They're difficult to pull down, even as a full-grown adult. Identify the smartest buys for your buck. This helps to reduce cracking and potential leak paths. Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology, Fish Ruler, and Tie-Down Points - 16.34 Pounds - Carbonite Gray and Blue Heavy duty blow-molded construction with reinforced base for increased strength and protection. That being said, there are currently limited choices for sizes and colors, and for those after the absolute top in performance, these will be a slight step down. Chief among them are a rising number of heavy-duty, roto-molded coolers that deliver thick, dense insulation superior to traditional coolers (and which perform better by leaps and bounds than a soft cooler or cooler bag). I ended up buying the Igloo from GovX as well. To find out, we put these ice chests through our ice retention tests. Reinforced swing-up handles. My only qualm -- that T-shaped handlebar includes comfy rubber grips on the sides, but not in the middle, the spot you'll actually want to hold as you lug it around one-handed. $119.99. Stain and odor resistant. Its also more portable than the Yeti or RTIC. He then decided to leave Gotham for a while after having a parent's association, and later the police, on his case (which resulted in Gordon becoming alcoholic and cheating on his wife) and had to shift his focus on the countryside, spending most of his time in scouts camps, wearing a scout chief uniform over his Batsuit, to cover his identity as the Batman. Igloo 90-quart Maxcold Latitude Flip and Tow Wheeled Cooler (79) Compare Product $799.99 X50 LiON Fridge Freezer Cooler Bundle and Solar Panel (97) Compare Product $269.99 - $379.99 Massimo ENX 12v E Kooler (6) Compare Product More Colors Available $49.99 Titan 50-Can Collapsible Cooler (123) Compare Product $249.99 Surprisingly, or not, brands matter. I'll let you know how it works out. Our cooler is 55 quarts, so we used 41.25 lb. Coleman Antimicrobial Lined Jug/Water Container, . Helpful (3) Not helpful (1) Report. Igloo traditionally is known as a cooler brand with many different styles to choose from. As of 7/2022, the bmx 52 now runs from $120 on sale to $150. How to Clean a Hydration Bladder: 4 Easy Ways Using Household Items. After 48 hours (72 hours for the largest coolers), I had a nifty graph showing me the temperature inside each cooler on a minute-by-minute basis -- and the difference from cooler to cooler was striking. On paper, the Igloo BMX Cooler seems to check most of the boxes for features that we look for in coolers that will hold ice for long periods. The backpack has lots of straps and hitching points, too -- I imagine the target demographic is more hiking-oriented than day-at-the-beach, but in either case, you'll be able to secure extra stuff. But for a cooler to truly be in the same conversation with the top cooler brands on the market, it needs to excel at keeping items cold. We liked that the BMX wasnt as heavy and bulky as the Yeti and RTIC. The build quality is not as robust as the BMX but then again this is one of the cheapest coolers in our list. The easy-to-use, double-latched design means you can open the cooler from either side and, if you'd prefer, you can disengage the latches on both sides to remove the lid altogether. Bear-resistance: The Yeti Tundra line is certified bear-resistant by the IGBC when used with bolts or padlocks. The performance data between this ice chest newcomer and the previous titleholder, the Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler, was nearly identical. In our insulation test, the Steel Belted Cooler held onto ice for nearly as long as the pricier and burlier RTIC 45. Up first, the Yeti Tundra 45. Greenbelly Meals Review: Are They Any Good? The Igloo BMX Coolers have oversized hinges and stainless steel screws to hold the hinges in place. This Coleman cooler isn't much better as far as the design is concerned, although the lid does tend to stay on its hinges when you pull on it, so point Coleman. These sizes hit the normal optimal size ranges that we see most people request. That's what I wanted to know, so I grabbed the usual suspects -- Magellan Outdoors, Coleman, Orca, Igloo, Frosted Frog, Yeti, Pelican, RTIC, Cabela's and more -- and lugged their most popular models into the CNET test lab. It lacks an air/watertight seal, which loses it some points on insulation, and the rubber latches can catch against your leg if you carry it the wrong way around, but it's miles ahead of your old ice bucket or gas station styrofoam. Coleman Xtreme Marine Cooler Overall Score: 8.5 15. To make things easier, we have compiled this cooler comparison chart. Our goal? But outside of this, most of the features are retained across all 3 models. DWYM is your trusted product review source. Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. And can any of the cheaper models keep up? So how does the Igloo BMX 52 cooler compare? I did my best to account for those size differences as I evaluated each cooler's relative performance, but first, I needed to be sure that I had accurate measurements. 4.5 liters of water drained out after leaving 20 pounds of ice inside for 48 hours. Overall, we found little to say against the Yeti Tundra. Locking mechanism: A locking mechanism for the lid is important, not just to prevent spills but also to ensure a good seal and insulation. We typically recommend that these larger coolers be carried by 2 people (particularly if they are filled up with items). I was able to fill the Lifetime High Performance Cooler with 62.4 quarts of water without causing it to overflow when I shut the lid. If you plan to use that feature, look for a cooler sturdy enough to handle it. More Info Buy on Amazon Buy on Amazon Buy on Amazon Contents [ hide] Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler. If the MaxCold is a little too plain for your tastes, you could consider stepping up to the Igloo BMX, a new model for 2019 that costs about $100. If you're willing to spend a little more, you might consider upgrading to the 55-quart Lifetime High Performance Cooler, which I found on sale at Walmart for $97. It has a drain on one side, but other than that, the Coleman Steel Belted Cooler doesnt have much in the way of features. This is a smart move because the cooler may be more prone to slide around without having good grips on these risers. We'll show the testing processes, and Andrew and I have a poolside chat about cooler features. Weve tested thousands of dollars of outdoor gear over the years, and weve developed an eye for quality. I've seen this on products like the Xspec 60qt cooler, Amazon's Commercial 20qt cooler and the Lifetime 55qt high performance cooler. I also took each cooler's design and features into consideration as I tested and kept an eye out for durability concerns. By the end of our testing, it had loosened to the point that simply lifting on the handle was enough to pop the lid open, making the latch essentially useless. Pros: Competitive price, Good ice retention, Nice styling, Well-built, Cons: Limited color options, Not a lot of accessories, Features: Blow-molded construction, T-latches, Stainless steel hardware, Swing-up handles, Threaded drain plug, Skid pads, Fish ruler, Tie-down points, Cool Riser Technology. Magellan Outdoors has a double-latching, double-hinged removable lid and happens to have won our picks for best small and large cooler. Oil Green. Igloo MaxCold Cooler, 50 quarts -- $45 For a fantastic value pick, consider the Igloo MaxCold Cooler, which I scored on sale for just $45. It nearly won our Best Value award, but we were disappointed by the durability issues with the latch and the poor quality of the components and manufacturing. The Igloo brand is well known for its cooler products and has a range of hard and soft-sided models, with the BMX range being very popular (ranging from the smallest BMX 25 cooler to the larger BMX 72). But the best value doesn't have to mean the least amount of money. Ice retention is strong and the build quality leaves nothing to be desired. When you buy something through one of the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. It features corner tie-downs and a fish ruler across the top of the lid. For the 2 larger Igloo BMX Ice Chest sizes (52QT and 72QT), replace the overhead carrying handle with gripped swing-up handles that have reinforced stainless steel. Why elevated? You have a small/personal size for a short outing. The BMX 52 has neat swing-up handles with rubber groups that provide extra protection when carrying. Aside from performance, this Magellan cooler offers plenty of other extras, including quite possibly my favorite lid design: dual-side latches that can double as hinges, allowing you to open the cooler from either side. A cooler this size (around 50 quarts) is great for an extended road trip or a few days away camping. We liked that the Yeti came with a dry goods basket. Performance is important, but design matters, too -- and sometimes, it's a deal-breaker. Oh, and it's certified bear-resistant. I am the Labs Manager for CNET's Home Division based in Louisville, KY. My interest in technology began in the early '90s, and soon after I began my double major in computer science and computer engineering. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of high performance camping coolers, including Xspec, Columbia . Summer is here, and if you appreciate a frosty beverage on a sunny day as much as I do, then you'll want to be sure to have a dependable cooler on hand. It retained ice for up to 2.6 days in 40 degrees Fahrenheit in our insulation test. So glad you asked. To help put this data in perspective, I broke down the coolers into separate size categories after peeling soft-sided coolers into their own category. At $399, the Rovr Rollr 60 was the most expensive cooler that we tested, but when you consider the build, the price makes a little more sense. The Igloo BMX Coolers come with pretty standard features. Coleman sells a boatload of different coolers, including the popular Coleman Xtreme Marine Cooler, which I picked up for $42 at my local Walmart. For example, there are coolers are have been proven to keep food at a safe temperature for up to five days. These would be coolers that are designed to compete with the top brands on the market like Yeti, Orca, Engel, etc. But the Igloo BMX Cooler ramps up the styling. There are three easy ways to reach out: Email: customerservice@shop.igloocoolers.com. On all models, you get big and burly wheels that truly work over a variety of terrain, a long pull handle, and you can even attach this cooler to the back of a bike (BikR Kit attachment sold separately for $70). Now we will discuss some of the other features that arent directly tied to toughness. Other helpful features include a strong latching system and a quality rubber gasket to help seal in cold air. I do like that. The lack of a drain is also a bummer, although the 52-quart version does have a drain. As a matter of fact, at $220, this cooler is currently the cheapest of any cooler in either our midsize or large cooler category, with the exception of the Igloo BMX 52qt Cooler, which happened to be the poorest performer of the aforementioned categories. We put each cooler through the wringer to see how they would hold up to serious abuse. And now is the perfect time to look for a new cooler. RovR RollR Wheeled Camping Rolling Cooler. All rights reserved. Still, the RTIC barely flinched at our durability tests. The fact that they are one of the most popular cooler brands to ever exist is good evidence of that! Considering the performance, this is a steal compared to comparable coolers. The different model sizes and available colors on Yeti Coolers are seemingly endless. This can come in handy whether youre on a boat or enjoying a day at the park. Some are good, some are bad and some are just nonexistent. So which cooler is better? It's also treated with UV inhibitors to prevent materials from degrading from long-term sun exposure. Coolers come in varying sizes, even among specific brands and models. These latches are very similar in feel/texture to t-latches that other brands have been using. Polar Bear Coolers Overall Score: 8.6 12. It's the perfect cooler to use as a second fridge or cold storage for an event. Traditionally, Igloo has competed in the budget and mid-range categories. We will go into this more in the next section. All the parts are made of rust-resistant stainless steel. There were also a couple of spots on the cooler where it appeared that the insulation (or something) oozed out from the seams. None are included with their coolers. The side handles arent the most durable, either. Plastic handles like those found on many cheap coolers were flimsy and made transport difficult. They shine where portability and convenience are priorities. 30-40 liters is perfect for short camping trips or for one person. We are real fans of this tough-look style of cooler, and the BMX 52 backs up its heavy-duty styling withheavy-duty blow moulded construction and thick insulated walls (although not as thick as the more expensive Yeti models). The Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler is the perfect cooling companion for your next outdoor adventure. Coolers with removable lids tend to be cheaper coolers that aren't going to perform in the top percentile -- with one exception I've found so far. Paired with our test lab facilities, I write about lots of outdoor related things - portable power stations, tools, etc. But they do come in with the great asking price that you expect from Igloo. A compact little cooler perfect for solo trips out camping or fishing, the. Inside the lid, you will find an oversized rubber gasket for helping to seal. The BMX 25 that we tested was an excellent drink cooler, perfect for packing along extra brews on a camping trip or leaving in the car to have some cold drinks after an adventure. It's all more than enough for me to recommend the healthiest possible dose of skepticism if you ever find yourself tempted to back a campaign like that with your cold hard cash. Even though the 52 is a lower-priced model it is still a great specified cooler. But this is to be expected considering that you are getting superior build quality, features, durability, and ice retention. For that reason, many newer coolers come with bilge drains, allowing you to release the water from the bottom of the cooler. Electric coolers are basically portable mini-fridges, and theyre best for those who are truly serious about their cooling needs. But they also expect them to cost more than their competitors. RTIC makes dividers and baskets that you can purchase separately. Specifically, I wanted to track the ambient temperature in each cooler, so I spread the ice in each one I tested beneath an elevated jar of propylene glycol solution (watered-down antifreeze) with a temperature probe in it. The worst offender, offering only 65 percent of its claimed 30-quart capacity, was the Tourit Backpack Cooler. Reviews ethics statement. Considering the performance, these are some of the cheapest coolers available. It has relatively thick rotomolded walls, a larger rubber gasket for sealing, and a strong latch system for providing a lot of squeezes. As convenient as the space is, coolers will get much heavier when theyre loaded down. If you want a cooler thats easier to carry around, consider one like the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Cooler. Typically, the larger the cooler, the more ice it can hold, and ultimately the longer the ice lasts. The Igloo BMX 52 is a great value model when compared to more generic-looking coolers of this size and it should definitely be one that you add to your cooler shopping list. Still, the handles were comfortable to hold and relatively easy for one person to carry. They held the lid securely, but we could pry it open a few millimeters, which wasnt the case with the Yeti. Although the MaxCold is a rolling cooler it comes with handles as you would expect on a non-wheeled cooler. Dry goods basket (aka cooler basket): Cooler baskets keep your food suspended above the ice. Read our Magellan Outdoors Dual Open 20qt Cooler review. This size is large enough to handle bigger outings such as a picnic or tailgate. While the coolers body and latches felt solidly constructed and held up well, some of the plastic components werent quite as well-made. I also liked that the interior comes with a divider that makes it easy to keep items you don't want getting wet separate from the ice and that you can customize it with different interior liner designs. Depending on which model you go with and the specific application that you plan to put it through, you should anticipate ice life that ranges from around 2 days up to almost a week. A really interesting comparison can be made when looking at Yetis Tundra series coolers and the Igloo BMX Coolers. Many premium models are fully leak-proof and can hold their own against the insulation of hard-sided coolers. Dont be surprised if all the ice you put inside the Xtreme melts during a weekend camping trip. Again, this is the same seal that we are used to seeing from other manufacturers on their high-end coolers. Check other stores. They felt frighteningly fragile when carrying the cooler. Are ice life, insulation and versatility more significant? And overall, they are quite good at that. 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Was the Tourit Backpack cooler RTIC 45 coolers have oversized hinges and stainless steel to!
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