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 Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is a strong contender for those in need of a reliable cooler for outdoor activities like picnics, camping, or tailgating. With a capacity to carry up to 20 cans or 12 pounds of ice, it strikes a good balance between size and storage, making it ideal for small gatherings. One of its standout features is the MagShield Access, which utilizes strong magnets to ensure that the cooler is not only easy to open but also leak-resistant when closed, minimizing mess and hassle.

In terms of insulation, the ColdCell foam does an impressive job of keeping your drinks chilled for hours, which is a big plus when you're out in the sun. The durable DryHide shell adds another layer of protection, resisting punctures and UV rays, so you can rely on it for years of use.

Portability is a key strength as well, thanks to its backpack design, allowing you to carry your cooler hands-free. It also features a Kangaroo pocket, providing easy access to smaller items like your phone or wallet.

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.