An amazing personal water filter
I read a lot of reviews and articles that suggested getting the lifestraw, and I'm glad I followed their advice. My only question at this point is should I get the steel version for our 2nd one, especially as it filters chemicals (i.e., pesticides, metals), has another separate filter, may be even more durable, and helps make the liquids taste better. One of the interesting things I found out about the lifestraw while researching is that it was originally developed to help people in developing nations with local water problems so that they could get clean water while a more permanent solution was found. Awesome - I can't think of a better use for it and would gladly support anyone engaged in such causes. Below are some other great reasons to get it: 1. It's one of the most compact water filters you can find that still does an amazing job 2. It's sturdy/durable 3. It does its job well with a backed up standard of filtering 99+% bacteria, protozoans - it boasts a filtration rate that rivals industrial filtration standards for our own tap water. 4. It does not impose any strange tastes to the water after filtering (although it also does not make crap tasting water more pleasurable to the palate - so be careful what water/liquid you use it on). 5. It filters 1000 liters before replacement is recommended - depending on the person, that's enough water for one person for about 500 days emergency supply. Or about 350 days of camping. It should be noted, though, that if it isn't kept clean and dry, it probably won't last that long. 6. To follow up this last point - if kept clean and dry, it purportedly lasts 5 years (given that you have filtered <1000 L) or indefinitely if you keep it in the bag it comes in without use. This is a very positive aspect of it for use with a first aid kit or an emergency water or food supply. 7. Even with the filter, the flow rate is more than adequate to quench your thirst without feeling like you're struggling to suck it through the straw. I should note, though, that when you first pull on the straw, it will take a couple seconds for the water to come up through unlike your run-of-the mill straw. Cons: Very few in this category but a couple to note nonetheless. 1. This is not meant for water storage - they do make a water bottle version, but no large containers come with or are associated with this. 2. This is not very convenient for drinking from a portable water reservoir or bladder (i.e., camelbak, osprey, etc). So, if you intend to use it camping or hiking, your best bet is to use it on streams and the like. If you have a hard time bending over to get to said water source, this probably isn't the filter for you. 3. Following up on this last point, if you need to filter large quantities (for your family camp site for cooking, etc) this is not what you need. I would recommend getting a gravity filter, iodine tablets, or something similar for that purpose. Overall, very happy with the lifestraw, especially for its price and versatility. It's very useful and brings peace of mind in case of an emergency. Read more
