Over the past few months, three unique drink gadgets have been making waves online: the Memo Bottle, Fitly Soft Flask, and Hideaway Collapsible Cup. Each promises convenience, portability, and practicality, but how well do they actually perform? I recently tested all three to see if they live up to the hype. Here’s what I found.
Where to Purchase
Below are links where you can buy the products covered in this review
The Contenders
- The Memo Bottle: A flat, stylish water bottle designed to slip into your bag or pocket with ease. I tested the A7 model, which holds 6 ounces, though larger options are available.
- The Fitly Soft Flask: This compact, soft silicone bottle is geared toward outdoor enthusiasts, offering a squeeze-and-bite design for easy hydration.
- The Hydeaway Collapsible Cup: A pint-sized collapsible cup designed for campers, tailgaters, and travelers, with the ability to shrink down to just an inch thick for easy storage.
First Impressions
Unboxing the Gadgets
The unboxings were straightforward, with minimal packaging and basic instructions. Right off the bat, I noticed some practical advantages and drawbacks.
- Memo Bottle: Its sleek design stood out, but the plastic felt less premium than expected for its $25 price tag.
- Fitly Soft Flask: Compact and functional, though the instructions emphasized proper cleaning and care.
- Hydeaway Collapsible Cup: Sturdy but not insulated, with visible watermarks even after a thorough wash.
Real-World Testing
Pocket Test: Portability on the Go
I slipped both the Memo Bottle and Fitly Flask into my pockets to see how they performed during everyday activities.
- Memo Bottle: Its flat design made it feel like carrying a thick smartphone. While lightweight and easy to carry, I wouldn’t recommend keeping it in a back pocket.
- Fitly Soft Flask: Lighter and less bulky, but its soft design made me cautious about potential leaks under pressure.
Hydration Test: Ease of Use
I filled both bottles with water overnight to check for leaks and taste issues.
- Memo Bottle: Drinking from the rectangular shape felt odd at first, but it was functional. Thankfully, no plastic taste lingered after washing.
- Fitly Soft Flask: The bite-to-drink mechanism worked as promised, and the bottle shrunk as I drank, which is a neat feature for packability.
Coffee Test: The Hydeaway Cup in Action
Pouring hot coffee into the Hydeaway was a mixed experience. The stainless steel rim made it pleasant to sip from, but the rest of the cup got uncomfortably hot to hold. Its compactness is a clear advantage, but it’s not insulated, so it’s better suited for short-term use.
Outdoor Adventure: Desert Field Test
I packed all three gadgets for a hike to see how they’d perform in a rugged setting.
- Memo Bottle: Its flat shape slid neatly into a side pocket but didn’t carry enough water for long hikes.
- Fitly Soft Flask: Compact and easy to use on the go. The bite valve kept things spill-free.
- Hydeaway Cup: Handy for sharing water or carrying small amounts, though it felt more at home in a picnic scenario than on a hike.
Final Thoughts
Memo Bottle
Pros: Sleek design, fits easily into a bag or pocket, no leaks.
Cons: Overpriced for its materials, prone to tipping over.
Verdict: Best for casual use when style and compactness matter, but there are more affordable options out there.
Fitly Soft Flask
Pros: Lightweight, spill-proof, and great for activities like hiking or cycling.
Cons: Small capacity (in the 5 oz model) and may not feel durable long-term.
Verdict: Ideal for active users who value portability and quick hydration.
Hydeaway Collapsible Cup
Pros: Collapsible, easy to store, and versatile for camping, picnics, or everyday use.
Cons: Not insulated, shows watermarks easily, and requires practice to collapse.
Verdict: A practical everyday cup for those who value space-saving convenience.
While none of these gadgets are perfect, they each cater to specific needs. The Memo Bottle shines in its compact, stylish design, the Fitly Flask is a solid pick for active individuals, and the Hydeaway Cup offers versatility for travelers and minimalists. Personally, the Hydeaway Cup has earned a spot in my daily routine, and I’m excited to see how it holds up over time.
Have you tried any of these products? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear your experiences!
Video Review
Watch these drink gadgets in action in the video below.