3 Reasons Hard Coolers Beat Soft Coolers for Ice Retention

Thick, rigid insulation traps cold better Hard coolers use rotomolded plastic or thick foam, which insulates far more effectively than the thin foam or fabric layers found in soft coolers.

Zippers leak warm air Soft coolers rely on zippers, which let warm air seep in. Hard coolers use latches or gaskets that seal tightly, keeping cold air inside.

Soft coolers are for short trips only If you need ice to last all day in hot weather or overnight on a camping trip, choose a hard cooler. Soft coolers are fine for carrying lunch to the office or a quick beach trip, but they won’t keep ice solid for long.