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Starbucks Extreme Mug

The original Starbucks Extreme mug was introduced in 2004. Evan Ward designed this for Starbucks while working at Ignite USA. The gestalt of this design embraces the need for a rugged, leak-proof mug that can go anywhere. After a run as the best selling coffee mug at Starbucks, it has been continuously sold under the Contigo brand at many retailers, including Target, Costco, Bed, Bath and Beyond, Caribou Coffee, Moosejaw, and more. Millions of these mugs have been produced and sold around the world.

In addition to the unique use and integration of a carabineer, Starbucks was looking for a leak-proof lid with a fresh new aesthetic and uncompromised function. Ward created a patented lid mechanism with an integrated pull-top release. In addition to being leak-proof, this design prevents the user from touching the ‘lip’ of the mug with their fingers. With a double-walled, vacuum insulated body, this mug keeps your coffee hot for up to eight hours.

Coinciding with the introduction of the Extreme Mug, Starbucks released a second design by Ward called the Sophisticate, a sleek leather wrapped vessel that embraces the on-the-go coffee needs of the urban professional. This was also a highly successful design for Starbucks.