There may be solely a lot water you may carry, or will need to carry. For this reason I take the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L water filter bottle on my hikes now. Utilizing this water filter lightens the load and makes my day simpler.
For those who hike lengthy days, ultimately you have to replenish your water provide. If you realize your route has dependable water sources, chances are you’ll not want to begin your hike carrying 3+ liters of water in your backpack. Carry what it is advisable attain your first water supply, or a contact extra. Filter recent water alongside the best way, and transfer all day lengthy with a lighter pack. You immediately expertise climbing in a unique, extra comfy approach.
After utilizing the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L and Katadyn BeFree AC 0.5L for one 12 months on Colorado hikes and path runs, I believe the 1.0L model is among the greatest water filters for hikers who need simple fill-up, quick circulate, easy use, and the choice to hold much less water weight on hikes.
The Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L is my best choice for climbing. The Katadyn BeFree AC 0.5L is my choose for path operating and shorter routes the place water is frequent.
Fast Verdict: Is the Katadyn BeFree AC Value It?
Sure. The Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L water filter bottle is completely value shopping for in the event you hike lengthy days close to dependable water sources and need a quick, light-weight, easy-to-use filter that helps you carry much less water from the trailhead.
I take advantage of my Katadyn water filter bottles on Colorado alpine hikes as a result of I can refill rapidly from clear creeks, streams, waterfalls, and snowmelt runoff with out utilizing a pump, hose, gravity bag, chemical remedy, or sophisticated squeeze system.
This product isn’t just about clear water. The true profit is the liberty that it provides. Freedom from carrying an extreme quantity of water. Freedom to maneuver sooner with added mobility. Freedom to drink ice chilly, recent mountain water, which is a delight when you find yourself working arduous.
My advice: strive the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L in the event you largely hike. Get the Katadyn BeFree AC 0.5L if you’re a path runner. Purchase each in the event you hike and run commonly and wish one filter system with two capability choices. Usually, I’ll carry them each as a result of they’re so gentle and pack away small.
The 1.0L is greatest for lengthy day hikes, Colorado alpine hikes, quick refills from clear streams, solo hikers, quick hikers, and anybody attempting to hold much less water weight. It isn’t very best for group water processing, silty or muddy water, virus safety, large-volume camp filtration, or individuals who need separate filter and reservoir techniques.
Greatest general for climbing: Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0LBest for path operating: Katadyn BeFree AC 0.5L
Area Testing the Katadyn BeFree AC Water Filter Bottles
Final 12 months I made a decision to get each sizes of the Katadyn BeFree AC Water Filter Bottles (0.5L and 1.0L) to interchange my Platypus QuickDraw, which was considerably difficult. I needed a filter that was quick and straightforward to make use of. So, I did my analysis and ended up getting these two water filters.
Up to now, I’ve taken them with me and put them to the check on seven Colorado hikes and path runs utilizing quite a lot of actual backcountry water sources. I’ve used them for one 12 months, filtered water 30+ occasions, and haven’t had seen put on, leaking, punctures, or clogging.
I’ve used the BeFree AC on Sawtooth Mountain, Isabelle Glacier, Huron Peak, Decrease and Higher Crater Lakes, Mount Solitude, and Bear Canyon in Boulder. Water sources included creeks, waterfalls, snowmelt runoff, alpine streams, glacier-fed flows, and fast-moving mountain water.
I examined the 0.5L and 1.0L on lengthy 10+ mile hikes. As I went additional on my adventures, extra water grew to become a requirement.
Actual-World Velocity Take a look at: Stream Water to Ingesting Water in 15 Seconds
The quickest approach to perceive why I like this filter is to see it in motion.
Within the discipline video under, I collected water from a transparent Colorado stream with the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L water filter, screwed the filter cap again on, and began consuming in 15 seconds.
For this reason I like this water filter. So easy.
There isn’t any pump to assemble. No hose. No separate dirty-water bag. No gravity setup. No chemical wait time. No sophisticated backflush course of within the discipline.
You merely unscrew the filter cap, fill the gentle flask, screw the cap again on, squeeze, and drink.
That pace issues as a result of filtering water doesn’t really feel like a separate chore. It turns into a part of the rhythm of the hike.
My Conclusion After One Yr
The Katadyn BeFree AC water filter bottle is among the most helpful items of climbing gear I personal as a result of it adjustments how I plan, carry, and devour water.
Earlier than utilizing this water filter bottle, I needed to carry numerous water from the trailhead. That works, however water is heavy. One liter weighs about 2.2 kilos. Three liters is roughly 6.6 kilos earlier than you even rely the bottle or reservoir.
Now, if I do know the route has dependable water, I can begin and hike lighter all through the day. I additionally find yourself consuming my actual water necessities, which is sweet for vitality and helps me keep away from dehydration. Previously, I’d end hikes tremendous thirsty. Now, I end feeling nice.
As of late, I hike gentle with my Osprey Duro 6 path operating hydration vest, its 1.5L water reservoir, generally an additional gentle flask, a small waist pack, and the BeFree AC water filter. This setup lets me be cellular, transfer rapidly, and refill when the route offers me clean-looking, fast-moving water.
The BeFree AC isn’t magic. You continue to must plan. You continue to want to know water sources. You continue to must keep away from unhealthy water if higher sources can be found. However when the route traces up, this filter is superb.
Area Take a look at Scores:
Ease of use is 10/10
Circulation pace is 9.5/10
Mountaineering practicality is 9.5/10
Path operating practicality is 9/10
Packability is 9/10
Style is 9/10
Sturdiness is 8/10
Soiled water efficiency is 7/10
General worth is 9.5/10
The Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L is a quick, easy, field-proven water filter bottle that I belief for lengthy Colorado day hikes when dependable water sources let me carry much less water and refill on the transfer.
What Is the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L Water Filter Bottle?
The Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L is a soft-flask water filter bottle with a built-in filter cap. You fill the gentle bottle from a water supply, screw the filter cap again on, and drink straight via the mouthpiece.
It’s a easy and easy-to-use product, which is why I prefer it.
The system has three major elements: the gentle flask, the filter cap with hole fiber membrane, and the activated carbon ingredient. The 1.0L model makes use of a double-layer HydraPak SoftFlask comprised of TPU. Katadyn lists it as PVC and BPA free, and positions the 1.0L double-layer flask for harsher circumstances. That traces up with how I apply it to rocky Colorado alpine hikes.
The BeFree AC 1.0L has a 1.0L capability, a hole fiber EZ-Clear Membrane, a 0.1 micron pore dimension, and is listed as efficient in opposition to protozoa, micro organism, and microplastics. The filter capability is as much as 1,000 liters relying on water high quality. The activated carbon is replaceable and is meant to enhance style whereas decreasing odor, turbidity, and chlorine. Katadyn lists carbon life as much as 200 liters relying on water high quality, output as much as 2 liters per minute, weight at 85 grams, dimensions at 273 x 107 x 78 mm, and a 42 mm thread.
“AC” stands for activated carbon. The common filtration comes from the hole fiber membrane. The activated carbon pad is used to enhance style and cut back odor, turbidity, and chlorine. That issues most with handled faucet water, lake water, nonetheless water, or any supply that smells or tastes off.
After I filter chilly, clear Colorado alpine water from a fast-moving stream, I hardly ever use the carbon pad. That water already tastes superb. However the carbon function is beneficial when style or scent is a priority.
Verified Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L Water Filter Bottle Specs
Why I Purchased the Katadyn BeFree AC Water Filters?
I purchased the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L and 0.5L water filter bottles to interchange my Platypus QuickDraw setup.
My expertise with the Platypus QuickDraw was unsuccessful. The filter wouldn’t move water after I tried to make use of it. Though it had been sitting unused for a 12 months or two after buy, I used to be shocked when it didn’t operate. The vital takeaway is that I by no means really used the Platypus QuickDraw for thus lengthy. By some means, it simply appeared extra sophisticated than I desired mid-hike.
That could be a feeling that by no means happens when utilizing the BeFree water filters.
The smaller connection level additionally made the Platypus system tougher to fill in comparison with the BeFree bottles. The connection felt extra cumbersome, and the included pouch was stiffer than the BeFree gentle flask. I additionally had a pouch fail and leak after fewer than 20 makes use of as a bottle in a backpack.
That have pushed me towards a water filter that was easier. I needed quick filling, quick consuming, fewer items, gentle flask design, simple discipline use, a large mouth, low weight, and one thing I’d really need to use usually.
The BeFree AC was the answer for me. I purchased each sizes as a result of they serve completely different functions. The 1.0L is healthier for climbing. The 0.5L is healthier for path operating for the reason that form matches most operating vests.
The Actual Profit: Carrying Much less Water Weight
Much less is big. There may be solely a lot water you may carry, or will need to carry.
That’s the actual cause this product issues. If I carry much less water, I burn my vitality extra slowly.
In case you are climbing 10, 15, 20, or extra miles in Colorado, carrying all of your water from the trailhead will be heavy. Typically it’s obligatory. Typically it’s good. However generally it’s simply additional weight as a result of the route has dependable water sources.
After I know I’ve water on the route, I can carry what I want to achieve that supply as an alternative of loading up with each liter I’d drink that day.
That’s liberating.
A water filter lets me transfer all day with a lighter setup. On some hikes, which means I don’t want to hold 3+ liters from the beginning. I can carry sufficient water to securely attain the following supply, then refill from creeks, streams, waterfalls, or snowmelt runoff.
My regular system and water recreation plan is easy. I begin with a full 1.5L water reservoir in my Osprey Duro 6 vest. I carry the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L for refills and direct consuming. I’ll add an additional 0.5L gentle flask if the primary water supply is much into the hike. I take advantage of the BeFree water filters to refill my reservoir when it will get low. And I drink straight from the BeFree after I discover particularly chilly, clear, engaging water.
This setup lets me be nimble on my ft. I can hike or run a lot of the day with out feeling overloaded.
On lengthy hikes, water weight impacts how briskly you progress, how your shoulders and again really feel, how sizzling you get, how drained you’re feeling late within the day, and the way a lot freedom you need to transfer effectively, nimble, and fast.
The BeFree AC water filter bottles assist most when the route has reliable water. If a hike has a creek operating parallel to the path, or dependable snowmelt crossing the route, the filter turns into a pack-weight discount device.
That’s the level.
Not simply “this filters water.”
It helps me carry much less water. I can clearly keep in mind the primary 14er I hiked in Colorado whereas carrying an excessive amount of weight, together with snacks, water, and equipment. Shortly, I regretted my selections. Now, I take the naked minimal that is smart.
My Water-Supply Planning Technique
Earlier than a protracted hike or path run, I take a look at maps for water sources. That is now a part of my pre-hike planning guidelines.
I search for creeks alongside the route, stream crossings, lakes, waterfalls, snowmelt runoff, seasonal water reviews, distance to the primary dependable water supply, distance between refill factors, and backup water choices close by.
Then I determine how a lot water to hold from the beginning of the hike.
If the primary dependable water supply is much away, I carry extra. If water is frequent and reliable, I can begin lighter.
That’s how this filter turns into helpful. It isn’t a substitute for planning. It rewards good planning.
The place I Examined the BeFree AC in Colorado
I used the BeFree AC 1.0L on quite a lot of excessive nation hikes in Colorado throughout summer season and fall. These have been difficult day hikes with actual mileage, elevation achieve, and high-alpine terrain.
A lot of the hikes have been larger than 10 miles and had greater than 2,000 ft of vertical achieve. Trailheads and beginning factors have been usually above 9,000 ft.
On Sawtooth Mountain, I hiked about 20 miles with 4,100 ft of achieve and filtered water from Center Saint Vrain Creek. The lengthy method had water alongside a lot of the route, which made the BeFree particularly helpful.
On the Isabelle Glacier hike through Lengthy Lake and Lake Isabelle, I filtered from South Saint Vrain Creek. It is a excellent instance of a excessive alpine route the place a quick filter is smart as a result of water is on the market alongside the method.
On Huron Peak, I filtered snowmelt runoff to South Fork Clear Creek. On Decrease and Higher Crater Lakes within the Indian Peaks, I filtered from South Boulder Creek and the falls between the lakes. I additionally used it round Mount Solitude and Bear Canyon in Boulder.
My favourite use case is chilly, clear, transferring water within the excessive alpine. I filter from creeks, alpine streams, snowmelt runoff, glacier-fed streams, waterfalls, and fast-moving mountain water. That’s the place the BeFree AC shines.
I like utilizing this filter within the Colorado excessive nation the place the water is ice chilly and crystal clear. It feels superb to cease at a stream, fill the bottle, and drink chilly water nearly instantly.
What Water Sources I Keep away from
A water filter doesn’t imply it is best to select the worst attainable water supply. The very best clogging technique is prevention.
I keep away from poor water sources when higher choices can be found. That features silty water, muddy water, stagnant water, debris-heavy water, instant glacier runoff if it appears loaded with sediment, water with apparent contamination danger, and water close to heavy livestock or human influence.
I search for clear, fast-moving water at any time when attainable.
Chilly, clear mountain water isn’t routinely protected. It might probably look excellent and nonetheless include microorganisms. That’s the reason I filter it. Some individuals I do know don’t hassle. However this filter is really easy, I’d reasonably keep away from any potential well being points.
The purpose isn’t that alpine water doesn’t want remedy. The purpose is that clear, transferring alpine water is often a greater supply for this sort of filter than silty, stagnant, debris-heavy water.
How Simple Is the Katadyn BeFree AC Water Filter to Use?
What I admire most concerning the Katadyn BeFree AC is that it couldn’t be simpler to make use of.
It’s barely completely different from utilizing an everyday water bottle. For those who can fill a bottle and screw on a cap, you need to use this filter. There isn’t any studying curve.
You unscrew the cap from the gentle flask, fill the flask with water, screw the filter cap again on, and drink.
That’s it.
In very best circumstances, this can be very quick. Unscrewing the cap takes a pair seconds. Filling the bottle takes a couple of seconds relying on the water supply. Screwing the cap again on takes a couple of extra seconds. Then you definitely drink instantly.
In a single discipline video, I collected stream water and began consuming in 15 seconds. In one other, I used to be quenching my thirst in about 20 seconds. Even when I’m not dashing, it doesn’t take lengthy.
The huge opening is an enormous benefit. This issues greater than individuals would possibly suppose. A slender pouch or small opening will be annoying when you find yourself attempting to fill from a shallow creek, small waterfall, or awkward stream financial institution. The BeFree bottle is straightforward to scoop and fill from fast-flowing or slow-flowing water.
I crammed it from waterfalls, streams, and creeks with none problem. That is among the causes I want it to the Platypus QuickDraw system I attempted.
I often drink straight from the gentle flask. That’s the quickest and easiest use. However the 1.0L model can also be helpful for refilling hydration reservoirs, additional water bottles, gentle flasks, cooking containers at camp, or a canine’s water.
For climbing, that is one cause I want the 1.0L over the 0.5L. The larger bottle is extra helpful as each a consuming bottle and a refill device. Additionally it is product of thicker and extra sturdy rubber.
Circulation Price and Actual-World Velocity
Katadyn lists the BeFree AC output at as much as 2 liters per minute. In precise use, it feels very quick.
I did a easy clean-water check by filling every bottle and squeezing it empty. The BeFree AC 0.5L emptied in 7.0 seconds. The BeFree AC 1.0L emptied in 12.5 seconds.
That’s quick.
The vital level isn’t just the lab-style quantity. The vital level is the way it feels throughout a hike.
It feels immediate.
Within the discipline, the entire course of will depend on water supply entry. If I’ve quick access and good footing, I can method the supply, unscrew the cap, fill the bottle, screw the cap again on, and begin consuming in effectively beneath 30 seconds.
My quickest video exhibits stream water to consuming water in 15 seconds.
That’s the type of pace I would like on a protracted hike. Fill. Drink. And, go.
A number of issues have an effect on real-world pace: water depth, water circulate, footing, how full you fill the flask, how arduous you squeeze, water readability, filter age, whether or not the filter is moist and flowing effectively, and whether or not the filter wants cleansing. The one I’ve used most is about 5–10% slower now, but it surely accelerates with cleansing.
Even with these variables, this is among the quickest and best filters I’ve used.
Style Take a look at: Is the Activated Carbon Value It?
The activated carbon function is beneficial, however I don’t at all times want it.
When I’m filtering chilly, clear Colorado alpine water from fast-moving streams, the water already tastes nice. It’s uncommon that I take advantage of the carbon pad as a result of there is no such thing as a unhealthy style or scent to right.
That mentioned, I did check it at dwelling.
The faucet water in Boulder has a slight processed scent from remedy. It doesn’t style horrible, but it surely doesn’t style superb. At dwelling, I take advantage of a Berkey water filter system.
After I used the Katadyn BeFree AC carbon pad to filter Boulder faucet water, the scent was eliminated and the water tasted just like the Berkey output. I price the activated carbon as efficient.
I’d use the activated carbon function for lake water, nonetheless water, water with odor, water with off style, handled faucet water, journey water, or any supply the place scent and style confidence issues.
I often skip it for chilly clear streams, fast-moving creeks, recent snowmelt water, clear waterfall circulate, and alpine sources that already scent and style recent.
Activated carbon is beneficial, however it isn’t the identical factor as virus purification. That is nonetheless a filter bottle, not a full air purifier.
Sturdiness: How the BeFree 1.0L Double-Layer Mushy Flask Holds Up
The 1.0L BeFree AC water filter has a double-layer gentle flask. That issues to me.
I hike in Colorado. Quite a lot of the terrain is rocky. Above treeline, rock will be a lot sharper than it appears. Granite, talus, and damaged rock will be tough on gentle bottles, reservoirs, and bladders.
I’ve had sufficient hydration gear through the years to know that gentle containers require care.
The 1.0L BeFree AC feels thicker and extra sturdy than the a lot lighter, nearly paper-like really feel of the 0.5L. I like that for lengthy alpine hikes. Katadyn’s truth sheet particularly lists the 1.0L model as having a Double-Layer SoftFlask for harshest circumstances.
After roughly 30+ fills, I’ve skilled no seen put on, leaking, punctures, cap issues, deal with points, rubber style, plastic style, silicone style, filter clogs, or cause to doubt it but.
The deal with feels sturdy and comfy. The bottle is straightforward to hold by hand. I also can stash it in a pack, waist pack, or vest pocket relying on what I’m doing. This water filter unexpectedly grew to become a favourite climbing gear merchandise of mine.
That is nonetheless a gentle flask. I’d not relaxation it on rocks or tough surfaces, retailer it subsequent to sharp gear, cookware, knives, or any type of abrasive objects. A gentle flask is sturdy till you abuse it. I deal with it with care, and to date it has held up effectively.
The deal with is among the higher design options. It offers you a safe approach to carry the bottle or grasp it on a pack. Katadyn additionally notes that the flip cap seals tightly and that the silicone mouthpiece will be eliminated for cleansing or substitute. These are small particulars, however they matter for long-term use.
Packability and Carry Consolation
The BeFree AC is straightforward to hold as a result of it’s gentle and packable.
When full, it carries like a gentle water bottle. When empty, it rolls down and takes up little or no house. My 1.0L packs all the way down to about 5 x 3.5 inches. My 0.5L packs all the way down to about 4.5 x 3.5 inches. The 1.0L isn’t tiny, however it’s completely acceptable when empty and rolled up. The 0.5L is barely extra compact and simpler to stash, though the cap dimension is an identical to the 1.0L.
When climbing, I carry the 1.0L by the deal with, in a backpack pocket, in a operating vest pocket if house permits, inside my waist pack full or empty, or stashed within the pack when empty.
For climbing, the 1.0L dimension works very effectively. For path operating, it isn’t my first selection.
The 1.0L BeFree AC won’t match effectively in most entrance operating vest pockets since it’s wider on the backside than the highest. This makes it tough to slip right into a vertical-shaped pocket until the pocket is beneficiant in dimension.
The 0.5L model is a lot better for path operating, and the form is meant to be suitable with path operating vests.
The BeFree AC 0.5L matches snugly within the entrance pocket of my Osprey Duro 6 operating vest. It’s a tight squeeze as a result of the Duro 6 entrance pockets are flat, but it surely nonetheless works. I maintain the highest of the water bottle and cap with an elastic loop on my vest, and all of it stays in place whereas I hike or run.
The 0.5L in all probability matches even higher in different vests with bigger entrance pockets.
Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L vs 0.5L: Which Dimension Ought to You Purchase?
That is the best approach to make the choice.
Purchase the 1.0L in the event you primarily hike. Purchase the 0.5L in the event you primarily path run. Purchase each in the event you commonly do each.
I’m completely happy that I purchased each as a result of they’ve completely different use instances.
The 1.0L is healthier for climbing as a result of it offers you extra water per fill. This may help on lengthy hikes or when there’s larger distance between water sources. It additionally has the double-layer gentle flask, which I want in rocky alpine terrain. I don’t thoughts the additional weight as a result of I’ve the carrying capability, and I’m often climbing reasonably than operating after I deliver the 1.0L.
For lengthy day hikes, the 1.0L is the clear winner.
The 0.5L is healthier for path operating as a result of it’s smaller, lighter, narrower, and simpler to slot in a vest pocket. I take advantage of this water filter bottle for path runs, shorter hikes, and hikes the place I do know I’ll comply with a constant water supply.
The draw back is that it is advisable refill extra usually. That’s tremendous when water is frequent. It’s much less very best when water sources are far aside. For this reason I usually carry my 1.5L water bladder too, so I’ve sufficient water for a couple of hours, however it isn’t too heavy or overbearing.
As a result of each variations use an identical filter cap system, proudly owning each offers me one water filtration system with two capability choices. I can select the flask primarily based on the route, or if I’m operating for a stretch, or climbing. Overlaying all conditions is right.
Cleansing, Upkeep, Clogging, and Gradual Circulation
Cleansing the Katadyn BeFree AC is straightforward. That’s one other benefit. Katadyn says the EZ-Clear Membrane will be cleaned by shaking or swishing, with no back-flushing or instruments required. I can affirm that is true.
If circulate slows within the discipline, the essential technique is to fill with clear water, shake up and down, swish aspect to aspect, squeeze and empty the water, then repeat if required. The cleansing instructions are printed on the aspect of the gentle flask.
After an outside journey, I maintain it easy. I rinse the elements beneath my kitchen faucet, separate the filter cap and gentle flask, lay every thing out on a towel to air dry completely, screw the elements collectively as soon as dry, and retailer for the following hike.
For long-term storage, dry every thing utterly, don’t retailer it moist and sealed, shield the filter ingredient, maintain it away from sharp objects, and keep away from freezing the filter whether it is moist.
I clear my BeFree water filters after every use. That’s the behavior I like to recommend to increase the lifespan of the product and get essentially the most worth.
My BeFree AC has not clogged. However I additionally don’t abuse it. I’m cautious and smart with its use. I keep away from silty water, debris-heavy water, and select clear, transferring water at any time when attainable. I rinse and dry the filter after journeys. That is in all probability why I’ve not had circulate issues but.
Gradual circulate can occur from sediment, silt, algae, particles, poor cleansing, filter age, poor water supply choice, a dry or poorly wetted filter, or repeated use in unhealthy water. If circulate slows or halts utterly, shake and swish the filter, use cleaner water if attainable, keep away from forcing silty water via it, clear it in any case hikes, and exchange the filter when it reaches the tip of its helpful life.
The BeFree AC is straightforward to scrub, however cleansing isn’t a miracle. For those who consistently filter unhealthy water, it is best to count on the filter to work tougher and decelerate sooner.
What the Katadyn BeFree AC Does and Does Not Defend Towards
That is vital to know. The Katadyn BeFree AC is a filter bottle, not a water air purifier.
Katadyn lists the hole fiber filter as efficient in opposition to protozoa, micro organism, and microplastics. The activated carbon helps with style, odor, turbidity, and chlorine.
Don’t purchase the Katadyn BeFree water filters anticipating them to unravel each water drawback. They aren’t designed for virus safety, closely contaminated water, unknown city or catastrophe water, chemical contamination past the said carbon advantages, unsafe supply choice, or changing logic.
For those who want virus safety, you want a air purifier, resembling a UV air purifier or one other applicable remedy technique.
Area Take a look at Outcomes and Information
Professionals and Cons After Area Testing
Professionals
Extraordinarily simple to make use of
Stream water to consuming water in 15 seconds in my discipline video
Quick circulate price
Extensive mouth makes it simple to fill
1.0L capability is beneficial for climbing
Double-layer 1.0L flask is healthier for rocky terrain
Light-weight at 85 g
Packs small when empty
No rubber-like style in my testing
Activated carbon improves style and odor if wanted
Easy design
Good deal with
Simple to scrub with no back-flushing instruments required
Helps cut back carried water weight on hikes
Wonderful for clear alpine and mountain water sources
Works effectively for direct consuming or refilling a bigger reservoir
Cons
1.0L isn’t very best for entrance operating vest pockets
0.5L is healthier for path operating however has much less capability
Double-layer flask isn’t out there on the 0.5L
Mushy flask nonetheless requires care round sharp rocks and equipment
Not very best for silty water
Not a air purifier
Not the most effective system for giant teams
Requires water-source planning if you wish to carry much less water
Alternative carbon and filter elements add long-term additional price
Katadyn BeFree AC vs Platypus QuickDraw
The Platypus QuickDraw is the principle comparability I can communicate to from direct expertise.
My expertise with the QuickDraw was not good. The filter element wouldn’t move water on first tried use, although it had been sitting unused for a 12 months or two after buy. I additionally discovered the smaller connection level tougher to fill. The system felt extra cumbersome than the BeFree AC. The included pouch was stiffer, and a pouch failed and began leaking after fewer than 20 makes use of as a bottle in a backpack.
The BeFree AC was a lot better for me.
I want the BeFree AC as a result of it’s simpler to fill, simpler to drink from, softer within the hand, sooner in actual use, easier on the path, higher for direct consuming, and higher for my climbing and trail-running system.
That is primarily based on my private expertise with the QuickDraw, not an entire lab check of each Platypus QuickDraw unit. However that have did affect my shopping for determination. After a 12 months of utilizing the BeFree AC, I’ve no regrets.
How the BeFree AC Compares to Different Water Filters
I’ve not personally field-tested each common water filter head-to-head, so I’m not going to fake this can be a full lab comparability.
From a design and use-case standpoint, select a BeFree AC water filter if you would like quick direct consuming, easy use, soft-flask carry, excessive alpine climbing, frequent refills, light-weight solo use, and a filter that matches naturally into climbing tempo.
Select one other system in the event you want group water quantity, purifier-level safety, most hard-bottle sturdiness, camp water processing, or higher efficiency in silty water.
That’s the place the BeFree AC matches greatest. It isn’t essentially the most common water remedy system for each backcountry state of affairs. It’s a quick, easy, light-weight filter bottle that’s wonderful when you find yourself transferring via terrain with dependable water sources.
Who Ought to Purchase the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L?
Purchase the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L if you’re a hiker who needs quick, quick access to filtered water and also you usually hike the place water is on the market.
It’s particularly good for day hikers, long-distance day hikers, Colorado hikers, mountain hikers, high-alpine hikers, solo hikers, quick hikers, thirsty hikers, hikers utilizing hydration vests, hikers who plan round water sources, hikers who need to carry much less water, and hikers who dislike pumps and complex techniques.
The Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L water filter bottle is right for 10–20+ mile day hikes, hikes with creeks alongside the route, alpine basin hikes, waterfall routes, snowmelt-fed trails, sizzling uncovered hikes with identified refill factors, and routes the place carrying 3+ liters from the beginning is pointless.
For me, the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L is the right water filter for climbing.
Who Ought to Purchase the Katadyn BeFree AC 0.5L As a substitute?
The Katadyn BeFree AC 0.5L is the higher selection in the event you primarily path run or need essentially the most compact otpion.
I take advantage of this water filter bottle for native Boulder and Entrance Vary hikes and path runs, trails with frequent water sources, and path runs the place compact carry issues greater than capability.
The 0.5L is less complicated to slot in a operating vest pocket. It’s lighter and slimmer. It’s a higher match for quick motion.
Nevertheless it has half the capability, so it is advisable refill extra usually. That’s the reason I want the 1.0L for climbing.
The 0.5L isn’t worse than the 1.0L. It’s simply constructed for a unique job as a result of dimension, form, and lighter design.
1.0L vs 0.5L Comparability and Specs
Who Ought to Not Purchase the Katadyn BeFree AC?
The BeFree AC is superb for the correct use case, however it isn’t for everybody.
Skip it in the event you want group capability. In case you are filtering water for a gaggle at camp, a gravity filter or pump system could also be higher. The BeFree AC is nice for solo use and quick refills, however it isn’t my first selection for processing giant volumes of water for a number of individuals.
Keep away from it in the event you want virus safety. It is a filter, not a air purifier. For those who want virus safety, take a look at a air purifier or mix filtration with one other remedy technique.
If you’d like most sturdiness this might not be your best option. Mushy flasks are handy, gentle, and packable, however they aren’t as sturdy as arduous bottles.
If you don’t want to analysis and plan water sources than a water filter will not be for you. The BeFree AC turns into strongest whenever you plan round water. If you don’t want to analysis water sources, carry extra water or select a system that matches your climbing model higher.
Worth: Is the Katadyn BeFree AC Value $59.95?
Sure. I paid $59.95, and after utilizing it commonly, it already appears like a superb worth.
At first, my 1.0L filter bottle price about $10 per outing. Based mostly on how a lot I plan to make use of it, that can drop under $2 per outing and proceed going decrease over time.
That’s near-zero price in contrast with the advantages.
The worth isn’t just the filter. The worth is carrying much less water, saving vitality, accessing chilly water on lengthy sizzling days, transferring sooner, decreasing general pack weight, consuming recent mountain water, having a easy device that truly will get used, and making lengthy hikes extra comfy.
A bit of substances is effective when it adjustments your expertise in a significant approach. These water filters do.
It isn’t an awesome worth in the event you hardly ever hike close to water, largely hike dry desert routes, want group filtration, want virus purification, don’t keep your gear, want arduous bottles, or don’t need to plan refill factors.
However for my model of climbing in Colorado, these water filters are completely value it.
Last Verdict: Ought to You Purchase the Katadyn BeFree AC?
Sure. I’d purchase it once more with no hesitation. I’d purchase this as a present for a hiker. I believe the product is that nice.
For climbing, I like to recommend the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L as a result of the capability and double-layer flask make it extra helpful on lengthy, rocky Colorado alpine routes.
For path operating, I like to recommend the Katadyn BeFree AC 0.5L as a result of it’s lighter, slimmer, and simpler to hold in a vest pocket.
For those who hike and path run commonly, shopping for each might make sense. They’re completely different instruments for various days.
The Katadyn BeFree AC water filter bottles are tremendous simple to make use of, quick sufficient to drink from a stream in seconds, sturdy within the 1.0L double-layer model, and very best for hikers and path runners who plan routes round dependable water sources.
That is a kind of merchandise that rapidly feels prefer it prices nearly nothing as a result of it solves an actual drawback each time you utilize it.
For me, the BeFree AC isn’t just a water filter.
It’s a lighter pack, quick refills, colder drink, and higher long-hike technique.
Katadyn BeFree AC Water Filter Bottle FAQs
Is the Katadyn BeFree AC value it?
Sure. The Katadyn BeFree AC is value it in the event you hike or path run close to dependable water sources and need a quick, light-weight filter that permits you to carry much less water from the beginning.
Is the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L good for climbing?
Sure. The 1.0L model is your best option for many hikers as a result of it has extra capability and a double-layer gentle flask that’s higher for rocky alpine terrain.
Is the Katadyn BeFree AC 0.5L good for path operating?
Sure. The 0.5L model is healthier for path operating as a result of it’s lighter, slimmer, and simpler to suit right into a operating vest pocket.
What’s the distinction between the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L and 0.5L?
The 1.0L has extra capability and a double-layer gentle flask. The 0.5L is lighter, narrower, and higher for vest-pocket carry. I take advantage of the 1.0L for climbing and the 0.5L for path operating.
How briskly does the Katadyn BeFree AC filter water?
Katadyn lists the output at as much as 2 liters per minute. In my clean-water check, the 0.5L emptied in 7.0 seconds and the 1.0L emptied in 12.5 seconds with squeezing.
Can you actually drink from it in beneath 20 seconds?
Sure. In my discipline video, I collected clear stream water with the BeFree AC 1.0L and began consuming in 15 seconds.
Does the Katadyn BeFree AC take away viruses?
No. The BeFree AC is a filter, not a air purifier. Katadyn lists it as efficient in opposition to protozoa, micro organism, and microplastics.
Does the activated carbon make a distinction?
Sure. In my Boulder faucet water check, the activated carbon eliminated the treated-water scent and improved the style. Katadyn says the carbon improves style and reduces odor, turbidity, and chlorine.
Does the water style like rubber?
No. In my testing, the filtered water didn’t style like rubber.
Does the Katadyn BeFree AC clog?
Mine has not clogged, however I keep away from silty and debris-heavy water. Clear, transferring water is the most effective supply selection.
How do you clear the Katadyn BeFree AC?
Shake or swish the EZ-Clear Membrane in clear water within the discipline. After a visit, rinse the elements and allow them to air dry completely earlier than storage.
Are you able to backflush the Katadyn BeFree AC?
It’s designed for shake-and-swish cleansing, not tool-based backflushing.
How lengthy does the Katadyn BeFree AC filter final?
Katadyn lists the hole fiber filter capability at as much as 1,000 liters relying on water high quality. The activated carbon capability is as much as 200 liters relying on water high quality.
Are you able to exchange the activated carbon?
Sure. Katadyn lists the activated carbon as replaceable.
Can you utilize the Katadyn BeFree AC to fill a hydration reservoir?
Sure. I take advantage of the 1.0L model to drink straight and to refill my Osprey Duro 6 hydration reservoir.
Is the 1.0L too massive for a operating vest?
For many entrance vest pockets, sure. The 0.5L model is healthier for path operating and vest-pocket carry.
Is the Katadyn BeFree AC higher than the Platypus QuickDraw?
For my use, sure. The BeFree AC has been simpler to fill, simpler to drink from, sooner in apply, and extra dependable than my private expertise with the Platypus QuickDraw.
