Whether picnicking, hiking, fishing or camping, a soft sided cooler is a go-to pick for keeping snacks and cool drinks at hand. Explore the range of soft sided coolers at Ace Hardware from YETI, Kanga, Carhartt and other trusted brands built for outdoor use.
What to Look for in a Soft Sided Cooler
Soft sided coolers balance portability with insulated performance, so the right pick depends on how you plan to use it. Key features to weigh include:
- Insulated walls and lining: Closed cell foam paired with a waterproof lining is designed to help maintain cold temperatures for several hours.
- Closure style: Flip top lids can help provide quick access to drinks, while zippered closures may help seal in cold air on longer outings.
- Carrying method: Options may include basic handles, padded shoulder straps for hands-free comfort or backpack-style designs suited to hikes and longer outings.
- Collapsible construction: Many soft sided builds are designed to fold flat between trips, making them practical for trunks, cabinets or RVs.
- Exterior durability: Tough fabric shells and rain defender finishes can support use in wet, sandy or rugged conditions.
Matching Cooler Capacity to Your Trip
Soft sided coolers are often measured by how many cans they can hold, with mini styles typically storing up to 12 cans and larger builds holding close to 45. Quart capacities may range from compact 8 quart options for solo outings up to 42 quart builds for group days. Use the quick reference below to narrow your pick:
| Capacity | Best For | Typical Use |
|---|
| 8 to 12 qt | Solo outings, short trips | Lunches, fishing, errands |
| 18 to 24 qt | Couples, small groups | Day hikes, beach days |
| 30 to 42 qt | Larger groups | Tailgates, camping, parties |
Pair Your Cooler with Accessories
Ice packs, drain plugs and replacement straps from the cooler accessories selection can help extend ice life and keep contents organized. For personal hydration on the trail or at the campsite, pair your cooler with water bottles and travel mugs to round out your outdoor setup.
How Long Does Ice Last in a Soft Sided Cooler?
Ice retention typically depends on insulation thickness, ambient temperature and how often the lid is opened. Many quality soft sided coolers can hold ice for 12 to 36 hours when pre chilled and packed with a high ice to content ratio. Adding extra ice packs or limiting lid openings can help extend cooling time.
How Do You Clean a Soft Sided Cooler?
Most soft sided coolers can be wiped down with a mixture of mild soap and warm water using a soft cloth on both the interior lining and exterior fabric. Avoid harsh chemicals that may break down waterproof coatings or fabric finishes. Letting the cooler air dry completely with the lid or zipper open can help reduce the risk of mold or mildew.
Shop Soft Sided Coolers Near You at Ace Hardware
Shopping online offers the convenience of browsing the full selection from home with fast shipping options. Visiting your local store allows you to compare sizes in person and get helpful advice from knowledgeable staff in the outdoor living department. Shop soft sided coolers near you at Ace Hardware to find the right pick for your next adventure.
For broader cooler styles including hard sided and wheeled options, browse the full coolers department or shop dedicated YETI and Igloo collections to find the right fit for your next adventure.
