When the water is choppy with lots of surface turbulence, it is occasionally difficult to get all the hydration that an open water swimmer needs.

In the Reach and Roll phase of feeding, it is easier – and important – to grab the cup so the swimmer’s palm of their hand covers the top of the cup if an open cup is used. Of course, a water bottle with a narrow cap top eliminates this problem, especially when there is surface chop or ocean swells.

The hand on top often prevents the contents of the cup from spilling (too much).

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