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Item # KATE7201

Katadyn Vario Microfilter

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Katadyn Vario Microfilter

By Luke

Enwild Gear Specialist

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A ground-breaking combination of ceramic and fiberglass filters, the Katadyn Vario microfilter offers versatile, reliable performance. Simple to use, lightweight and compact, the Vario offers unparalleled output.

Description

A ground-breaking combination of ceramic and fiberglass filters, the Katadyn Vario microfilter offers versatile, reliable performance for varied conditions. Simple to use, lightweight and compact, the Vario offers unparalleled output, effectively filtering up to 2 quarts of water per minute! The Vario effectively removes waterborne bacteria and cysts.

Fiberglass filters are more porous than ceramic filters, so they allow for high volume output, but also have a shorter life expectancy, as they are more prone to wear and tear and reduced performance in very dirty water. Though they offer lesser output than fiberglass filters due to the dense structure, ceramic filters more effectively filter dirty water, are more cleanable and have an extremely long life expectancy. Encasing both filter types in a single housing, the innovative Vario takes advantage of the positive aspects of each, depending on conditions. A simple turn of the Vario puts the ceramic filter to work, filtering 1 quart of water per minute and providing up to 500 gallons of water (depending on water quality) over the life of the filter. Turn the Vario again to engage the pleated fiberglass filter to provide up to 2 quarts of water per minute in less dirty conditions. A smooth-operating ergonomic handle employs dual-piston technology to increase efficiency. An activated carbon core reduces unpleasant tastes and odors, ensuring fresh-tasting water.

The Vario is designed to screw directly into the top of most 32 oz. water bottles but also includes an output hose and that can be used to fill hydration systems or other containers. A lengthy input hose with prefilter makes drawing water from streams or creeks easy and efficient. A carry bag is included. The Vario also comes with a cleaning pad.

  • Cleanable, ceramic disc lengthens life of primary microfilter.
  • Pleated fiberglass microfilter removes waterborne bacteria and cysts.
  • Replaceable carbon core reduces chemicals, pesticides and bad taste in water.
  • Filters up to 2 quarts of water per minute.
  • Filter up to 500 gallons over the life of the filter, depending on water quality.
  • Includes a prefilter, 2 packs of replaceable carbon, a cleaning pad and a carry bag.
California residents: view proposition 65  Warning

Technical Specs

Best Use
Backpacking, Camping
Field Maintainable
Yes
Filter Material
0.2 micron Ceramic and/or 0.3 micron fiberglass
Flow Rate
Up to 2 quarts per minute
Removes
Giardia; Cryptosporidium; Bacteria; Taste
Item Weight
15 oz.
Item Dimensions
6.5 in. length
Capacity
Up to 500 gallons depending on water quality

Currently viewing reviews with a rating of 4. Reset

34 Reviews

4.82 / 5

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Sort By

Rhett B.

03/25/17

Worth the Weight

Likes

It was this or the hiker pro. For me, half the time pumping ice cold lake water while perched awkwardly on a rock or log is worth the seven extra ounces. I'm usually with a group, though. A solo hiker might disagree. The vario is also much more comfortable to operate than the hiker pro and it feels sturdier.

Dislikes

Weight. Without packaging, the filter and hoses weigh about 16.7 oz. Changing the setting requires taking the filter apart. The Connection point for the input hose protrudes and seems fragile. If it snaps off, the filter will be useless.

Anonymous Backcountry Edge Customer

12/08/14

Likes

Sleek, modern design Duel filters Pumps relatively quickly

Dislikes

Expensive Bulky for lightweight camping

Michael S.

04/01/12

Likes

The Vario is easy to use and supplies water on both strokes of the handle. We used 2 of them for a crew of 10 on a Boy Scout backpacking hike of 15 miles over 2 days. After about 20-25 liters you will probably have to stop and clean the ceramic disc but that's what's made for. Works great with a Nalgen bottle. OVerall pleased with the filter.

Dislikes

Lots of moving parts and O-rings. They give you spare o-rings so do they expect them to fail? This kept me from giving 5 stars. If you want simple get the Hiker Pro.

Anonymous Backcountry Edge Customer

10/27/09

Likes

The Vario performed as advertised. I really liked the option of attaching a 32 oz nalgen bottle directly to the filter...made the task that much easier. Even on the long life setting, water pumps freely and easily.

Dislikes

Nothing.