I'm a water filtration geek! Not even embarrassed about it. I've been interested in it since childhood, this interest has been spurred by a love of exotic fish, exotic plants and exotic travel! So when I was offered the opportunity to test this, I was particularly interested.
The notion of a water bottle, capable making any water potable, is like magic. It's easy to filter out the bigger stuff, the particulates, but removing the tiny stuff though, the nematodes, the protozoan cysts, the bacteria, is a lot more challenging. Then there is tinier stuff still, and the various chemicals and heavy metals, that just cannot be filtered out using traditional means.
In my home, I have the luxury of space, and can accommodate various systems. I have a three stage mechanical filter, followed by a reverse osmosis filter, and that is for water that is already safe to drink.. This is for the benefit of my plants though, not me. I just drink the tap stuff!
When travelling, lugging such a filtration system about is not practical. I have examined various options, including the famous "LifeStraw", but I was intrigued by this more elaborate option. Unfortunately, upon receipt I quickly came to the conclusion that this was next to useless for me.
First the positives. This is a seriously well-made product, super tough and durable, very substantial. The filtering mechanism works well, it's very easy to fill, the pumping action feels sturdy and positive. I cannot fault the build quality of this. 6000l is LOADS, this will last one, two, or even a family, a LONG time, like months to years. The filter elements are replaceable, which is great. I see others criticising the price, but in my opinion, those who need such a device will happily pay £174.99, and a LOT more in fact. I have no doubt that this will do as it claims, I understand the technology involved, and I have confidence in this device. I particularly like the fact that it filters a certain amount, then stops. I mean it will physically stop filtering when it is incapable of putting out safe drinking water, the membrane will clog entirely and will not pass any fluid, this offers great peace of mind as you're never left wondering about the efficacy.