Best Soft Sided Coolers

The boat crews on “The Deadliest Catch” need to stay calm – and keep their bounty chilled until reaching port.  Even when life isn’t on the line, there’s no reason not to set sail with a capable portable cooler to hike, paddle and camp.  Active Junky’s reeled in three trip-worthy options.

Yeti Hopper

Yeti Hopper Two 20 $282.00 - $286.50 Totally leak-proof, this soft-sided carrier takes a hard line on guarding contents for days—not merely hours. Active Junky tossed and dragged Hopper around with no fabric, zipper or strap failure. With 4.6 gallons of capacity tucked inside Coldcell insulation, the tapered design stems cold loss while keeping the cooler agile enough to tote. If brew is your cargo, 12 cans plus ice seal the deal for a long weekend.

Best For: Overnight and weekend trips, a complement to full-on chest coolers

Ice Mule Pro Cooler (Large)

Ice Mule Pro Cooler Starting at: $93.96

One of Active Junky’s athletes is well regarded in SUP circles as he dances down rapids and powers across open water. This cooler is his pick, one that comes in three sizes: 20L, 30L and 40L. The 1000-denior exterior fabric, 65lb-rated seams and a comfortable backpack strap system make Ice Mule his on-board favorite. Not limited to the water, Pro Cooler rides strong on single-track and hiking trails in the Rockies and beyond for day-long dominance in sun-kissed settings.

Best For: Day trips, a combination of beverages and food in hotter environments

evrgrn 24 Pack Backpack Cooler

evrgrn 24 Pack Backpack Cooler

With enough weather and abrasion resistance to make it from parking lot to campsite or concert blanket, evrgrn is purpose built for can-centric hydration. More about the occasion than survival scenarios or outback outcomes, the pack strolls into the moment with credible style and features; a removable insulated liner bag is easy to clean and an interior zipped pocket holds essentials. Part of a system, the exterior straps offer compatibility with the brand’s rug or tablecloth. Drink up with a cooler built for gathering and sharing along life’s winding road.

Best For: Casual use, short-haul day or overnight events