Soft Cooler vs. No-Zip Cooler: Which Keeps Drinks Cold Longer?

Quick answer

If maximum ice retention is your priority, choose a performance soft cooler like the 18 Liter/20 Can Performance Soft Cooler. For quick access and convenience on day trips, the FlipBack 24 Can No-Zip Magnetic Cooler is a solid choice, but it won't keep ice as long.

Ice retention: the core difference

The biggest trade-off between these coolers is how long they keep contents cold. The 18 Liter/20 Can Performance Soft Cooler uses CORE HYPERCOLD™ insulation with high-density EVA foam and reflective mylar film to keep contents chilled up to 3.5 days. The 10 Liter/12 Can Performance Soft Cooler Tote uses CORE COOL™ insulation and offers up to 2.5 days of ice retention. In contrast, the FlipBack 24 Can No-Zip Magnetic Cooler delivers 24+ hours of ice retention—enough for a day trip but not for extended weekends.

If you're camping for multiple days or need to keep perishables cold for a long weekend, the performance soft coolers are the clear winners. For a day at the lake or a tailgate, the FlipBack's 24-hour performance is likely sufficient.

The trade-off is convenience: the FlipBack's magnetic lid provides quick access without zippers, while the soft coolers feature a patented TRU® Zip waterproof zipper that takes a bit more effort to open and close but ensures a leakproof seal.

Durability and leakproof design

Both the 18 Liter and 10 Liter soft coolers are built with a rugged TPU shell that is abrasion and puncture resistant, and they feature fully welded seams inside and out for a 100% leakproof guarantee. The FlipBack has a leakproof, food-safe hard liner, but it lacks the welded seams and TPU shell of the soft coolers, which may make it less durable for rough use.

If you plan to toss your cooler into a boat, truck bed, or campsite, the TPU construction of the soft coolers offers more peace of mind. The FlipBack is better suited for lighter, everyday use where you don't expect heavy wear and tear.

Portability and convenience

The FlipBack 24 Can No-Zip Magnetic Cooler is designed for quick access: the MagSnap® magnetic lid opens easily and a one-handed latch keeps it secure on the go. It also has multiple pockets and carry options, making it a great grab-and-go choice for sports events or picnics.

The soft coolers, especially the 10 Liter Tote, are also portable but require unzipping the TRU® Zip to access contents. The 18 Liter model is larger and may be bulkier, but it offers more capacity and superior cold retention.

Consider how often you'll open the cooler and how much you value one-handed access. If you're constantly reaching for a drink, the FlipBack's magnetic lid is a game-changer. If you prioritize cold retention over access speed, the soft coolers are better.

Trade-offs at a glance

• Ice retention vs. access speed: Choose a performance soft cooler (18L or 10L) if you need ice to last 2.5 to 3.5 days. Choose the FlipBack if you value quick, one-handed access over longer cold retention. Match the cooler to your trip length: multi-day = soft cooler, day trip = FlipBack.
• Durability vs. weight: The soft coolers feature a rugged TPU shell and welded seams for maximum durability. The FlipBack has a hard liner but lacks the TPU shell, making it lighter but less rugged. If you expect rough handling, the TPU soft coolers are worth the extra weight.
• Capacity vs. portability: The 18L soft cooler holds 20 cans and is bulkier; the 10L tote holds 12 cans and is more portable; the FlipBack holds 24 cans and offers multiple carry options. Consider how many cans you need and how you'll carry the cooler: tote handles, shoulder strap, or backpack style.

Product facts

• 18 Liter/20 Can Performance Soft Cooler: CORE HYPERCOLD™ Insulation keeps contents chilled up to 3.5 days, using high-density EVA foam and reflective mylar film. This is the best option if you need ice to last for a multi-day camping trip or long weekend.

  

• 10 Liter/12 Can Performance Soft Cooler Tote: CORE COOL™ Insulation keeps contents chilled up to 2.5 days, also using high-density EVA foam and reflective mylar film. It offers nearly as long ice retention as the larger model but in a more portable tote format, ideal for shorter trips.

  

• FlipBack 24 Can No-Zip Magnetic Cooler: MagSnap® magnetic lid provides quick access with a one-handed latch, and delivers 24+ hours of ice retention. This is the go-to for day trips where convenience and speed matter more than multi-day ice retention.

Which cooler fits you?

Best for

• Campers and tailgaters who need ice to last 2.5 days or more
• Anyone who prioritizes durability and leakproof construction for rugged outdoor use

Not for

• Day-trippers who want quick access without dealing with zippers
• Those who need to carry more than 20 cans and prefer a lighter option