Even when packed to the brim with drinks, food, and ice, this cooler backpack was easy to lift and comfortable to carry. We appreciated the adjustable padded shoulder straps and chest buckle. Most adults could carry it on a hike or at least down to the beach. The Outdoor Pro prioritizes igloo water cooler function over form — which is to say, it’s not the most stylish option, but it’s undeniably practical. The price spread among soft coolers is significant, ranging from just $21 for the Coleman 24-Hour 16-Can Cooler all the way up to $350 for Yeti’s top-end Hopper M30.
We also tested the Orca Walker Tote ($225), which is equally well-made but in a slightly different style. Additionally, as dry ice constantly emits carbon dioxide, store it outdoors or, lacking that, in a well-ventilated area. The build quality and aesthetics of each cooler were also taken into consideration. We’re the testing team at Reviewed, which means we designed and implemented the experiments involved in this article. And, with the variety of storage compartments, you’ll be able to carry everything you need. When you’re ready to store the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze, the interior is treated with Microban, so it will resist mildew and odor-causing bacteria.
This is not the model we would expect to last the longest, as its materials and craftsmanship are not top-tier. The additional features also ride the line between being handy and excessive. The shelf is easy to knock loose and fall into the main chamber, and the bottle opener is not the best. This isn’t the model we recommend for hardcore use, but if you simply need a small cooler for occasional use and want to spend the least, this model offers a lot of value. Another small model that is great for special occasions is the caddy-style RovR KeepR cooler, which is great for parties and picnics.
If you want a soft cooler for under $25, check out the Ozark Trail Soft Sided Cooler. When it comes to cold storage, the Ozark Trail did decently, keeping its interior cool for 38 hours. However, the quality of its webbing feels on the thin side and the straps are less comfortable than others on this list.
The zipper pull has a tough rubbery T-grip that helps when using the cooler. These coolers will enable you to transport your food or drinks while keeping them cool, during your boating outings. It was closely followed by the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Bucket Tote and Orca Walker Cooler, which held ice for 70 hours. A bunch of other variables influence ice retention, too, including the type and quantity of ice, extra space in the compartment (which decreases effectiveness), and if the cooler was prechilled. When you use a cooler outside, many factors influence a pack’s ice retention, including the frequency of opening the cooler, direct sunlight, and ambient temperature.
Soft coolers can also leak through the lid closure if the zipper isn’t waterproof or the clasp isn’t leakproof. We pay attention to that variable to know if a cooler needs to always be upright. The Igloo Pursuit Tote ($100) preserved our bubbly water, hummus, pepperoni, peppers, and arugula while car camping and crewing the Hardrock 100. The Mountainsmith Sixer ($35) was a great cooler for lunch on the go. Our tester, a Colorado-based electrician and mountain biker, packed it with a canned drink, sandwich, fruit, and chocolate. The cooler’s shape and size were easy to fit in a messy work truck.
For instance, the REI Co-op Cool Haul Soft Cooler preserved ice for 60 hours during our test but only for 18 hours during one toasty car camp trip. Soft cooler totes are long, slender, and streamlined against your side. However, taller coolers get trickier with access to buried items, so you have to be mindful when packing the cooler. Some coolers like the Booe 30L Waterproof Insulated Tote only have the main storage compartment with no other pockets or mesh liners to put extra objects in. However, this cooler offers dry side storage with the ability to take out the liner where you can add items in between the exterior shell and the liner. Other than the main storage pocket, which typically has an insulated liner inside, there are plenty of other pocket and storage features to consider when choosing a soft cooler to fit your needs.
No matter your budget or needs, our exhaustive testing will help you identify the perfect cooler for you. External Attachment PointsMany soft coolers, including Yeti’s Hopper M30 and REI Co-op’s Cool Haul 24, have daisy chain webbing along the outside for securing extra gear. In use, igloo soft cooler we’ve found this area useful for keeping valuables like keys close at hand (we use a carabiner to attach them). And we particularly like the stretchy bungee system on the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze, which makes it easy to secure a lightweight jacket or small towel on top.
Tougher stains may be cleaned with diluted solution of baking soda and water. Ensure all cleaning agents are thoroughly rinsed and the cooler is dry before storage. Insulated cooler totes igloo soft cooler are perfect for family snacks, beverages, and lunch fresh on your next park trip. They’re quick, effective, and even stylish — find the right tote cooler for your lifestyle today.
The e-mail will provide your tracking number and link to the shipping carriers tracking page. For instance, YETI advises applying the lubricant to the front and back of the zipper including the teeth and seal. RTIC says to add a couple of drops then open and close the zipper a few times. The moisturizer can be applied every 6 months to help protect the zipper teeth — around the time you head in for an oil change. The handles on the Hydro Flask Day Escape Tote were a great length and easy to slide over one shoulder. We periodically checked, making notes regarding melt rate, condensation, and leaks.