2023-08-19
Waterproof Box Insulated Cooler lack some glacial retention and stickability but make up for that by being lightweight, cacheable and crushable. And soft cooler is a misnomer, given many are substantial enough to pyramid other gear or tumble off the truck bed. While rigid coolers occasionally have wheels for smooth transport, soft coolers are easier to single-handedly grab over the shoulder versus heavier options.
So, whether you are river rafting, SUP from beach to beach, park BBQ or road tripping to ski volcanoes or trailhead tailgating, these coolers are stout enough to answer the call. Based on our own testing, this guide shares beta on the top choices for soft coolers that keep the goodies cold and portable. Check out all the need-to-know details, from volume and rigidness to ice retention, plus key features to help you pick the best soft cooler for your next adventure.
Need an easy-to-haul cooler that doesn’t eat huge wads of bills? Plenty of soft coolers sit well below the top-tier tag but not all perform as impressively as this Sealock Insulated Cooler Bag that keeps 30 cans of our favorite soda and beer frosty.
The 840D Nylon TPU Fishing Camping Picnic cooler bag lack of attachment points and functional pocket space are made up for by excellent ice retention — our drinks stayed chill past the brand’s 24-hour claim — and the zipper is bombproof (if requiring a bit more oomph to open). If you’re concerned about spillage, very little melted ice escaped these teeth.