4 Best Highball Drinking Glasses 2025 in US

Finding the best highball drinking glasses is a journey that combines aesthetics, functionality, and personal preference. Highball glasses are tall, typically with a straight profile, and are used for serving mixed drinks that contain a large proportion of non-alcoholic mixer, such as the classic gin and tonic or the rum and coke. To make an informed decision, consider the following factors:

Material and Durability

The material of the glass significantly impacts its durability and the experience of using it. Highball glasses are commonly made from glass, crystal, or acrylic.

1. Glass: Traditional glass highball glasses are the most common and can range from basic, everyday use to luxurious, hand-blown pieces. They are generally dishwasher safe, although hand washing is recommended for delicate designs. Borosilicate glass is a stronger and more temperature-resistant option, making it less prone to breaking.

2. Crystal: For a touch of elegance, crystal highball glasses are a premium choice. Lead crystal has been historically popular for its clarity and brilliance, but lead-free crystal is now favored for health reasons. Crystal glasses are often heavier and more fragile, requiring careful handling and hand washing.

3. Acrylic: If you need something more robust for outdoor use or casual settings, acrylic highball glasses are shatterproof and lightweight. They are perfect for poolside parties or picnics, though they may lack the refined feel of glass or crystal.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of highball glasses can range from classic and simple to ornate and modern. Here are some aspects to consider:

1. Shape and Size: Traditional highball glasses are straight-sided and tall, typically holding between 10 to 16 ounces. However, variations exist, including slightly tapered or curved designs. Choose a shape that feels comfortable in your hand and fits well in your kitchen cabinets.

2. Weight: The weight of the glass can affect the drinking experience. Heavier glasses feel more substantial and are less likely to tip over, while lighter glasses are easier to handle and may be preferred for casual use.

3. Aesthetic Appeal: Your highball glasses should match your personal style and complement your existing glassware. Clear glasses offer timeless elegance and versatility, while colored or patterned glasses can add a playful or sophisticated touch to your drink presentation.

Functionality

Practicality is key when selecting highball glasses. Consider the following functional aspects:

1. Ease of Cleaning: Glasses that are dishwasher safe can save time, but if you choose delicate or intricately designed glasses, hand washing may be necessary to preserve their beauty and integrity.

2. Stackability: If you have limited storage space, look for stackable highball glasses that can be neatly organized in your cabinets.

3. Grip: Some highball glasses come with textured surfaces or indentations to provide a better grip, reducing the risk of accidental drops.

Brand and Price

The brand and price of highball glasses can be an indicator of quality and durability. While there are many reputable brands to choose from, here are a few notable ones:

1. Riedel: Known for their high-quality crystal glassware, Riedel offers elegant highball glasses that enhance the drinking experience through their thoughtful design.

2. Libbey: A well-known brand for everyday glassware, Libbey provides durable and affordable highball glasses suitable for frequent use.

3. Bormioli Rocco: This Italian brand offers a range of stylish and durable glassware, including highball glasses that combine functionality with design.

Ultimately, the best highball glasses for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize aesthetics, durability, or ease of use, there is a perfect set of highball glasses out there to enhance your drinking experience. Take your time to explore different options, read reviews, and consider how each choice aligns with your lifestyle and taste.