Platypus Hoser

Summary

One way in and only one way out.

This was my first Platypus I bought for backpacking and at first I enjoyed it but after testing it in the field I did not like it. There is only one way to fill the bag and it's at the bottom where the tube connects. This became a pain. 

Summary

I think it was a few dollars cheaper than the Camelbak, which is why I bought it. So far so good. The small opening is hard to fill from a stream, but carrying another bottle or a mug solves that problem. If you use iodine for water purification, it will stain it yellow. I also have gotten a lot of dirt stuck in the bite valve... I don't really care, but I can't get it out.

I bought the 2 liter and usually carry one other one liter bottle along with it. I didn't want to get any larger because it takes up space in my pack and requires taking off and repacking my pack to refill, whereas my water bottle holders are on the outside and easy to reach.

I use iodine to purify water, so it has stained the bladder yellow, but as far as I'm concerned, that doesn't matter

I've used it on 8 days worth of backpacking now (two two night trips, one 3 night trip) and it's holding up well. No trouble cleaning it so far.

The bite valve seems to get dirt stuck in every time I set my pack down. I don't really care, but it's really hard to get out. It doesn't affect the functionality though. I suppose this could be avoided if I were more careful about not letting it drag on the ground when I put down my pack. 

The narrow opening makes it almost impossible to fill from a small stream — this isn't an issue for me since I carry another bottle, which I fill and then pour into the bladder. I think Platypus makes another bladder with a big opening if that's a concern for you. 

Super light and simple -- so extra handles, caps, valves and covers that just add weight. Also, no leaks from bite valve.

Water tastes so good that on my last trip my son was drinking from my reservoir because he said his (blue one) was giving off a plastic taste. Now I'm upgrading all my reservoirs to Hosers.

Great product at the right price.

I have the 2 liter Hoser, easy to fill, no leaks and no bad aftertaste.

Update: December 19, 2011

Went to Philmont, have had second thoughts about the bladder. It started leaking on the 2nd day and by the 8th day. I just threw it away. Won't order another.

This is by far the best bang for your buck water reservoir out there. I purchased the 3.0L Hoser and can tell you that it's a beast. It can take a beating and not leak. If you are trying to decide on a water reservoir and are looking at the Platypus Hoser go ahead and take the plunge, you will not regret it!

I love this water bag. I hiked the AT once (only about 40 miles) and it kinda sucked not using this because I did not have it at the time I hiked. I would just have to get my Nalgene out of my pack each time and that blew. Now I don't have to do that anymore I can just take a sip from the Platypus.

Great value and light weight.