Daily News

Shake, rattle and go! Grab the best shaker bottles for post-workout nutrition

Whether you’re taking a pre-workout supplement before hitting the gym, mixing up a protein shake post-workout, hydrating throughout the day or even mixing up a homemade salad dressing or sauce, shaker bottles are a convenient way to do it all.

Shaker bottles aren’t just versatile — they’re portable and accessible, notes Greg Farris, a registered dietician at Fay. “When you have a large, temperature-regulated shaker sitting on your desk all day, it’s a constant reminder to hydrate,” he says. “The more of these nudges we can create in our daily life, the better. The same can be said for the ease of a high-protein snack. The beauty of protein powder is that it doesn’t have to be refrigerated. You can keep a protein tub in your office, find some cold water, mix it in your shaker and have a healthy snack in 30 seconds.”

Still, not all shaker bottles are created equal. Materials and special features are key considerations, advises Chris Mohr, a registered dietitian and co-owner of Mohr Results, a wellness coaching firm. “Stainless steel is best as it can hold the temperature consistent when compared to plastic or other options. A wide mouth on the bottle makes adding ingredients and cleaning easier, and a tight lid prevents spills when shaking. Features like gratings or mixing balls are great for a smooth mix, helping to avoid clumpy drinks.”

As a certified personal trainer with a performance enhancement specialization, shaker bottles are well within my wheelhouse (and helpful for my personal workouts). Over a month, I tested 11 popular bottles, assessing them for functionality, durability, mixing quality and ease of cleaning. I tested insulated models with hot and cold beverages, and I checked to see whether the bottles retained any odors.

Based on these results, I’ve determined which shaker bottles are worth your money and which are better left on the shelf. The best shaker bottle for you will make healthy choices more accessible, help you hit your protein goals and keep you hydrated at the gym and beyond. Here are the best shaker bottles for every workout and need.

Blender Bottle

Capacity: 24 ounces | Blending mechanism: BlenderBall whisk | Material: Stainless steel | Insulated: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Lid is dishwasher-safe; cup is not | Special features: Lockable flip cap, measurement markings

BlenderBottle is nearly synonymous with shaker bottles, for good reason. The bottle’s BlenderBall effortlessly whisks any protein or supplement powders for a smooth drink in a short time. 

While I’ve tested BlenderBottles in the past, I was thrilled to see the company added a stainless steel bottle to the lineup. This more rugged option gives the same clump-free consistency the brand is known for without any of the lingering odor that can cling to its plastic bottles. The double-wall insulation keeps drinks cold for hours, so I could prepare a protein shake and take it to work without needing to sip straight away.

The bottle is durable and leakproof, with a locking lid that guards against spills. Despite the durability, it’s not overly heavy, and the adjustable carrying loop makes it easy to hold.

“The BlenderBottle brand passes all of the tests. You can drop it, toss it and, of course, shake up all your nutritional needs,” says Caleb Kinney-Woods, personal training lead at Life Time Inc.

Pros

  • Locking, spill-proof lid
  • Keeps drinks cold for 24 hours
  • Rounded base allows for better mixing
Cons

  • Cup is not dishwasher-safe
  • Heavier than plastic alternatives

$25 at Blender Bottle

BrüMate

Capacity: 26 ounces | Blending mechanism: Built-in agitator | Material: Stainless steel | Insulated: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Special features: MagFlip lid, handle, measurement markings

If you’re after a reliable insulated shaker bottle to take on the go, BrüMate’s MultiShaker is for you. This bottle keeps drinks and shakes cold for more than 24 hours. With its magnet-assisted lid, it’s leakproof too.

While the bottle is insulated, it doesn’t feel heavy. It features a silicone handle for carrying, as well as a slim, molded design that is easy to grip. I was pleasantly surprised at how well the agitator mixed a variety of powders into smooth beverages — without the noise of a whisk. The agitator also offers an option to infuse water with fruits or herbs. The lid with the built-in agitator separates for easy dishwasher-safe cleaning.

“A stainless steel insulated shaker bottle is worth the investment,” Farris says. “These are great because of their versatility. You can mix a traditional protein shake with powder and water. You can make a blended protein smoothie and keep it cold on the go. Not to mention, these tend to clean easier and not hold smells as compared to their plastic variants.”

“I use a MultiShaker every day for my protein water,” noted one reviewer. “I love how well it blends the powder. I also use it for fruit-infused water. It’s so versatile! It keeps ice from slamming into my teeth when I drink.”

Pros

  • Nonslip bottom
  • Convenient silicone handle
  • Magnet-assisted opening
Cons

  • Liquid markings only go up to 18 ounces
  • Pricier compared to other models

$35 at BrüMate

BlenderBottle

Capacity: 20 ounces | Blending mechanism: BlenderBall whisk | Material: Plastic | Insulated: No | Dishwasher-safe: No | Special features: Supplement storage

The ProStak’s convenient interlocking storage containers are perfect for carrying protein or preworkout powders, supplements and vitamins. The shaker bottle’s liquid measurement markings help with crafting concoctions on the go too.

I had a tricky time getting the ProStak’s cap to close fully, but once I got it locked in place, the bottle was leakproof and didn’t spill a single drop despite being tossed from bag to bag. The lid features a SpoutGuard to keep germs off the drinking surface, making the bottle even more of a transportable companion.

Since the lightweight bottle does not feature insulation, you’ll want to sip your shake right away, so I recommend mixing while you’re on the move.

As one reviewer wrote, “The little pill holder and the two containers that come with hold more than enough preworkout, protein powder or anything else I would need to put in there. It’s very light but holds plenty of liquid to shake around. Also, the mouth opening seems big, but it is perfect!”

Pros

  • Includes storage containers
  • Features measurement markings
  • Lightweight
Cons

  • Not insulated
  • Plastic can retain smells over time

$15 at BlenderBottle

Bolde

Capacity: 20 ounces | Blending mechanism: Removable stainless steel mixer | Material: Stainless steel | Insulated: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Special features: Silent mixer, bottom storage compartment

While I love a shaker bottle, the noise of the wire whisk ball can be annoying. For anyone else who feels the same, a Bolde Bottle is worth the investment. The bottle has a removable silent stainless steel mixer attached to the underside of the lid that blends efficiently with little to no noise.

The bottle itself is crafted with smell-resistant 304 insulated stainless steel that is not only hygienic but keeps your shakes and drink mixes cold for up to 36 hours. The insulated material makes this bottle extremely sturdy and durable. It is bulkier and heavier than other options, so I wish there was a handle or a better way to grip the bottle.

Bonus: There’s a detachable storage compartment for holding powders, supplements or vitamins, and it includes an extra-secure leakproof silicone cap to stop any leaks. Just be sure to clean the ring to prevent any buildup.

Pros

  • Makes little to no noise
  • Blends smooth and quick
  • Does not retain smell
Cons

  • Pricier compared to other options
  • Feels bulkier

$55 at Bolde

S’well

Capacity: 16 ounces | Blending mechanism: Wire spring | Material: Stainless steel | Insulated: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Special features: Triple insulation

While S’well’s blender springs are sold separately from its bottles, that makes it easy to customize any of the brand’s bottles into a shaker. The S’well Traveler is the most common bottle to convert.

The stainless steel spring blends protein powders and drink mixes evenly, but one of the biggest perks is how well the bottle protects against leaks. The cap is incredibly secure, and the bottle is highly durable. Unlike most shaker bottles, the S’well features triple insulation to maintain drink temperatures for even longer without any condensation. Bonus: You can put hot drinks in your S’well too.

The stainless steel construction prevents any lingering smells, and both the bottle and springs are top-rack dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. I opted to get a carrying loop for easy travel, and I wish all S’well bottles included one.

Pros

  • Very secure cap
  • Triple insulation for temperature control
  • Dishwasher-safe
Cons

  • Blending mechanism is sold separately
  • Smaller capacity compared to other bottles

$26 at S’well

Nutribullet

Capacity: 20 ounces | Blending mechanism: Motor-powered blender | Material: Stainless steel | Insulated: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: No | Special features: Carrying handle, motor embedded in lid

If you’re looking for a blender-style bottle versus a traditional shaker bottle, the Flip is the way to go. This insulated bottle’s lid includes a motor that whirs to life with the push of a button, and the blender easily mixes up any fresh or frozen ingredients into a smooth, frothy drink that stays cold for hours. I appreciated that the blender cycle was on a set timer, so I didn’t have to guess when to pull my drink off the blender.

The motor-embedded lid adds a good amount of weight to the bottle, so I preferred to swap it with the other included lid (which also includes a spot for a metal straw) before heading out. Both lid options feature a nice carrying loop, so it’s easy to transport.

One reviewer raved, “The Flip makes making healthy shakes and smoothies super easy! I just toss ingredients in and turn it on, then take it off and head to work! When I get home from work, I just wash it out and it’s ready for the next day. Perfectly sized and convenient for this working mom.”

Pros

  • Can blend frozen, fresh ingredients
  • Keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours
  • Self-cleaning
Cons

  • Heavy if you keep motor lid on
  • Expensive

$100 at Nutribullet

  • Single wall or double wall. Single-wall shaker bottles only have one layer of material. They’re usually lightweight and affordable, but they don’t provide insulation, so they’re geared toward short-term sipping. On the flip side, double-wall shaker bottles are constructed with two layers with a vacuum-sealed space between each. They are heavier and more expensive, but more durable. Double-wall insulated bottles can keep drinks cold for an extended period and prevent condensation. (For even more temperature control, there are a handful of triple-wall bottles too!)

  • Electric or manual. Rather than using a metal whisk or built-in strainer or screen, electric shaker bottles rely on a battery-operated motor. These bottles can typically blend thicker powders, fruits and other ingredients for more robust shakes or smoothies, but are heavier and more expensive.

  • Storage. Some shaker bottles offer storage compartments to hold protein powders, supplements, vitamins or snacks, convenient if you’re on the move or want to mix up a drink later in the day.

  • Material. If you’re looking for a lightweight addition, opt for something plastic, but if you’re looking for something more durable that keeps drinks cold, choose stainless steel. Keep material quality in mind too. “I’d recommend finding a bottle that is BPA-free, because BPAs have been known to be an endocrine disruptor,” advised Nicole Ibarra, a registered dietician.

  • Size. Your nutritional goals and needs should dictate your choice of bottle size. Shaker bottles typically range from 16 to 25 ounces. If you plan to use a shaker bottle for multiple beverages or as an additional water bottle, opt for something larger. “Lower capacity limits the number of things I can use the bottle for. I want my blender bottle to serve multiple purposes throughout the day,” Woods says.

  • Convenience. If you’re on the move, a leakproof shaker bottle is vital. Keep an eye out for secure lids that won’t budge in your gym bag or car. Some bottles even offer locking lids for extra security. Consider ease of cleaning too. If a bottle is challenging to clean, it’s more likely to become a breeding ground for mold, bacteria and smells. Some bottles are dishwasher-safe, while others are hand-wash only.

Testing protein shaker bottles was a hydrating — and filling — process! I looked at the top models on the market and talked with other fitness professionals to identify a list of bottles to test.

Over a month, I sipped on plenty of protein shakes, pre-workout concoctions, smoothies and other supplement-boosted drinks before and after strength and cardio workouts. As I tested, I looked at qualities like functionality and durability, as well as how well mixing mechanisms and other special features worked. For insulated shaker bottles, I left both hot and cold beverages for hours to assess temperature retention. I also examined whether bottles retained any odors.

  • BlendJet 2: While this model blended efficiently, it did have trouble keeping a charge, and I found that I had to run a cleaning cycle multiple times to remove all residue.

  • Hydro Flask Insulated Shaker Bottle: The popular brand’s shaker bottle is everything you’d expect from Hydro Flask: durable and sleek, with top-tier insulation. It’s also dishwasher-safe. The whisk ball didn’t mix thicker powders or ingredients as well as other bottles, however.

  • Ninja Blast Max Cordless Portable Blender: As a Ninja fan, I wanted to like this new blender more than I did. It overheated quickly, and I had a hard time getting it started despite keeping the ingredients below the fill line.

  • Simple Modern Rally Protein Shaker: This bottle is cupholder-friendly and features interior liquid measurements. But the shaker ball was louder and took longer to mix ingredients compared with other options.

  • VOLTRX Gallium Electric Shaker Bottle: This rechargeable blender mixes your concoctions with just the push of a button. It has a long battery life and can blend up a mashed banana, but it’s not insulated to prevent condensation and keep drinks cool. I also had trouble with the cap flipping up to hit my face while I was drinking.

Shaker bottles get a bad rap for smelling funky, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Cleaning a shaker bottle (especially if it’s plastic) with hot water and soap as soon as possible is key. If you can’t wash your bottle within a few hours of use, rinse it out with hot water until you can properly clean it.

If a smell lingers in the bottle, soak it with vinegar, baking soda and water overnight before cleaning it again. And, if you’re sensitive to smells, look for bottles made with stainless steel, which is more odor-resistant than plastic.

What is the best way to clean a shaker bottle — are they dishwasher-safe?

If your bottle is dishwasher-safe, place it and the lid on the top rack. If the bottle is not dishwasher-safe, hand-wash it thoroughly. Be sure to clean any plastic or silicone seals inside the lid to prevent residue from building up.

Be sure to check out the manufacturer’s guidance on your specific bottle — many shaker bottles are not intended for use with hot liquids. If your bottle is insulated, you can typically use it for sipping hot liquids, however.

There are a few different types of mixing mechanisms, including wire whisk balls, built-in agitators, screens, strainers and battery-operated mixers. Stainless steel whisk balls are the most common, while electric mixers are more powerful for blending up denser ingredients.

  • Greg Farris, registered dietician at Fay

  • Caleb Kinney-Woods, certified personal trainer and personal training lead at Life Time Inc., Westminster, Colo.

  • Nicole Ibarra, registered dietician, Redding, Calif.

  • Chris Mohr, a registered dietitian and co-owner of Mohr Results

news

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *