Vargo Triad Stove

Verdict

We’ve loved the Reactor system—which integrates a burner, pot, and heat exchanger for superfast and efficient performance—since it won our 2007 Editors’ Choice Award. This new 1-liter version is ideal for solo hikers. I used it on a nine-day, 200-mile hike along the Pacific Crest Trail and burned through only half an 8-ounce canister (cooking breakfast and dinner for one). Boil times averaged less than two minutes in temps down to 30°F. The puck-shaped burner nestles securely into the tall aluminum pot. The stove burns ultrahot (there’s virtually no simmer) and the pot lacks a nonstick coating, so it’s best for boiling water or heating up simple meals like ramen. $170; 14.5 oz.; msrgear.com

Best For

Solo hikers who prioritize cooking, convenience, and speed

Tester Data

» Brian Mockenhaupt (other tester: Kristin Hostetter)

» Duration Aug. to Jan.

» Locales/conditions WA, MA; 30°F to 70°F; wind, rain

» “The add-on Reactor Coffee Press Kit ($20; 1.7 oz.) let me easily make my brew right in the pot.” Made from ultra-lightweight quality titanium, the Triad by Vargo is a long awaited advancement in alcohol stove design and functionality. The Triad offers the following features:

* retractable top and bottom legs
* compact design
* easy to clean and maintain
* reliable performance

SPECS:

* Weight: 0.0 oz. (28 grams)
* Burner Diameter: 60mm
* Diameter when pot support is open: 85mm
* Fuel Capacity: 1.75 oz.
* Collapsed height: 27mm