Are you searching for a fun twist on hydration? You’re not alone. Many shoppers today look for flavor-packed, low-calorie beverages instead of high-sugar sodas. This rising demand for healthier drink options has led to a surge in **best flavored water brands**, each offering creative taste blends and minimal sweeteners. People on social media even highlight new concoctions, with the WaterTok trend(https://www.healthpub.com/posts/watertok-flavored-water-recipes-are-all-over-tiktok-but) boosting the popularity of flavor-inspired waters. Below, we’ll explore why these products have taken off and examine 10 standout brands (with side-by-side comparisons) to help you pick your next refreshing sip.
Why Flavored Water Is So Popular
The global flavored water market is projected to grow significantly, with some estimates indicating a CAGR of 7.2% from 2025 to 2030. According to various industry reports, flavored sparkling water holds about 59.2% market share, largely due to its fizzy kick and zero or low calories. Shoppers want smart hydration alternatives that provide flavor without the sugar crash.
Many people prefer **top flavored sparkling water** because it offers a fun carbonation profile while reducing or eliminating added sugars. For those concerned about potential health effects, our post on Is Sparkling Water Good or Bad for Your Health?(https://www.healthpub.com/posts/is-sparkling-water-good-or-bad-for-your-health) provides extra context about carbonation and overall wellness.
Online communities have played a big part in driving awareness. Health-conscious individuals championed **healthiest flavored water** varieties that avoid artificial sweeteners. Meanwhile, younger consumers have fueled a range of flavor experiments, prompting innovations like exotic fruit infusions and caffeinated blends.
10 of the Best Flavored Water Brands
Below are 10 noteworthy options, each with its own strengths. If you crave a subtle hint, you’ll find something here. Prefer extra fizz or real fruit juice? That’s on the list too. Each review includes a short comparison to at least one other brand so you can see where each stands out.
1. LaCroix
LaCroix is famous for its wide flavor variety, including crowd favorites such as Lime, Pamplemousse (Grapefruit), and Tangerine. In contrast to Waterloo’s bold taste, LaCroix flavors tend to be lighter. Some fans enjoy that subtlety, while others want a more punchy finish. With zero calories and zero sweeteners, LaCroix has a big following, and you’ll often find it at nearly every major retailer.
Highlights:
- No sugars or artificial ingredients
- Over 20 distinct taste profiles
- Colorful, instantly recognizable packaging
Compare With: Waterloo’s lively flavors stand apart if you want stronger fruit-forward notes, whereas LaCroix suits those preferring mild hints.
2. Spindrift
Shipping real-fruit flair in each can, Spindrift adds 3–15 calories per serving depending on flavor. The company’s approach emphasizes transparency: you can see exactly how much fruit juice goes into each batch. This brand caters to folks who like an authentic fruit taste, though it might not be for anyone wanting a completely zero-calorie drink. If you compare it to Bubly, Spindrift is closer to natural fruit juice territory, while Bubly stays at zero calories.
Highlights:
- Uses actual squeezed fruit for bolder taste
- Varied flavors like Raspberry Lime, Grapefruit, and Lemon
- Light pulp and juice-based color in certain flavors
Compare With: Bubly’s no-calorie formula is an alternative if you want carbonation without the slight caloric bump from real fruit juice.
3. Hint
For a gentler taste, Hint stands out. It uses fruit essences without sugar, preservatives, or carbonation. Many prefer its subtle flavors—like Watermelon and Pineapple—for an ultra-smooth sip. Unlike highly carbonated brands such as Perrier, Hint takes a still-water route. That means no fizz, just a light and refreshing infusion.
Highlights:
- Zero sweeteners and zero calories
- A variety of flavors, with fruit-forward undertones
- Also offers caffeinated and sparkling lines
Compare With: Perrier brings a mineral-forward taste plus bubbles, while Hint offers a calmer, still-water experience.
4. Waterloo
Waterloo touts a stronger punch of flavor and a fizz level many rank as “high.” Its profile is self-described as “bold,” making each sip stand out. Watermelon and Black Cherry are popular for their extra-fruity kicks. By contrast, LaCroix is smoother and less in-your-face with its fruit essence, so choose Waterloo if you want a highly carbonated taste with serious flavor intensity.
Highlights:
- Zero calories, no artificial sweeteners
- Vibrant flavor line, including Watermelon and Black Cherry
- Claims non-GMO and natural flavoring
Compare With: LaCroix is recommended for more delicate undertones; Waterloo fits those who enjoy a robust, sparkling burst.
5. Bubly
Bubly, a product by PepsiCo, has attracted attention with fun can designs bearing smiling faces and chatty pull-tab messages. Like Waterloo, Bubly’s flavors are lively, though some folks find them slightly more subdued than Waterloo’s. Bubly also competes directly with LaCroix for fans of zero-calorie carbonated beverages.
Highlights:
- Zero sugar or artificial ingredients
- Playful marketing and variety (Grapefruit, Lime, Strawberry)
- Widely available in grocery and convenience stores
Compare With: Waterloo offers sharper tastes, while Bubly might be a bit softer on the palate.
6. San Pellegrino Essenza
Known for its upscale packaging and mineral-water base, San Pellegrino Essenza includes flavors like Lemon & Lemon Zest or Dark Morello Cherry & Pomegranate. It has a refined appeal compared to more casual brands like Bubly or Waterloo. The signature mineral taste pairs well with subtle flavor infusions, though that may not suit everyone.
Highlights:
- Mineral-rich base water for a distinct mouthfeel
- Often low in calories (some lines have zero calories)
- Aimed at consumers wanting an elevated beverage
Compare With: Hint has no bubbles, while San Pellegrino Essenza emphasizes carbonation and mild fruit extracts over more intense notes.
Interested in other mineral-based beverages? Check out our post on Mineral Water: Benefits, Nutrition, and Risks(https://www.healthpub.com/posts/mineral-water-benefits-nutrition-and-risks) to learn more about these unique waters.
7. Polar Seltzer
Polar Seltzer has a loyal fanbase in the northeastern United States. Labeling itself as seltzer rather than sparkling water, Polar prides itself on curious seasonal limited editions, like Toasted Coconut or Unicorn Kisses. If you enjoy novelty and rotating flavors, Polar might top your list. Compared to LaCroix or Bubly, Polar’s flavors can feel slightly more potent and sometimes sweeter (despite having no sugar).
Highlights:
- Limited-edition “mystery” or seasonal flavors
- Zero sugar or calories
- Family-run brand with deep roots
Compare With: Bubly is more mainstream, while Polar frequently experiments with quirky flavor sets.
8. AHA
AHA, launched by Coca-Cola, centers its identity around two-flavor combos, such as Blueberry + Pomegranate or Lime + Watermelon. Some flavors include a caffeine boost, appealing to those wanting a light energy bump. If you stack it against Spindrift, AHA’s emphasis is on inventive pairings rather than real fruit juice. That difference might matter if you’re taste-testing side by side.
Highlights:
- Dual-flavor combos (e.g., Citrus + Green Tea)
- Caffeinated varieties available
- Zero calories, no sweeteners
Compare With: Spindrift uses real fruit juice, while AHA focuses on dynamic flavor pairings and sparkling flair.
9. Perrier
Renowned for its iconic green bottles, Perrier’s signature crispness comes from natural carbonation, sourced from a spring in Vergèze, France. Its popular flavors—like Lime and Strawberry—are more delicate compared to something such as Waterloo. Because it’s a natural mineral water, some drinkers notice a distinctive mineral finish, setting it apart from standard seltzers.
Highlights:
- Naturally carbonated mineral water
- Iconic glass bottle design
- Available in flavors like Lime, Strawberry, and L’Orange
Compare With: Hint is still water, so it lacks the effervescence that Perrier fans adore.
10. JUST Water
JUST Water stands out with eco-friendly, plant-based packaging and spring water from upstate New York. While it offers still options like Lemon or Tangerine, it also experiments with flavors that set it apart from typical carbonated brands. If you line it up next to AHA, the main difference is carbonation: JUST Water remains still or very lightly infused, while AHA is fully sparkling.
Highlights:
- Plant-based cartons reduce plastic usage
- Tangerine, Lemon, and Apple Cinnamon flavors
- Non-carbonated format for gentler sipping
Compare With: AHA’s a good choice if you want bubbly, while JUST Water is better for minimal fizz and sustainability focus.
Potential Health Notes
One major draw of **best tasting flavored water** is the lower calorie count compared to traditional sodas. Most varieties provide zero to 15 calories per can, ideal for those monitoring their sugar levels. For overall calorie breakdown in different water types—including carbonated and flavored—see our reference on Calories in Water: Plain, Carbonated, Flavored, and More(https://www.healthpub.com/posts/calories-in-water-plain-carbonated-flavored-and-more).
Additionally, many **popular flavored water options** skip preservatives or sweeteners, appealing to individuals aiming to cut down on hidden additives. However, ingredients vary by brand. If you’re worried about potential chemicals in carbonated drinks, you might explore whether PFAS or other substances are tested. Our guide on PFAs in Sparkling Water: What You Need To Know(https://www.healthpub.com/posts/pfas-in-sparkling-water-what-you-need-to-know) elaborates on that concern.
Wrapping Up
The worldwide demand for flavored water shows no sign of slowing. Whether you gravitate toward sweet fruit essences, sparkling fizz, or still varieties, there’s a brand to match your taste. LaCroix and Bubly serve those who want no-frills, zero-calorie options, while Spindrift uses real juice for a more genuine fruit flavor. If you love creative pairings, AHA and Polar appear frequently on store shelves with new twists. For those seeking premium mineral profiles, Perrier and San Pellegrino Essenza offer a refined take. And Hint or JUST Water can be ideal for people wanting subtle blends without carbonation.
It’s always worth reading the label. Some waters can contain trace sugars, sweeteners, or natural flavors you may or may not prefer. Smart hydration is about balancing taste with nutritional goals. If you’d like more info on staying hydrated while reducing sugary beverages, be sure to read our piece on Does Sparkling Water Hydrate You?(https://www.healthpub.com/posts/does-sparkling-water-hydrate-you).
References
- Virtue Market Research. (2023). “Flavored Water Market.” Available at: https://virtuemarketresearch.com/news/flavored-water-market.
- MarkNtel Advisors. (2023). “The US and Europe to Dominate the Global Flavored and Functional Water Hydration Market.” Available at: https://www.marknteladvisors.com/press-release/the-us-and-europe-to-dominate-the-global-flavored-and-functional-water-hydration-market-through-2025.
- Tasting Table. (2022). “14 Flavored Bottled Water Brands, Ranked Worst To Best.” Available at: https://www.tastingtable.com/1615315/flavored-bottled-water-brands-ranked-best-worst.
