Best Cocktail Shaker Sets 2022

You might think that all cocktail shakers are the same and the only decision you need to make is an aesthetic one, but even such a seemingly simple product comes in a variety of forms and there are other factors that determine which type to go for you is most suitable .

Cocktail shakers are generally available in either two-piece or three-piece configurations. If you’re a casual shaker with no intention of challenging the best bartenders for supremacy in cocktail making, then you probably want a three-piece shaker, often referred to as a cobbler or standard shaker.

These consist of a main base (also known as a “can”) into which the ingredients are poured, a top that fits snugly onto the base and has a built in strainer, and a cap to keep your cocktail from flying out of the strainer holes when shaken.

The advantages of these shakers are that they are leak-proof, easy to use (one-handed if you prefer) and do not require an additional strainer. However, taking them apart and cleaning them after each serving can waste valuable time for those who need to make a lot of cocktails.

For this reason, most bartenders opt for a two-piece shaker. With these shakers you get two cans, one slightly larger than the other.

To prepare your cocktail, combine the ingredients in the smaller can and place the larger can on top (professionals often add ice to the larger one and tip it into the smaller can as they combine).

Tapping the can gently seals the cans together before you start shaking the smaller can on top. Make sure you don’t close the cans together too tightly as they will be much more difficult to separate (shaking too vigorously will also have this effect).

You have to use two hands to shake and it feels a bit odd at first, but you can make much larger batches and just dump and rinse when you’re done. And with practice, you can even strain the cocktails by separating both parts, leaving enough space between them.

An alternative two piece shaker is the French shaker which seals similarly to a cobbler but without the built in strainer so you will definitely need it as a separate item. These are often chosen for their sleek design rather than their practicality.

When it comes to material, steel is the most common choice. You’ll also see copper shakers, which some prefer for their looks, but they need a little more cleaning to keep their pristine appearance.

Traditional two-piece shakers, also known as “Boston shakers,” have a glass bottom and a steel top, which has the advantage of allowing you to see what you’re shaking.

In this list, we’ve featured options for each of these styles, ranging from the simple to those with a few fancy flourishes. Whatever your preference, each one should make you tremble with confidence.