Katadyn Hiker:Portable water filtration has revolutionized outdoor camping. We just spent 10 days in Colorado backcountry without incident. Readily available water sources are near almost any trail or on the way to the pass.
This is a simple unit and can be field serviced and has few moving parts. It is basically a pump and filter.
Price: $69.
Hiker Pro is an additional $10 and has a micro filter to extend the life of the paper filter. When you purchase a filter refill there is only one option that comes with the Pro micro filter so all Hikers become Hiker Pros at the point of the replacement filter...I surmise?
I have not used any other brand so I cannot comment on those products, but I have used the Katadyn Vario and Hiker on extended occasions with complete satisfaction. It would be hard to single either of these out as 'best'.
The Vario provides some great features such as variable flow and direct attachment to your Nalgene or standard opening bottle/hydration pack, but the size of the Hiker makes it perfect when size matters.IndyGearGuide.com gives the Katadyn Vario, Hiker and Hiker Pro 5-stars.
