Hydration equipment from Recon Company – A reliable water supply for duty and outdoor activities

With over 30 years’ experience as a supplier to the German Armed Forces and public authorities, we know from practical experience that consistent hydration is the absolute foundation of your physical and cognitive performance. Whether on a patrol lasting several days, during military manoeuvres or on demanding trekking tours – if your hydration levels drop, your performance suffers. Here, we offer you tried-and-tested equipment for water intake and purification that is robust, safe and ready for immediate use.

Hydration bladder or water bottle – which suits your operational profile?

The foundation of any hydration system is the right container. The robust classic is the water bottle made from stainless steel, titanium or extremely durable Tritan. Equally tried and tested is the military canteen, which is often supplied with a matching stainless-steel cup (Crusader Cup). Bottles are hard-wearing, can be easily carried on a belt and are ideal for camp or vehicle situations.

A hydration bladder (reservoir), on the other hand, offers you the tactical advantage of ‘hands-free’hydration. You can drink whilst on the move or in a firing position without having to put down your weapon or equipment. Modern hydration systems are extremely abrasion-resistant, leak-proof and strictly BPA-free. Systems with a wide opening (Widepac) also make it easier for you to fill them quickly in the field.

The water bottle scores highly for ease of cleaning, heat resistance and robustness – ideal for camp, vehicle-based operations and stationary duty. The hydration bladder offers silent, hands-free drinking and a flat profile, but is less suitable for situations involving sharp objects or where thorough cleaning is required. For infantry operations, marches and dynamic situations, it is the superior system.

Water filters and water treatment for self-sufficient operations

If you’re operating away from secure water sources, simply carrying water isn’t enough. Compact mechanical water filters reliably remove bacteria, protozoa and suspended solids from rivers or lakes. For emergencies or heavily contaminated sources, we also recommend tablets for chemical water treatment based on chlorine or silver ions.

A major operational advantage: many modern hydration systems can be connected directly to anin-line water filter in the drinking tube. You fill the hydration bladder with dirty raw water and, as you drink, clean water automatically flows through the tube. This saves a huge amount of time and ensures you stay hydrated in fast-paced, time-critical situations.

Integration into your kit: MOLLE and plate carriers

Even the best hydration bladder is useless if it wobbles on your back. A separate hydration carrier or a modular tactical hydration rucksack must fit seamlessly into your existing setup. Use thePALS/MOLLE system to attach your water supply flat and securely to the back of your plate carrier.

Make sure your hydration system has an insulated drinking tube. This prevents your water from freezing in winter and overheating in summer. You should route the tube over the shoulder straps so that it doesn’t get in the way when handling your weapon or shouldering your rifle.

Common mistakes when maintaining hydration systems

The most common reason for hydration equipment failing is poor maintenance. A hydration system must never be stored whilst damp and sealed. Use specialised cleaning kits with tube brushes and hang the bladder up with it wide open. An important piece of advice from practical experience: Only fill your hydration bladder with plain water. If you use drinks containing electrolytes or juices, the cleaning effort increases tenfold and the risk of mould rises rapidly. Instead, always use a separate, easy-to-clean water bottle for isotonic drinks, coffee or tea.

Whether you’re looking for a simple, BPA-free certified water bottle for the patrol car or a tactical hydration rucksack for multi-day exercises – opt for tried-and-tested gear. You’ll find further essential equipment for life in the field in our main category, Cooking & Catering. For transporting your kit, take a look at our modular rucksacks or expand your MOLLE setup in the Protection & Tactical Equipment category.

• Discounts for government agencies, police forces and members of the Bundeswehr.
• Field post delivery for Bundeswehr personnel on overseas deployment.
• Expert advice on system compatibility from our team (online or at our Salzgitter store).
• ISO 9001-certified processes to guarantee the quality of your order.