It has a bite and sip valve system that hasn't yet leaked. This bite and sip method took a short time to get used to--I wasn't sold right away. In fact, I called it my 'man bottle' for a while. It grew on me.
The attached straw makes it a breeze to drink on the sly or while driving. No need to tip the entire bottle for a drink and no chance for a wet spill.
The lid has a molded plastic hoop that allows for easy carrying or attaching. This being a considerable improvement over Nalgene's loop that connected the bottle to the top and was prone to breaking with use.
Oh, and the opening of the bottle easily accommodates ice cubes. A major plus for the summer months.
They say the CamelBak is dishwasher safe--thus far I have just washed by hand. I've only filled it with plain ole water so I cannot comment on lingering flavors due to non-water liquids.
I bought my first one from Bearcub Outfitters in Petoskey and have since purchased two more for the household when REI ran their annual sale.
Enjoy--happy drinking!
