TAL Ranger Pro 26oz Double Wall Vacuum Insulated

Great value insulated water bottle delivers on promise of keeping liquids cold for 24 hours and hot for 18 hours.

I have enjoyed my TAL 24oz Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Bottle so much over the last year plus that I gave several to friends last summer who I kayak with (they all love theirs) and also gave one or two as presents this past Christmas. They are also available in an 18-oz Ranger bottle, and 40- and 64-oz Growler sizes.

Yes, I purchased these bottles at Walmart (although I have seen them on Amazon). They are similar in construction to the well-known Hydro Flask bottles. Both materials and quality of construction seem very similar to me. Perfect for someone like me who needs to pinch pennies. I fell in love with the Hydro Flask bottles the first time I saw them, but the price was a bit much to my budget. Then a friend bought one and raved about it. Later on I stumbled onto the TAL bottles in Walmart at a price ($13) that was much more comfortable, so I grabbed it and have really enjoyed it since. In fact I have another one on hand for when this one needs replacing.

One thing I really like about the TAL bottle is having a wide mouth that makes it easy to fill up with ice. I first had another brand stainless steel water bottle that I rarely used because the opening is so narrow I had to buy a thin bottle brush just to clean it—I do not like drinking out of that one because of the narrow mouth.

I do like drinking out of my TAL bottle because of the handy, screw-off drink spout that stays attached to the larger lid. Also, attached/hinged to the lid is a plastic loop/handle with a rubber inner grip that I find really handy in carrying the bottle. I do take care with it though because it is a bit narrow and I could see that a hard knock or drop could possibly snap the handle, but the plastic material seems strong.

I have had my bottle by my side in most car trips, out with me in my kayak, and even with me out hiking, either in a side pocket on one pack, or inside on another that lacks an outer pocket. Yes, it is heavier than the Smart Water bottle ultralight hikers love to carry, but for a hot day hike or paddle, having a cold drink with you is really nice. I have been astounded by how long ice stays ice in the bottle throughout a day.

Unfortunately, Walmart has a habit of discontinuing products I really like. I saw this size bottle in my local store recently, but for some reason the Walmart website does not currently list the 24-oz bottle like mine. They DO list an 18-oz shorter bottle with the same spout/handle lid, as well as the larger 40/64 oz size growlers. 

Background

I have used this bottle extensively for travel, kayaking, and hiking.