Katadyn has introduced another great addition to their BackCountry line of filters.  But why did they name this filter the Vario?  This lightening fast filter actually supports two filter modes, one for clearer water that has a higher output, and one for more turbid water that outputs at the standard 1 L /min. 

The Vario uses a multi-stage filtering system with several complimentary technologies.  A ceramic prefilter (which is field cleanable) helps to remove larger sediment initially, dramatically extending the life of the primary pleated glassfiber filter.   The glassfiber primary filter then surrounds  a carbon core that further helps in reducing  chemicals, toxins, odors and bad taste. 

For fast and furious speed, the Vario is equipped with two pistons so you pump water in both the upward and downward strokes.  It doubles the output of most filters with an awesome 2 L/min while pumping in the ceramic disc bypass mode.  If the water is a little murky, a simple twist of the ceramic disc collar engages that prefilter, slowing output to 1 L/min., but increasing filter life.

Katadyn added another thoughtful feature with the Vario.   While a standard output hose is supplied, the Vario is designed to screw onto the top of a standard Nalgene wide mouth bottle or other comparable bottle.    You can leave the output hose at home and forget about  the trouble of keeping the input in the water and the output in the bottle while you  try pumping your filter.  Like most other Katadyn filters, the hose ports are also compatible with many hydration pack hoses to fill your pack directly.