10 Best Soft Insulated Coolers 2025 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack cooler is designed for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or picnics, with a focus on portability and durability. It can carry up to 20 cans or 12 pounds of ice, which suits small groups or day trips rather than large gatherings. Its ColdCell insulation uses closed-cell foam, known for keeping contents cold for extended periods, which means your food and drinks stay chilled efficiently. The cooler’s DryHide nylon shell is tough, resisting punctures and UV damage, making it reliable for rough outdoor use.

The MagShield Access feature uses strong magnets to create a leak-resistant seal that also stays open when you want easy access, making it convenient and preventing spills. Since it’s a backpack style, it’s easy to carry hands-free, and the external Kangaroo pocket adds handy storage for essentials like keys or a phone. The capacity is modest compared to larger soft coolers, so it might not be enough if you need to store more food or drinks.

This cooler is highly durable and well-insulated, making it a solid choice if you want a tough, portable cooler that keeps items cold and dry during active outdoor adventures. However, the price may be on the higher side for casual users, and it is less ideal if you need to carry large quantities or want a budget option.

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler in Cosmic Lilac is a robust and versatile cooler suitable for various outdoor activities like picnics, fishing, camping, and hiking. It boasts a capacity of holding up to 36 cans of beverages or 22 pounds of ice, making it spacious enough for most needs. The ColdCell insulation ensures excellent cold retention, keeping your items frosty for extended periods. The MAGSHIELD Access system, with its powerful magnets, creates an ultra-leak-resistant shield that is easy to open and close, adding convenience and security against spills.

The high-density DryHide Shell fabric is notable for its durability, standing strong against punctures and UV rays, which means it's built to last through tough conditions. With a weight of 6 pounds, it is relatively easy to carry, especially with the backpack design, allowing hands-free transport. The Hitchpoint Grid offers utility by enabling users to attach additional gear like the included Sidekick Dry Gear Case or other YETI accessories.

The cooler might be on the pricier side, and its weight, while manageable, could be a bit heavy when fully loaded. Additionally, its capacity at 5.2 gallons might not be sufficient for larger group outings. Nevertheless, for those looking for a highly durable, well-insulated, and versatile cooler, the YETI Hopper M20 is a strong contender.

The YETI Hopper M15 Portable Soft Cooler in Agave Teal is designed for beach trips, boating, and hiking. It features a notable MagShield Access, using durable magnets for an ultra leak-resistant seal that easily opens and closes. The cooler's ColdCell Insulation, made of closed-cell foam, effectively maintains cold temperatures, ensuring your drinks and snacks stay chilled. With a capacity to hold up to 32 cans or 15.5 pounds of ice, it offers substantial storage for a portable cooler.

The DryHide Shell, made from high-density fabric, is built to resist punctures and UV rays, enhancing its durability, while the exterior Kangaroo Pocket provides convenient storage for small items like phones and keys. Weighing 3.49 kilograms, it is relatively heavy for a soft cooler, which may impact its portability for some users. Additionally, the hand-wash only care instructions might be seen as a drawback for those preferring low-maintenance products.

Despite these minor issues, the YETI Hopper M15 stands out in terms of its insulation, leak-proof design, and durability, making it a suitable choice for those who need a reliable cooler for outdoor adventures.