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Rolling Stone

We’ve Found the 8 Best Stanley Cup Alternatives (for When They Inevitably Sell Out Again)

Sage Anderson
12 min read

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If you’re one of the hundreds of thousands of people online who’ve become die-hard committed to maxing out their daily water intake, then you’ve probably heard of the Stanley Quencher tumbler. This mega-popular drinking vessel (already viewed 3.2 billion with a ‘B’ times on TikTok) isn’t just a regular cup, it’s a cool cup, with a loyal legion of fans that have turned the Quencher into a bonafide hydration status symbol over the past year. In fact, it’s so popular that it’s essentially become the PS5 of water bottles — perpetually sold out, with a waitlist that at once point reached 150,000 people.

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Nicknamed the “Stanley cup” (not a reference to the NHL championship trophy), the 40-ounce tumbler was initially discontinued in 2019, according to the New York Times. It only really blew up thanks to promotion from a trio of bloggers noticing professionals like nurses and teachers who needed to stay hydrated during long hours were frequently selling out the cup. The tumbler was then picked up by millennial and Gen Z Instagram and TikTok influencers looking for a trendy, reusable bottle (reminiscent of the 2019 VSCO girls, without the focus on eco-friendliness as aesthetic). In fact, Stanley cups are the number one most searched item on Mercari, the brand told CNN, with searches up 163% since the latest drop on December 31.

Now the Quencher H2.0 Flowstate receives small batch restocks every few months with a 20-item cup-buying limit, although they’re much more readily available on Amazon these days. That hasn’t deterred fans from reselling limited edition color variants for up to $350 on sites like Poshmark, or collecting dozens just for display on their shelves. There was even some backlash after crowds waited in long lines overnight and then rushed the store to sell out Target’s limited-edition Starbucks x Stanley cup on New Year’s Eve, with listings on eBay selling the original tumbler for upward of $400.

Stanley Quencher Tumbler
Stanley Quencher Tumbler

Buy On Amazon $45.00

But if you can’t get your hands on the Stanley tumblers, you’re not alone. The good news is we’ve found the best Stanley tumbler alternatives online that look just as aesthetic and will keep you just as hydrated (we promise).

What Are the Best Stanley Cup Alternatives?

The best Stanley cup alternatives combine the same top-notch insulation with some of the most well-designed features of the OG (give me cup handles or give me death). Bonus: a lot of these options are more budget-friendly, too. Here are our picks.

1. Simple Modern 40 oz Tumbler

Simple Modern 40 oz Tumbler
Simple Modern 40 oz Tumbler

Reminiscent of the most beloved parts of the Stanley design, Simple Modern’s tumbler is just as large and just as in charge (not for nothing, it’s an Amazon bestseller with 4.8 out of 5 stars). The tapered shape makes it car cupholder-friendly, it’s got a carrying handle, and the double-wall insulation keeps drinks hot or cold for hours. We also like that the lid is not only leak-resistant, but lets you place the reusable draw in four different positions. The one downside? It might take up to two months to ship, but it wouldn’t be a dupe for no reason.

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$29.99

Buy On Amazon

Promising Customer Review: “I really love this cup. I also saw the prices for Stanley’s and wasn’t a fan. It’s leakproof (especially when the straw is not in there), and that’s extremely important to me. It stays colds and holds about 40 oz of liquid. This really helps me get my required water intake while being pregnant. The design and colors are beautiful, and it’s nice and slender. I really like that I was able to buy this cup and still had enough money to buy little cup accessories. I wouldn’t have been able to do that with the Stanley and still stay under $45.” —Cmichelle1

2. YETI Rambler 35 oz Tavel Mug

YETI Rambler 42 oz Straw Mug
YETI Rambler 42 oz Straw Mug

Yeti Rambler drinkware is notoriously “tough as hell”, and we’re inclined to agree. It’ll hold just as much drink, and if you’re looking for the same rugged durability from a similar heritage camping brand, then Yeti’s 42-ounce Straw Mug will keep your drinks at the optimal temperature and withstand a few dings. Made from 18/8 puncture- and rust-resistant stainless steel, the most attractive part of the mug, though, is Yeti’s fan-favorite “Straw Lid”. The lid twists securely into place and uses magnets on the slider to resist any and all leaks. A molded-in stopper also makes sure your straw won’t budge, no matter how many bumps in the road.

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$45.00

Buy On Amazon

Promising Customer Review: “I recently purchased the YETI Rambler Straw Mug, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. This mug has quickly become my go-to for staying hydrated on the go. The vacuum insulation keeps my drinks at the perfect temperature for hours, whether it’s a piping hot coffee or an ice-cold beverage. The stainless steel construction not only ensures durability but also gives it a sleek and stylish look. The addition of the straw is a game-changer. The lid seals tightly, preventing any spills, and the straw is a breeze to clean.” —Ayax Serrato

3. Owala Stainless Steel 40 oz Tumbler

Owala Stainless Steel 40 oz Tumbler
Owala Stainless Steel 40 oz Tumbler

You’ll be able to stay hydrated all day long with this fan-favorite Stanley alternative from Owala. It’s got a two-in-one lid so you can sip through the straw, or take a swig straight from the spout at the top. Another handy feature we haven’t seen from any other tumbler yet? An adjustable handle to suit left-handed and right-handed water lovers alike. Now that’s what we call refreshing. Not only does the bottom fit easily into most cup holders, making it the perfect car companion, on top, the wider opening makes cleaning and adding ice a breeze.

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$37.99

Buy On Amazon

Promising Customer Feedback: “This is excellent. Keeps stuff cold and hot for a VERY long time. Super sturdy, great colors and fits in my car cup holder. The straw design doesn’t leak at all! Good stuff. Better than….you know!” —Christine

4. Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler

Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler
Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler

Like the cool older sibling of the original Hydro Flask, if you were around for the “VSCO girl” trend of the lates 2010s, then you’ll understand the hype around this cup. With the brand’s beloved TempShield? double-wall vacuum insulation, your beverages will stay hot and/or cold for hours. It’s also got a snug, secure, splash-resistant press-in straw lid that’ll eliminate leakage for good. If you hate flimsy water bottle handles, then you’ll love how easy the Hydro Flask’s sturdy handle feels to hold. Plus, let’s talk about that flexible bendy straw! What a game-changer.

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$39.95

Buy On Amazon

Promising Customer Feedback: “This tumbler has increased my water intake 100%. It holds ice so well, I fill it up with “nugget” ice at work before leaving at the end of the day. When I wake up the next morning, it still has over half the ice (11+ hours). The silicone straw was a must for me as, not sure about you guys, but I don’t look half the time when grabbing a cup for a drink and about knock my teeth out with normal straws. The handle is comfortable to hold and feels sturdy. I’ve had this cup fall over a few times but the leakage is minimal. Overall, this was definitely worth the purchase!” —Anonymous

5. Hydrapeak Roadster 40 oz Tumbler

Hydrapeak Roadster 40oz Tumbler
Hydrapeak Roadster 40oz Tumbler

With two different ways to sip, we love the versatility of Hydrapeak’s Roadster 40-ounce tumbler. With the flip-up “Sip” lid, you can take a swig of your drink fast, like in the middle of a workout, or sip slowly with the integrated “Straw” lid while answering emails. The tumbler also promises all-day insulation, and the brand says the cup will keep your drinks cold for up to 34 hours, and hot for up to 10 hours (even longer than the Stanley cup). Although the open carrying handle is a little awkward, the 2-in-1 lid can’t be beat.

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$24.95

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Promising Customer Review: “Stanley who?! It’s huge. Ergonomic. Fits in car holder. It has a built-in straw that works well. It doesn’t leak. It keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for hours. What more could you ask for?” —K

6. Reduce Cold1 40 oz Tumbler

Reduce 40 oz Tumbler
Reduce 40 oz Tumbler

Spend less time getting refills and more time staying focused with the Reduce Cold1 40-ounce tumbler, which lets you stay hydrated in more ways than one. It’s got a 3-in-1 lid and removable straw that allows you to sip, drink or gulp your beverage of choice. Keep it on your nightstand or take it with you in your car (it’s cupholder-friendly), with vacuum insulation that will keep your water cold for up to 34 hours, and hot beverages warm for 10 hours straight. This one’s also a winner for working out, since the outer coating is sweat- and condensation-proof.

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$24.99

Buy On Amazon

Promising Customer Feedback: “I love these cups so much I have one for home and one for work. The cup seems very sturdy and well-made, and keeps drinks cold. The lid sticks a lot more which is good if you’re worried about dropping it or it falling over. The bottom has a grip on it so that it stays put together when you set it down.” —Krista

7. Maars Charger 40 oz Insulated Travel Mug Tumbler

Maars Charger 40oz Insulated Travel Mug Tumbler
Maars Charger 40oz Insulated Travel Mug Tumbler

Pretty much the closest you can get to a Stanley without actually springing for a Stanley, design-wise, this insulated travel mug is made by a drinkware brand known for their insulated cup holders (including skinny can coolers). It’s got eye-catching ombre and pastel color variants, but looks aren’t everything here — it also passes the “ice test”, with ice still in the tumbler after almost a full day according to one reviewer. Not too heavy with a good-sized handle, it’s both aesthetically-pleasing and functional.

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$13.93 $29.99 54% off

Buy On Amazon

Promising Customer Feedback: “I recently purchased the Maars Charger 40oz Insulated Travel Mug Tumbler, and I must say, it has quickly become my go-to travel companion. This tumbler not only keeps my beverages at the perfect temperature but also offers convenience and style in one package. First and foremost, the insulation on this tumbler is outstanding. The double-wall vacuum-sealed stainless steel construction ensures that my hot drinks stay hot for hours, and my cold beverages remain refreshingly chilled. This is especially convenient for long commutes, road trips, or even just a busy day on the go. No more worrying about lukewarm coffee or melted ice!” —DUANE

8. Under Armour Playmaker 64 oz Jug

Under Armour Playmaker 64 oz Jug
Under Armour Playmaker 64 oz Jug

If you’ve got a mighty thirst that not even a Stanley cup can quench, upgrade to this behemoth Under Armour Playmaker jug. For long training sessions, the water bottle has a whopping 64-ounce capacity, perfect if you need to keep your heart rate up and don’t want to stop to refill. Despite its size, it’s still double-wall foam-insulated to keep any drink cold for up to 12 hours, and a leak-resistant flip-top lid also stops any overenthusiastic pouring. The non-slip side grip handle prevents any spills from sweaty hands, and we like the built-in fence hooks holder for easy hang-up during practice.

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$25.00

Buy On Amazon

Promising Customer Feedback: “Hubby does construction and many times doesn’t have access to water. This mammoth is perfect for him. It stays cold and holds enough to last all day. He likes it so much he sometimes uses it at night too. I’ve purchased other bottles before but this is his favorite and most useful by far! Excellent purchase. Very pleased!” —SayLeeLee

What Is the Stanley Quencher?

stanley quencher tumbler cup
stanley quencher tumbler cup

Stanley, a 110-year-old camping gear and outdoor accessories brand, has always been known for their sleek, durable insulated drinkware options. But they’ve really knocked it out of the park with what’s now come to be lovingly known as the internet’s “emotional support water bottle“. So what’s the draw?

The Quencher has rave reviews thanks to its ability to keep hot drinks hot for seven hours and cold drinks cold for 11 hours (for iced bevvies, you’ll get up to a whopping two days). The double-walled, vacuum-insulated stainless steel tumbler also comes with a convenient carrying handle, which make it easier than most bottles to commute with to the office or take to a workout class. It also fits into most car cup holders in spite of its large capacity. Cleaning the bottle is a breeze (it’s dishwasher safe), and it comes with a screw-on, splash-proof top with a reusable straw. There’s also a rainbow of pastel colorways to choose from that’ve generated a ton of buzz (hence the thriving resale market), but also just make staying hydrated look cooler than ever.

Buy On Amazon $45.00

The lastest model, the H2.0 Flowstate, promises to keep your drink’s temperature for the same amount of time, but with a new rotating lid designed for three positions: a splash-resistant straw opening that holds the reusable straw in place, a drink opening, and a full-cover top. It’s still got the ergonomic handle and cupholder-compatibility everyone loves, now made from 90% recycled stainless steel.

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