A collapsible soft flask with an integrated filter that’s completely changed my hydration game — letting me carry less, refill anywhere, and taste the purest summit water from the highest peaks.
When it comes to hiking gear, sometimes the smallest piece makes the biggest impact — and for me, that’s the Salomon Soft Flask 500ml with Filter Cap. This unassuming bottle has completely transformed my hydration strategy, especially on high-altitude hikes.
The genius is in its simplicity: the soft flask collapses as you drink, eliminating slosh and saving space, while the integrated filter cap lets me confidently refill from alpine streams and springs. This means I can hike with less water weight, knowing I can top up anywhere on the trail.
During my Mount Whitney summit, Ella and I dialed in a plan — I carried only two of these bottles with filters to Trail Camp, filled all six I had there (the last reliable water source before the summit), and then used just two for the descent, refilling as needed. The result? Maximum efficiency without ever running dry.
This setup has let me taste the purest water from the highest peaks — and yes, San Jacinto still reigns as the best-tasting summit spring so far. More than anything, it’s become a cornerstone of my hydration system, keeping me light, fast, and fueled for those 10,000+ ft days.
If you value efficiency, safety, and the freedom to go farther without carrying unnecessary weight, this tiny investment will pay you back on every single step.