We have all seen the rise in popularity of reusable water bottles over the last few years. Many flocked to purchase them because they are eco-friendly and do not have as large of an environmental impact as disposable plastic bottles. Others became enamored by the brand that “started” the movement– Hydroflask– during the days of the “VSCO girl” trend. People personalized their Hydroflasks to reflect their personality with stickers, which is still a popularity factor compared to disposable bottles. 

Since then, there have been several different reusable water bottle brands that have gained rapid popularity, such as Yeti, Nalgene, S’well, Takeya, Simple Modern and Owala. Lately, however, the brand that has been gradually taking over is Stanley. Although the Stanley company has been around for over 100 years, it is gaining a new kind of popularity beyond what water bottle companies typically see.

This month, Target had new Stanley cups on display, and within minutes, they were completely sold out. People waited outside of the store and later, raced their way around the aisles, hoping to get the new pink and red cups. In videos, people grabbed as many as five Stanley cups, which cost around $35 each. It is no longer just about keeping ice cold or wanting to be sustainable and make a smaller environmental footprint. It is now an obsession.

It is insane to me that people are running through stores to get pink and red water bottles. It is even more insane that they aren’t just buying one, they are buying as many as they can carry. Why? The answer is to resell them. In stores, since the cups sell out in minutes, the resale value skyrockets. Stanley cups can be found listed online for up to $550.

Yet again, overconsumption is ruining something that started as a good cause– sustainability. It is a waste to own 10 bottles in different colors because reusable cups were never made for the purpose of collecting. Although Stanley won’t be complaining about how much profit they are making from its cult-like following, it is saddening to see people being enticed by social media to buy the latest colors and designs. 

As an avid water bottle user, I don’t see what makes Stanley cups so special. I got one for Christmas and don’t get me wrong, it is adorable but it is not practical. For one, it weighs a ton and is heavy to carry around and even if it tips the slightest bit, all of the liquid spills out. I am also not a huge fan of the exposed straw, so I use mine strictly at home for that reason. Companies have begun to profit off of these faults and have already marketed products, such as plastic straw covers featuring animals, plants and cute designs. I shouldn’t have to feel the need to buy anything else for a cup that already retails at $35. 

For the time being, I still think Hydroflasks are my favorite, with Owala bottles right behind them. The Stanley cup trend sadly isn’t about sustainability anymore and in my opinion, Hydroflask and Owala are better brands that haven’t come to represent overconsumption and waste.