The AO loses some points since its exterior and zipper are not waterproof, though the regular zipper is much easier to use than waterproof ones, which typically require a lot more tugging. And though its hull isn’t as stiff and impenetrable as some of the others we tested, it’s still pretty strong and well-constructed. Lastly, this model lacks the high-end look of the more premium models in our test, but that may not matter to you.
If the cooler’s seams are not welded and leakproof, they can leak. Soft coolers can also leak through the lid closure if the zipper isn’t waterproof or the clasp isn’t leakproof. In our testing, we found the side handles of the Fishpond Blizzard Soft Cooler and OtterBox Trooper 20 Cooler were stalwart and comfortable to grab.
The fully-welded waterproof cooler design includes a leakproof zipper, leakproof liner, and waterproof exterior that keeps the cold in and water out. Wherever your adventuring takes you, the Igloo 40-Can Rolling Cooler travels with you. In addition to testing soft coolers on their own, we also compared their performance with those of insulated shopping totes and hard coolers. On the whole, we found that the soft-sided coolers we tested kept things colder longer than an insulated shopping tote, but not quite as long as a large hard-sided cooler. This makes them ideal for a day at the beach or a few days of camping, but not for longer trips or when just running a few errands (where insulated shopping totes really excel). The best models were extremely portable and kept ice frozen for three days—impressive for a soft-sided cooler.
Overall, this cooler bag measures measures 13.5 inches long, 12.75 inches wide, and 13.5 inches tall. This portable insulated cooler features advanced insulation that keeps drinks and food cold for a full day at the beach or lake. No need to worry about bringing this waterproof cooler close to the surf or onto your boat.
Any gear’s durability comes down to a few simple factors—the quality of its materials and components, the method of construction, and the overall design. The coolers we tested feature a wide variety and quality of materials. We assessed durability over months of use, paying attention to how they handle daily rigors. We threw them around, dropped them on the ground, igloo soft cooler and filled them to the brim with heavy drinks. We also packed, emptied, repacked, and bounced them around in back seats and truck beds, left them out in the sun for hours, strapped them into water-logged boats, and anything else we could think of. Carrying 22 cans, the Arctic Zone Deep Freeze 24 Backpack is a smaller cooler that still manages to pack a ton.
And then they took them to task, bringing them along on adventures short and long, paying close attention to the aforementioned metrics to pass judgment. Reviews are available in case you need a second opinion and you’re new to the cooler world. The color and size options are also made clear so that you don’t end up getting a soft cooler bag that is either too big or too small for your needs. This Igloo soft side cooler is another option with an adjustable shoulder strap so that you can carry it in whatever way feels comfortable. Handlebar attachments specifically for bike rides are included, and the metal bottle opener helps in case you’re carrying beers.
If you’re looking for a collapsible and durable option at a more affordable cost, we highly recommend the Icemule Classic. And it didn’t hold the cold as well (the temperature inside the cooler rose about 18 degrees between two hours and 24 hours after putting ice in it compared to just 7 degrees for the Yeti). But our testers appreciated how comfortable the Classic is to carry on one shoulder, how light it was, and its durability. According to our ice retention test, the REI Co-op Cool Haul is capable of holding ice for up to 60 hours.
Additionally, the backpack caused some minor discomfort on the hips. When packed full of heavy goodies, it creates a pressure point on the bottom. Despite these minor complaints, the RTIC did an excellent job igloo water cooler throughout all of our tests, and its comfortable backpack straps are hard to beat. If you’re looking for a less expensive backpack style cooler, the Maelstrom Backpack 35 is nearly half the price of the RTIC.
Our new Marine Ultra Soft Sides collection will keep your drinks and contents cold (or hot) all day long. Sturdy, stylish, and destined to become the indispensible companion for smooth sailing. While our testers noted this cooler is large and heavy and not the easiest to lug around, we also appreciate that the cooler floats in the water, is spill- and leakproof, and comes in four sizes.