Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary. – Cecil Beaton
In 2009, the minds at Vapur® set out to design an innovative and collapsible hydration solution that would prove to be as eco-friendly as it was versatile. With the launch of the new Vapur Element, this California based company may have raised the bar on innovation and flexibility in the hydration space.
In today’s eco-conscious world, we all understand the benefits of utilizing a reusable water bottle. The reality unfortunately, is that the bulky size of steel or aluminum canisters often trump our best intentions and get left at home on the shelf.
The new Vapur® Element with integrated SuperCap™ were designed from the ground up to meet the performance needs of outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. You’ve never limited yourself to just one adventure sport or season, now there’s a hydration solution that embodies the same spirit of multi-functionality as you.
On Features and Performance…
Even in a modern world, companies still fall into predictable patterns of design using the same old tricks and shapes. While the results are no less noble, they aren’t necessarily exciting nor do they necessarily offer dynamic solutions addressing the way you use the product.
Here’s where the Vapur® Element is different. Made from lightweight 3-ply construction, it is not only flexible, but lighter than any steel or aluminum bottle on the market. When empty, roll it up into a tiny package, stash it in your pocket or purse, breeze through airport security without wasting room in your carry-on, or fly down the trail without the excess bulk.
A durable carabiner lets you attach the Element to your pack so you can keep your hands free. Even better, when you roll up your empty Element, the carabiner holds the rolled up bottle in place so you save space.
Admittedly we’re a fan of the innovative approach Vapur takes with the Element, but even more than the anti-ordinary design, our field team felt the best feature may just be the integrated SuperCap™.
Old school pop tops will always have their place, and probably aren’t retreating anytime soon. However, they rarely work consistently or efficiently. Admittedly we’ve snapped our fair share out of frustration in the past. By contrast, the Element’s SuperCap opens with a simple flip of the thumb, and closes just as easily. Flip, tilt and hydrate as the water gently tumbles forth from the high-flow spout.
The other benefit offered by the Element is a wider mouth opening making it easier to clean, add ice cubes or powdered drink mixes without spilling. Did we mention that it’s BPA-free with an antimicrobial lining so your water stays both taste and gunk free?
The Gumption of Green…
The flexible Anti-Bottle uses less energy to make and transport than rigid bottles. Manufactured in the United States, the Vapur Anti-Bottle is lightweight and ships flat, providing dual environmental benefits – up to 5 times more bottles per shipment container means fewer trucks on the road, lower fuel consumption and reduced carbon emissions. The packaging has been designed to minimize paper, glue and scrap and is printed with soy ink on wind powered presses.
Vapur was recently awarded the 2010 FPA Silver Award for Sustainability & Environmental Achievement. Even better, as a member of 1% For the Planet, Vapur donates a portion of all sales to water-related and environmental causes.
The Critique…
The only issue associated with being daring, different, and going outside the box, is that your final creation may not resonate with everyone. As such there are some that won’t agree with the design, shape or maybe even feel of the Element, but those detractors don’t deminish the originality nor the versatility of the product.
The price… at $11.99 and $13.99 respectively (.7L and 1L), while competitively priced with similar products, the Element’s price tag is slightly higher than we’d like. Granted, compared to the rest of your gear, eleven bucks is a drop in the bucket. However, if you’re an outdoorsy family of four or five, that eleven bucks plus tax turns into 50 or 60 quicker than you might like.
The Bottom Line…
Available in two high-capacity sizes (.7 and 1 liter), the Vapur Element will keep you hydrated no matter the terrain or destination. So, whether you’re hiking, biking or running the trails, this foldable, reusable water bottle is ready for anything. Are you?
MSRP: $11.99/$13.99. (.7L and 1L)
MANUFACTURER: Vapur (www.Vapur.us)
AVAILABILITY: Vapur.us and a variety of online retailers.
COLOR/STYLE: Fire (Black & Red); Water (Blue & Green); Wind (White)
WARRANTY: One year warranty for products covering manufacturer defects in materials and workmanship.