10 Best Soft Coolers 2025 in the United States

The Stanley All Day Julienne Mini Soft Cooler Bag and Lunch Box is a compact and lightweight option for those who need a portable solution for keeping their food and drinks cool. It has a capacity of 7.2 quarts, which fits up to 10 cans, making it suitable for a full day of refreshments. One of its standout features is the insulation, which can keep contents chilled for up to 12 hours, ensuring your food and drinks stay cool throughout the day.

Made from recycled polyester, it is both durable and eco-friendly, and the 'doctor's bag' design with a hinged top allows for easy access to the contents. The cooler also comes with a detachable shoulder strap for easy carrying and a front zip pocket for additional storage, making it versatile for various activities like picnics, beach trips, and hikes.

On the downside, it may not be large enough for those needing to pack more than 10 cans or additional large items. Additionally, while the cooler is leak-proof, it requires hand washing or gentle machine washing, which might be less convenient for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Stanley cooler's durability and lifetime warranty make it a dependable choice for long-term use.

The YETI Roadie 24 Cooler in Rescue Red offers a well-rounded package for those who need a reliable cooler on the go. Its capacity is impressive, holding 18 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio or up to 24 lbs of just ice. The cooler's dimensions allow it to fit easily behind a car seat, making it convenient for travel. Its rotomolded construction ensures durability while being lighter and thinner than previous models, which aids in portability.

The HEFTYHAULER handle further enhances its ease of transport, and the Quicklatch system allows for quick, one-handed access to the cooler's contents. The insulation is robust, keeping items cold for extended periods, which is crucial for camping or road trips. The metal material adds to its toughness, but it also makes the cooler somewhat heavier at 12.8 pounds, which might be a drawback for some users.

While the cooler excels in durability and insulation, it lacks some softer elements typical in soft coolers, like flexibility and lighter weight. It also does not explicitly mention a leak-proof design, which might be a concern for some buyers. However, its compact design, sturdy build, and practical features make it a strong contender for anyone in need of a reliable, portable cooler.

The YETI Hopper M15 Portable Soft Cooler is well-suited for outdoor activities such as trips to the beach, boating, or hiking. It has a decent capacity, holding up to 32 cans or 15.5 pounds of ice, which should be sufficient for short outdoor trips. The Coldcell Insulation with closed-cell foam provides excellent cold retention, ensuring your items stay chilled for extended periods. Additionally, the Dryhide Shell, made of high-density nylon, is highly durable, resistant to punctures, and protects against UV rays, adding to its longevity and reliability in various environments.

The standout feature is the MagShield Access, which uses durable magnets to create a leak-resistant and easy-to-use opening. This design ensures minimal spills and quick access to the cooler's contents. The portable design and relatively lightweight build (2.43 kg) make it easy to carry, although the kangaroo pocket for small essentials is a nice touch for added convenience.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The cooler is not machine washable, requiring hand washing and air drying, which might be an inconvenience for some users. Moreover, the price point may be higher compared to other soft coolers, given YETI's premium brand status. Those seeking a budget-friendly option may find it expensive. Despite this, the YETI Hopper M15 is a robust and efficient soft cooler ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for reliable cold retention and durability.