What Is a Highball vs. Cooler Glass?
Highball (Hiball) Glass
A highball glass, also referred to as a hiball, is a tall and narrow piece of drinkware typically holding 8 to 12 ounces. It's used for spirit-forward cocktails mixed with a small amount of mixer—think gin & tonic, whiskey soda, or vodka cranberry. Its upright profile is sleek and refined, making it a popular choice for both home bars and formal hospitality settings.
Cooler Glass
A cooler glass is larger and slightly wider than a highball, usually holding between 12 and 16 ounces. It’s made for "long" drinks with generous mixers, ice, and garnish. Popular cocktails served in cooler glasses include mojitos, Tom Collins, and rum punch. This style works especially well in casual or outdoor settings, where hydration and visual appeal go hand-in-hand.
Key Differences Between Highball and Cooler Glasses
| Feature | Highball (Hiball) | Cooler Glass |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 8–12 oz | 12–16 oz |
| Height | Medium-tall | Taller |
| Width | Narrow | Slightly wider |
| Typical Drinks | Whiskey soda, gin & tonic | Mojito, Tom Collins, rum punch |
| Ideal For | Short cocktails with light mixers | Long drinks with ice and juice |
| Weight | Light | Slightly heavier |
Choosing the Right Glass for Custom Barware Gifts
Choose Highball Glasses If…
- You want a sleek, minimalist aesthetic for your gift
- You’re creating gifts for formal or high-end environments
- You need a tall surface for vertical logo or message engraving
Choose Cooler Glasses If…
- You’re gifting for casual, outdoor, or high-volume occasions
- You want a larger, more substantial glass
- You need additional space for personalization or branding
Best Uses in Corporate Gifting and Branding
Both highball and cooler glasses have their place in corporate barware strategies:
- Highball: Ideal for executive gifting, bar programs, and branded cocktail kits that demand elegance and simplicity.
- Cooler: Great for hospitality-focused gifting, team celebration boxes, and summer event swag with flair.
Explore our full range of custom-etched barware options here.
Engraving Options for Tall Glassware
Tall glasses like highballs and coolers offer excellent vertical space for etching. Whether you choose to add initials, a logo, or a message like “Cheers to 10 Years,” the surface allows for visibility and clarity. Kusak uses deep-etch engraving to ensure lasting elegance and dishwasher-safe durability, making each piece a standout in both form and function.
Final Thoughts: The Right Glass, the Right Experience
When choosing between a highball and cooler glass, consider the drink, the occasion, and the message you want to convey. Each offers a distinct look, feel, and function—but both deliver lasting value when custom-engraved with care. Whether you choose highball or cooler glasses, Kusak offers expertly crafted, customizable drinkware built to make a lasting impression.