The Great Cooler Debate: What Really Matters When Keeping Things Cool

Ice Retention: The Ultimate Test of Cooler Performance

When it comes to coolers, one of the most talked-about features is ice retention—the ability to keep ice frozen for as long as possible. This is often used as a benchmark to measure performance, especially for high-end roto-molded coolers designed to ace this test. But while ice retention is undeniably important, it doesn’t tell the whole story. What happens before the ice starts melting? How well does the cooler keep things cold in the hours leading up to that point? To address these questions, a modified ice retention test was conducted, using only 10% of each cooler’s total volume in ice. This smaller amount of ice made it harder for the coolers to perform, providing a more detailed look at their relative performance.

The test also tracked the ambient temperature inside each cooler, using a jar of propylene glycol solution with a temperature probe placed above the ice. This setup allowed for a more nuanced understanding of how each cooler maintained cold air over time. Conducted in a climate-controlled lab, the coolers were first left open at room temperature (around 80°F) to simulate real-world conditions. After 48 hours (or 72 hours for larger coolers), the results were striking, with clear differences in temperature control between models. The coolers were categorized by size—small (less than 40 quarts), midsize (40-59 quarts), and large (60 quarts or more)—to make the data more comparable.

Mobility and Durability: More Than Just Keeping Things Cold

While ice retention is crucial, it’s not the only factor to consider when choosing a cooler. Mobility and durability are equally important, especially if you plan to use your cooler in rugged outdoor settings. For example, the Igloo Latitude wheeled cooler fell short in this department, with a flimsy lid that didn’t lock shut and cheap plastic wheels that didn’t inspire confidence. On the other hand, the Rovr Rollr wheeled cooler stood out with its heavy-duty wheels, sturdy steel handlebar, and even an optional bike-towing accessory. Its interior divider and customizable liner designs were additional perks, though the handlebar could use better grip in the middle for one-handed carrying.

Another standout was the Igloo Journey Trailmate 70-qt. All-Terrain cooler, which came loaded with features but wasn’t as durable as the Rovr. For beach trips or family outings, it’s a great choice, but for a rugged camping adventure, the Rovr would be the better option. If you’re venturing into bear country, consider a bear-resistant cooler certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, as several models from brands like Cabela’s, Orca, and Yeti meet these standards. Some coolers, like the Bison Gen 2, even double as functional surfaces, advertising themselves as ideal casting platforms for fishing trips.

Latches and Lids: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference

The design of hinges and latches can make or break a cooler’s user experience. Some coolers, like the Magellan Outdoors model, impressed with their practical designs. Its double-latching, double-hinged removable lid allows for easy opening from either side and the option to remove the lid entirely. This feature makes it one of the best-performing coolers in its class. In contrast, newer cooler designs from brands like Yeti, RTIC, and Orca rely on rubber T-shaped handles that are notoriously difficult to secure. In testing, only a few adults could manage to latch them properly, making this a potential deal-breaker for users who value ease of use.

A middle-ground design found in coolers like the Xspec 60qt and Lifetime 55qt models offers rubber straps with plastic handles for easier latching. While this is an improvement over the rubber T-handles, Magellan Outdoors still takes the crown for the best latching mechanism. Thoughtful design choices like these can significantly impact the overall usability of a cooler, especially during outdoor adventures where convenience matters.

Soft-Sided Coolers: A Different Approach to Staying Cool

Soft-sided coolers like the Yeti Hopper Backflip 24 offer a unique alternative to traditional hard-sided models, though they often compromise on ice retention. Their advantage lies in portability and convenience. The Backflip 24, for instance, doubles as a backpack, complete with straps and hitching points for carrying extra gear. While its performance wasn’t stellar, it excelled in scenarios where mobility was key, such as hiking or biking trips. The zipper closure, which is both water- and leakproof, adds to its practicality.

Magellan Outdoors also offers an excellent soft-sided cooler that performs well in its category, making it a great option for campers and hikers. However, soft-sided coolers generally can’t match the performance of their hard-sided counterparts, so they’re best for shorter trips or lighter loads. If you prioritize portability over prolonged ice retention, these coolers are worth considering.

Final Thoughts: Brand Matters, but So Does Practicality

When choosing a cooler, it’s easy to get caught up in the hype surrounding premium brands like Yeti, which are known for their performance and durability but come at a higher cost. However, other brands like Magellan Outdoors, Frosted Frog, RTIC, and even Amazon’s Commercial line offer excellent value at more affordable prices. These brands consistently deliver high-quality products across their ranges, making them worth exploring for budget-conscious buyers.

Innovative features, such as built-in batteries or solar panels for charging devices, could set coolers apart in the future. But for now, such gadgets are mostly found on crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter, where projects like the Coolest Cooler and Infinite Cooler have faced production delays and customer dissatisfaction. It’s a reminder to approach such campaigns with caution and stick to tried-and-true options.

In the end, the best cooler for you will depend on your specific needs—whether you’re camping in the wilderness, spending a day at the beach, or hiking through the mountains. By considering factors like ice retention, mobility, durability, and design, you can find a cooler that not only keeps your drinks cold but also enhances your outdoor experience.