Just Up The Trail

SIGG Switzerland Bottles sent us this product to test out and review. You can get one for yourself here . This review has been updated from the original posted back in 2019

A flask is a tricky thing to review. If you want all the technical specs then try the SIGG website , but at the heart of it a flask either keeps things hot, or it doesn’t, so I thought I’d talk about how a flask could help us out on the trail.

We have a bit of a routine on the trail. I’m always the first to leave the warm embrace of my sleeping bag and keenest to get packed up and start knocking off some miles.

Hazel and the kids are a little different and have to be “persuaded” to get up and about. For Hazel, the biggest factor is the presence of tea. She really will not get out of her bag if her cuppa isn’t made. So that’s the first job every morning. Get the stove out and brew up.

Once she’s has a lovely, warm beverage, I put the stove back on to boil water for our little SIGG flasks, which keep a brew lovely and hot all day. By the time we’ve packed up we’ve had our tea, AND got the next one sorted out already.

Here’s the first problem. Hazel is a tea monster with an asbestos tongue. So while my little flask can last all day, hers is usually empty by lunchtime. The other issue is the kids. Clearly we’re not sharing my coffee with 3 kiddos under 12 but we do carry some hot choc powder for them. So by the time lunch rolls around I’m brewing up again. So maybe a larger flask is a good idea.

We haven’t as yet taken the Gemstone out on a long trail, that’s in the planning stages, but we have taken it out a couple of times when we’ve headed up the woods or on a little day hike and the access to a litre of hot chocolate has really gone down well with the children. It’s also saved time as I haven’t had to carry and set up the stove and all the gubbins required to brew up mid hike.

The last time I reviewed SIGG products I gave a list of reasons why I liked them, so here’s something similar for the Gemstone.

Pros:

• Stunning Design: It’s sleek and shiny and looks sexy. As much as a flask can look sexy!
• Durability: It feels really solid and robust. The lid is sturdy and feels like the leakproof claims will hold up and I feel confident that it’ll take a fall or get kicked about at the crag without taking anything but superficial damage.
• Leakproof: SIGG is known for its high-quality, leakproof products, and the Gemstone flask is no exception. It features a secure screw top lid that won’t let any unwanted drips escape.
• Double-Walled Insulation: This flask boasts double-walled insulation, keeping your drinks hot or cold for hours on end. So, you can enjoy refreshing iced tea on a summer day or steaming hot cocoa on a winter adventure.
• BPA-Free and Food-Grade Materials: Made from BPA-free and food-grade materials, the Gemstone flask is safe for storing and consuming your beverages without any harmful chemicals leaching in.
• Variety of Sizes: The Gemstone flask comes in various sizes, from a handy 300ml to a larger 1l, catering to different needs and hydration preferences.

Cons:

• Price: Compared to other SIGG flasks, the Gemstone collection sits on the pricier side, likely due to its unique design and aesthetics.
• Hand Wash Only: While the flask is dishwasher safe on the top rack, the lid requires hand washing, which can be inconvenient for some users.
• Susceptibility to Scratches: The glossy finish, while beautiful, can be prone to scratches if not handled carefully.
• Condensation: Some users report experiencing condensation on the outside of the flask with cold drinks, which can be a bit messy.
• Limited Color Availability: Not all SIGG Gemstone colors are available in all sizes, which can be limiting for some preferences.

Overall:

The SIGG Gemstone flask is a stylish and functional option for those who prioritise aesthetics alongside hydration. Its leakproof design, insulation, and variety of sizes make it a practical choice, while its stunning gemstone-inspired colours add a touch of personality. However, the higher price tag, hand washing requirement, and potential for scratches might deter some budget-conscious or convenience-seeking users.

Ultimately, the decision of whether the SIGG Gemstone flask is right for you depends on your individual priorities and preferences. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, and consider your budget and desired features before making your choice but I use mine daily and if I lost it then I’d happily purchase a replacement straightaway.