Filters – Hiker vs. Hiker Pro

The connections, for one thing are different. The Pro has the quick disconnect fittings. and the Hiker has regular press on hose fittings.

I needed the press on and used the regular hiker.

That's what I understand – quick disconnects

But, why do you need quick disconnects? I just leave my hose on. It seems like that's a useless feature.

Besides, quick disconnects can impede flow – this may be insignificant.

I've used a hiker for years and have been happy with it, except, it's so heavy.

Why are you settled on this?

Chlorine, UV, or in-line filter is lighter – there's another thread going about those.

Yea, the Pro comes with quick connects so you can "click" your reservoir (if you use one) straight onto the pump without taking it out of your pack. No mess, fuss, or holding tubes/bottles while pumping. I like it.

Hiker Pro also comes with a piece of lattice paper around the filter cartridge that's supposed to protect it more from particulates, extending its life. All the Hiker/Hiker Pro replacement cartridges have this too.

I bought the Pro (on sale) a couple years ago because somewhere I read the intake nipple is less likely to break off – but that's probably subjecive and depends on how you care for your equipment. A friend has had the Hiker (not Pro) for quite a bit longer and never had issues.

There isn't any perceptable difference in the flow.

The screen on the Pro / replacment carts seems to help. I was getting restricted flow until I cleaned the screen off. I still decided to buy a pre-filter (MSR I think) anyway for BWCA, but haven't used it except in the kitchen sink yet, and it does restrict the flow a litte.

I hiked with a friend who just purchased a Katadyn Vario Microfilter – love this one for the speed! But it costs more and weighs more. Hike with a buddy so they can carry it. :-)