I did a search and didn’t see a proper review so here we go. I’ll add in my background concerning filters so you see my perspective.

The Katadyne Befree uses a hallow fiber filter system rated to 0.1 micron microfilter is tested to protect against harmful organisms, removing protozoa (99.99%) and bacteria (99.9999%) to EPA standards. It is a soft sided bottle with screw on filter element on top to drink from. Super easy to use, unscrew the top, dip it in the source and screw the top back on. Back flush/clean? Just swoosh it around. On its first trip, 5 days I had zero issues with it supplying water quickly.

I graduated from my old MSR pump about 6 seasons ago and have been using the Platypus Gravity system until last year when I added the Sawyer Mini for solo use. I love the gravity system, but it is overkill for solo and takes some time to fill, back flush and filter. Granted, not too much time, but it isn’t ideal when moving much of the day. I also HATE the idea of carrying water when we are traveling on top of it, walking in it and seeing it all day! One warm trip I found myself starting a day with a half gallon in my pack. CRAZY!!! I thought the Sawyer Mini worked well in reducing that issue, but wasn’t in love with their pouches.

The Katadyn is everything I want for solo and not bad on a tandem trip (this last trip). We would paddle along a fill anytime from mid lake where there are less floaties. Squeeze water into my daughters 16 oz Nalgene or a pot for cooking and use the gravity in camp. On the go, the Befree is so slick, light and easy with a high flow rate. I would keep it in a cargo pocket on portages and put it at my feet while paddling. I hate loose gear and this was the only thing not in a pack and it was just fine. Water at will with no need to even think about how much is left, what might I need until we get to camp and so on. Best of all, I never carried more than about 8 oz of water all day.

Cons. Always a downside right? It developed a couple of pin holes that would fountain out when squeezing. Not a big deal midsummer and this was a surprise since it wasn’t tossed around or abused so certainly a concern on a longer trip where sources are not as plentiful. The solution may be a second water storage container to carry water in.

Overall-I would recommend this unit if you want to travel light and fast anytime and for sure it will be my unit of choice for solo BWCA trips.

Happy Travels,
John

Thanks for the review, John. It sounds like a viable alternative that you like for all the same reasons I like my Sawyer Water Filter Bottle. I like that the Katadyn is lighter and folds flat, but it seems this may come at the loss of some durability.

Just got this for my hiking on the SHT.

Saw SHUG was using it, and thought it looked like everything I would want.

Bottoms up. ;-)

Love my Be Free. I have 2 of them in different sizes. Never got a hole in mine

I have had one for a year and love it. Also the Hydrapak water bags also fit the filter. I bring a 4l Gravity works system for at camp, a befree for personal water or on the move and a 32oz hydrapak for extra water storage.