User Review: Katadyn Hiker

Katadyn Hiker
Above: The current Hiker, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed November 20, 2004 by Brian Chia

Rating:
Price Paid: $49.99

Overview:
The Katadyn Hiker Water Filter is a portable water filter suitable for extended outings in the wilderness. It is rated to filter out 99.9+% of harmful bacteria and chemicals present in water. It is also sold under the PUR brand name.

Construction:
The Hiker Water Filter is very solid. I have dropped it on rocks by accident several times and it has held up well. The polymer construction is very durable yet weighs only 11 oz. The unit has a pump built into the side with a handle that rotates in to save space. There are two silicone hoses, one to draw water from any source, and one that outputs the purified water.

The rubber intake unit sinks several inches so it will draw water below the surface, which is cleaner. There is a foam float several inches up, and the silicone hoses float as well.

Operation:
To use the Katadyn (PUR) Hiker, you insert the output hose at the top, and insert the input hose at the bottom of the pump. The output hose has an adapter that will fit into a Nalgene or other similar bottle. Pump the handle and water will begin to come out.

Comments:
The Katadyn (PUR) Hiker is a great unit. It is compact and easily carried, and very durable too. The filter is designed to filter 200 gallons. Replacement filters are available, but I am still on the first one after several years.

The Hiker is very easy to use and gives you peace of mind during extended outings. I have had no problems with the Hiker Water Filter.