Reviews You Can Rely On

How We Tested Soft Coolers

Friday September 22, 2023
We carried these coolers just about everywhere to see how easy they were to get from point A to B.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Insulation


In keeping with other high testing standards developed by GearLab, all the soft coolers in this category underwent a head-to-head temperature retention test. The FDA recommends keeping perishable food at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure maximal freshness and quality. We, too, used this temperature threshold to compare each model's effectiveness. Each cooler was packed 1/2 full of cubed ice. Hidden within the ice was a device to measure internal temperature concealed within a mason jar.

The Arctic has multiple tiers in order to keep items dry on top.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The soft coolers were then placed in a room with a controlled temperature of 78 degrees, set up to simulate an average day. After four days, we then viewed and compared the internal temperature data from each cooler. This data is summarized in several graphs that can be viewed in the main article of this review, as well as incorporated into each cooler's overall insulation score. The following graph represents the temperatures within each cooler over the period of four days. Those that lasted longer below 40 and 50 degrees were awarded more points; after all, the purpose of the cooler is to keep things cold. Those with quickly rising temperatures didn't score as well in this metric. These tests allowed us to assess the insulation of each cooler as objectively as possible.

soft cooler - we used a data logger to measure the internal temperature of each...
We used a data logger to measure the internal temperature of each soft cooler.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

Convenience


After using these coolers regularly for months, we got very familiar with each one, including how easy they were to use. We've loaded them with lots of beverages and filled them with perishables. We took them to beach days and on kayak trips. We asked our friends to use them and evaluate them. As part of our convenience test, we gauged the ease of opening and closing each cooler. There are many different styles available, like zippered, clam top, and rollover. Each were deeply evaluated for their simplicity when accessing the internal contents. For example, if there was a zipper, we zipped and unzipped and noted how easy it was to do so.

The zipper on the RTIC Backpack 30 is a bit snug to undo.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Next, we looked at the overall structure of each cooler. Because these models are soft, many have the added benefit of being able to fold down to store easier. As this is a factor that largely differentiates them from hard coolers, we awarded more points to those who stored easier. Finally, we wiped down and scrubbed each model to see how easy it was to clean, along with measuring how long it took to dry afterward.

soft cooler - the rei co-op pack-away 24 folds up flat so you can store it in...
The REI Co-op Pack-Away 24 folds up flat so you can store it in tight places when not in use.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Portability


Portability comes down to weight and handles or straps. Smaller coolers are lighter, so we did our best to leave sheer capacity out of this metric. Instead, we considered the capacity vs. weight of each option and the design elements that make each more or less pleasant to carry. We examined the handles and straps of every model we tested. We judged the overall shape and rigidity as they pressed against us en route to our various destinations. And we carried them everywhere. From the car to the picnic table, to the neighbor's house, across the beach, and up trails to reach summits.

With many styles of soft coolers available, we made sure to test their overall portability.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Packability


We experimented with coolers of different shapes and sizes, noting how easy or difficult each one was to fit all kinds of different possible foods and beverages inside, including a wine bottle. We also noted any awkwardness when it came to the loading and unloading process, such as if the lid closed on our hands while grabbing a drink. Additionally, we evaluated extra pockets and organizational features of each model to make your cooler experience even cooler.

Testing to see if the lid top stays open.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Durability


Testing the durability of an item that is meant to last for years in just a few months is a tall order, but we're up for the challenge. Not only did we use each contender in 'normal' ways, but we also beat them up to see how they stood up to the challenge. We yanked on handles and zippers. We dragged them through sand and mud and left them out in the rain. We tossed them haphazardly and dropped them on rough surfaces. In essence, we did all the things you'd typically try not to do but could happen anyway. We also inspected each cooler for suspect construction or flaws. Then, we put their waterproofing to the test. We filled buckets with water and submerged them for an entire day. We assessed each bag's exterior, noting if water had permeated the fabric. We then opened up the bags to see how much water seeped in, if any. To widen our pool of users, we scoured the internet for other people's complaints and noted those too.

soft cooler - dry bag style coolers need enough space to roll up a few times...
Dry bag style coolers need enough space to roll up a few times, along with a sturdy buckle to keep it all contained.
Credit: Abriah Wofford