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Best Hiking Water Bottles of 2023
This post was last updated on December 06, 2023.
Whether you're hitting the trail for a multi-day hike or a quick day trip, staying hydrated is fundamental. The best hiking water bottle for you might depend on your specific needs. Some might prefer an ultra-light bottle that barely adds any weight to their backpack, while others might prioritize insulation to keep their beverage hot or cold for hours. Then of course, there's the crucial issue of durability - nuh-uh, no-one wants an emergency situation where your only water source springs a leak!
Undoubtedly, many bottles fit the bill, but we're going to make your life easier by narrowing down the options. We've done the legwork, tested various bottles, and come up with our pick for the best hiking water bottle overall as well as our two runners-up. We didn't just stop there; we've also selected the best bottles to fit specific needs, whether you're on a budget, keen on an insulated or ultralight option, prefer plastic over metal, need a bottle that can be squashed down to save space, or are looking for a bottle with a built-in filter.
Our top recommendation for a hiking water bottle is the Hydro Flask Standard Mouth 24 oz bottle. This bottle ain't just a pretty face; it ticks all the boxes in terms of durability, capacity, weight, ease of cleaning, insulation, and general value for money. It's a go-getter, keeps you hydrated and honestly, it's practically a part of the family. So let's dive right into why this water bottle is a cut above the rest. Don’t forget to check out our related posts for more gear tips: Best Backpacking Backpacks, Best Ultralight Backpacks, Best Hiking Daypacks.
Our Top Recommendations
Our Top Pick
Hydro Flask Standard Mouth 24 oz
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The Hydro Flask Standard Mouth 24 oz is our top pick because of it's solid durability and excellent double wall construction. It's not the lightest or the cheapest, but we like it the most.
Runner Up #1
Klean Kanteen 27 oz Classic
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The Klean Kanteen 27 oz Classic grabs our runner-up spot because it's our favorite single wall water bottle. It's nice and light with great build quality. But it won't keep your drinks hot or cold.
Runner Up #2
YETI Rambler 26
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The YETI Rambler 26 tops our list due to its stellar user reviews lauding its superior insulation capabilities that keep water chilled for hours and the rugged, puncture-resistant body that stands up to rough and tumble hiking adventures.
What you should look for
(and what we test for)
Capacity
Being parched is no joke out in the wild, so consider the size of your canteen carefully - a good hiking water bottle should hold at least 1 liter of liquid.
Durability
When you're wrestling with nature, you need a water bottle that can handle a few knocks - look for one that's made from tough, durable materials like stainless steel or BPA-free plastic.
Insulation
You don't want your icy water turning lukewarm in the sun or your hot coffee freezing in the cold, a feature you'd rate highly is therefore good insulation to maintain your drink temperature for longer periods.
Portability
Remember, every ounce counts when you're trekking through the woods or climbing up mountains - opt for water bottles which are lightweight and have features like clips, carabiners, or straps to easily attach to your backpack.
Hydro Flask Standard Mouth 24 oz
$39.95The Best Hiking Water Bottle
Based on our research and testing, we think the Hydro Flask Standard Mouth 24 oz is the best Hiking Water Bottle on the market right now, for anyone looking to play hard outside.
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Reasons to Buy
- Excellent, long lasting insulation
- Durable construction
- Tall, narrow design is ideal
Reasons to Avoid
- A bit pricey compared to other options
- Not as light as some other options
The Important Specs
- Capacity: 24 ounces
- Material: 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel
- Mouth Type: Standard Mouth
- Construction: Double Wall Vacuum Insulated
The Hydro Flask Standard Mouth 24 oz is a well built, relatively lightweight double walled water bottle.
It's advertised to keep your hot drinks hot for about 12 hours and cold drinks cold for about 24 hours. In our tests this depended quite a bit on how much liquid (hot or cold) was actually in the bottle. More liquid means the temperature stays more constant.
All of that is just to say, the advertised numbers on keeping your drink hot or cold are approximately correct.
The lid is great. The loop is a thin piece of rubber that's easy to clip a carabiner to. The threads feel good and secure. We're not huge fans of plastic, especially plastic that touches our hot drinks, but HydroFlask does make a replacement metal lid which we personally think is a great investment.
The Standard Mouth version is the one we like best, but there is also a Wide Mouth version that a lot of people do like. The Standard Mouth version is big enough to fit an ice cube through, which is the biggest thing we've ever needed to get in to our water bottle, so we've never seen a reason to upgrade to the Wide Mouth version, but it does exist if you want it.
There are some reports about the rim of the bottle getting quite hot for your lips when hot liquid is in the bottle. We've not personally experienced that, but it's something to be aware of.
The overall shape and design is great. The bottle is narrow enough to fit in to most bottle holders in a car, for instance, and also fits great in the side pockets of most backpacks.
This isn't the lightest bottle, but that is mostly due to the double wall design. You can find lighter double wall water bottles, but one major recurring problem with these water bottles is dents. A very light metal water bottle almost certainly means lighter, thinner metal, which is more likely dent when you drop it on a rock. So a certain amount of weight is really what's keeping your bottle dent free.
Lastly, this isn't a cheap water bottle. It's a bit of an investment, but you're getting a great bottle that, if you don't drop it on too many rocks, you will have for a long time.
Prices
Klean Kanteen 27 oz Classic
$19.95Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Klean Kanteen 27 oz Classic is a great choice if you're looking for a hiking water bottle to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.
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Reasons to Buy
- Exceptional durability
- Lightweight
- Solid value
Reasons to Avoid
- Cap loop is smaller than Hydro Flask
The Important Specs
- Capacity: 27 oz
- Material: 18/8 Food-Grade Stainless Steel
The Hydro Flask Standard Mouth 24 oz is our favorite double wall water bottle and the Klean Kanteen 27 oz Classic is our favorite single wall water bottle.
The basic shape is very similar to the Hydro Flask Standard Mouth 24 oz. It's a long, narrow cylindar which is ideal for sliding in to a car bottle holder or a backpack side pocket.
The lid is a simple and effective plastic lid, also quite similar to the Hydro Flask. We like the replacement metal lid that Klean Kanteen offers. The loop on the plastic lid however is a better design that's easier to clip a carabiner to. The Hydro Flask lid loop design is better than either of these, however. Fun fact: the Hydro Flask and Klean Kanteen lids are interchangeable, so ultimately if you like one lid or the other better, you can always mix and match.
Weight is probably where the Klean Kanteen 27 oz Classic stands out the most. It definitely feels like a light water bottle that you won't notice in your backpack. This is thanks largely to the single wall design, which means there is about 50% less metal in this water bottle, compared to a double wall design.
Of course, it probably doesn't need to be said but a single wall design like this one will not keep your drink hot or cold for very long at all. This is our favorite water bottle when we don't care that much about the temperature of our liquids, but when you do care, you want a double walled water bottle.
Finally, the value is reasonable for this water bottle. The simpler single wall design means a lower price, which we definitely like.
Prices
YETI Rambler 26
$40.00Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the YETI Rambler 26 is a great choice if you're looking for a hiking water bottle to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.
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Reasons to Buy
- Superior insulation
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Leakproof cap
- Fits in most cup holders
Reasons to Avoid
- Pricey
- A bit heavy
- Not dishwasher safe
The Important Specs
- Capacity: 26oz
- Lid Type: Chug Cap
- Material: 18/8 stainless steel
- Dimensions: 11 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches
Review Roundup
The YETI Rambler 26 is hands down an excellent water bottle for hiking. This rugged stainless steel bottle is designed to withstand just about anything you throw at it, serving as a dependable hydration pal for your outdoor adventures.
The YETI Rambler 26 holds 26 ounces of liquid, hence the name. It's a good mid-range size - not too hefty to carry around but sizable enough to keep you hydrated on a good walk. Plus the wide mouth means it's easy to fill at a hiking water source and to sip or glug from.
What makes it stand out though is the extraordinary insulation. This is a double-wall vacuum insulated bottle, keeping your water icy cold for hours, even in the sweltering heat. Likewise, if you need a flask of hot tea in the winter - this bottle will keep it warm until you're ready for it.
Yeti's craftsmanship shines through in the design of the cap. The leak-proof cap, or as Yeti calls it - the 'chug cap' is quite intriguing. It screws on and off easily, and has a smaller cap on top for easy drinking. Plus, it's dishwasher safe which simplifies cleaning.
But let's talk real-world usage. Those who bought the YETI Rambler 26 are mostly enamored by it. Many buyers noted how the water remained incredibly cold, some stating it was still ice-cold after a full day in the hot sun. This quality alone garnered a lot of five-star reviews.
There were a fair number of buyers who also praised its durability. Stories range from dropping it on rocky terrains to accidentally leaving it to freeze overnight, yet the bottle emerged scratch-less and fully functional each time.
However, it wasn't immune from criticism. A small handful of users claimed it was heavier than they'd expected, despite being aware of its stainless steel build. So, if weight is a significant factor for you, this might be something to consider. Others found the price point on the steeper side, but were quick to note that the overall quality justified the cost.
Capacity
With a 26-ounce capacity, it is well suited for day hikes or short trips. It can comfortably tote along a nice amount of water to keep you refreshed. Some users wished it came in a slightly larger size for longer outings, though.
Durability
The YETI Rambler 26 has a solid build, thanks to its 18/8 stainless steel construction. This water bottle is a beast - it can take quite a beating without showing many signs of wear and tear. There were many instances of people stating they've dropped it on rocks or accidentally banged it against something, and it's come out unscathed.
Ease of Cleaning
Most customers appreciate the bottle's wide mouth, which makes cleaning a breeze. However, it's not dishwasher safe, making cleaning a bit tedious for some. It does come with a removable Chug Cap which is dishwasher safe, though.
Insulation
The superior insulation is where the Rambler 26 really earns its keep. Most buyers were thrilled with the bottle's insulation abilities. Whether you want your drink icy cold or steaming hot, this bottle seems to deliver exceptional insulation, even in extreme temperatures.
Material
Constructed with 18/8 stainless steel, this product promises a high level of resistance to rust, punctures, and impacts. It's got a good-feel to it, that stainless steel touch which you don't get with plastic bottles. Some users have emphasized the quality finish of the bottle, and how it keeps the beverage taste and odor-free.
Value
Yes, the YETI Rambler 26 does command a higher price than most water bottles on the market. However, users insist it provides excellent value for the money, considering the superior insulation, durability and the overall build quality of the bottle.
Weight
Clocking in at 21.9 ounces when empty, the YETI Rambler 26 is a tad on the heavy side compared to some other bottles. It carries its weight well, though, due to its solid construction. A number of users didn't mind the weight due to its other stellar features.
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Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide Mouth Trail Series 32 oz
$49.95Best Ultralight Hiking Water Bottle
Based on our research and testing, we think the Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide Mouth Trail Series 32 oz is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight hiking water bottle option to go play hard outside with.
Reasons to Buy
- Keeps liquids cold or hot for long periods
- Durable design and material
- Easy to clean
- Comfortable to carry
- Wide mouth for easy refills
Reasons to Avoid
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
- May be too large for some backpack pockets
The Important Specs
- Capacity: 32 ounces
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Dimensions: 3.58 x 3.58 x 9.8 inches
- Type Of Lid: Flex Cap
- Dishwasher Safe: No
Review Roundup
Looking to lighten up your backpack on the next hiking trip? You just can't go wrong with the Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide Mouth Trail Series 32 oz. It's proven to be a favorite among ultralight backpackers who swear by its sturdy design and lightweight characteristic.
One of the first things users notice is its weight - or lack thereof. They appreciate how this model shaves off a good 25% of the standard Hydro Flask weight without compromising on essential features. This is thanks to its innovative design using thinner stainless steel while maintaining its signature double-wall vacuum insulation.
Many users are raving about the bottle's insulation ability. It keeps cold liquids icy for up to 24 hours and warm beverages hot for around 6 hours. This speaks volumes for anyone who wants to enjoy a sip of cold water after a lengthy hike or a hot cup of coffee on a chilly morning in the backcountry.
Furthermore, the wide mouth of this Hydro Flask makes topping up quicker and easier. It even allows for putting in ice cubes, which is a solid plus point in the gruelling summer heat. Users have specifically mentioned this being handy when preparing for hikes or post-workout refreshments.
The Hydro Flask also has its temporary drawbacks, if you can call them that. While the exterior finish is sleek and aesthetically pleasing, it can be a bit slippery when wet. You might want to keep a good grip on this baby when hydrating near rivers or in rainy conditions.
Despite the lightness and slightly slippery grip, users vouch for the durability of this bottle. Some have mentioned it surviving drops onto hard rocks with only minor scratches.
Few people have found the price tag a bit on the higher side, especially when compared with similar products. However, the majority think it's a worthwhile investment given its superior build quality and efficient temperature control.
Another note is the lack of a clip or handle, which some users find inconvenient for quick accessibility when hiking. However, this may simply be preference-based as many others have no qualms hanging it off their bag using a carabiner.
In a nutshell, the Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide Mouth Trail Series 32 oz proves to be a great balance of lightweight design, practicality, and durability. Hikers, climbers, and anyone frequently outdoors, considering going ultralight without sacrificing utility, should probably take a closer look at this gem.
Capacity
With a 32-ounce capacity, this water bottle carries enough water for shorter hikes or workouts. While it might not be enough for longer treks without refills, the wide mouth makes it simple to refill when needed.
Durability
The Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide Mouth Trail Series 32 oz boasts a resilient build that stands up well to the rough and tumble of outdoor use. The stainless steel construction is resistant to denting and scratching, and the powder coat exterior provides additional sturdiness while enhancing grip.
Ease of Cleaning
The wide mouth is not just good for refilling, but it also simplifies cleaning. A bottle brush can easily fit inside to scrub the interior. However, the bottle is not dishwasher safe, so it requires hand washing.
Insulation
The TempShield insulation of the Hydro Flask is its standout feature. Capable of keeping your beverage cold up to 24 hours or hot up to 12 hours, this flask stands out in its category. However, it's important to note this might vary depending on the outside temperature.
Material
The Hydro Flask is made from pro-grade 18/8 stainless steel. This material does not retain or transfer flavors, ensuring that every sip tastes pure. The outer layer is powder-coated for extra durability and grip.
Value
While the Hydro Flask is priced higher than some alternative bottles, its hardiness, insulation capabilities, and thoughtful design warrant the cost. For users seeking a water bottle that delivers in performance and durability, this can be a worthwhile investment.
Weight
Despite being built to withstand the great outdoors, this bottle achieves a fine balance between durability and weight. The design is light enough for daily hikes, but also robust enough to handle the rigorous conditions of longer backpacking trips.
Prices
Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth
$11.95Best Hiking Water Bottle for Plastic
Based on our research and testing, we think the Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth is a solid choice if you want a hiking water bottle that's really well suited to Plastic.
Reasons to Buy
- Legendary Durability
- Leakproof lid
- Graduated measurements on the side
- Wide mouth for easy filling and cleaning
- Fairly inexpensive
Reasons to Avoid
- Bulkier than some other options
- No insulation
- Plastic may wear and stain over time
The Important Specs
- Capacity: 32 oz
- Lid Type: Screw On
- Material: BPA Free Tritan Plastic
- Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.5 x 8.25 inches
- Mouth Type: Wide
Review Roundup
The Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth is a giant in the hiking water bottle world – and for good reason. Easy to use, indestructible and leak-proof, this water bottle has proven its worth on countless hiking trails, campsites, and climbing expeditions.
The wide mouth, as the name suggests, is bigger than on most water bottles of similar size. This makes it more user-friendly, particularly when you're out hiking and need to refill quickly from a stream or water pump. Plus, it's super handy when it comes to adding ice cubes or mixing in powdered drinks.
Being made of BPA free plastic, the Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth does a great job in terms of sustainability and health safety. The plastic is sturdy and, unlike some other bottles, it doesn't give the water a plasticky taste. It also doesn't retain odors, which is a bonus when you're using it for anything other than water.
An added bonus to the bottle's design is the measurements on the side. These marks come in handy when you're cooking on the trail, or when you just need to keep tabs on your hydration.
One of the recurring praises among online reviews is its durability. This bottle is almost unbreakable. There's numerous people even sharing story experiences of how they've dropped, stomped, even ran over their Nalgene with no damage.
But as with all products, the Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth has its drawbacks. Some people find it a bit too bulky for their liking, and the wide mouth, though useful in many situations, can be a challenge when you're walking and drinking, particularly if you're trying to do both simultaneously. There have also been a few complaints about the cap on the bottle, with some users finding it difficult to screw on properly.
Another common critique is in cold weather conditions. The plastic tends to get quite rigid, making it less comfortable to hold and the water gets cold faster. Additionally, if you fill it with hot liquid, the bottle gets extremely hot to hold as well.
Despite its downsides, most online reviewers seem to agree that the positive features and versatility of the Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth make it a solid investment for any outdoor enthusiast. It's simple, rugged, and at the end of the day, reliably holds your water - which is its main job after all.
Capacity
At a solid 32 ounces, this water bottle’s capacity is great for long hikes or climbs, ensuring you stay well-hydrated throughout your adventure. The measurements on the side also help keep track of water intake.
Durability
The Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth scores a home run in the durability department — its thick, robust BPA free Tritan plastic ensures it stands up to the rough and tumble of outdoor adventures perfectly.
Ease of Cleaning
Thanks to its wide mouth, cleaning this water bottle is a breeze. You can easily access the interior with a bottle brush and ensure no grime builds up. It's also dishwasher safe on the top rack for even easier cleaning.
Insulation
Unfortunately, there's no insulation feature, meaning your drink won't stay cold (or warm) for long periods. However, considering the bottle's other strong points and its unbeatable price, some might overlook this issue.
Material
Despite being made of plastic, this Nalgene water bottle is BPA free, ensuring its contents are kept from harmful chemicals. It can carry anything from water to soup without retaining the taste or odor, thanks to its Tritan material.
Value
Considering its durability, size, and easy-to-clean features, the Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth bottle presents great value for money. While it may lack insulation, its other qualities make it a worthy choice for outdoor activities.
Weight
While it's not the lightest water bottle on the market, its heft gives it stability, ensuring it doesn't topple over easily. However, this does mean more weight to carry while hiking or backpacking.
Prices
Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Vacuum 24 oz
$39.95Best Hiking Water Bottle for Insulated
Based on our research and testing, we think the Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Vacuum 24 oz is a solid choice if you want a hiking water bottle that's really well suited to Insulated.
Reasons to Buy
- Great insulation capabilities
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Comfortable to hold
Reasons to Avoid
- Cap may not be as durable as the bottle
- Generous size may not fit in all bottle holders
- Pricier than some alternatives
The Important Specs
- Cap: BPA-Free and Phthalate-Free
- Material: 18/8 Pro-grade stainless steel
- Dimensions: 10.1 x 2.9 inches
- Volumetric Capacity: 24 oz
Review Roundup
Wow, when it comes to the Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Vacuum 24 oz, this isn't your old school hiking water bottle! This wonder bottle has a solid reputation that backs it up. The Hydro Flask's vacuum insolation technology gives it amazing heat retention capabilities, which is a huge plus if you're bringing a hot drink or cold drink on your travels.
Since it's made of professional-grade stainless steel, it won't retain flavors from your past drinks, and it's a durable material that's designed to face the trails head-on. You can drop it on a rock, bump it on a cliff, or knock it over in the sand, and it still holds up without a dent.
It comes with advanced insulation that keeps hot drinks warm for up to 6 hours, and cold beverages cool for up to 24 hours. On that long, sweaty walk in the summer or that chilling hike in the winter, having a sip of your favorite beverage at the right temperature is just excellent.
There is more to the Hydro Flask than just insulation. Its powder coat is not only beautiful but also offers great grip even with sweaty palms. Moreover, the standard mouth is just spacious enough to allow for ice cubes adding some nice chill to your sips. Plus, it's a breeze to clean.
Considering the online reviews, most people were appreciative of its performance, design, and durability. Many reviewers have repeatedly mentioned the satisfaction they get from sipping a cold drink even after a whole summer's hiking day or their coffee is still warm after a winter morning climb.
However, no product is perfect. Some online reviewers mentioned that the paint can chip away relatively easily when the bottle is mistreated, especially on surfaces that frequently scrape or scratch. Others pointed out that the price might be a bit steep if you're on a tight budget. But, as the majority has expressed, they found the price justifiable by the performance and quality it brings along.
Capacity
With a generous 24 oz volume, this Hydro Flask is just the right size to quench your thirst on a long hike. However, a handful of users have noted that its size might not fit into all bottle holders which could be a potential pitfall depending on the design of your backpack or car.
Durability
Like most things in life, nothing is perfect. According to customers, while the Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Vacuum 24 oz itself has a reputation for surviving tough conditions, the cap could be its Achilles heel. Some users have noted that the cap may not hold up as well as the bottle under repeated use. But the good news is, the bottle itself is built to last. Made from 18/8 Pro-grade stainless steel, it's durable and resistant against dents and dings.
Ease of Cleaning
Adventurers who have used this water bottle rave about how easy it is to clean. Thanks to its Standard Mouth opening, it's just wide enough to get a bottle brush into all the corners, but not so wide that it's likely to spill when you're taking a swig.
Insulation
One of the major selling points of the Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Vacuum 24 oz is its superb insulation. Whether you're looking to keep your drink cold on a hot day or hot during a winter trek, users agree that this water bottle stands up to the challenge remarkably well.
Material
This water bottle is made from high-quality materials, particularly 18/8 Pro-grade stainless steel. It's BPA-free and Phthalate-free, meaning no harmful chemicals are going to find their way into you or your drink. With this Hydro Flask, you can be sure your drink, your health, and the environment are in safe hands.
Value
Though it may be pricier than some alternatives, many hikers deem the Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Vacuum 24 oz worth the investment. Its durable construction, excellent insulation capabilities, and generous size combine to make a high-quality solution for your hydration needs during outdoor adventures.
Weight
Considering the insulation technology that this water bottle offers, it's of reasonable weight. It's easy to carry around during hikes as it won't weigh your backpack down too much.
Prices
Platypus SoftBottle
$12.95Best Hiking Water Bottle for Collapsible
Based on our research and testing, we think the Platypus SoftBottle is a solid choice if you want a hiking water bottle that's really well suited to Collapsible.
Reasons to Buy
- Compact and easy to stow when empty
- Eco-friendly material
- Affordable
- Attachment loop for easy carry
Reasons to Avoid
- Limited insulation capability
- Struggles to retain shape when full
- Cleaning can be a bit of a chore
The Important Specs
- Bpa Free: Yes
- Capacity: 1L
- Material: Polyethylene
- Dimensions: 6 x 13 inch
Review Roundup
The Platypus SoftBottle is a standout entry in the collapsible water bottle category. It's a flexible, packable solution for keeping yourself hydrated on the trails. Weighing only 1.2 ounces, it has an undeniable advantage for those backpackers who count every gram of their gear.
It has an easy-to-use twist cap, which, according to users, prevents any annoying drips or leaks effectively. It's worth mentioning that some users had trouble with missing caps, but Platypus does sell replacements. The mouth of the bottle is of a decent size, allowing for easy filling and pouring, but cleaning might be a little tricky compared to wider-mouth designs. Washing tabs are recommended to avoid any hygiene troubles.
The bottle collapses down to nearly nothing when empty, freeing up precious space in your backpack. One key benefit that users also love is the ability to freeze the SoftBottle overnight and then enjoy cool water for much longer during their hike.
However, it's important to mention that a few reviewers found the SoftBottle slightly harder to pack away when filled to the brim. When full, the rounded bottom tends to make it roll around, creating a bit of a storage challenge. But considering the lightness and portability of the bottle when empty, many users compromise with filling the bottle just a notch below full capacity.
The SoftBottle's durability seems to be a point of debate among users too. While some people have carried their SoftBottle on multiple trips without any impact on its performance, others reported some wear and tear after several uses. It's wrinkly by nature, which makes sense for its function, but a few users found that it forms creases over time which might eventually lead to leaks.
One user suggested that by inflating and deflating the SoftBottle a few times when you first get it, the creases become less sharp and the bottle lasts longer. It's important to remember that like any gear, how you treat it influences its lifespan.
In terms of environmental and health factors, users appreciate that the Platypus SoftBottle is made of BPA-free and taste-free materials, not adding an unwelcome flavor to their drinking water on long hikes.
Capacity
With a capacity of 1 liter, the Platypus SoftBottle holds enough water for short to medium-length hikes. It's not the largest on the market, but it can be a reliable hydration companion for hit-the-trail moments.
Durability
The Platypus SoftBottle is surprisingly robust for a collapsible water bottle. Made from a durable polyethylene material that is free from harmful chemicals such as BPA, BPS or Phthalates, this bottle holds its own against everyday wear and tear. But, like all soft bottles, it's not immune to punctures, so you'll want to take care when packing it with sharp objects.
Ease of Cleaning
Expect a bit more of effort when it comes to cleaning. Since it's a soft bottle with a narrow opening, it can be a bit tricky to clean on the inside, especially without a bottle brush. However, it is safe to toss in the top rack of your dishwasher.
Insulation
Insulation is one area where this bottle falls short. It doesn't insulate as well as stainless steel bottles do, so your cold drinks won't stay cold for long during hot hikes. Keep that in mind if you're heading out in high-heat environments.
Material
The material used is a sturdy and safe polyethylene. It's flexible enough to fold, twist, or crush the empty bottle into tight spaces in your backpack, yet strong enough to withstand regular use. Plus, it's got a clean-tasting liner that ensures your water doesn't taste plastic or chemical.
Value
Pricewise, you can hardly beat this one. This super compact, lightweight, and practical bottle provides outstanding value for your dollar. It may suffer a bit in terms of insulation, but the flexibility, eco-friendly material, and durable build make it one of the best budget-friendly collapsable options out there.
Weight
One of the lightest bottles we've reviewed, the Platypus softball is a weight-watcher's dream. It weighs so little you'll barely know it's there, even when it's full. If you're counting every ounce in your pack, you'll appreciate this.
Prices
Katadyn BeFree 1.0L
$44.95Best Hiking Water Bottle for Built-in Filter
Based on our research and testing, we think the Katadyn BeFree 1.0L is a solid choice if you want a hiking water bottle that's really well suited to Built-in Filter.
Reasons to Buy
- Built-in micro filter
- Large water capacity
- Easy to use
- Collapsible design for compact storage
Reasons to Avoid
- Not insulated
- Difficult to clean well
- Filter may require replacement over time
The Important Specs
- Capacity: 1.0L
- Material: BPA-free Thermoplastic Polyurethane
- Dimensions: 11.3 x 3.5 x 2.8 inches
- Filter Life: 1,000 liters
Review Roundup
The Katadyn BeFree 1.0L is definitely a game-changer for hikers on the hunt for a reliable, easy-to-use water bottle with a built-in filter. Sporting a sleek design and weighing a featherlight 63g, this water bottle proves to be a compact and lightweight addition to your hiking gear.
One of the biggest advantages of the Katadyn BeFree 1.0L that users have raved about is its fast flow rate. Say goodbye to tedious sucking or squeezing -- just fill the bottle up and drink straight away. With its unique EZ-Clean Membrane filter, users can enjoy fresh, clean water in virtually no time.
Buyers love the bottle's user-friendly design. The 42mm wide mouth opening makes it easy to scoop water from shallow sources, and makes cleaning the bottle a breeze. The flexible body and collapsible design take up minimal space and it's easy to stuff it in your backpack once you're done hydrating.
The bottle's durability, though, gets mixed reviews. While some users have praised it for surviving numerous outdoor trips, others have reported leaks and wear after heavy use. The bottle is designed with 0.1-micron pore size, which guarantees to remove 99.99% of harmful bacteria and protozoa. However, it's not effective against viruses, and some hikers would recommend using chemical drops or boiling the water further depending upon the water source.
While it's easy to clean the exterior of the bottle, some users also found it slightly challenging to clean the interior, particularly if you fill it with flavored liquid or juice, so it's ideal to use this mainly for water.
Capacity
With a generous 1L capacity, the Katadyn BeFree provides ample water for your hikes and expeditions. The large capacity, coupled with the effective built-in filter, ensures you won't run out of clean, safe drinking water.
Durability
The Katadyn BeFree 1.0L is designed to last. Its filter is expected to last up to 1,000 liters, making it a reliable choice for frequent hikers and backpackers. The water bottle itself is made from flexible yet durable BPA-free Thermoplastic Polyurethane.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning the Katadyn BeFree is fairly simple. The wide mouth of the bottle makes it easy to rinse out and fill. However, some users have reported difficulties in cleaning the grooves of the filter.
Insulation
Unfortunately, the Katadyn BeFree does not feature any insulation, which means it won't keep your water cool on hot hikes. However, it is worth mentioning that most hiking water bottles with built-in filters do not offer this feature either.
Material
This water bottle is made of a soft, yet remarkably strong and durable BPA-free Thermoplastic Polyurethane. It's flexible, enabling you to squeeze the bottle for a quick drink, and tough enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.
Value
With its robust built-in filter, large capacity and durable material, the Katadyn BeFree offers excellent value for money. The fact that it's a lightweight and collapsible design only adds to its value, making it an excellent option for those seeking a reliable, functional and cost-effective hiking water bottle.
Weight
Despite its large capacity, the Katadyn BeFree is lightweight at only 2.3 ounces (the filter is an additional 2 ounces). This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking to minimize their load while ensuring hydration.
Prices
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