The flexible bottle, BeFree, comes with a filter system that allows you to drink water wherever you find it. I took the bottle for a test on a recent hill walk.
While Scotland is filled with fresh and drinkable water, you can’t always be sure if it is safe to consume. Many times I have taken water from a burn or river and wondered what might be lurking further upstream. You take a chance and usually it’s ok but it’s better to be safe if you can.
And what if you are desperate for water and you are walking, running or cycling in a place where you can’t be sure if the source is safe?
On test: Katadyn BeFree Water Filtration System
The BeFree Water Filtration System is easy to carry and simply to use. It comprises a very lightweight and flexible flask with a built in (and changeable) EZ-Clean Membrane filter and a drinking top.
The filter is proven to be effective against water-based microorganisms.
The bottle is sold in three sizes, 600ml, 1L and 3L.
To use the bottle you remove the filter and top, “swish” (their words, not mine!) it through the loch, river or burn, replace the filter and then drink.
It really is as easy as that. I used it on a recent walk and found it to be simply and very effective.
Testing the Katadyn BeFree Water Filtration System.
I really like that the flask is soft and foldable so you can stash it in a small space in your rucksack or a pocket until you need to use it.The flexible material seems durable and robust. It’s soft so it folds easily and doesn’t crease, which means it should be long lasting. At least I hope so given the price of it!
I have only two criticisms. First, the plastic lid over the drinking mouthpiece feels cheap and it looks easy to break. It will most likely break off after a few more uses because I had to use a bit of force to recap the spout. You can still use the bottle without the cap but it would be brilliant if the cap was a bit easier to work.
Secondly, the water filtration system is pricey at RRP €44.95. I have seen it for £32 on-line but you do need to shop around. Added to that you do need to replace the filter and that can cost from £24.
Katadyn state: “For optimum filter performance, replace the EZ-Clean Membrane after 1,000 litres.” Obviously that depends on what you’re putting into it because dirtier water will reduce its life.
The bottle has already won a Backpacker Editors’ Choice Award, Runner’s World Gear of the Year Award and an ISPO Gold Award.
I think this is avery useful item of kit and I will be taking it with me on walks and runs from now on.
See Katadyn US and Katadyn EU