4 Things to Know About Hard vs. Soft Coolers

Hard coolers keep ice longer Thick rotomolded walls and a gasket seal make hard coolers far better at ice retention. If you need ice to last more than a few hours, choose hard.

Soft coolers are for short trips Thin foam and a zippered top limit insulation. A good soft cooler keeps drinks cold for four to six hours in moderate heat, which is fine for a picnic or grocery run.

Soft coolers are portable They weigh almost nothing and fold flat when empty. Hard coolers are heavy and bulky but double as a seat or bear-proof container.

Soft coolers are harder to clean They leak more and are impossible to clean well. Hard coolers are easier to maintain and more durable overall.