Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black Review

The Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black Made a Bold First Impression

The Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black promises a modular hydration solution that is both compact and versatile. Coming from Kangaroo, it aims to bridge the gap between a traditional canteen and a modern hydration pack, offering a collapsible design for ultimate packability. I was initially drawn to this canteen because I needed a reliable, lightweight hydration solution for extended backpacking trips where space and weight are paramount.

Unboxing the Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black, my first impression was how incredibly light and compact it was. The black material felt durable, and the overall construction seemed solid for a collapsible design. It was clear that packability was a primary focus.

I considered other options, like the Platypus collapsible bottles and the CNOC Outdoors Vecto water bladder. However, the Kangaroo offered a unique combination of hydration pack compatibility and canteen-style carry, making it a potentially more versatile choice for my needs. I also liked the idea of the integrated hose and bite valve, something missing from basic collapsible bottles.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The concept was intriguing, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world conditions compared to a dedicated hydration reservoir. I was ready to be excited by the potential, but needed to verify durability.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black was during a three-day backpacking trip in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The weather was a mix of sunny days and cool nights. I wanted to determine how easy the transition was from empty to full, and back to empty.

The Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black performed well in these varied conditions. Filling it from a stream was relatively easy, and the included SOURCE Hydration System Storm Push-Pull Drinking Valve made drinking on the move convenient. The collapsible design helped to minimize bulk in my pack as I drank the water.

There was a slight plastic taste initially, which is typical with new hydration bladders, but it dissipated after a few uses. The only issue was a minor leak around the hose connection when the canteen was completely full and under pressure. A little tightening fixed that right away, though.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use on hiking trips and at the range, the Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black has proven to be quite durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear despite being stuffed into various packs and exposed to rough terrain. It remains pliable and easy to collapse.

Cleaning is straightforward; rinsing with warm water and a mild soap after each trip keeps it fresh. I occasionally use a hydration bladder cleaning tablet for a more thorough cleaning. I’ve noticed that it’s very easy to dry out, especially in its collapsed format.

Compared to my previous hydration reservoir, the Kangaroo offers greater versatility due to its dual functionality as a canteen and hydration pack. While it doesn’t have the same capacity as a larger reservoir, its packability and ease of use make it a valuable addition to my gear. I would be happy to trust it on a long trip, with proper preparation.

Breaking Down the Features of Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black

Specifications

The Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black boasts several key specifications. It has a one-quart (32 oz) capacity. It is constructed from a durable, flexible material designed to be both lightweight and puncture-resistant.

The key feature is its collapsible design, allowing it to be compressed when empty for minimal storage. It also includes a black hydration tube. The canteen integrates the SOURCE Hydration System with Storm Push-Pull Drinking Valve, known for its high flow rate and leak-proof design.

These specifications are essential because they directly impact the user’s experience in the field. The one-quart capacity is ideal for shorter trips or as a supplement to larger hydration systems. The collapsible design is crucial for saving space and weight in a pack, while the SOURCE Hydration System ensures reliable and easy access to water.

Performance & Functionality

The Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black performs its intended function admirably. It effectively carries and dispenses water in a convenient and packable form. The Storm Push-Pull Valve provides a good flow rate, and the collapsible design works as advertised.

One strength is its versatility, functioning as both a traditional canteen and a hydration pack. A weakness is the limited one-quart capacity, which may not be sufficient for longer excursions without a reliable water source. The push-pull valve is rugged and dependable.

Overall, it meets expectations for a collapsible hydration solution. It trades capacity for packability, making it ideal for specific use cases.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black features a simple, functional design. The black material is unobtrusive and durable. The canteen is lightweight and easy to handle.

It has a user-friendly design, with no significant learning curve. The Storm Push-Pull Valve is intuitive to use, and filling and collapsing the canteen is straightforward. This intuitive design makes it simple to use and operate.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black appears to be durable enough for regular use. The material is resistant to punctures and abrasion. It is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only rinsing and occasional cleaning with a hydration bladder cleaning tablet. The SOURCE Hydration System components are also designed for easy maintenance and replacement. Proper care will extend its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black comes with the integrated SOURCE Hydration System. The hose and valve are included and are compatible with standard hydration pack systems.

There are limited customization options beyond that. Users can potentially replace the hose and bite valve with aftermarket options, but the core design is fixed. The key feature is the modularity of the hydration tube.

Pros and Cons of Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black

Who Should Buy Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black?

The Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black is perfect for backpackers, hikers, and tactical users who prioritize packability and weight savings. It is also a great option for day hikers, trail runners, and anyone who needs a convenient and reliable hydration solution for shorter trips. It would be a good fit for minimalist campers.

Those who require a high-capacity hydration system or prefer a more traditional rigid canteen should skip this product. Anyone needing multiple quarts would be better suited to a larger hydration pack.

A must-have accessory is a hydration bladder cleaning kit to ensure proper maintenance. Consider a small water filter or purification tablets for trips where water sources are scarce.

Conclusion on Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black

The Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black offers a compelling combination of packability, versatility, and reliable hydration. It delivers on its promise of being a compact and functional hydration solution.

At $23.99, the price is justified for the features and performance it provides. It is a worthwhile investment for those who value weight savings and convenience in their outdoor gear.

I would personally recommend the Kangaroo 1 Qt. Collapsible Canteen | Black to anyone looking for a lightweight, versatile hydration option. Add it to your pack and experience the freedom of convenient, on-the-go hydration!