1.6 L Capacity
Serves 2+ — coffee/tea for two, plus a small cookpot for solo gourmet meals.
Induction Capable
Works on gas, electric, AND many induction cooktops — versatile stove compatibility.
Collapses to 63 mm
Folds to 63 mm / 2.5 in thin for storage. Slips into any drawer, pack, or RV cabinet.
Glass-Filled Nylon 66 Handles
Double handles with rigid GR nylon 66 — won't flex when pouring full kettle.
LidKeep Clip
Silicone clip on lid rim — clips lid to side of kettle to keep it clean while cooking.
304 SS Base + Lid
Stainless steel base and lid — durable, distributes heat evenly, dishwasher safe.
Material Composition: 57% Steel + 5% Glass-Reinforced Nylon 66 + 38% Silicone
The Detour Kettle uses a 3-material composition (vs 2 for the Bowl):
57% 304 Stainless Steel:
- Forms the base, lid, and core structure
- Provides heat distribution and durability
- Industry-standard food-grade alloy
- Same as in cookware, water bottles, restaurant equipment
5% Glass-Reinforced Nylon 66:
- Used in the handles (the new component vs Bowl)
- Glass fiber-reinforced for rigidity at high temperatures
- Heat-tolerant (vs pure nylon which melts)
- Rigid when pouring a full kettle (no flex)
38% Silicone:
- Forms the collapsible sidewalls (the fold mechanism)
- EU food-grade, BPA-free, Non-PFAS
- Heat-resistant (boiling water + induction heat)
- Flexible for the folding seam
Why the new material in handles:
- Pure nylon would melt near a stove burner
- Glass-reinforced nylon 66 handles high heat
- The kettle gets HOT during use (boiling water)
- Handles need to stay rigid for safe pouring
- 5% is small because handles are small parts, but critical for safety
Glass-Reinforced Nylon 66 Handles (NEW — DETAIL)
The kettle's double handles are glass-reinforced nylon 66 — a specific engineering choice for cookware:
Nylon 66 vs regular nylon:
- Nylon 66 = higher melting point (~255°C / 491°F) vs Nylon 6 (~220°C / 428°F)
- More rigid at high temperatures
- Used in automotive under-hood parts, industrial gears
- Standard in quality cookware handles
Glass-reinforced:
- Glass fibers embedded in the nylon matrix
- Improves stiffness by 50-100% vs unfilled nylon
- Higher heat distortion temperature
- Resists creep (deformation under sustained load)
Why both upgrades matter:
- A kettle of boiling water is heavy (~1.6 kg full)
- Standard plastic handles would flex when pouring
- Soft handles make accurate pouring difficult
- GR nylon 66 = rigid, precise control
- "No-spill" pouring per STS — even when full
Practical feel:
- The handles stay rigid even with hot contents
- Hand grip stays cool (heat transfers slowly through plastic)
- Pour control is precise (no spongy flex)
Collapse Mechanism (FROM 15 cm TO 6.3 cm)
The kettle collapses from 15.1 cm / 6 in open to 63 mm / 2.5 in flat for storage — a 60% reduction.
Collapsing (storage):
1. Press sidewalls toward the center
2. The silicone sidewall folds inward
3. Body flattens to 63 mm height
4. Lid can stay attached or be stored separately
Expanding (use):
1. Pull walls up and outward
2. Walls click into rigid position
3. Spout is part of the body (always functional)
4. Add water, place on stove
Packed size: 18 × 17 × 5.8 cm / 7 × 7 × 2 in
- Stores anywhere — drawer, cabinet, pack pocket
- The kettle EXCEEDS your standard packing space with water capacity
- For 2+ people, only one Detour Kettle needed
Kettle + lid = both fit:
- Lid nests inside the collapsed body
- Whole kettle packs into a 5.8 cm tall stack
- Lighter than carrying an equivalent solid kettle
LidKeep — Silicone Lid Clip (NEW — UNIQUE FEATURE)
The Lid has a silicone rubber LidKeep — a clip on the inside rim:
What it does:
- Clips the lid to the side of the kettle while cooking
- Lid hangs out of the way (no setting it on dirty ground)
- Stays attached during stirring, adding ingredients, pouring
- Releases easily when ready to cover again
Why it matters:
- Outdoor kitchens have limited counter space
- Setting lids on dirt is unsanitary
- Losing small parts (lids) is common
- LidKeep solves the "where does the lid go" problem
- Particularly useful in windy conditions
Visual: imagine the lid hanging off the rim of the kettle like a half-open door — out of the way, but always attached.
Induction Compatible — Stove Versatility (NEW)
The Detour Kettle is induction compatible — a rare feature for collapsible kettles:
Three stove types supported:
1. Gas stoves — camp stoves, RV stoves, propane burners
2. Electric radiant stoves — kitchen coil burners, RV electric cooktops
3. Induction cooktops — many modern RVs + van life builds use induction
Why induction compatibility is hard:
- Induction requires a magnetic base (ferrous metal)
- Most kettles have a thin SS base that doesn't induct
- The Detour uses 304 SS base which is weakly magnetic — works on "many" induction stoves
- Not all induction stoves work (some need stronger magnetic response)
Practical testing:
- Per STS: "compatible with many induction stoves"
- Test with a magnet on the base before relying on induction use
- If magnet sticks firmly, induction will likely work
- If weak or no attraction, induction may not work on that specific stove
Two-burner stoves:
- Per STS FAQ: keep flame within the printed ring on the base
- Don't straddle the burner (overheats walls and silicone hinge)
- Keep handles in vertical position (don't lay sideways over a lit burner)
Heat Distribution & Efficiency
304 SS base provides:
- Even heat distribution across the bottom
- Faster water heating vs thin aluminum
- Compatible with all stove types listed above
- Durable for daily use on camp stoves
1.6 L capacity:
- Heats in ~5-7 minutes on a typical camp stove (boiling from 20°C / 68°F)
- Heats faster on induction (more efficient heat transfer)
- Lid on = faster boiling (heat retention)
- Lid off = slower but visible (good for cooking pasta, oatmeal)
Practical use:
- Coffee for 2: ~250-300 ml each = 500-600 ml total → ~3-4 min to boil
- Tea for 4: ~200 ml each = 800 ml → ~5 min to boil
- Full 1.6 L (pasta water): ~7-10 min to boil
- Keep warm = leave on low flame or insulated cozy
Tip: don't fill past 80% (1.3 L) when heating — boiling water needs headroom and pouring is easier with less water.
Versatility: Kettle + Cookpot
Per STS: "The kettle also makes a great small cookpot for your serious gourmet creations."
Two-function design:
- Boil water for coffee/tea (primary use)
- Cook small meals — soups, pasta, oatmeal, instant meals
Cookpot capacity for ~2 people:
- 1.6 L = enough for 2 servings of soup or instant noodles
- 1.6 L of water = boil pasta for 2 (cook separately, drain)
Limitations:
- Not a full cookset — no frying surface, no lid-hole steam vent for steaming
- Best for boiling + light cooking
- Pair with Detour Dinnerware Set (built today) for complete meal system
Upgrade paths:
- For real cookpot needs: STS Frontier cookware (pan, pot, bowl, cup)
- For dutch oven cooking: traditional cast iron
- For freeze-dried meals: just boil water, pour into pouch
Award-Winning Design
The Detour Kettle is Award Winning per STS tags — adding to STS's design recognition for the Detour Stainless Steel line.
What makes it special:
- First truly collapsible stainless steel kettle with induction compatibility
- Same durability as solid kettles but 60% smaller storage
- LidKeep solves the "lost lid" problem
- Glass-reinforced nylon 66 handles are precision-pour capable
- Recognized by industry design awards
Comparison: STS Kettle / Cookware Lineup
Multiple STS kettles and cookware options:
| Aspect | Detour Kettle | Frontier Ultralight Kettle | X-Pot (older line) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction | 57% 304 SS + 5% GR nylon + 38% silicone | Aluminum + silicone | Aluminum + silicone |
| Weight | 436 g / 15.4 oz | ~250-300 g | ~250-300 g |
| Capacity | 1.6 L | Similar (1-2 L) | Varies |
| Packed Size | 18 × 17 × 5.8 cm / 7 × 7 × 2 in | ~30 mm flat | ~30 mm flat |
| Induction | Yes (many stoves) | Generally NO | NO |
| Durability | High (stainless steel) | Medium (aluminum is softer) | Medium |
| LidKeep | Yes (new feature) | No | No |
| Best For | Auto camp, van life, overlanding, gourmet | Backpacking | Travel, backpacking |
Choose Detour Kettle for: durable cookware, induction compatibility, gourmet coffee at camp, family meals, van life.
Choose Frontier UL Kettle for: backpacking (lighter aluminum, smaller pack).
Choose X-Pot for: ultra-budget, light travel.
Best Use Cases
Auto Camping / Van Life / Overlanding: IDEAL use case. The kettle collapses flat for storage, expands to full 1.6L capacity for morning coffee. Induction compatibility suits van builds.
RV Camping: Even smaller RV galleys can fit the collapsed kettle. LidKeep keeps the lid out of the way during cooking.
Hunting Cabin: Durable for daily use over a wood stove or propane burner. Family-sized capacity.
Cabin / Cottage: Weekend cabin coffee maker. Pack flat in gear box.
Boat / Yacht: Marine galley. Induction-capable for modern electric stoves. Stainless resists corrosion.
Home Emergency: Power outage backup — boil water on a camp stove for cooking/drinking.
Backpacking: Not recommended (Frontier UL is lighter). Detour is too heavy for a pack.
Daily Home Use: Premium induction kettle alternative — collapsible for storage in small kitchens.
Compatible Accessories
Detour Stainless Steel Dinnerware Set (STSA1325): Kettle pairs perfectly with the 6-piece set — boil water for tea (2 mugs), serve in matched bowls.
Detour Stainless Steel Bowl (STSA1323): Individual bowl pairs for oatmeal/soup meals.
Frontier Ultralight Cookware: Lighter pots/pans for the "real cooking" portion of meals.
Camp Kitchen Tool Kit (STSA1102): Use the folding spatula/spoon to stir what you're cooking in the kettle.
STS Coffee/Tea Filters: For pour-over coffee in the kettle.
Standard Camp Stoves: Compatible with most gas, electric, and induction camp stoves — verify the printed ring matches your burner size.
Performance
Best Use
Auto camping, Van life, Overlanding, RV camping, Boat/yacht, Hunting cabin, Cabin, Cottage, Home emergency backup
Activity Tier
Midweight / Compact storage (collapses to 7 × 7 × 2 in)
Stove Compatibility
Gas stoves · Electric radiant stoves · Many induction cooktops
Heat-Up Time (full 1.6 L)
~5-10 minutes on typical camp stove (depends on stove power, ambient temp, lid on/off)
Construction
Material Composition
57% 304 Stainless Steel + 5% Glass-Reinforced Nylon 66 + 38% Silicone
Stainless Steel Grade
304 (food-grade, industry-standard)
Handles
Double handles in glass-reinforced Nylon 66 (heat-tolerant, rigid)
Lid
304 Stainless Steel with silicone LidKeep clip
Silicone Standard
EU food-grade certified, BPA-free, Non-PFAS
Sizes & Dimensions
Open Dimensions
17 × 17 × 15.1 cm / 7 × 7 × 6 in
Collapsed Dimensions
18 × 17 × 5.8 cm / 7 × 7 × 2 in
Packed Weight
435.9 g / 15.4 oz
Capacity
1.6 L (recommended max fill: 1.3 L for boiling headroom)
Profile
Brand
Sea to Summit (Australian outdoor gear, founded 1983, Boulder CO US HQ)
Category
Cookware / Collapsible Kettles / Camp Kitchen Stovetop Cookware
Launch
24NewProduct (launched 2024), MAY_25 carryover — current model
Awards
Award Winning (industry design awards)
Position in STS Lineup
Premium collapsible kettle — above Frontier UL Kettle (light backpacking), X-Pot (older line)
Sustainability
304 SS is highly recyclable; durable construction; replaceable silicone components
Dishwasher Use
Yes, dishwasher safe per STS FAQ.
Dishwasher tips:
- Top rack recommended
- Standard dishwasher detergent works
- 304 SS tolerates high heat well
- Silicone hinge tolerates dishwasher temperatures
- Dry thoroughly before collapsing for storage
Hand-washing alternative (preferred for greasy/oily contents):
- Mild soap + warm water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Easy to clean (smooth surfaces)
- Quick dry
For tea-stained kettles:
- Stainless steel cleans well with Bar Keepers Friend
- Or use baking soda + warm water paste
- Rinse thoroughly after cleaning
- The 304 SS won't absorb tea stains permanently
Stove Compatibility & Induction Use
Induction:
- Per STS: "compatible with many induction stoves"
- Test with a magnet on the base — if it sticks firmly, induction will likely work
- 304 SS has weak magnetic response (some stoves need stronger ferritic steel)
- If you have induction-specific concerns, contact STS support
Gas / Two-burner stoves:
- Keep flame within the printed ring on the base
- Don't straddle the burner
- Keep handles in the vertical position during heating (don't lay sideways over lit flame)
- Heat conducts to handles from boiling water only — safe with proper use
Electric radiant:
- Standard compatibility
- Watch for warped stove coils damaging the base
- Coil contact with stainless is generally safe
Hot Content & Handle Safety
Handle heat:
- GR nylon 66 handles stay relatively cool during use
- Heat conducts slowly through plastic
- But the metal body/lid get HOT (boiling water + stove)
- Hold only by the handles, never by the body
Pouring:
- Hold by both handles for stability when full
- The rigid GR nylon = precise pour control
- "Won't spill a drop" per STS — accurate for normal use
- Spout pours cleanly when kettle is properly aligned
Common-sense safety:
- Don't leave a boiling kettle unattended
- Don't overfill past the recommended ~80% mark
- Keep away from children during/after heating
- Set on a trivet / heat-resistant surface, not directly on a table
Stainless Steel Care
Routine care:
- Wash with soap and water after use
- Dishwasher safe
- Dry promptly to avoid water spots
- Buff with soft cloth for shine
Descaling (for hard water):
- Stainless steel develops scale buildup in hard-water areas
- Boil a 1:1 water:white vinegar solution in the kettle
- Let cool, scrub with non-abrasive sponge
- Rinse thoroughly (multiple water-only boils)
- Repeat monthly in hard-water regions
Stain removal (tea/coffee):
- Bar Keepers Friend works on 304 SS
- Or baking soda paste
- Avoid steel wool (scratches)
- Avoid bleach (can pit over time)
Polishing:
- Stainless steel polish restores shine
- Not required for function
- Optional for appearance
Silicone Hinge & LidKeep Care
The silicone hinge (collapsible mechanism):
- Open the kettle fully to expose the seam
- Wipe with soapy water + cloth
- For stuck food/residue: soak briefly in warm soapy water
- Don't use abrasive cleaners (roughens the silicone)
- Make sure no residue before collapsing for storage
The LidKeep (silicone clip on lid):
- The clip is silicone rubber — flexible and durable
- Wipe with soapy water
- Check the clip attachment point periodically (stays attached to lid)
- Replaceable if damaged
Avoid:
- Sharp objects against silicone — can cut/tear
- Excessive force when expanding/collapsing
- High-concentration bleach (degrades silicone)
- Punctures from metal utensils
Heat tolerance:
- Silicone hinge tolerates boiling water + most cooking temps
- Don't expose silicone to open flame (degrades over time)
- Don't microwave (metal nearby = sparks)
Glass-Reinforced Nylon 66 Handles
Handle care:
- Wash with soap and water (handles are separate from main body)
- Don't use abrasives on the handle surface
- Dry after use
- Don't expose to open flame (will eventually degrade)
Rigid feel:
- The handles are intentionally rigid (precision pouring)
- Don't try to bend them — they're not meant to flex
- Heat from stove is OK; direct flame is not
If handles crack:
- Stop using immediately (hot contents can spill)
- Contact STS for replacement handles
- Don't try to repair with glue (food-contact glues are limited)
Avoid These Failure Modes
Don't:
- Microwave the kettle (metal body + lid = sparks)
- Heat over open flame that extends beyond the printed base ring
- Lay handles sideways over a lit burner
- Heat the kettle empty (can damage silicone hinge, scorch)
- Use sharp objects to scrape the silicone seam
- Use on induction stoves that the magnet test fails
- Force the kettle open/closed
- Store wet or with food residue in the hinge
Empty heating:
- Always have water (or other liquid) in the kettle before heating
- Empty heating damages the silicone and can scorch food contact surfaces
- Even a small amount of water is OK
If dropped:
- Check the hinge for damage
- Check handles for cracks
- Test for leaks by filling with water
- Minor dents in the steel base won't affect function
Sustainability & End-of-Life
304 Stainless Steel is highly recyclable:
- Recyclable indefinitely
- Most metal recyclers accept
- High scrap value — easy to recycle
Silicone is harder to recycle but:
- Durable (lasts kettle lifetime)
- Replaceable if damaged
Glass-Reinforced Nylon 66 is hard to recycle:
- Specialty recyclers only
- Generally landfill at end-of-life
Longevity:
- With normal care, the kettle lasts 10+ years
- Handles may need replacement after very heavy use
- Silicone hinge is the most likely wear item
At end-of-life:
- Separate components where possible
- Recycle 304 SS at scrap metal
- Other materials to specialty recyclers or landfill
Activity-Specific Tips
- Van life / Overlanding: Ideal primary use. LidKeep keeps the lid out of the way during cooking in tight van kitchens. Induction compatibility suits modern van builds with induction cooktops.
- Auto camping: Bring coffee home. Make morning brew at the campsite.
- Boat / Yacht: Marine galley-ready. Stainless resists corrosion. LidKeep helps in cramped galleys.
- RV camping: Even small RV kitchens fit the collapsed kettle. Use on propane or electric stoves.
- Hunting cabin: Hot drinks + small meals every morning. Durable for daily use.
- Cabin / Cottage: Weekend coffee maker. Pack flat in gear box.
- Home emergency: Backup for power outages — boil water for drinking/cooking on a camp stove.
- Daily home use: Premium collapsible kettle alternative for small kitchens. Induction + dishwasher safe.
- NOT for backpacking — too heavy (~436 g). Use Frontier UL for backcountry packs.