The UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor enthusiast and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless mess kits promising convenience and durability. The UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange, with its collapsible design and included utensils, immediately caught my eye as a potential space-saver for my minimalist backpacking setup. I was hoping for a compact and reliable cooking/eating solution that wouldn’t add unnecessary weight or bulk.
I was seeking a mess kit that was easy to pack, clean, and use in the field. I had been struggling with a traditional hard-plastic mess kit that took up too much space in my pack and was difficult to clean in remote locations. This UST kit promised a compact, flexible solution, potentially solving those issues.
The UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange arrived in a simple cardboard sleeve, showcasing its bright orange color and collapsed form factor. Upon opening, I was impressed by how compact it was in its collapsed state. The silicone material felt durable yet flexible, and the included reusable fork and spoon combo seemed sturdy enough for basic meals. The build quality appeared decent for the price.
I considered the Sea to Summit X-Set 21 and the GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Dualist II Kit before settling on the UST offering. The Sea to Summit was significantly more expensive, and the GSI kit was larger. The UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange seemed to offer the best balance of portability, functionality, and affordability.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The compact design and included utensils were appealing, but I was slightly concerned about the long-term durability of the silicone. I was excited to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting **UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange** to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange on a three-day backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for preparing and eating oatmeal, dehydrated meals, and a simple trail lunch of peanut butter and crackers.
The kit performed well in slightly damp conditions. While it didn’t rain heavily, there was a constant light mist. The silicone was easy to wipe clean, and the collapsible design made it easy to pack away even when slightly wet.
The kit was generally easy to use. It took a few tries to get the hang of collapsing and expanding the bowl smoothly. The included fork and spoon combo was adequate for most meals, though I wished the fork tines were slightly longer. There were no immediate issues, although I did notice the bright orange color showed stains easily.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use on various camping trips and outdoor adventures, the UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange has held up reasonably well. The silicone material has proven to be surprisingly durable, with no signs of tearing or cracking.
There are some minor signs of wear and tear. The bright orange color is definitely showing some staining from various foods, especially tomato-based meals. However, the structure of the bowl remains intact.
Cleaning the kit is relatively easy, even in the field. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient for most meals. I’ve also put it in the dishwasher at home, and it cleans up nicely. It’s important to thoroughly dry it before storing to prevent any potential mildew. Compared to my previous hard-plastic mess kit, the UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange is a significant improvement in terms of portability and ease of cleaning. I still prefer the rigidity of a traditional bowl, but the convenience of the collapsible design is undeniable.
Breaking Down the Features of **UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange**
Specifications
- Manufacturer: UST – Ultimate Survival Technologies.
- Product Name: UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange.
- Material: Collapsible Silicone Bowl, Reusable Plastic Fork/Spoon Combo.
- Dimensions (Extended): 2.75″ x 8.4″ x 5.9″.
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes.
- Microwave Safe: Yes.
- Temperature Resistance: Up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Color: Orange.
- Utensil Included: Reusable Fork and Spoon Combo.
These specifications are crucial for understanding the kit’s suitability for various outdoor scenarios. The temperature resistance is essential for safely handling hot meals. The dishwasher and microwave safe features provide convenient cleaning options.
Performance & Functionality
The UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange performs its primary function – holding and allowing consumption of food – adequately. It’s not the most rigid or luxurious dining experience, but it’s functional and portable.
Its strengths lie in its collapsibility and ease of cleaning. The weakness is its potential for staining and the less-than-ideal fork/spoon combo. It mostly meets expectations for a budget-friendly, lightweight mess kit.
Design & Ergonomics
The UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange features a simple, practical design. The silicone bowl collapses easily for compact storage.
The build quality is decent for the price point. The silicone is reasonably durable, and the fork/spoon combo, while basic, serves its purpose. There’s a slight learning curve to collapsing and expanding the bowl efficiently, but it’s generally user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange should last for several seasons of regular use if properly cared for. Avoid exposing it to extreme heat beyond the stated temperature limit.
It is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with soap and water, or a run through the dishwasher, will keep it in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange comes with a reusable fork and spoon combo. There are no specific customization options available for this kit. It is compatible with most standard-sized sporks or utensils if you prefer a different eating tool.
Pros and Cons of **UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange**
Pros
- Collapsible design for easy storage and portability.
- Dishwasher and microwave safe for convenient cleaning and reheating.
- Included reusable fork and spoon combo eliminates the need to pack separate utensils.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious adventurers.
- Withstands temperatures up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing for safe handling of hot meals.
Cons
- Bright orange color is prone to staining from certain foods.
- Fork and spoon combo is somewhat basic and could be improved.
Who Should Buy **UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange**?
The UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange is perfect for:
- Backpackers looking to minimize weight and pack size.
- Campers seeking a convenient and easy-to-clean mess kit.
- Budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts who want a functional and affordable option.
Those who prioritize a more rigid and luxurious dining experience or require extremely durable equipment for harsh environments should skip this product. They might prefer a titanium or stainless-steel mess kit.
A compact spork or improved utensil set would be a useful addition. Consider a small, packable cleaning cloth for wiping down the bowl in the field.
Conclusion on **UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange**
Overall, the UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange is a decent, budget-friendly option for those seeking a lightweight and portable mess kit. It’s not the most luxurious or durable option on the market, but it offers good value for the price.
The UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange price is justified by its collapsibility, ease of cleaning, and included utensils. It provides a practical and convenient solution for enjoying meals in the outdoors.
I would recommend the UST Flexware Mess Kit 1.0, Orange to anyone looking for an affordable and space-saving mess kit for backpacking, camping, or other outdoor activities. Its a simple but effect solution that can greatly improve packing for short and long trips. Grab yours today and lighten your load on your next adventure!
