I have used the GSI Infinity backpacker mug extensively and tested it in different weather conditions during my outdoor adventures. Its quality and ultralight design surely helped me to cut a few valuables ounces to further reduce the weight of my backpack. With its excellent performance on different performance parameters, it really is the best backpacking mug that I have ever used.
In this post, I will meticulously share the testing results of the GSI Infinity backpacker mug. As a professional in outdoor gear testing, I have extensively tested and gathered information to provide an informed assessment.
View at Amazon: GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug
What is the GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug?
The GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug is the perfect and lightweight mug for any backpacker or ounce cutter. This mug is designed for backpackers who need an ultralight and compact solution for tea or coffee.
Features
Ergonomic Design
The GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug’s ergonomic design truly impressed me. It is both practical and well-designed to meet the needs of lightweight backpackers. The shape of the mug fits perfectly in my hand, even when it contains hot beverages. The handle is flexible to save space in a backpack, making it a convenient choice for outdoor adventures.
One of the standout features of this mug is, of course, its weight, but its lid design is excellent as it closes tightly to avoid leakage. The handle folds and is flexible to different hand sizes, ensuring a comfortable grip for everyone.
However, I did find the handle to be slightly less practical, resembling a hard handle. Despite this minor drawback, I still preferred holding the cup while drinking from it. Nevertheless, this small inconvenience does not overshadow the overall greatness of this cup.
Material and Insulation
Constructed from BPA-free, food-grade polypropylene, this mug guarantees both durability and safety during use. Additionally, its outer sleeve is crafted from neoprene, which is not only a heat-resistant material but also surpasses natural rubber in terms of sensitivity and is safe to use as well. I have used this mug for hot tea and coffee, and I can confidently attest that it does not emit unpleasant odors or a plastic-like taste.
To enhance its insulating capabilities, this mug is accompanied by a cloth-wrapped neoprene sleeve. Unlike natural rubber, neoprene is a synthetic rubber that effectively maintains the temperature of your beverage without being affected by external heat or cold. As a result, your drink will remain pleasantly warm for approximately one hour. I could not test it for more than an hour.
In order to assess its heat retention capabilities, I conducted a test by leaving a drink inside the mug. After an hour, the beverage was still adequately hot. However, it is important to note that this mug cannot be compared to fully insulated mugs, which offer superior insulation for prolonged periods. Nevertheless, it is worth mentioning that these highly insulated mugs tend to be significantly heavier as well.
Performance Comparison and Our Test Results
Heat Retention
During the chilly weather, I decided to test the heat retention capabilities of the tea by placing it in a mug for an hour. The mug’s lid and insulated sleeve proved to be effective in retaining a reasonable amount of heat for the duration.
Considering its price and weight, I would describe its performance as fantastic. However, it’s important to note that if you’re seeking a mug that will keep your drink hot for an extended period of time, this may not be the best option.
Personally, I opt for my Yeti Rambler mug during winter hikes due to its excellent insulation. Nevertheless, it’s worth mentioning that it is quite heavy and comes with a higher price tag.
Resistance to Impact
In my outdoor adventures, to test the durability and quality of the material, I dropped this mug on hiking trails that were both rocky and rugged. It has managed to withstand these falls without any breakage.
The durability of plastic is truly great, and the outer sleeve provides excellent protection in case of accidental drops. Additionally, being an ultralight mug, it is designed to minimize the impact of such incidents.
However, it is important to avoid dropping it on sharp rocks, as this could potentially cause damage to the sleeve or lid. Although it may acquire some scratches, overall, I have found it to be a remarkably durable mug.
Capacity
Furthermore, I conducted a measurement of the GSI backpacker mug’s capacity and confirmed that it indeed holds 17 oz, as stated on GSI’s website. This volume proved to be sufficient for enjoying our morning tea or coffee. In fact, it provided enough capacity to fill a mug once and then drink it for a while while camping.
To preserve the taste of our tea and coffee, I refrained from testing the mug with soup, as the odor could potentially affect the flavor. Nevertheless, it appears that the mug’s capacity is more than adequate for accommodating soup as well. However, if you intend to use it for dehydrated food, keep in mind that the size is only suitable if you divide the portions into smaller chunks.
Ease of Cleaning
I would give a rating of 9 out of 10 for the ease of cleaning this mug. Cleaning it was a breeze, even when we had limited water. The non-stick surface makes cleaning effortless and ensures no stains or odors are left behind.
Additionally, it is dishwasher safe for added convenience. Unlike water bottles, the wide-mouth opening makes it significantly easier to clean thoroughly. Moreover, it dries quickly, allowing for quick packing. However, over time, the sleeve may lose its effectiveness as it becomes less tight on the mug.
Pros of the GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug
- Ultralight: GSI has truly taken the concerns of ultralight backpackers to heart and meticulously crafted this lightweight mug. Their dedication has paid off, as it has become one of the top-selling outdoor gear items. I took note of its weight, which was approximately 3.5 ounces, akin to that of a feather.
- Effective Insulation: The GSI Backpacker Mug effectively maintains the temperature of your drink for a considerable duration, thanks to its insulated sleeve and thoughtfully designed lid.
- Reliable Lid and Spout: Our testing has shown that this product is spillproof, even when used on uneven terrains during hiking. However, we advise against keeping it inside a full backpack.
Cons of the GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug
- Not Completely Leakproof: It is not advisable to trust it and place it in your backpack when it is full. Despite its decent spillproof capabilities, it falls short of being completely leakproof. Therefore, I recommended to carefully inspect and ensure the lid is properly closed and keep it upright.
- Not best at Insulation: This mug offers adequate insulation for a limited time, although there is room for improvement in terms of its insulating capabilities. However, it is important to note that insulation was not the primary consideration during the design process of this mug. It is worth mentioning that insulated mugs tend to be heavier, which may not be preferred by all backpackers.
- Issue while holding handle: The mug’s handle offers flexibility, which can pose a slight challenge when holding it with a full cup. Therefore, it is advisable to either grip the body of the mug or take additional precautions to ensure a secure hold using the handle. This feature also proves advantageous in terms of saving space when packing.
Comparison with Similar Backpacking Mugs
Comparison with Sea-to-Summit Collapsible Mug
The GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug and the Sea to Summit X-Series collapsible mug differ significantly in terms of capacity and versatility. The Sea to Summit mug is smaller, making it unsuitable for dehydrated meals.
On the other hand, the collapsible feature of the Sea to Summit X-Series mug makes it more efficient in terms of space-saving in a backpack. However, the GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug offers greater versatility compared to the Sea to Summit mug, making it our recommended choice.
Comparison with TOAKS Titanium 450ml Cup
The TOAKS Titanium 450-ml Cup offers enhanced durability and is designed to withstand open fire. However, it tends to heat up more when hot fluid is inside, making it slightly challenging to hold.
Conversely, the Infinity backpacker mug is easier to grip thanks to its cloth wrapping. Additionally, this backpacker mug is lighter in weight compared to the TOAKS Titanium, making it a more ideal choice for backpacking adventures.
Our Verdict
The GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug is the top choice if you’re looking to purchase a single mug that is ultralight, long-lasting, and cost-effective for your backpacking and hiking adventures. While it may not provide complete leakproof and insulation features, it guarantees durability, a stylish design, and an affordable price.
Upon careful evaluation of the design, features, performance, field testing, and user feedback, it is evident that the GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug proves to be a dependable and effective companion for outdoor expeditions. We strongly endorse the use of this mug.
FAQs
Is the GSI Infinity mug microwave safe?
The GSI Infinity mug is not recommended for use in the microwave, despite being BPA-free and made from a durable material that is generally safe for microwaving. This is because the manufacturer has included an insulating layer that may cause issues when heated. Therefore, we strongly advise adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines and refraining from microwaving the mug.
Can I use the GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug to cook food?
The GSI Infinity Backpacker Mug is primarily intended for hot beverages and is not recommended for cooking food directly on a stove or open flame. Nevertheless, it can serve as a convenient option for rehydrating freeze-dried meals or as a bowl for soups and stews.