I'm considering purchasing either the hiker pro or hiker model. What features makes the pro worth the addition cost? Thanks for the help.

the hiker pro has a tertiary filter and the inlet nipple is superior to the basic. Worth the upgrade just for the nipple.

Hey Cam Thanks for the information. I like that you can connect directly to the hydration tube. Dan

Hey Dan, The Pro adds the quick-release adapters that snap into various hydration packs with a quick disconnect, eliminating the need (in theory) to remove the cap to your hydration bladder. I find that many times you are going to remove the cap anyways, to add powdered drink mix or similar. I used it with the Nalgene hydration bladder on my TNF hydration bag, and it worked well, but I don't use that bag anymore. The Camelbak I use now (when I use a bladder at all) doesn't have a quick disconnect, so I just fill from the lid, negating the usefulness of the Pro. Even if you don't have one of those systems, a buddy or someone on the trail might, so it's worth it to get the Pro, in my opinion, and especially now that it's on sale. If you don't need the extra features, leave them at home. These filters are bulletproof, and at 11 ounces, not too steep a price to pay if your water sources are questionable. Even if you trust the water, they filter the floaties out, improving your dinner and coffee. Good luck. Cam