Nalgene bottles, made by Nalge Nunc International since the 1970s, are durable and affordable Lexan plastic containers favored by hikers and outdoor enthusiasts for carrying liquids. The company began producing polyethylene laboratory equipment in the late 1940s, which scientists later used for outdoor excursions. Nalgene bottles come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, with many third-party accessories available. Nalgene also offers a lifetime warranty on its bottles and has recently begun manufacturing backpack hydration systems and the GoCup.
Nalgene bottles are Lexan plastic containers favored by hikers and outdoors people for carrying water and other liquids. They have been manufactured by Nalge Nunc International, since the 1970s, and are both affordable and extremely durable.
In the late 1940s the Nalge company began producing high quality polyethylene laboratory equipment. They made beakers and test tubes, bottles for centrifuges and containers of all shapes and sizes. Polyethylene containers were not only substantially lighter than their glass counterparts, they were also virtually indestructible, making them ideal for laboratory use.
As early as the 1950s, there is anecdotal evidence to suggest that scientists were borrowing Nalge equipment from their labs to embark on outdoor excursions. After all, with the light weight and durability, these containers were perfect for carrying everything from liquids to foods. In the 1970s the president of Nalge picked up on this usage and began encouraging the production of containers specifically targeted and marketed to outdoor enthusiasts. Thus was born Nalgene Outdoor Products.
Most consumer Nalgene bottles are now made from Lexan, an extremely durable polycarbonate material similar to Plexiglas, but much stronger. There has been some concern in recent years that materials such as Lexan may pose health risks, although Nalgene argues that this is not the case. However, polyethylene bottles of Nalgene are still available, which may prove to be less harmful.
Nalgene bottles come in a range of shapes, sizes and colors. The smallest are just 1/4 ounce (7 ml.) and the large containers are available in sizes up to a gallon (3.7 liters). Mouth sizes also vary, from very thin mouths to fully open buds. Many people have started using Nalgene bottles for purposes other than transporting liquids, and the shapes and sizes have changed as a result.
Popular additions to Nalgene bottles, often available from third parties, include splash guards that fit over the rim of the bottle to prevent liquid from splashing out when drinking on the go. Plus, insulated cases to carry a Nalgene bottle and filters that screw into your mouth to ensure pure drinking water. Most of these components fit Nalgene bottles with standard size mouths.
Nalgene has also recently begun manufacturing backpack hydration systems, similar to the popular Camelbak systems, which have garnered much praise from reviewers. The GoCup is another innovation from Nalgene, intended to provide a single product that serves most of the purposes a backpacker needs. The GoCup has an 18 oz inner thermal bottle. (1/2 liter), ideal for hot liquids, plus a larger external measuring cup. The clips allow for easy attachment of a spoon or fork, as well as a carabiner for carrying the cup. And the entire bottle has a handle, allowing it to be used more as a cup than a traditional bottle.
Nalgene bottles are available from many different retailers and, considering their durability and wide range of uses, are very affordable. Nalgene offers a lifetime warranty on its bottles, so if one breaks (a very difficult feat), Nalgene will replace it, occasionally with not one, but two bottles. Many outdoor stores, colleges, and wilderness clubs offer custom branded Nalgene bottles, and finding a bottle that fits your personal aesthetic is sure to be an easy task.
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