Best Shaker 2021: Shopping Guide &amp; Review

Here we present to you the Amazon Choice product that is one of the best selling shakers on the Australian market. This product is BPA free to ensure no nasty chemicals are released into your protein shake. Containing a polypropylene mixer ball whisk that moves freely inside to mix even the thickest ingredients with ease so you’ve got a nice smooth drink to consume.

At a size of 650ml, this shaker is on the larger size yet still incredibly useful. Available in 4 stylish colours; black, blue, clear and pink, you’ll be able to find a colour to match your gym outfit with ease.

Blender Bottle Classic with Loop Handle 28oz (825ml) Full Colour Navy, 28-Ounce Loop Top

Blender Bottle Classic with Loop Handle

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$ 15.11

Easily the most sold and most recognised brand of shaker on the market. If you know anything about fitness products, you’ll know that the Blender brand is world-class. This updated Blender Bottle Classic adds a new, convenient carrying loop and flip cap design to make it easier to transport yet still ultra-convenient to drink.

The leak-proof seal, premium materials, and unparalleled mixing further reinforce the Classic’s position as the world’s best-selling shaker cup. At under $20 and available in 23 different colours, this is definitely the shaker to get.

Contigo THERMALOCK Shake & Go Fit Stainless Steel Shaker Bottle, 24 oz, Grey/Black

Contigo THERMALOCK Shake & Go Fit Stainless Steel Shaker Bottle

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$ 42.31

Here we’ve got a stainless steel option for you to give you an alternative to the standard plastic shaker. This BPA-free shaker has a rounded bottom and weighted ball to reduce clumps and buildup when mixing shakes and smoothies. Available with a lid in 3 different colours; black, carolina blue and dusted navy, this is a very stylish bottle.

The thermalock vacuum technology keeps liquids cold for up to 12 hours, improving the taste of post-workout protein shakes and smoothies whilst the screw-top leak-proof lid allows for mess-free shaking and mixing on the go. For added convenience, your shaker bottle fits most car cup holders and the lifetime guarantee gives you ultimate confidence that this is a quality product.

Blender Bottle SportMixer Zen Gala Pattern Sleek Shaker Bottle, Green, 825 ml Capacity

Blender Bottle SportMixer

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$ 19.38

Here’s another product from US and world-leading brand Blender Bottle. The Sport Mixer model fuses form and function to deliver a water bottle that’s as versatile as it is beautiful. Only the best materials make the Sport Mixer the perfect hydration companion, while the Blender Ball wire whisk quickly mixes even the thickest energy and nutrition shakes with ease.

The Sport Mixer shaker bottle is dishwasher safe, BPA and phthalate-free and costs just over $20, what a bargain! Backed by Blender Bottle’s “Leak Proof Guarantee” you’ll never have smoothie-stained gym clothes again!

Republik Premium Stainless Steel Water Bottle- Double Wall Vacuum Insulated with Leak Proof Screw Top Lid and Wide Mouth Opening- 750ml Capacity Silver

Everest Premium Multi Function Protein Shaker

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Here’s a perfect yet economical shaker on the Australian market. At under $10, this product isn’t going to break the bank but will give you everything you need in one convenient bottle. Featuring a 500ml removable three phase protein storage system ideal for pre-workout’s, this product is recyclable and made of non-toxic, BPA free material.

Featuring an advanced anti-leak, click lock technology, the cap and lid are super safe to hold both hot and cold drinks.  The wide mouth design lid makes for easy drinking, mixing and cleaning. As one of the cheapest products on the market, this is a perfect entry-level shaker for those consumers new to the fitness world.

Shopping Guide: Everything you should know about shakers

Incorporating shakers into your training routine could be the big step you need to take to lead a healthier lifestyle. But the criteria for choosing the best shaker is not always clear. The following section will answer the most common questions among users to make sure you buy a quality shaker.

You must make sure that any plastic shakers you buy are free of BPA.
(Source: Golubovy: 54302299/ 123rf.com)

What is a Shaker exactly?

A shaker, protein shaker or mixing cup is a container, usually made of plastic, designed to conveniently mix food supplements with water or milk. The goal is to develop a nutritional drink to consume when working out or doing physical exercise. With this in mind, shakers are generally practical, light and easy to carry.

Shakers are shaped like a tall glass or bottle, which is the space usually reserved for the liquid, such as milk or water. It is also common for shakers to include a separate compartment to store dietary supplements. The latest models also include accessories such as strainers, funnels or mixing balls, to achieve a smooth, lump-free shake.

It is essential that the container you buy is completely airtight to avoid spillage.

How do I use a shaker correctly?

Most shakers are designed with 2 compartments; the main cup is for liquids and the extra compartment is for the food supplements, such as proteins or powders. The idea is to integrate everything together to achieve a smooth, delicious shake. The steps to make a shake are:

Pour in the liquid you’re going to drink into the main compartment. Usually it is water, but for a protein shake, milk is recommended, as it facilitates absorption in the body.
Add the food supplement such as protein powder that you want to consume.
Use, if it is included, the mixing ball, the strainer or the filter, in order to properly eliminate possible lumps in the shake.
Close the container securely and shake for several seconds.

Shakers usually have measurements engraved on the sides to calculate the proportions of liquids and supplements. It is advisable to carefully read the labels of each product to know what are the suitable portions for consumption. If you have any doubts, it’s best to consult a doctor.

Why are shakers necessary for physical training?

Protein shakes or fruit shakes are essential because they provide us with the energy and nutrients we lose during physical activity. They also help us to stay hydrated and avoid the risk of fainting. Protein also helps us to gain muscle mass while training in a gym or while running.

Christian RocchiFounder of Bondi Protein Co (BPC)

“Protein is a powerful packet of energy made up of a number of amino acids essential for muscle growth and proper hormone, reproductive and cognitive function”.

What ingredients or supplements can be mixed in a shaker?

The liquid that we mostly include in a shaker is water, since it is what combines well with most of the ingredients. The second most common ingredient is milk, which combines particularly well with protein supplements and is absorbed very well by the body. Usually, the liquid completely fills the cup of the shaker.

As for dietary supplements, the most common supplement to mix with water or milk is protein, which can come in capsules or powder. Fruits, creatine capsules, nuts, peanut butter, cinnamon or yogurt are also commonly mixed into shakes. If the products are not natural, it is best to consult a professional to know what proportions are safe to consume.

Shakers usually have measurements engraved on the sides to calculate the proportions of liquids and supplements. (Source: Lecic: 38674579/ 123rf.com)

Can shakers have any health risks?

In the past, some plastic shakers contained bisphenol A, better known by its acronym BPA. This substance was found to be highly toxic to the body because it was carcinogenic. It is very important to check that you buy those containers that clearly express that they are BPA free or do not contain other harmful chemical compounds, such as phthalate.

Beyond this precaution, shakers should not pose a health risk, as long as you clean them well after each use. As previously explained, attention should be paid to the dietary supplements that you decide to mix, as you may have a prior health condition that may require special care. An example is the relationship between proteins and the kidneys.

Simone AustinDietitian at Hawthorn Football Club

“If you’re making a protein shake, add milk for calcium and electrolytes and fruit for fibre, vitamins and minerals”.

How do you clean a shaker so it doesn’t smell?

It is completely normal for shakers to accumulate dirt and bad odours, since you’ll use it when playing sport or put milk in it. The best way to keep your shaker clean is to wash it immediately with water and detergent to remove the debris such as excess protein powder or fruit from the bottom and sides of the container.

If you are away from home and do not have washing detergent, add a little water inside the shaker and mix it around well to remove as much residual shake as possible. Then, when you get home you can give it a good clean with hot water and detergent. If the material of the shaker allows it, the shaker can also be cleaned in the dishwasher.

Louise BurkeHead of Sports Nutrition at The Australian Institute of Sport

“For busy people trying to eat everyday meals when they’re on the run, a protein smoothie can be handy as it is portable. It can also be good for the frail and the elderly, or the sick, who might not have the energy to eat a full meal but still need their protein”.

What’s the best material for a Shaker?

Plastic shakers clearly the most predominate in the market, although shakers can also be found in stainless steel. As for the former, it is important to note the difference between the common plastic, the poorer quality plastic and reinforced plastic. The following table explains the advantages and disadvantages of each type.

	Advantages	Disadvantages
Common plastic	Lightweight and portable	May contain BPA or other toxic substances In general, they are not biodegradable They can give off an odour over time
BPA-free plastic	They are lightweight and portable They do not contain toxic substances They’re tough They do not give off odours	In general, they are not biodegradable
Stainless steel	They are very resistant They keep temperatures better, both hot and cold They don’t contain BPA	They’re heavy In general, they are not very easy to hold due to their surface

What are the benefits of drinking shakes while doing sports?

Shakers with protein often bring the great benefits when combined with strong physical exercise. Some of the benefits of protein shakes include:

They provide many essential amino acids, necessary to maintain and repair muscle tissue.
Stimulate muscle protein synthesis after physical activity.
For endurance activities, they help reduce muscle mass.
They provide an additional energy source, which in turn helps muscle recovery.
They allow athletes to maintain a positive nitrogen balance, which also aids muscle recovery.

At what time of training is it recommended to consume a protein shake?

It is useful to know the effects that a protein shake has according to the time you consume them. Generally protein shakes are beneficial in any point during physical activity, as shown in the table below:

Time of intake	Effect
Before training	Ensures more intense and energetic activity
During training	Ensures more muscle gain, less fat accumulation and less stiffness after your session
After training	Helps muscle regeneration and energy recovery

Shopping Criteria

If you’re going to buy a shaker to prepare nutritious shakes, it’s important that you consider a couple of important aspects. To make sure you don’t regret your purchase, we’ve compiled a list of the most important criteria to consider before buying. There are certain standards that every good shaker should meet. Here is the criteria we recommend for you:

Locking system
Strength and material
Extra compartments
Mixing mechanism
BPA free
Capacity
Easy to clean

Locking system

Leaks are so annoying and can ruin your day. No one likes to go out training only to open the fitness bag to find that your shaker has leaked all over your clothes. It is essential that the container you buy is completely airtight. For this you must check how effective the system of the cap or plug is.

Shakes are suitable for any type of physical activity.
(Source: Aleksey Mnogosmyslov: 48713474/ 123rf.com)

Strength and material

Although the vast majority of shakers are made of plastic, there are different degrees of robustness. You should keep in mind that reinforced plastic is much more resistant than the typical one used for disposable bottles. Also keep in mind that you will use your shaker when training and moving a lot, so they must be able to withstand impacts or being dropped.

Extra compartments

The basic shakers usually only have space for the liquid, basically meaning it is like a drink bottle. To really make a difference, it is important to buy a model that includes extra compartments for your protein, capsules, fruits, or other supplements to allow you to achieve a more nutritious, moisturising blend.

Mixing mechanism

Naturally, a shaker should not fail in its main function: to properly mix the ingredients inside it. A good mixing mechanism is what makes the difference between a nice smooth shake and a shake full of yucky lumps. With this in mind, the shaker accessories, such as the mixing ball are a very important factors to consider before making your purchase.

A good shaker should have easily removable parts so that all corners can be easily cleaned.
(Source: Alexander Alexeev: 55153187/ 123rf.com)

BPA free

As mentioned earlier, you must make sure that any plastic shakers that you buy are 100% BPA-free. This substance is highly toxic to the body and can cause cancer. Although there are almost no products on the market that contain BPA, if you do not see that the product explicitly states that it is BPA free, it is better not to risk buying it just in case.

Capacity

Capacity is such an important aspect to consider when buying a shaker. On the Australian market at the moment, shaker capacity usually ranges between 400ml to 500ml. It is also important to take into account the different supplements that you are going to mix in the container. For example, if you only want to mix water and juices, a smaller capacity will be fine. However, if you want to mix Whey protein, fruit, water and milk, it will be better to choose a bigger shaker.

When the capacity of the shaker exceeds 700 ml, its use becomes far less practical. If you want to take your shaker to the gym and beat the mixture easily, the best option is a 400 ml container.

Plastic shakers clearly dominate in the market, although they can also be found in stainless steel.
(Source: Serezniy: 38051657/ 123rf.com)

Easy to clean

Although it may seem trivial, a good shaker should have easily removable parts so that it can be easily cleaned. Therefore, pay close attention to the structure and materials before you buy to ensure it has an easy removable lid. If it says that it is dishwasher safe, that is a major bonus.