Finally, we filled each of the soft coolers with soda cans to compare against the claimed carrying capacity. When compared to other soft coolers in our guide, a few design choices—like placement of the side handles under the hook point for the strap making it feel very cramped—knocked a few points off. It has a leak-proof zipper, adjustable shoulder strap, and Molle webbing. The Orca Soft Cooler impressed us with its modular storage is and adorable whale tale zipper pulls.
With many exciting drybag coolers now on the scene, the IceMule Pro 33 handily holds its own among the rest. It proves itself incredibly easy to use and comfortable to carry. The large roll-top design allows easy access to its contents, so you won’t have to remove everything on top to reach that last cold soda at the bottom. Toss this on the kayak or paddleboard, or tug it along on your next float trip. Regardless, if it topples overboard, you can rest assured it won’t get soaked or sink. It also performs quite well among backpack models in our insulation testing and is solidly durable.
A quick glance at our comparison table above reveals that most options hover somewhere in the 2- to 4-pound range, with the largest and most robust designs clocking in at 7 pounds or more. On a related note, comfortable shoulder straps and/or grab handles can go a long way toward maximizing portability, which we outline more in depth below. The Reactor 30 is advertised as fitting 30 cans inside and that’s exactly how many we were able to fit when we tested it. Its clever design is rounded in ways that make it a smooth, easy-to-use shape, while still rectangular enough to pack smartly.
Whether you’re planning a picnic, camping trip, or a day of rigorous outdoor activities, you’ll find the perfect cooler to keep your beverages chilled and your food fresh. Explore the latest selection to find the ideal cooling solution for your adventures. If the cooler’s seams are not welded and leakproof, they can leak.
We appreciate all of the pockets to help us keep odds and ends organized. There are two zippered pockets, including one that fits a phone, and two huge, broad mesh pockets. The Arctic Zone Titan Bucket Tote ($53) is a great budget cooler that keeps our ice cold for long durations. A trio took the cooler fly fishing on Colorado’s Gunnison River, carrying along water and igloo soft cooler various canned beverages. The exterior material was incredibly durable and withstood scratches and dents after being scraped against branches along the trails and dragged around on the rocky ground. Once the lake day was over and we were unpacking, cleaning out the inside of the cooler was made easy since we could see all the corners and get to all the crevasses.
After sitting in direct sun for a few hours with an ice pack inside, our bubbly waters and snacks were still refreshingly cold and chilled thanks to the closed cell technology. It remained waterproof as it floated near the shore after the lake waves dragged it into the water. For the most part, this backpack did a good job preventing leaks, though a small amount of water seeped through once the ice melted. When filling it with perishable food, we were able to fit quite a lot inside, along with enough ice packs to keep everything cold. We’re big fans of the retro appearance and structured design too. A soft cooler on wheels can be easier to transport than one with only handles.
The Yeti Hopper Flip 18’s steep price tag—over $250—knocked it out of first place for best soft cooler. For being so small, it is expensive for the average consumer, despite its quality construction. The Yeti Hopper Flip 18 is one of the best soft coolers you can buy right now. Read on for a look at the best soft coolers on the market right now. Igloo has the best selection of coolers with wheels and handles, making it easy to bring your snacks, drinks, and other refreshments wherever the party is headed. Scroll through our collection of ice chests with wheels and find the one that suits your lifestyle.
The bag felt surprisingly secure, with no contents jostling around. The Trail Split, Pack Away, AO 24 Pack, and the Maelstrom Backpack 35 all have traditional, user-friendly zippers and just the right amount of handy design elements and features. The AO and REI Pack Away are as easy to use as a simple duffel bag.