When ordering your new Igloo that will be your fellow weekend warrior, our usual turnaround time is 8-10 business days from checkout to shipping. We’ll get that process started for you the next day, we pinkie promise. While we do have some Igloo allocated, life can throw us curveballs, so read our stock and estimated ship times messaging in your cart and at checkout so you igloo trailmate can be in the know from start to finish. In our testing, we liked the wide, soft material of the two swing-up straps on the Snow Peak Soft Cooler. The quality of materials influences the waterproofness, durability, insulation value, and whether or not the face fabric produces condensation. The materials also determine the comfort, breathability, support, and overall cost.
The dividers are secured via Velcro, so the compartments are adjustable. The center of the basket has a circular sleeve for the 3L Icer ($50), a double-wall vacuum-sealed ice holder with a 3.5-pound capacity. The narrow but wide slide-in kangaroo pocket on the side of the cooler is perfect for sliding a phone or wallet while you stroll.
Other Features
A few other notable features to be on the lookout for include integrated bottle openers and vacuum ports for adding or releasing air. Icemule’s Classic has a similar valve system, although in this case, the process involves adding air to boost cooling capabilities and buoyancy and removing it to compress the cooler down for storage. Two final features worth calling out are the Arctic Zone Titan’s shelf for separating hard and soft items and the REI Cool Haul 24’s removable inner liner that allows you to use the shell separately as a tote.
The insulated walls have an interior aluminum coat that helps trap cold air, and the ice retention is adequate for single- and 2-day adventures. For day-long roams, weekend adventures, road trips, or running errands, these soft coolers kept our provisions chilled without weighing us down. For more information about soft coolers, check out our buyer’s guide, comparison chart, and FAQ at the end of this article. Many soft cooler manufacturers also sell compatible accessories that can attach directly to the outside of their coolers. For instance, Hydro Flask’s 20 L Day Escape has thread-through points on the outside for securing one of their Dry Storage Bags (offered in small, medium, and large sizes).
Hard coolers are more durable and stout and have a larger size range, given they can hold more weight without collapsing. The compact sizes are great for igloo soft cooler picnics, day trips, overnight camping, and grocery shopping. For the ultimate in portability, soft-sided backpack-style coolers are the way to go.
Because of their size, lightweight construction, and other features—like being equipped with padded handles, bottle openers, or backpack straps—soft coolers offer more flexibility than traditional hard-sided coolers. Soft coolers are better for activities like a summertime picnic in the park or a day hike. Our insulated soft cooler bags are the perfect companion for lunch at work, a day out on the road, or a relaxing visit to the beach. With padded insulation, leak-resistant liners, and antimicrobial material, these soft coolers are the best choice for any lifestyle.