Keen: A Strategy for Making a Positive Impact on the Planet
Outdoor Activities | November 28, 2024
SAIL
August 2, 2024
Do you appreciate a good meal and always having cold drinks at hand when you’re camping, out fishing on a lake, or on a hunting trip? If so, then you need a cooler that is sturdy, practical, and, above all, reliable. We’re here to help you navigate the wide range of models available on the market with our list of the best hard-sided coolers from Yeti, Genie, SAIL, Coleman, and Pelican. Read on!
In this article, you will learn all about the best hard-sided coolers for your outdoor adventures:
When you’re looking to choose the best cooler, a good starting point is to consider the activities you will use it for, the minimum and maximum capacity you need, and how you plan to carry it. Do you want to keep your midday picnic cool during your hikes, or preserve all your ingredients for family weekend barbecues at your seasonal camping spot?
There are different types of coolers to suit different needs: hard-sided, soft-sided, or backpack.Once you have assessed your needs, there are four key criteria you can use to compare the coolers available on the market: the durability of the materials (shell, opening system, straps, etc.), their lightness, the capacity, and the cold-keeping performance.
Next, consider each cooler’s specific features (height to hold a bottle of wine upright, one-hand opening system, drain plug, moulded handles, etc.) and added comfort options (built-in bottle opener, padded shoulder straps, cup holders, etc.).Here we present eight models that belong to the hard-sided cooler category, so you can choose according to your needs.
An iconic and highly popular brand among the most demanding outdoor enthusiasts, Yeti has been designing coolers (among other things) for almost 20 years. Its products are recognized for their durability, thoughtful design, and very cool style. The brand’s star model is the Tundra cooler, with its extra-thick FatWall design and PermaFrost insulation ensuring unparalleled ice conservation. Its rotomolded construction also makes it one of the most durable coolers – virtually indestructible, in fact. Last but not least, the InterLock lid system creates an airtight barrier against extreme temperatures, while the ColdLock gasket around the entire surface of the lid blocks out the heat and locks in the cold. Prepare to be enchanted by the vibrant King Crab orange colour!
The Tundra cooler is available at SAIL in 35 L, 45 L, 50 L (Haul), 65 L and 75 L sizes.
Read all our tips here to find out what you need to pack for the ultimate camping cookouts.
Did you know that there’s a Canadian brand offering a clever, durable cooler with a unique and carefully crafted design? For now, Genie is focusing on a single model: the Pioneer 65 L hard-sided cooler, which is packed with outstanding features. These features include the Airgel insulated cover for optimal cold preservation, the T-shaped closing latches, and the wide seal in the lid for maximum airtightness. There are also strategically placed dividers to keep your items in place, along with an adjustable drain to easily remove water. Last but not least, a built-in light in the cover automatically lights up in the dark, so you can view what’s inside your cooler at any time of day. Ingenious, isn’t it?
Available in 65 L size.
Whatever your activities may be, and no matter what the weather holds, you can keep your food and drinks cold with the SAIL brand’s Cool cooler. Constructed from 100% polyethylene with polyurethane foam insulation, this model is very robust and affordably priced. In addition to its excellent quality-price ratio, it comes with handles on both sides for easy carrying, a secure latch closure, a drain plug, and a basket and cutting board so you’re always ready for aperitif time!
Available in 42 L size.
Looking for camping meal ideas? Read our list of suggestions here.
No need to introduce Coleman, a must-have brand for camping and outdoor activities in general. Its products are very durable and offer great value for the price. Case in point: the Series 316 hard coolers, which are available in various large capacities and made with 15% less plastic than similar Coleman hard-sided coolers. Wheeled models also have the advantage of being equipped with sturdy wheels and a tow handle, making it easy to cover long distances between your car and your outdoor destination. What’s more, the drain plug resists leaks, the coating resists stains, and the EZ-Clean lid makes cleaning a breeze. This cooler is certainly an excellent ally for all your activities.
Pelican boldly promises that its Elite coolers are built to last a lifetime, offering superior performance and durability when compared to others. From the press-and-pull latches to the freezer-grade seal and the sturdiest handles in the industry, they are built with durability and ergonomic design in mind, in accordance with the highest standards of quality. In addition to luxurious extras like a built-in bottle opener and integrated cup holders in the lid, the Elite coolers also come with a lifetime guarantee from the manufacturer. What more could you ask for?