And the construction utilizes proven rotomolding technology and stainless steel hardware. Yeti Coolers, on the other hand, has a rock-solid reputation. Its ice life is among the best in the industry and its products are designed to last a lifetime. Also included in the 52 and 73-quart models is an internal wire basket.
However, if you’re on a tight budget and want something that’s pretty good for the price, then you can’t really go wrong with Ozark Trail. We know how premium Yeti Tundra coolers are, so the question is whether s can match up. Because of this, their coolers are certified bear-resistant by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) and join the club of other well known, bear-proof coolers. That means you don’t have to worry about a grizzly bear gaining access to your cooler contents.
The lower end coolers are mostly designed to retain ice for several hours at best. On the inside of the larger coolers, you will find a wire basket. This is a plus, considering many brands actually charge you extra for the wire basket. Another thing you want in a premium cooler is the ability to hold ice for extended periods.
Yeti soft sided coolers are made from heavy duty 840D nylon that is TPU laminated and uses RF welding to seal it all together. Depending on which model you go with, you will find the appearance of these ice chests to differ quite a bit. The most affordable models, the non-premium soft-sided coolers, come in a very safe, solid color.
And these thick walls are coated in a UV-resistant layer that helps to protect the cooler from sun damage over time. Currently, you can choose between a 6-can cooler, 12-can cooler, 24-can cooler, ozark trail cooler 36-can cooler, 42-can cooler, premium backpack cooler, and premium tote cooler. There have also been some other sizes available over the years but we are going to focus on these models.
For me the quality just isn’t there so I wouldn’t invest in an Ozark Trail but would instead buy another brand like Yeti, RTIC or Engel. The only area where Ozark Trail is better than Yeti is in the price. There is a great video where a customer who owns both a Yeti Hopper and an Ozark Trail does as ice test on them and compares the performance side by side.
This high-performance, water-repellent cooler has a removable hard liner and shelf featuring antimicrobial protection for the ultimate freshness. The adjustable padded shoulder strap makes for easy transport, and the mesh pockets provide extra storage space. This Ozark Trail cooler is made for durability and convenience, providing the perfect storage for your best beers. The Ozark Trail 45 quart cooler is known for its convenience and durability, with an industrial-strength locking plate to keep it sealed tight and wheels for easy transport. Featuring a fish ruler and confirmed bear-resistant by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, it’s perfect for back-country adventures. Not to mention, it has a built-in bottle opener and four drink holders on the lid, so you can have a good time no matter the temperature.
And to maximize how much squeeze the gasket produces, having strong latches that provide a lot of clamping force is necessary. You will find the popular “T-latch” design on Ozark Trail coolers. While some brands will have the base of the “T” be what catches the pin, Ozark Trail has instead decided to have a hole in the middle of the latch that catches onto the pin. In terms of size election, having three sizes is a bit lackluster. But Ozark Trail has managed to incorporate sizes that are most common for people to want.