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Being a convert to the Jetboil world, having owned a previous incarnation of the Flash for the past 10 years, it was good to give the latest version a go to see what has changed. Jetboil first introduced their innovative cooking systems over 20 years ago and revolutionised backpacking cooking. They developed the flux ring that combined with the interlocking sections and neat packing created a super efficient and fast cooking system that could be stowed away within itself. This system has clearly worked and influenced many other brands to follow the design. It also shows as the latest version of the Flash hasn’t changed too much from the 10 year old model I had. The basic concept is still the same, but they have tweaked some of the features and designs to make it even easier to use.

The first thing I will say is the Flash boils water really fast, that is what the Jetboil Flash is great at. Actually using them to cook a homemade meal or anything more delicate is not their strong point. The MiniMo and the MightyMo are more suited to this. But when backpacking and your usual choice of food is prepared meals that either just need boiling in water or re-hydrating, then this is what the Flash does brilliantly. It will boil half a litre of water in about 2 minutes. If you have had a long day on the hills or completed a gruelling day of a long distance walk, having the ability to boil water and get a brew on as quickly and simply as possible is most welcome.

The Flash has a built-in igniter and the regulator has been improved to a chunky rotatory dial. Turning it all the way down produces the spark, then the regulator can be adjusted to the desired temperature. To be honest, I usually have it at full blast to boil the water as quickly as possible. This is a nice improvement over the slightly flimsy regulator on my previous Flash stove. This is particularly helpful when you have cold fingers. The Piezo igniter has also been improved, adding a small guard to prevent it from getting bent when packing the stove up, which is a nice feature. The pot stand has also been redesigned so when folded it clicks nicely onto the top of the burner and also helps to protect the Piezo igniter when stowed. Extra rubber grips have been added to the outside of the burner so make tightening and unscrewing from the gas bottle easy, and the three point locking system makes it feel very secure. Another nice feature that has remained the same is the indicator on the fabric outside the pot that changes colour when the water is boiling. The outside fabric has also been given a face lift with some colourful designs options.

Overall, the new Flash has some great improvements on an already trusted design. It does what is it designed to do exceptionally well, and I have been impressed with its functionality and ease of use. But then I’ve been a Jetboil convert for a while now!

Nick Brown
Nick has had a love of the outdoors, especially the mountains, for over 20 years. His passion has led him all around the world on many multi-day treks and mountain climbs in the greater ranges. As well as experiences in harsh environments such as the jungles of Asia and South and Central America and the vastness of the Trans-Siberian railway. A qualified Mountain Leader, he spends most of his time exploring the Scottish highlands and wild areas bagging Munros. On top of this, he enjoys trail running and rock climbing and strongly believes any outdoor experiences are good experiences - no matter what the weather, especially for mental well-being and happiness. Read more from Nick Brown