Owala FreeSip Sway Review: The Two-Way Spout Bottle With a Handle and a Cupholder Base

The original Owala FreeSip became a best-seller because of its spout: sip through a straw or tilt and swig, from the same opening. The Owala FreeSip Sway keeps that spout and fixes two common requests, adding a proper carry handle and a base that fits a cupholder at 30 ounces.

Here's how it works, who it suits and what to know about care.

Who it's for

• Drivers and commuters who want a large bottle that sits in the car cupholder.
• Parents, students and campers who carry a bottle along with everything else.
• People who can't decide between a straw and a wide mouth.
• Anyone who refills at work or the gym and wants cold water all day.

What we liked

• The two-way spout. Sip upright through the built-in straw, or tip the bottle back to swig. No other mainstream bottle offers both in one lid.
• A real handle. The bucket-style handle swings up for carrying and is easier on the hand than a small loop when the bottle is full.
• Cupholder-friendly at 30 oz. The narrowed base fits most car cupholders.
• Covered spout. The push-button lid keeps the mouthpiece clean in a bag or on a gym floor.
• Locking, leak-proof lid. The lock stops the button from being pressed by accident.
• Triple-layer insulation. Owala rates it to keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours.
• Wide opening. Ice cubes go in easily, and you can reach inside to clean.
• Safer materials. It's free of BPA, lead and phthalates.

What could be better

• Cold drinks only. Owala states it isn't for hot liquids.
• Hand wash the cup. Only the lid is dishwasher safe.
• More lid parts to clean. The straw, spout and seals should be taken apart and washed regularly.
• Not ideal for fizzy drinks. Pressure can make a sealed lid spray when opened.
• Heavier than a plastic bottle, like all insulated steel.
• Cupholders differ. "Fits most" means some smaller or shaped holders will still be a squeeze.

Key specs explained

• FreeSip spout: one mouthpiece with two paths, a straw for sipping and a wider channel for gulping.
• Triple-layer insulation: Owala's insulated wall construction, designed to hold cold for a full day.
• Bucket handle: a hinged handle that arches over the lid, like the handle on a pail.
• Push-button lid with lock: press to pop the cover open; slide the lock to prevent it.

Tips for getting the most out of it

1. Add ice for the full 24 hours of cold.
2. Lock the lid before putting the bottle in a bag.
3. Pull the straw out and wash it with a straw brush every few days.
4. Dry the lid open overnight to prevent odors.
5. Stick to still drinks, such as water, iced tea and squash.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How is the Sway different from the regular FreeSip? It adds a bucket handle and a cupholder-friendly base, with the same spout.

Q: Is it leak-proof? Yes, when the lid is closed and locked.

Q: Is it dishwasher safe? The lid is. The cup should be hand washed.

Q: Can I drink without the straw? Yes, tilt the bottle and use the swig opening.

Should you buy it?

The Sway is the FreeSip for people who drive or carry their bottle everywhere. The spout is as clever as ever, and the handle and slimmer base remove the two main drawbacks of large bottles. If you don't mind hand washing the cup, it's one of the most practical everyday bottles available.

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