Whether you’ve invested your hard-earned dollars in the Stanley Quencher or HydroFlask tumbler, you’ve probably discovered with use that each major stainless steel tumbler brand has its own unique pros and cons. However, one challenge that every tumbler faces is leaking when on its side or upside down. So, what should you do if you’re wanting tumbler-famous insulation with the leak protection of a water bottle? Brumate has the answer: The Rotera.

The new water bottle from Brumate offers stainless steel insulation with a lid that’s both spill-proof and easy to use. We tried the Brumate Rotera for ourselves to let you know if it’s worth buying—keep reading for the full scoop!

What is the Brumate Rotera?

If you’re wondering what makes the Brumate Rotera so notable other than its more than 24-hour insulation technology, let me explain. The Brumate Rotera has several of the things we look for in a high-end water bottle, like a touch-free, durable straw, no aftertaste and a secure grip.

The twist-to-sip lid on the Rotera allows the straw to pop up for drinking without having to touch it. The lid also keeps the straw folded down when not in use for added protection against exposure to germs. The straw itself is made of high-quality stainless steel, so you don’t have to deal with the flimsiness of a plastic or rubber straw. It also cuts down on plastic waste and minimizes the amount of plastic your water encounters, which can affect the overall taste. There’s also no metallic aftertaste with the Rotera. You can expect a clean, cold sipping experience.

We also appreciate the silicone sleeve at the base of this water bottle. There’s no slippage when holding it at the base, and it keeps your hand from becoming unbearably cold while drinking.

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Brumate Rotera Features

Brumate Rotera Water Bottle with Tumbler on Wooden SurfaceMary Henn/Family Handyman

The Brumate Rotera comes in four different sizes, depending on your hydration desires: 15 ounces, 25 ounces, 35 ounces and 65 ounces. We tried the most popular 35-ounce size and loved it! This size is ideal for staying hydrated throughout the day on a few refills. However, if you’re looking for a water bottle exclusively for travel or to fit in a small bag, I’d check out the 25-ounce size. And if you’re someone who likes a jug of water with them at all times, the 65-ouncer is sure to do the job.

In addition to the leakproof top, the Rotera also has a wide-mouth opening when the lid is unscrewed that makes for easy refilling from just about any water source without making a mess. The lid also has a built-in, soft-touch handle that makes the bottle easy to grab or secure to a bag.

One of my favorite features of the Rotera is its swappable sleeve and universal lid. You heard me right! You can swap out the color of the silicone sleeve at the base of the bottle and the lid for cleaning and styling purposes. I love the way the Rotera looks with mix-and-match colors.

How We Tested It

I took my 35-ounce Brumate Rotera in the shade rose taupe with me on vacation this summer to test its portability and overall use. First of all, the Rotera spent several hours in my suitcase, tucked in my backpack and rolling around on the floor of the car without spilling or leaking as I traveled through the hills of southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas. Not only that, but it was extremely hot outside when I traveled, and the Rotera kept my water icy cold for hours on end.

When I used my Rotera in the car, I did notice that it didn’t fit in my standard-size car cup holder. I didn’t mind that so much since I could lay it in the seat or on the floor without worrying about it spilling or getting the mouthpiece dirty. However, if fitting in a cup holder is a must for you, I’d opt for a smaller size.

While I did take my Rotera on a few short hikes, I noticed that the bottle (especially when full) is a bit on the heavy side. I’m willing to make the sacrifice for icy cold water, but that’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a water bottle that’s lightweight.

I also really like the overall design of the Rotera. It’s all one color from top to bottom, which looks sleek, and the metal has a semi-matte finish while the silicone sleeve has the appearance of being fully matte. I love the design of the stainless steel straw, and it’s durable and easy to clean (it detaches from the lid). The twist closure is convenient for sipping and limiting germ exposure. Plus, I even found that the lid is semi-childproof. My 1-year-old nephew reached for the bottle repeatedly and was unable to sip from the bottle or grab at the straw.

My favorite things about the Rotera are the features that make it unique: the twist-to-sip, stainless-steel straw, insulation power and swappable sleeves and lids. This bottle not only performs in all the ways a water bottle should, but it’s also durable and customizable.

Pros

  • Keeps ice for 24+ hours
  • Touch-free straw lid
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Leakproof
  • Stainless steel straw
  • No metallic or plastic taste
  • Swappable silicone sleeve
  • Universal, interchangeable lid fits on all Rotera bottles
  • Built-in handle
  • Wide-mouth opening
  • Four different sizes
  • Available in a wide range of colors
  • Sleek overall design

Cons

  • A little pricey
  • Not all sizes fit in most car cup holders
Introducing the Rotera Hydration Series. This totally touch-free, leak-proof water bottle was designed so you never have to lay a finger on your straw. Shop our link in bio now!  #watertok #hydration #madeforthis #water #thirstythursday ♬ original sound – BrüMate

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

With more than 157,000 five-star reviews worldwide, it’s no wonder why the Brumate Rotera keeps selling out online. Here’s what a few reviewers have to say about the water bottle.

Verified buyer, Briana S., says, “Very impressed with this bottle, it’s very nice, love the matte finish. Sunscreen easily washes off silicone sleeve with dish soap.”

Renisha B. gives the Rotera five stars and absolutely loves it. “I love my Rotera 35-ounce. I work in an operating room, and I love that I can get a drink without having to touch my straw,” she writes. “The straw is metal, which is also a plus. I’ve already ordered more colors.”

Dakota M. recommends the Rotera, too. “Love it! Just big enough to take everywhere with me and love it during my biking workouts!” she says.

Final Verdict

If you’re a fan of Brumate products like the Toddy XL, you’ll love the Rotera. It has the insulation power of other Brumate cups and koozies with the convenience and leakproof technology of a high-quality water bottle. And while it may be on the pricier side—the Rotera costs about as much as a brand-name tumbler—we think it’s worth it for the overall design and quality of the water bottle.

Where to Buy the Brumate Rotera

Brumate Roteravia merchant

You can shop the Brumate Rotera on the Brumate website, where the price ranges from $30 to $65, depending on the size. (A few of the most popular colors may be sold out, but should be available for pre-order for shipment in a few weeks’ time.)

We think the Rotera is ideal for back-to-school season, too. With a range of sizes and colors available, and interchangeable sleeves and lids, the Rotera is best for students who need a sleek, sanitary water bottle that can change its appearance (and cleanliness) from day to day.

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