Organizing your refrigerator and realizing you're out of water? This is the best time to explore the various alkaline water brands out there! Alkaline water has become a popular beverage over the past few years but what exactly is this water? Here are the best alkaline water brands we've tried and tested.
What is Alkaline Water Anyways?
Alkaline water has a much higher pH level than your typical bottled water which has a pH of 7. While there is water that is naturally alkaline when the natural minerals are picked up over time, many consumers drink alkaline water that has been processed. Homeowners may process tap water with reverse osmosis and then use an alkaline ionizer or make sure that water is vapor distilled before adding alkaline minerals.
The Health Benefits
Whether you're purchasing bottled alkaline water or using reverse osmosis, the alkaline that you consume from your favorite alkaline bottled water brand may be just as beneficial as consuming a potassium bicarbonate supplement.
Though there is more research to be done, many claim that when you drink alkaline water, you partake in the following benefits:
- Help with acid reflux: drinking alkaline water has been shown to help soothe acid reflux because of its high pH level.
- Increase weight loss: when you drink alkaline water, some say that it increases your metabolism which can lead to weight loss.
- Reduce high blood pressure and sugar: the alkaline minerals found in this type of water reduce the thickness, stickiness, and viscosity of blood after exercise.
- Keep you hydrated: drinking alkaline spring water or those found in plastic bottles positively affects hydration after anaerobic exercise.
- Fight cancer: alkaline waters are believed to help slow down or fight cancer because they can balance the body's pH level.
- Positively affect bone health: another one of the health benefits of drinking alkaline water includes improving bone health due it its composition of potassium bicarbonate.
Comparing the Best Alkaline Water Brands: What to Look For
If you've decided to take advantage of the health benefits that drinking alkaline pH water can offer, here are the best alkaline water brands we've tried, tested, and evaluated:
Best Alkaline Water Brands
Bai
Bai antioxidant alkaline water produces naturally occurring minerals in alkaline water brands via reverse osmosis. With a pH level of 7.5, Bai antioxidant water has a smooth taste that is definitely different from your tap water. Aside from the health benefits that drinking alkaline water offers, Bai alkaline water is non-GMO, plant-based, kosher, gluten-free, and comes in BPA-free bottles. Compared to the next option we tested, Bodyarmor boasts a higher pH level of 9+ and is fortified with minerals, while Bai has a lower pH level of 7.5-9.5 and is infused with antioxidants.
Pros
- Has electrolytes
- BPA free
- Organic ingredients
Cons
- Not the most refreshing taste
BodyArmor
Like other alkaline water brands we tested, BodyArmor sport water alkaline water is endorsed by various athletes and celebrities. Drinking alkaline water has never been easier with this naturally flavored option with a pH level of 9. Again, with reverse osmosis, BodyArmor processes water and not only adds the alkaline minerals that you're looking for but adds electrolytes, coconut water, and other vitamins.
How does it compare to other brands? BodyArmor and Evamore both contain added minerals, but Evamore has a higher pH level of 9.0+.
Pros
- Has electrolytes
- Comes in BPA-free bottles
- High pH level
- Has calcium chloride and magnesium chloride
Cons
- Not sealed well
- Can be expensive compared to other popular bottled water brands
Evamor
This water is naturally alkaline and is filtered underground and captured straight from the source. This naturally alkaline water has a pH level of 8.8 to 9.1 and is not vapor distilled or purified in any way. Compared to Core Hydration, it contains a high amount of natural alkaline minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which gives it a smooth and refreshing taste. Both brands are competitively priced, with Evamor being slightly more expensive.
Pros
- Naturally alkaline like alkaline spring water
- No added magnesium sulfate or other additives
- Comes in BPA free bottles
Cons
- Not purified
- Natural pH means it has a strong taste compared to regular drinking water
CORE Hydration
Compared to your tap water or go-to drinking water, CORE hydration water has an extremely crisp taste due to its intense purification process. Compared to other drinking alkaline water, CORE hydration has a pH level of only 7.4. This slightly alkaline water brand guarantees that you will still benefit from the minerals and electrolytes.
For example, Core Hydration and Icelandic Glacial both have a pH level of 7.4, but Icelandic Glacial is sourced from a glacier and has slightly higher mineral content.
Pros
- Comes in BPA free and recycled plastic bottles
- Similar to the natural pH of your body
Cons
- Has neurotoxins
Icelandic Glacial
Icelandic glacial water is one of the best alkaline water brands to buy from if you are looking for a company that offers alkaline spring water. This water is naturally alkaline (pH level of 8. 4) and has a refreshing taste with both its alkaline water and other beverages.
This comes from a combination of purified water and minerals. It is also rich in electrolytes, making it a good option for athletes or those who engage in regular physical activity. While Core Hydration has a pH level of 7.4 and comes from a combination of purified water and minerals, Icelandic Glacial, on the other hand, has a pH level of 8.4 and is sourced from the naturally replenishing Ölfus Spring in Iceland.
Pros
- Comes in BPA-free and recyclable water bottles
- Very sustainable and carbon neutral
- No reverse osmosis or other processing
Cons
- Can contain traces of fluoride
- Low in minerals compared to other naturally alkaline water
Essentia
Essentia water comes in two variations, an electrolyte infusion, and an ionized alkaline water variant. With a PH of 9.5, Essentia alkaline water tastes clean and smooth after testing. In order to achieve this pure alkaline water, Essentia utilizes reverse osmosis, microfiltration, and UV purification.
Pros
- Uses various processes to produce famed alkaline water
- Great for sports
Cons
- Can spill
- Caps are difficult to replace
LIFEWTR
If you're new to the alkaline water game, this is one of the best alkaline water brands to start off with. LIFEWTR comes in an aesthetic bottle and tastes a little different from your typical alkaline spring water due to the magnesium sulfate and potassium bicarbonate that are added.
Pros
- Affordable compared to other alkaline waters
- Produced by one of the best alkaline water brands
Cons
- Not the most alkaline drinking water on the market
- Water sources are municipal
Alkaline88
Another affordable brand from which you can get great alkaline water that we tried out is Alkaline88. Known for its alkaline waters of 8.8 on the pH scale, this option is enhanced with minerals, Himalayan sea salt, and electrolytes. You can easily purchase alkaline water in a gallon.
Pros
- Available in gallon bottles
- Comes in BPA-free bottles
- One of the best alkaline water brands for those on a budget
- Has Himalayan sea salt
Cons
- Can have a lingering plastic taste
Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water
This may not be the most alkaline water out there but it is enhanced with electrolytes and minerals. Waiakea is certified carbon neutral but its water is far from the natural spring or smooth taste other brands offer. Alkaline water enthusiasts have also found the floating water particles to be a bother.
Pros
- Comes in recycled bottles
- Waiakea donates clean water for every purchase
- Has minerals and electrolytes
Cons
- Municipal water source
- pH level of 8.2
- Has a metallic taste
JUST Water
This naturally alkaline water is not only sustainable and environmentally friendly but has a refreshing taste. Sourced from a natural spring, this is one of the best alkaline waters on the market with a natural pH level of 8. When you make a purchase from JUST Water, you are supporting a Certified B Corp.
Pros
- Naturally alkaline
- The bottle is made out of renewable materials (88%)
Cons
- Hyped up because of celebrities
- A more expensive alkaline water
Flow Spring Water
Flow alkaline spring water comes in various flavors which is great for those looking for a twist. Whether you get the plain alkaline water or purchase the blackberry hibiscus flavor, you'll get all of the minerals and electrolytes this brand has to offer. Aside from its fresh taste that we loved after trying it out, Flow alkaline spring water is non-GMO-free.
Pros
- Is naturally alkaline
- Packaging is eco-friendly
- Has different flavors
Cons
- This alkaline water is untreated
- Bottled water but the packaging is opaque
AQUAHydrate
This is one of the best alkaline water brands that offer water that has a pH of 9 due to its advanced electrolysis technology. This alkaline water is a sportsman's favorite due to its 72 or so minerals. However, the taste and texture are not as smooth as water from a natural spring because of these additives which we noticed after testing.
Pros
- Has various minerals
- Enhanced with minerals and electrolytes
- UV filtration is eco-friendly
- No sugar or extra calories
Cons
- Is a thick alkaline water
- Can become salty
Smartwater
Another alkaline water choice for those looking for an option with a PH of 9. Smartwater alkaline water is pure and has electrolytes, but still has a fresh taste. This alkaline water brand processes its water with a sustainable vaporization method.
Pros
- Vapor distilled in an eco-friendly manner
- Tastes pure and fresh
- Is free from common allergens
Cons
- Has fluoride
- Can be a more expensive alkaline water choice
How to Choose from the Best Alkaline Water Brands
When you're choosing between the best alkaline water brands, take the following into consideration:
pH Level
When selecting an alkaline water brand, the pH level of the water is an important consideration to take into account. Most alkaline water brands have a pH level between 8.0 and 9.5, while the recommended pH range for drinking water is between 7.0 and 8.5. It is crucial to pick a brand whose pH level is suitable for your requirements and tastes.
Source of the Water
Another crucial aspect to take into account is the water supply. While some brands might use spring water or other sources, some might use tap water. It is crucial to pick a brand that uses a reputable water source that is free of impurities.
Mineral Content
Alkaline water is frequently touted as having more minerals than ordinary water. To increase the water's alkalinity and mineral content, certain brands of alkaline water may add minerals. It's crucial to pick a brand that doesn't include too many minerals that could be damaging to your health and has a balanced mineral composition.
Price
Depending on the brand and the water's source, alkaline water costs might vary significantly. It's crucial to pick a brand that suits your wants and tastes while staying within your price range.
Taste and Flavor
Depending on the brand and water source, alkaline water can have a variety of tastes and flavors. It's crucial to pick a brand whose taste and flavor you like and find refreshing.
Brand Reputation
It's critical to take the brand's reputation into account when selecting an alkaline water brand. Choose companies with a solid history of producing high-caliber, secure, and efficient products. To make an informed choice, you might also wish to read reviews and ask for advice from other customers.
| Brand | pH Level | Source of Water | Mineral Content | Price | Taste and Flavor | Brand Reputation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bai | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| BodyArmor | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Evamor | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| CORE Hydration | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Icelandic Glacial | 4/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Essentia | 5/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| LIFEWTR | 3/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Alkaline88 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water | 4/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| JUST Water | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Flow Spring Water | 5/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| AQUAHydrate | 4/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Smartwater | 3/5 | 4/5 | 1/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 |
FAQs on the Best Alkaline Water Brands
Which brand of alkaline water is the best?
This is arbitrary and subject to individual taste. Core Hydration, Essentia, Evamor, Icelandic Glacial, and Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water are a few well-known alkaline water brands.
What pH range in alkaline water should I be looking for?
For alkaline water, a pH level of 7.5 to 9.5 is generally regarded as ideal.
Where does alkaline water come from?
The origin of alkaline water might be different. Some manufacturers employ electrolysis to ionize the water, while others get their water from natural springs.
Does the mineral composition of alkaline water matter?
Certainly, the presence of minerals in alkaline water is significant since they help to increase the water's overall alkalinity.
Is the cost of alkaline water higher than that of ordinary water?
Absolutely, because there are additional steps required in producing alkaline water, it is typically more expensive than ordinary water.
When selecting an alkaline water brand, does reputation matter?
It is true that brand reputation can be taken into account when selecting an alkaline water brand. A brand with a solid reputation might represent quality and reliability in their offerings.
