CHEYENNE, Wyo. - April 21, 2016 - PRLog -- The top soft coolers of 2016 have been published by the ever expanding review site, OutdoorGearLab. Five models from prominent manufacturers were put through the wringer and compared in comprehensive side-by-side reviews. A team of testers, led by Andrew Schurr, used real-world scenarios to assess the products, toting beer filled containers along to shindigs, shores, campfires and climbing crags. Durability was evaluated over several months of repetitive packing, dragging, zipping and draining. Additionally, product analyzers devised creative ways, such as the ice retention test, to objectively measure specific capabilities of the prototypes. Models were then rated based on their portability, insulation value, durability, and ease of use. At the culmination of this research, an encompassing review was written. The review includes an overall comparative exposition, individual reviews for each product, a buying advice article and a write-up outlining the specifics of the testing process.
The winners are as follows:
Editors' Choice Award - Yeti Hopper 30
The Hopper 30 wins the Editors' Choice award for scoring top marks across multiple measures, excelling at keeping beers cold and for its rugged exterior. It retained the most ice of all contenders when checked after a 72-hour period and soared through the extensive durability tests. Built like a muscle box, it skates the line between hard and soft icebox due to its stiff construction, unfortunately, this makes it less packable than some of the others tested. Reviewer Andrew Schurr claims that, "If you are looking for a rough and ready product that you can take anywhere, put through the wringer and be sure it will keep your stuff cold, then the Hopper 30 is your best bet."
Top Pick Award for Long Distance Carrying: Ice Mule Pro
The Ice Mule Pro was deemed an overall favorite, and earned Top Pick for its long-haul carrying capabilities. While it wasn't the top dog for insulation power, it stood out for both transportability and durability. The padded straps and ventilated back panel contribute to comfy carrying capabilities, making it feeling more like a backpack built for long hikes and adventures. The design is functional with features such as a wide mouth, water tight roll-top closure and an air release valve to keep contents secure. Reviewer Andrew Schurr says, "At the end of the day if you are looking for a durable utilitarian cooler that will help you get your cold beverages from point A to point B, be that the crag, the beach, the campfire, or any other adventure destination, the Ice Mule is your best bet."
Best Buy Award: Polar Bear Coolers 24 Pack
The Polar Bear Coolers 24 Pack schooled the rest of the contenders in terms of its value, winning it the coveted Best Buy award. This icebox performed well across the board and costs four times less than the Editors' Choice award winner. Simple in design, this underdog is surprisingly durable and functional. It brimmed the top of the score board for insulation capabilities. At the end of the 72-hour ice retention test, it preserved only five ounces less than the Editors' Choice award winner. Stand out features include comfy shoulder straps, a quality zipper, and an integrated bottle opener. Lead reviewer Schurr believes that, "For the price you will not find anything that insulates as well and is as easy to use. The Polar Bear 24 Pack is the proverbial everyman's cooler, and earned it Best Buy award."
Operating out of Cheyenne, Wyoming, OutdoorGearLab, LLC offers in-depth gear comparison reviews and informative articles to empower outdoor enthusiasts in their purchasing decisions. Categories span a wide variety of activities such as hiking, climbing, backpacking, cycling, skiing, and running. The site utilizes side-by-side comparative charts to analyze products based on metrics such as durability, ease of use and price point. Testers implement creative methods to determine which products are stand out performers within their category and award them accordingly. To explore this popular online resource, check out outdoorgearlab.com.
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