Every Way to FILTER WATER in the Backcountry! | Miranda in the Wild

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  • Опубликовано: 26 июн 2024
  • It’s time for the Water Treatment BATTLE ROYALE! In this video, I’ll walk through the different types of water treatment, how to use them, and some pros and cons to each.
    Water Purification vs. Filtration: 0:59
    Chemical Purification: 2:06
    UV Purification: 5:00
    Pump Filters: 6:39
    Gravity Filters: 9:27
    Bottle Filters: 10:58
    Potable Aqua Iodine: www.rei.com/product/407071/po...
    Aquamira Chlorine Dioxide: www.rei.com/product/866996/aq...
    Katadyn Steripen Ultra UV Purification: www.rei.com/product/847549/ka...
    MSR MiniWorks EX Pump Filter: www.rei.com/product/695265/ms...
    MSR Guardian Purifier*: www.rei.com/product/891193/ms...
    MSR Trail Base Gravity Filter: www.rei.com/product/130188/ms...
    Katadyn BeFree Water Bottle Filter: www.rei.com/product/116364/ka...
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Комментарии • 529

  • @rei
    @rei  3 года назад +198

    Hey friends! I TOTALLY forgot to include an important factor of choosing a type of water treatment: quantity of water! Chemical purification, bottle or squeeze filters and UV purification only allow you to treat what you can fit in a bottle. Gravity filters are great when you need a large quantity of water (say, for a group) or when your water source isn’t close to camp. Pump filters kind of fit in between, allowing you to filter as much as you can carry! What’s most important to you when choosing a water filter?

    • @LWilli5
      @LWilli5 3 года назад +2

      So much great information.

    • @atropineman3541
      @atropineman3541 3 года назад +2

      1) effective 2) convenient 3) taste. Picked the last bottle filter.

    • @ambissing
      @ambissing 3 года назад +16

      Why didn't you review the Sawyer Squeeze? It looks like you had it right there? It's a lifetime filter and you can add it to a smartwater bottle and drink right from it or buy a Cnoc 2L bag for your "dirty" water and make a gravity filter for big batches of water. I don't like the bags it comes with but other than that, it's way better.

    • @MusicBent
      @MusicBent 3 года назад +4

      Bissilife and Odie I think it’s more of a comparison of methods, not brands. But I agree, sawyer should have been included. The be free only filters 1000 liters! ONLY 1000 LITERS. THATS 250 ish gallons. Sounds like a lot but it’s not.
      Sawyer for personal/solo hikes. MSR pump for families or scout troops etc (often have nalgene anyway, chemical or sawyer mini for ultralight.

    • @markbenedict3279
      @markbenedict3279 3 года назад +2

      @@ambissing I think the BeFree beats the Sawyer hands down

  • @Golddragon214
    @Golddragon214 3 года назад +35

    I used pump filters for a long time but after finding gravity filters, I won't go back. And don't forget to always have a back up plan. Bring a light weight chem treatment if you can.

  • @spikester40
    @spikester40 3 года назад +6

    Oh my gosh you just crack me up!!! I love learning with humor!!! Keep it up and don’t ever stop!!!

  • @RomeoMSong
    @RomeoMSong 3 года назад +47

    Definitely love the Sawyer. I love that it fits on most bottles so I've got a CNOC dirty bag and I carry a couple of smart water bottles and some sports caps to help with the backflushing. All very light, easy and durable.

    • @ambissing
      @ambissing 3 года назад +2

      Same here. That Cnoc bag is awesome

  • @TheHumanFlag
    @TheHumanFlag 3 года назад +6

    RUclips needs to add a love button for videos like this. Best one so far!

  • @antonioallevato6640
    @antonioallevato6640 3 года назад +12

    Another good point to include is how long you can use each water treatment method. I know some filters are good for hundreds of thousands of gallons of water, while the chemical treatments only work for however many tabs/drops you have. Would end up changing the price point the longer you use each method.

  • @drinaz4070
    @drinaz4070 3 года назад +127

    Powdered water. Duh.

    • @phillipp1399
      @phillipp1399 3 года назад +8

      Ummm. Cost? Freeze dryers aren’t cheap and operating them is costly not only in the electricity bull but also in carbon footprint. This product should be reserved for emergency use only. I mean come on. Save the lightest water for its most essential users.

    • @larryboldt4762
      @larryboldt4762 3 года назад

      Dooes REI sell that? I want....

    • @AF-tv6uf
      @AF-tv6uf 3 года назад +7

      Do you have to put freeze-dried water in a bear bag?

    • @Mike-gt1cs
      @Mike-gt1cs 3 года назад +5

      Just add water? NICE!

    • @drdoom8793
      @drdoom8793 2 года назад +6

      Ah yes, dehydrated water. A personal favorite

  • @listofromantics
    @listofromantics 3 года назад +86

    00:28 - You had a Sawyer Squeeze (most often chosen by PCT / CDT / AT thru-hikers) on your test bench, but didn't test it.
    Otherwise, a very good, well-produced, and informative video; well done, Miranda (and REI).

    • @TaylorPassofaro
      @TaylorPassofaro 2 года назад +7

      Yeah, this is baffling they didn't test it since between long distance hikers, the BeFree and the Squeeze/Mini/Micro are the most popular water filters.
      For anyone coming to this a year later curious about the Squeeze, the Squeeze is typically the gold standard for reliability on hikes, but the BeFree does filter faster even if it clogs easier. The Squeeze can be backflushed to restore flow rate, the BeFree's "shake to clean" system doesn't work quite as well. Which is why it's strange they didn't talk about the Squeeze. Yeah it's not flashy, it's boring, but it's so consistent that it makes it so so popular year after year.

  • @AndrewB416
    @AndrewB416 3 года назад +13

    I treated my water with respect and admiration and I still got the runs.

  • @phillipp1399
    @phillipp1399 3 года назад +2

    You and your videos are awesome. Please stay who you are and continue to amaze us all.

  • @SarahStudt
    @SarahStudt 3 года назад +9

    I love my BeFree filter! I got the 3L too which has a handle. For those asking, sawyers do work in a similar way, but if you get the micro expect to do a lot of backflushing.

  • @watthesnacks
    @watthesnacks 3 года назад +1

    These video series are surprisingly good and informative

  • @lalita3090
    @lalita3090 3 года назад +1

    This was actually really useful. I've seen the befree filters rated as a top choice with many backpackers, but to see it tested against other filters is much more effective! Thanks again Miranda!

  • @avery41
    @avery41 3 года назад +11

    Would have loved to see the Grayl compared to those as well. Love the videos, keep them coming.

  • @AllenSchubert
    @AllenSchubert 3 года назад +37

    WOW!! I've never seen so many water treatment things in one video! Including products that I've never seen/considered (probably because of cost)! And I enjoy Miranda's presentation of these things! Miranda keeps it simple and to the point while being very entertaining!

    • @rei
      @rei  3 года назад +3

      Thank you for watching, Allen! - Miranda

  • @boatkid888
    @boatkid888 3 года назад +2

    Got to say... That was fun to watch. Love your sense of humor.

  • @americaamaro4425
    @americaamaro4425 3 года назад

    Love that you add time stamps!

  • @brianmotter8150
    @brianmotter8150 3 года назад +2

    Used the platypus gravity system 3 weeks ago, did 6.5 liters in about 5 minutes. It is about 3 years old and have done maybe 60 liters through it. My son uses the sawyers and likes them, both beat a pump. Nothing worse than standing over a mud puddle trying to pump out water. through a filter. Love the quality of the video.

  • @kimberlysmith7540
    @kimberlysmith7540 3 года назад +109

    I ended up buying the Sawyer filters so I wish those were reviewed! I did see them on your table with the BeFree one :) I have a video request: we want to take our kids backpacking and I want to make sure 1) we dont overload them, and 2) we have the right footwear for them. Is this something you can make a video about, or if you have can you point me to it? Should also mention we are newbies ourselves too! Thank you so much Miranda and REI!

    • @rei
      @rei  3 года назад +31

      Hey, great suggestion! The Sawyer Squeeze is a great little filter - I think you'll be happy with it! - Miranda

    • @BadTimeBen
      @BadTimeBen 3 года назад +8

      I've gone out hiking with the Sawyer and I like it a lot. I use it like a mini squeeze pump: When I'm at a water source, I fill up a dirty water bag, squeeze water into "clean" bottles so i can just carry clean and drink ready water on me and refill when I get to water sources. I paired it with some bags from Cnoc. Hope you have a good time on the trail!

    • @brenttesterman1198
      @brenttesterman1198 3 года назад +7

      Hey there! I would recommend doing some car camping with a one or two day overnight close to your base camp. That way you can work out the kinks and find out any limitations you might run into. Have fun, Peace!

    • @TheHikingLion
      @TheHikingLion 2 года назад +7

      Shocked the sawyer squeeze was not featured. Just hiked about 500 miles of the Appalachian trail. Over 90% of the people I came across were using the sawyer squeeze. These are fancy filters, but not the main ones being used.

  • @dantran3628
    @dantran3628 3 года назад +84

    You're a cool host, but I am skeptical of your palette xD
    That pasta water coffee has stayed with me.

  • @rickfrench1020
    @rickfrench1020 2 года назад

    I've been thinking of hitting the trails again now that I am 5 years since a total hip replacement. Started checking the gear and a find my two Mini Water Works pumps are in great condition. I love them and as long as I have the replacement part kit I can take care of almost any issue on the trail. Love watching your videos.

  • @williamtrott7192
    @williamtrott7192 3 года назад +5

    I just returned from a week and a half in the Idaho mountains and used the life straw and Sawyer. Sawyer was used primarily in a gravity feed and if you squeeze the dirty bag, we were getting 4 liters in less than two minutes. With the life straw I found the flow increased if you filed the bag entirely with water so there was no air pocket, this seemed to create a vacuum and increased water flow. I did have to back flush the filter 3-4 times and that also increases water flow through the straw. Both of these have my vote for lightweight, inexpensive and effective filtration devices.

  • @Flashahol
    @Flashahol 3 года назад +6

    Great reviewing! You are so fun to watch. I would have like to see a review of Sawyer products and Grayl, though... maybe in he future?

  • @TheDeterminedRunner
    @TheDeterminedRunner 3 года назад +4

    That was a great comparison, really pleased that the BeFree came out so well, as that's what I have 👍🏃

  • @conrad7829
    @conrad7829 3 года назад +37

    Katadyn only produces the filter part of their filters. The "bottle" is made by Hydrapak which makes it really easy to find bigger storage tubes like their Seeker or Expedition series, varying from 2 to 8 litres. They allow for the use as a gravity filter aswell.

    • @afajardo9938
      @afajardo9938 3 года назад +1

      @Conrad Lox How can you turn the BeFree into a gravity system? I’ve always used a Hydrapak but I’m going backpacking with a group of newbies and I’d like to be able to filter all their water without buying a new system

  • @jennyl1182
    @jennyl1182 3 года назад +52

    I use a grayle, love it. Doubles as your water bottle and no power or other supplies needed. Plus it filters viruses so works anywhere

    • @arweninnj
      @arweninnj 3 года назад +5

      I was wondering if the Grayl was going to make an appearance. I was surprised not to see one!

    • @onlyinparadise4613
      @onlyinparadise4613 3 года назад +2

      I agree Jenny. Grayl is the best purifier. Great to use for traveling to third world countries where everyone says “don’t drink the water!”
      Also, I recently discovered a non-toxic water purifier called Purinize! I haven’t used it yet but this sure beats all of the chemical options on the market. Purinize and Grayl will be my go-to options when SHTF!
      www.amazon.com/Purification-Solution-Effective-Emergency-Preparedness/dp/B07QT9XVXX/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=purinize+water+purification+drops&qid=1601009187&sprefix=purinize&sr=8-4

    • @christianb8228
      @christianb8228 3 года назад +1

      Same here it is the best purifier/filter on the market hands down and it’s not ridiculously expensive

    • @RDuude
      @RDuude 3 года назад +1

      Grayl is hands down my fave purifier/filter

    • @Xtariz
      @Xtariz 3 года назад

      Grayl is king...

  • @justalurkr
    @justalurkr 3 года назад +41

    Miranda is the best thing ever to happen to the REI channel. Relevant to the topic, I just bought a BeFree and couldn't be happier it came out on top in this comparison!

    • @glendacrouch1877
      @glendacrouch1877 3 года назад +3

      I so agree!!!

    • @rei
      @rei  3 года назад +10

      Aww, thank you so much! I have to admit, I was impressed by the BeFree :) great choice! - Miranda

    • @NightFoxXIII
      @NightFoxXIII 3 года назад

      @@rei Much better than the Lifestraw as you showed. I too, had to use too much effort to even use their gravity filters. Grabbed and MSR Trail base instead.

  • @MikeWood
    @MikeWood 3 года назад +4

    I live in Canada so no REI stores, but watching informative videos such as this one with Miranda are a highlight of my RUclips subscriptions. I rang the bell too. I wish that Mountain Equipment Co-Op here in Canada had an online presence like this that entertained and informed as well as REI and Miranda do.

    • @professorsogol5824
      @professorsogol5824 3 года назад +1

      As the people at REI certainly know
      "Vancouver, BC - September 14, 2020 - MEC’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) announced its unanimous support for an agreement with Kingswood Capital Management, LP (“Kingswood”), whereby Kingswood will acquire substantially all of MEC’s assets through the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (“CCAA”) and ensure a thriving future for the Canadian retailer."

    • @derrickstableford8152
      @derrickstableford8152 3 года назад

      It depends where you live, there are some surprisingly close to the border.

    • @jaroslavbela677
      @jaroslavbela677 11 месяцев назад

      MEC is pretty much exactly the same thing as rei

  • @davidyule3605
    @davidyule3605 3 года назад +2

    Thank you, gosh darn! Great information presented in a most awesome way. (I want the expensive one, of course)

  • @michaelpuett6358
    @michaelpuett6358 3 года назад +1

    this was a fantastic video, thank you for making it

  • @gennasmithers
    @gennasmithers 3 года назад

    Great video, glad to see a breakdown of all of them, though I was disappointed you didn't review the sawyer and you did have it with you

  • @hectoralers84
    @hectoralers84 2 года назад

    I love her!!! Totally fun and helped me decide to get the Guardian!

  • @ronridenour5285
    @ronridenour5285 3 года назад +1

    Great job as usual. Thank You

  • @shufflingfate4703
    @shufflingfate4703 3 года назад +14

    Sawyer squeeze all the way. I can use in on a bottle, in a gravity feed system and it can filter a lifetime's worth of water. You can service it in the field too, just don't let it freeze. I don't recommend the mini or micro, go for the full on squeeze. I use a cnoc 2l dirty bag for the gravity system! Sad you didn't test it.

  • @stalar2892
    @stalar2892 3 года назад +1

    Great video! I live in Australia and water is a massive issue here when hiking. A lot of multi-day campsites have water tanks because it's not guaranteed you will find a water source and it's not possible to carry enough water. Because of that I've only used chemical treatments so far. But I'm eyeing off some hikes where I know there are water sources so there are no tanks provided and it's been hard to figure out what to get. Another issue I face is that it can be hard to source the gear here. I was super impressed by the Katadyn BeFree (currently use their tablets as treatment) and it's making me reconsider the gravity filter options I've been looking at. I would have liked to see the Grayl in use as well. Thanks Miranda! (p.s. I just found you and I am now binge watching all of your episodes while I am unwell so thanks for making me feel better!)

  • @hankhager8561
    @hankhager8561 3 года назад +1

    I love your videos did a good job on the water filter types

  • @Beautyaddixion
    @Beautyaddixion 3 года назад +1

    This was such a helpful video!!!!!! Thank u

  • @persephonesnow4336
    @persephonesnow4336 3 года назад

    It's the Sawyer filters for me, I have two and love them both. Nothing is better in my experience for my fav activities.

  • @titanpreparedness
    @titanpreparedness 3 года назад +1

    My favorite way is by using the hydroblu versa flow. Its a lot like the Sawyer mini but can be used as a gravity system using 1 water bag and a bottle. No back flushing syringe required either. It also comes with equipment to set up a 5 gallon bucket system

  • @StormLaker
    @StormLaker 3 года назад

    REI.....keep up these "Miranda' videos, they are gold! Most of the places outside of Iowa that I go have clean enough water I can get by with filtration. Here in Iowa....well, you don't really want to drink out of that clean looking stream due to all of the agricultural runoff which includes fecal residues from feed lots and hog farms, fertilizers, pesticides, and discharge from municipal sewage treatment plants. I usually just end up doing weekend trips here and hauling/caching water for the weekend. I have friends that will filter out of a trout stream that runs through the area we hike, but my mom worked for the environmental wing of our DNR for years, and I know how many hog manure spills have afflicted that particular creek.....enough to make it a hard pass for me, lol.

  • @DM_Kat
    @DM_Kat 3 года назад

    Great video! Bummed the Sawyer filters was not used. That's the one I bought but have not used it yet. Keep up the fun reviews!

  • @owenbrodie2915
    @owenbrodie2915 3 года назад +1

    I work in backcountry trail work and do a lot of backpacking and I am in love with my BeFree filter. Not only is it super great as a bottle it can also be used as a gravity filter for base camp!

    • @rei
      @rei  3 года назад +1

      It's definitely an awesome little filter! - Miranda

  • @backpacker3421
    @backpacker3421 3 года назад +10

    One issue with pump filters: Most of them use a ceramic filter element. This is fragile. If you drop the filter, or if the filter freezes when wet, you will need to test it before you use it again (filter water with food coloring to test). The ceramic filter elements can be replaced if they crack, but that's expensive. Also, ceramic is less effective than the more modern micropore filters like the BeFree and the Squeeze. The pores in the ceramic are larger.

  • @TheHungryHiker
    @TheHungryHiker 3 года назад +4

    "Still drinking dirt. Drinking CLEAN dirt!" Hahahahahaha Yes! OMG!! Your taste test notes are hilarious. I've always been a fan of the Sawyer Squeeze, but now I want to check out the BeFree water filter. Holy great flow Batman!

  • @sloanNYC
    @sloanNYC Год назад

    She should do more videos, awesome work!

  • @user-pt1cz4ot1e
    @user-pt1cz4ot1e 3 года назад

    I use a Berkey Go. Absolutely love it. You can put nearly any type of water in and it comes out delicious and safe.

  • @Tali-Khammael
    @Tali-Khammael Год назад

    Ioved the video on filters done by a person who I can tell has very little filter!!! Love it

  • @magmaticatlas
    @magmaticatlas 3 года назад

    I've got a 4L gravity filter (Platypus GravityWorks) and it's far faster than the gravity filter demoed in this video, but the key thing with gravity filters is that you have to do a minor backflush once you start filtering to purge the air, after which you can filter the rest of the water. This makes the filtering much *much* faster. Also do note that you've usually gotta protect filters from drops/freezing, since that can damage them. So if you plan to be in a very cold environment, you might want to bring chemical options instead, or make sure the filter stays warm. Gravity filters are great for filling up a couple hydration bladders, as well. Great video!

  • @delphinelesterlost3285
    @delphinelesterlost3285 3 года назад

    So many ways of purifying water! The steri pen looks amazing but probably more expensive than I would want

  • @rev.johnpate3231
    @rev.johnpate3231 2 года назад

    Another great video! I love the tub of crap water! My story: About 25 years ago we were out on a week-long trip using a PUR pumpy type filter. Filtered all week long from nice, cold, mountain streams. Last day, discovered to my horror the filter membrane had blown out. AKA: We all were drinking unfiltered, untreated water. We did not get sick, did not die, did not turn purple or some other color. Hence forth, stopped filtering water from that area. Nevertheless, for other areas I carry a Sawyer (2.5 oz) + 24 fl oz Smartwater (1.24 oz.)+ 2 l squeeze pouch (1.6 oz). I ditched the 16 fl oz pouch. I carry untreated water to camp in the 2 l, and away we go. No carry the backwash pump; you can use a Smartwater and fliptop cap to backwash. I never filter cooking or hygiene water. On the cooking I figure if anything can live at 212 deg. F, then go for it! Other tip: Ditch the crappy white caps for your squeeze pouches and replace with a cap from a 1 l Smartwater - unless you want leaky water in your pack.

  • @bushball333
    @bushball333 Год назад

    I splurged on the MSR Guardian a few years back. I have taken it on multiple week long kayak & camping trips as my only source of water and I love it. 💧🥤

  • @michaelferto6588
    @michaelferto6588 2 года назад

    ....Really good information, thanks....

  • @mareandotter
    @mareandotter Год назад

    My daughter and I watched this and decided on a Sawyer squeeze (with a CNOC bag) to backpack on the Colorado trail. It works really well- thanks for the info!

    • @rei
      @rei  Год назад

      Happy to help!🤩

  • @morakskuld7126
    @morakskuld7126 3 года назад

    I have the iodine its my favorite, I learned from your video I made the right choice by getting the katadyn b free filter for my next trip. Thank you. 🤗

  • @htiek1
    @htiek1 3 года назад +16

    Love these videos! There’s an error in this video - the liquid aquamira is chlorine dioxide just like the tablets and as such also takes four hours to kill crypto (not fifteen minutes as started in the video). Similarly, the tablets will kill viruses/bacteria in 15 minutes. Why the discrepancy? Because of government regulations. The tablets are EPA registered, and the EPA decided that having two treatment times was too complicated for the average consumer. The liquid aquamira is not epa registered for water purification (the epa decided there’s too much variability involved with mixing and waiting as well as measuring dosages) which is why the packing makes no mention of water treatment. The packaging only mentions that the product “improves water taste”. But if you’re worried about crypto then you do need to wait the four hours with the liquid aquamira (or additionally use a filter)

  • @jackkrag
    @jackkrag 2 года назад +1

    absolutely fabulous

    • @rei
      @rei  2 года назад

      We're glad you enjoyed! How do you prefer to filter water?

  • @JustOnePro28
    @JustOnePro28 3 года назад +2

    I just got back from a 3 day backpacking trip and the squeeze didn’t let me down. Def gonna check out the be free tho. The flow may be my deciding factor. carving wooden utensils makes me parched. @miranda 😉

  • @julieparker8553
    @julieparker8553 2 года назад +1

    Simply thank you
    I needed this video
    On how what to buy

  • @hooXpoo
    @hooXpoo 2 года назад +1

    Miranda love to see you do a video on the "WAPI" water pasteurization indicator. Works grate and saves gas/fuel.

  • @cyprisivy726
    @cyprisivy726 2 года назад

    I just used this video to help get a talk going with a group of Cub Scouts on water purification. 4 of of Scouts are working on a badge that requires them trying 3 ways to purify. We coverd boiling, filter and Iodine. They now understand the concept of drinking clean dirt! They also tossed in a couple burps for good measure. They are looking forward to the next time I use your videos.

    • @rei
      @rei  2 года назад

      Right on! We're so happy you and the scouts found this video helpful and entertaining. Thanks for sharing! 😄

  • @jeffmcilroy7081
    @jeffmcilroy7081 3 года назад +4

    I just bought a befree and used it last week on a 5 day backcountry canoe trip.. absolutely love it! I’ll never go back to my other filters again!

    • @azclaimjumper
      @azclaimjumper 3 года назад

      Most reviewers of the Befree tell us the Befree quickly clogs up after as few as 5-6 liters & becomes almost impossible to use. However, I'm absolutely certain you will find this out for yourself, shortly.

    • @jeffmcilroy7081
      @jeffmcilroy7081 3 года назад +2

      AZ Claimjumper I’ve filtered probably 25 litres already and i flows just as freely

    • @andymytys
      @andymytys 3 года назад +2

      @AZ Claimjumper I got 60+ liters out of my Be Free on the Superior Hiking Trail.
      But you’re right... when it starts to have its flow rate impacted, it quickly goes to useless and there’s not a good way to maintain the filter on the trail.
      The Sawyer comes with the syringe, making it field serviceable. You can’t use that syringe on the Be Free - you’d break its integrity.

    • @rei
      @rei  3 года назад +1

      Glad to hear it's worked so well for you, Jeff! I've been pretty impressed with it and using it since we filmed this! - Miranda

  • @westonsmith4572
    @westonsmith4572 3 года назад +4

    Fantastic video. I look forward to sharing this with others. A unstated con for filters is fragility and potential to rupture if water freezes within. Cheers from Canada.

  • @RoughLandings77
    @RoughLandings77 2 года назад

    I have an MSR filter pump that I bought probably 23 or 24 years ago. It's still going strong. It is all I have ever used for a mechanical means of treatment. I used iodine tablets when I was first starting out with backpacking and hated waiting for them to fully dissolve. The pump filter works great, has never failed me, so I haven't had any desire to replace it.

  • @justine21149
    @justine21149 2 года назад

    I have a Guardian and I love it!

  • @backyardfern1923
    @backyardfern1923 3 года назад +15

    hi there! once the gravity filter starts to flow you have to lift the clean water bag up to purge the air out and then it flows super fast! (1.5L per minute)

    • @chesterogilvie1393
      @chesterogilvie1393 3 года назад

      Or you could start nearly devoided of air and once theres enough filtered water weighing the bag it will create suction from the top of the system. But then again the dirty bag will need a valve if some type

    • @johnsacco9897
      @johnsacco9897 2 года назад

      That MSR system actually gets primed by squeezing the housing around the filter. It also detaches so you can take it as a separate filter on the trail. Usually takes about a minute per liter depending on how mucky your water source is of course.

  • @davidcupps991
    @davidcupps991 Месяц назад

    Helpful review

  • @ujjc001
    @ujjc001 3 года назад +130

    Umm, I saw the sawyer squeeze, why didn't you cover it? My fav, you can attach it to a plethora of bottles, or, attach inline on a bag hose, or in a gravity feed system. I just have a dirty bag and a bottle and gravity feed into the bottle, don't need the second bag but it is handy to have a clean bag too, depending on how much water you need...

    • @rjstewart
      @rjstewart 3 года назад +4

      Sawyer Squeeze or Mini plus any water bladder and you have a squeeze/straw/gravity/“camelbak” system.

    • @KP-jp9gv
      @KP-jp9gv 3 года назад +8

      Because the befree is the same as the sawyer except much faster flow and easier maintenance.

    • @counterfit5
      @counterfit5 3 года назад +2

      K P and larger pore size

    • @rjstewart
      @rjstewart 3 года назад +6

      K P you can’t use the beefree as a gravity feed or a straw but you can with the Sawyer. Just buy a bladder and hook the hose to the Sawyer and away you go. Much more versatile!

    • @joeisawesome540
      @joeisawesome540 3 года назад +1

      @@counterfit5 befree has the same pore size as sawyer 0.1 micron

  • @mattheww8059
    @mattheww8059 3 года назад

    Nice thorough review, has the MSR guardian been improved since over the past couple years a lot of negative blogs on weak parts and leaks, how long have you had yours in operation and have you suffered any of the previous conditions? That was one of my major turn off’s and gone with the katadyn pocket filter, and if I suspected virus could be present treat with a secondary treatment

  • @AuroraGw2
    @AuroraGw2 2 года назад

    I started with a Sawyer, it was so slow and it cracked after the second use. Switched to befree and I'm loving it

  • @joeleone6276
    @joeleone6276 3 года назад +1

    Used the Sawyer for a while until a buddy of mine introduced the Platypus gravity system to me. Now thats all I use!

  • @AnaGonzalez-xj6pm
    @AnaGonzalez-xj6pm 3 года назад

    Thank you for your video

  • @asmith7876
    @asmith7876 2 года назад +1

    I've used pump style filters for years, now have the Guardian. Yeah it's heavy, omg it was expensive but is the fastest way to produce great water with almost no maintenance.

  • @freddukepoo3359
    @freddukepoo3359 2 года назад

    I have the Katadyn hiker pro, iodine tabs and UV Stiripen in my pack.

  • @Gulgonful
    @Gulgonful 3 года назад +12

    These videos are really hitting a sweet spot.
    Informative, approachable, dispelling of the normal gear snobbery that "enthusiasts" bring to their pursuits.
    Obviously coming from a large commercial outfitter, but lacking the overt capitalist agenda of only driving business to REI.
    I feel I can take these lessons to my local outfitter no problemo.
    Thank you.

  • @Chrispy1990ful
    @Chrispy1990ful Год назад

    I like the concept but the only filter I didn't see tested was the one I was really waiting for. The sawyer squeeze micro, which is probably the most popular on the market.

  • @newmanvila9557
    @newmanvila9557 Год назад

    Just bought the BeFree thanks miranda

  • @ghostinthecodeRF
    @ghostinthecodeRF 2 года назад

    Love the idea of drinking clean dirt 😂
    I use the Katadyn pocket tactical. Heavy yes expensive that’s relative safe better than average.
    Although boiling or chemical could be added if you want to be doubly safe.

  • @backpacker3421
    @backpacker3421 3 года назад +1

    I guess we gave the Sawyer Squeeze the cold shoulder on this one. The BeFree starts off with incredible flow, but even with backflushing maintenance, most users report that flow decreases after 100-200 liters filtered and levels out somewhere around that of the Sawyer Squeeze. But both are much better with flow than the lifestraw. IMO, the Lifestraw is good for one thing: get one without a bottle to toss in your day pack. That way if you get stranded, or run into any other emergency, you have a super small filter and can drink directly from any stream or muddy puddle using the Lifestraw as it was originally intended, as a straw with a filter built into it.

  • @CarlosDangerTheThird
    @CarlosDangerTheThird 3 года назад

    Plus one for the MSR Guardian. It might be expensive but if you get it during a sale it’s totally worth it

  • @theadventuresofraz8706
    @theadventuresofraz8706 Год назад

    You rock!...I enjoyed watching you drink dirt. Thanks. I have a BEFREE Katadyn filter.

  • @matthewishunting
    @matthewishunting 2 года назад

    Miranda is the best

  • @larryboldt4762
    @larryboldt4762 3 года назад

    I have an MSR guardian, it's a filter/purifier all in one. Extremely fast and I have pulled drinking water out of a mud puddle when I couldn't find a creek. Yes, it costs more but you get great drinking water without having to carry it. It is a little bulky and heavy but very reliable. Recommend...

  • @2012HPA
    @2012HPA 3 года назад +3

    I bought the BeFree squeeze filter at the SLC REI store (by the way, super friendly people in there!). The filter is great, I took it to my first trip to Mt. Timp. I used it in several sources of water, and the taste of the filtered water could not be better. Ideal for backpacking, amazing weight/effectiveness/price ratio. I enjoy these videos, thanks for sharing.

    • @azclaimjumper
      @azclaimjumper 3 года назад

      You'll most likely get rid of your Befree because it is notorious for clogging up & being hard to filter water after as few as 5-6 liters of water, something you'll have to find out for yourself.

    • @rei
      @rei  3 года назад

      So glad you had a good experience at the Salt Lake City store! They know their stuff. Happy hiking! - Miranda

    • @KP-jp9gv
      @KP-jp9gv 3 года назад

      @@azclaimjumper I've been using the befree filters for the past 3 years for my long runs in the mountains (about 6-8 hrs). I have no idea what you're talking about. Had that problem more with the sawyers.

  • @MichaelCastle143
    @MichaelCastle143 2 года назад

    thanks for the vid very helpfull xx

  • @15halerobert
    @15halerobert 2 года назад

    I love my katadyn water filter. No upset tummy yet.

  • @ilajoie3
    @ilajoie3 Год назад

    P&G Purifier of Water is my go to for large quantities of water

  • @jeffcmo1957
    @jeffcmo1957 3 года назад

    Great video as always. Forgot to mention boiling.

  • @jeffmcrobbie5015
    @jeffmcrobbie5015 3 года назад

    I have a Katahdyn and a Sawyer, both I have set up as gravity systems, they are it easy and fast.

  • @Thomas-bq2se
    @Thomas-bq2se 2 года назад

    Amazing vid

  • @rjstewart
    @rjstewart 3 года назад +1

    My favourite is a Sawyer Mini plus a Platypus bladder. Sawyer Mini can be a squeeze bag or straw filter for quick filtering but fill a bladder and connect the hose and it will work as a gravity feed system.
    Need to keep moving? Put the bladder of dirty water in your pack and attach the Sawyer and use it like a CamelBak!
    It’s the most robust and inexpensive system on the market IMHO.

  • @cultofcedar
    @cultofcedar 2 года назад +1

    Honestly for a camp the Platypus that wasn't used is my favorite cost to effectiveness wise. For backpacking the BeFree is hands down the best. I carry that and the 2 part water treatment as backup. I have a 750ml collapsible hydrapak bottle the BeFree is attached to and a 3L collapsible Seeker from Hydrapak. I can put filtered water into (and additionally purify if I want) the Seeker from the bottle and use the bottle for normal drinking water. It's water storage and filtration. So it's like 8oz dry and you can always cut that back with a smaller water storage solution since the 3L makes up about 3.5 oz. Not bad considering my previous Gregory 3L water bladder was around 7oz on its own! That and the seekers have points for straps or slings!

    • @rei
      @rei  2 года назад

      We really appreciate your comment. We're always so impressed to see how our community uniquely problem solves.

  • @derrickstableford8152
    @derrickstableford8152 3 года назад

    We were planning an Alaska Highway run for over a year. In the planning there happened to be a Coldplay concert. We decided to drive from Calgary for the weekend so we could shop at REI Seattle, and spend/carry more. And did we ever.

  • @microMobilidade
    @microMobilidade 3 года назад +1

    The protein shake bottles have a whisker ball that is great for distributing the iodine/chlorine in your water bottle

  • @TheSaneHatter
    @TheSaneHatter 2 года назад

    It won't be my *first* purchase before I go hiking, but based on this video, I'm definitely getting the Guardian to keep in the car.

  • @-----REDACTED-----
    @-----REDACTED----- 3 года назад +8

    See, I’d always use both filtration and purification.
    The very last thing one needs on the trail is to wrestle with the runs.
    I usually use some pump filter and a SteriPen and keep some form of chemical purification method as a backup.
    It’s something where redundancy is worth the weight to me.

  • @katherinelangford981
    @katherinelangford981 2 года назад

    I had to pump a Katadyn filter system and clean it out on my first ever portaging 6 daytrip. I thought "this is super annoying and a lot of work." Then my next trip 2 people had the Platypus Gravity Works system. Game changer. Set it and forget it. I can get 2L pretty quick. I've had it for a few years now. If it slows a bit, backwash it and you're good to go. 5 of us now have this system. Rolled up it's not too bad in size or weight and was for sure worth the money spent. That Be Free one looks great for solo. Might have get my friend to grab it for me when he's in the US from REI.

  • @brunoethier896
    @brunoethier896 3 года назад +1

    I previously used pumped filters in my trekking, but the ceramic/fiberglass filters can clog up suddently when filtering melted snow if there's any hint of soot in it...
    You made me more interested in UV treatment now. 👍

  • @jeremywelder5383
    @jeremywelder5383 3 года назад

    I use a grayl on my kayak works pretty good.

  • @JimEatsPlants
    @JimEatsPlants 2 года назад

    Have you seen the Grayl Geopress bottle? Took it on the Bowron Lake canoe loop and it was super easy to use, water tasted good

  • @porterbrass
    @porterbrass 2 года назад

    Excellent video!!
    Probably the most important gear on the trail. The BeFree seems like the overall winner, and definitely the most popular with RUclips hiking vloggers. I have the MSR Mini-works/Steri-Pen combo and have been very happy with their performance. Yes, they add weight to the pack, but clean delicious water is a necessity for enjoyable hiking IMO. The chemical treatments are outdated “crappy” methods that shouldn’t even be considered with todays technology. You’re still drinking fine sediment and other weird dead organisms 🤢If I hadn’t already spent the money for the MSR, I’d get the BeFree and use a Steri-Pen chaser to obliterate everything! 👻
    Grrrrrreat video M!