Platypus bite valve cover

[simon-b]

The bite valve cover I use in Winter with my Platypus hydration pack keeps coming open while I'm walking, or whenever I take my rucksack on and off. Does anyone else have this problem, and/or have a solution?

[Gythral]

The bite valve cover I use in Winter with my Platypus hydration pack keeps coming open while I'm walking, or whenever I take my rucksack on and off. Does anyone else have this problem, and/or have a solution?

No solution (yet!), but both my 1.5l & 2l ones have a (bad) habit of losing the bite bit, to the extent that I've replaced 1 with a "Source" valve, bit & cover, but the 1 walk it's been used on so far suggests the it is going to suffer the same problem

[simon-b]

Thanks, Gythral. It's interesting to know that the Source parts fit the Platypus hose. Does anyone know if a CamelBak bite valve and cover would fit? I could get hold of them more easily than Source or Platypus spares.

[jmarkb]

I've fitted a Nalgene bite valve http://www.facewest.co.uk/Nalgene-Bite-Valve.html to my Platypus. It's a very secure fit, though it takes some getting on in the first place (as suggested in the link, soften the end of the tube in boiling water). Doesn't have a cover, though.

[Liathach]

The Source valve with cover is very good. It avoids puddles in the boot of the car when the valve is depressed accidentally!

[Rudolph]

Thanks, Gythral. It's interesting to know that the Source parts fit the Platypus hose. Does anyone know if a CamelBak bite valve and cover would fit? I could get hold of them more easily than Source or Platypus spares.

I've used camelback hozes and quick fit stuff with platypus gear so I think the tubing is the same diameter.

[simon-b]

Thanks for the replies.

I've now replaced the valve with a CamelBak one, but kept the Platypus cover. So far, it seems to have done the trick, having worked without freezing in sub-zero temperatures on Sunday.

[electricfly]

The Platypus bite-valve cover will stay closed over your valve if you close firmly then squeeze at the sides. This creates a mini vacum and keeps the cover from popping open.

It's also a good idea to blow any excess liquid back into the reservoir after each drink. This prevents dribbles and helps keep the valve frost-free on winter summits.