the bottle can hold a lot of liquid and require less refilling on a long trip. The wide mouth enables you to add ice cubes to keep the beverage icy cold for long. It also comes with an easily removable strap for that extra carrying convenience. The manufacturer is American and they stand behind the product with a lifetime guarantee.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 3 x 3 x 10.4 inches
- Weighs 5.1 ounces
- Great design
- Made in the USA
- Zipstream High Flow cap
- Dual-wall insulated design
- Ice water stays cold 24 hour
- Coffee or tea stays hot at least 12 hours
User/ Customer reviews
Most users have called it an excellent product in the market for its ability to keep water from freezing in winter or becoming warm in hot summer days. People are happy with the capacity which lasts them really long, and a few users have even said that it’s so good that they get stolen often, so you have to be careful with that. Some customers have complained that the screw on top starts leaking after a few months, while others have warned about the water tasting a bit off.
Conclusion
Serious bikers need a no-frills water bottle (see Amazon) to quench their thirst and keep them well-hydrated even in adverse weather conditions. We feel that this is a no-nonsense product designed to work well for both casual riders, racers, and mountain bikers.
4. CamelBak Podium Chill Bike Water Bottle
When you seek quick and reliable hydration at all times, the CamelBak Podium water bottle has the solution for you. Whether you are a recreational rider or a professional racer, this bottle is engineered to meet your specific requirements. With double-wall insulation and thermal protection, it sets a high standard for performance and quality. It keeps liquids cold or hot without letting them get to room temperature, and also ensures that they do not leak during transit. The squeeze bottle is also designed ergonomically for a better grip and gives you more water with each squeeze.
The optimum water flowing rate and self-sealing cap also rules out any splashes and spills while you are riding on uneven terrain. The perfect cage fit also allows you to put the bottle in the holder or cage with convenience. When you require superior hydration, this bottle with its incredible capacity takes care and lasts longer. Made from 100% BPA, BPF, and BPS free plastic, the waster does not taste off and the sturdy mud cap keeps dirt away while mountain biking. The product is backed by a lifetime guarantee on workmanship and materials.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 2.87 x 2.87 x 9.37 inches
- Weighs 3.49 ounces
- High Flow, Self-Sealing Cap
- Optimized Cage Fit
- Sophisticated Graphics
- Easy-to-Clean Interface
- Positive Lock out
- Lifetime Guarantee
User/ Customer reviews
Most users have said that the bottle does a great job at keeping cold water cool even in the highest temperature and for longer periods. Bikers love the design because it fits perfectly in a standard bottle holder without leaking or falling. People also find it easier to grab the bottle and squeeze it even with gloves on. A few users have said that the earlier versions were better at keeping the ice from melting so soon.
Conclusion
The CamelBak Podium bottles (shop now) look like they were built by people who are passionate about racing and know what the bikers want. If you go mountain biking often, you may want to get a couple of these to last you for a long time. Although many people are of the opinion that the newer versions are not as good as the older ones in terms of quality, we feel the product delivers a decent performance.
#5. CILLE Water Bottle 24oz Hot Water Bottle
Those who love to spend their time racing on the road or taking the road less traveled need a water bottle that can keep liquids hot or cold for extended periods. CILLE grants this wish with their 24oz capacity stainless steel insulated water bottle. Equipped with a double-wall insulation technology, the reusable bottle is capable of keeping cold beverages cool for 24 hours and prevent the hot drinks from getting to room temperature for 12 hours. So, that gives you a long window to keep going before you need to stop for a refill. The aesthetic exterior design of the bottle not only makes it easier to grip but also eases squeezing and prevents leakage with a secure lid.
While the premium CILLE bottle can be easily kept inside the bottle cage or holder, users may also keep it in the backpack, next to books or laptops. As the stainless steel body of the thermos bottle is rust-resistant, the material is highly praised for its durability. Furthermore, the powder-coating paint on the outside makes the bottle scratch-resistant and indestructible, while at the same time preventing heat transfer. Besides being used in cycling, the insulated bottle also works great for other outdoor activities like camping, backpacking, hiking, and so on.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 3.3 x 3 x 9.6 inches
- Weighs 15.2 ounces
- Made from 18/8 Stainless Steel
- Wide Mouth Opening
- Available in 6 attractive colors
- Copper Coated Insulation
- Rust resistant
- 100% nontoxic and BPA-free
- Free replacement on broken lid
User/ customer reviews
People love the capacity, design, compactness, fit, and colors of this double-wall insulated bottle. Several users love the fact that they can match colors with their cycling jersey and shorts to make a powerful style statement. Most users have said that the water stayed cold even after several hours of riding in an extremely hot and humid climate. A few users have warned that the lid to the spout is hinged so it’s easy to drop or lose it.
Conclusion
Whether you fill the bottle with ice to the brim or add boiling hot water to it, the outer body will not sweat or become intolerably hot to touch. Those who take day trips on cycle often or love to go mountain biking in rough weather greatly benefit from the use of the CILLE water bottle (shop now). Overall, we feel it delivers a good price to performance ratio.
#6. R.M.Stone Bike Bottles Holder with Insulated Water Bottle
We love this incredible hydration set as it not only includes a well-insulated water bottle but also a holding set. The bottle is capable of holding both cold and hot beverages for an extended period of time. Made from sturdy stainless-steel and BPA-free plastic, the bottle is highly durable and it sports a capacity of 16 ounces. The product also includes a cycling guide, bolts, tool, insert, and an ebook link. When it comes to design, we like the wide mouth opening to easily add ice cubes and a leak-proof drinking lock to prevent liquid spilling.
The bike cage can be easily installed to the cycle frame by self and you only need two bolts and an Allen wrench to do that. Due to the compact and narrow design of the bottle set, it does not interfere with pedaling. It also allows an easy one-hand operation so you just need to grab the bottle, pull/ push the tab with a finger and drink. With the smart-lock mechanism, you can drink water without having to stop in between. Besides cycling, this durable thermos can also be used for activities like hiking, biking, and outdoor excising. The manufacturer stands behind the product with a lifetime guarantee, which makes it risk-free.
Product features and specifications
- Bottle and holder set
- 16oz capacity
- Both cold and hot water
- Weighs 11.4 ounces
- Made from stainless steel and BPA-free plastic
- Easily adjustable cage
- One-hand operation
- Smart lock mechanism
- Includes tools and e-book with package
- Lifetime guarantee
User/ Customer reviews
People are thrilled with how long this insulated bottle keeps the ice without letting it melt, even after several water refills. Users are also happy with the fact that they are able to drink water from the bottle using only one hand and installing the bottle holder is a breeze. A few customers are not happy with the quality of bottle cage and the 16 oz capacity which requires frequent refills in a long trip.
Conclusion
If you are a professional biker, look and feel like one with this R.M.Stone Bike Bottle and holder set. The sleek and compact design of the product has won several hearts and it comes with an extended 2-years guarantee on quality. A great hydration kit to keep you comfortable on the go.
Buying Guide For Insulated Water Bottle For Cycling
While all the products mentioned above are superior in quality and performance, your specific requirements may differ. Here are a few important factors that will help you determine which one suits you best.
#. Material
Most of the water bottles are made of either BPA-free stainless steel, plastic, or a mix of both to ensure that they last for a long time. The ones made from plastic are built-in a way to ensure that the taste of water does not get altered. Stainless steel bottles are preferred in places where cyclists want their drinks to stay hot.
#. Design
The design is not just about the aesthetics, but also relates to the overall functionality of the bottle which includes a contoured body for better grip. Every tiny detail such as the design of straw or valve needs to be looked into carefully so that the cyclist can effortlessly drink from it without spilling or splashing. The last thing you would want to do after a tiring ride is to struggle with the bottle to get cool water.
#. Perfect Fit
The bottles should perfectly fit into the standard cage or holder without getting scratched when taking it out or keeping it back. Some bottles may come with a separate holder which should be easy to install in any bike frame. For those who prefer to keep their water bottles in the backpack or travel bag, there should be no leakage.
#. Insulation
No matter what material is used for construction, the bottles should be properly insulated to maintain the temperature within. Most of the products that we have selected for you are double-wall vacuum insulated, an advanced technology that allows liquid to stay hot or cold for an extended period.
#. Capacity
The size or capacity of the water bottle is also essential depending on how long you ride. While a small bottle may be enough to keep hydrated in casual rides around the neighborhood, you will need a better capacity when embarking on mountain biking or racing for hours. Make sure, the bottle size is big enough to require less refills and keeps you well-hydrated throughout the journey.
#. Warranty
Don’t forget to look for a warranty because this explains how confident the manufacture is about the quality of the product. If you find ‘lifetime guarantee’ mentioned, this gives a reassurance that the makers stand behind the product and will offer a replacement or repair in case of damage or defect. Some companies may also give you a money-back guarantee for a specific period.
Tips For Caring And Maintenance Of Insulated Water Bottles
When you have found that perfect match for your cycling adventures, it’s important to take care of them. These specially insulated bottles do not come cheap so make sure you maintain them well in order to add some extra years to your investment.
- After every trip, wash the bottles with your hand to thoroughly clean it. Even if it is dishwasher safe, do clean it with your hands once in a while using warm water and mild soap.
- Clean the inner walls with a brush having soft bristles. This way you can ensure that you clean the hard to reach areas, to prevent the growth of mold.
- Don’t ignore cleaning other parts like the lid, straw, valve or cap. These are the things that directly come in contact with the water and your mouth. Just add some liquid soap to the cap, use a soft brush to clean and rinse well to prevent any residue from affecting the taste of water.
- If you have mold and bacteria growth in the bottle, a good solution is to wash it with soap and warm water. You may even pour some white vinegar with water and rinse. Then keep the bottle inside the freezer until you need to use it.
- Those who don’t like using the dishwashing soap for cleaning, natural cleansers like white vinegar can also do a great job. Fill the bottle with one-fourth vinegar and remaining water. Close the cap and let it sit overnight. Next morning rinse thoroughly to remove the odor and taste of vinegar.
Related Questions
What is the right time to drink water when cycling?
We recommend cyclists to drink water before going on a ride in order to avoid getting dehydrated. The rule of the thumb is to drink a minimum of 12 ounces of water at least 4 hours before embarking on a road trip or beginning a race.
You may need to drink water in between your ride to keep up the energy levels. When cycling in cooler regions, drink at least 16 ounces of water after every one hour to compensate for the loss of sweat. In hot and humid weather, you may need to drink water every 15-20 minutes.
Related Article: How Long Should A Beginner Cyclist Ride?
What is the ideal capacity for cycling bottles?
The capacity of most insulated bottles in the market range between 17 to 25 oz. While the width remains the same to fit in all standard cages, they may vary in their length. Some bottles are taller than others. For cyclists who go on longer rides, we recommend choosing a bottle with higher capacity.
What is ‘Bidon’ in the cycling world?
In cycling history, bidon was a type of metal bottle with an opening that could be sealed using a cork. Cyclists eventually discovered that the bidons made from flexible plastic materials were easier to drink from, as water could be squeezed out of them. Slowly, the metal bidons disappeared from the market and got replaced by plastic and stainless steel bottles.
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