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AO Coolers High-Density Insulation Original Soft Cooler

Last updated: August 13, 2023


Zip the top shut and fold the corners down for a low-profile look that actually removes some of the thermal inefficiencies of a wide-mouth cooler. The larger opening makes it really convenient to grab things out of the cooler and the straps and hardware are built to last through lots of use.

AO Coolers High-Density Insulation Original Soft Cooler
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We looked at the top Small Coolers and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Small Cooler you should buy.

AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation, Charcoal, 24-Can

AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation, Charcoal, 24-Can
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$85.95

Product Details

Key Takeaway: The wide mouth makes getting things out of the cooler a breeze, but the thoughtful design of the folding top flap really stands out.

In our analysis of 197 expert reviews, the AO Coolers High-Density Insulation Original Soft Cooler placed 9th when we looked at the top 19 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

AO Coolers are the ultimate soft-sided coolers. AO Coolers are guaranteed to never leak or sweat because of the high-quality TPU liner. The inner insulation is 3/4″ thick, high-density, closed cell foam. This combination creates a cooler that will hold ice for 24 hours in 120° heat. Plus the soft exterior won’t scratch your gel coat or tear up any upholstery. The popular AO Canvas Cooler is the perfect companion for a day on the boat, hunting and fishing trips, your favorite sports event, a picnic, or just bringing a dish to a potluck. The amazing AO Canvas Cooler keeps things warm as well as cold. Features twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers, removable shoulder strap, clip-down ends, a side pocket for dry items, and a leak-proof liner. Meets airplane carry-on requirements.

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Expert Reviews


What reviewers liked

The AO Canvas Series 24-Pack Soft Cooler has decent insulation, fine construction, and a flexible design similar to that of the Polar Bear at a reasonable price.
- New York Times Wirecutter
Roomy and easy to close and clean. Insulation quality is comparable to that of pricier coolers. Excellent value.
- BestReviews
It has a soft pocket to keep dry items; you’ll find it essential to stow keys, wallet and other accessories you wouldn’t want to get mixed with food and drinks.
- Coolers Junkie
The Canvas Soft Cooler from AO Coolers is guaranteed to hold ice for 24 hours in up to 120-degree weather—now that’s impressive!
- WFMY News 2
It is able to keep ice frozen for 24 hours in those high-temperature days. It does a fairly good job of keeping food and beverages cool.
- Dotbeasts
And a motorcyclist fan who apparently is riding through hell-like conditions adds, “I rode in 100-107 degree weather for a full day’s ride (8 hours or more) many times on my 3500-mile ride on my Harley and by the end of the day the ice packs were still very much frozen and my water bottles icy cold.”
- New York Mag
The AO Canvas comes in a variety of color and capacity options to suit your needs, and features a leakproof liner that keeps the cold and moisture where you want it.
- Wiki EZ Vid
Immediately, we’re gripped by the durable and secure zippers which can handle packing it to the brim, while the dural storage options offer versatility and makes it easy to separate essentials from food and drink that can wait until you hit the camp.
- In Stash
The bag is made out of a soft polyester canvas that makes it stain-resistant but soft enough to not scratch your skin when you carry it.
- Cooler List
Between the design, ease of carrying, overall strength, and ability to stay cool for a long period, this is definitely one of the best soft coolers out there.
- Guy Stop Travel
The cooler has a wide mouth zipper and an external front pocket. The pocket can be used to store small items like bottle opener and cutlery.
- Travel Gear Zone
All in all, though, we're quite happy with the insulation performance of the AO, which is better than we expected.
- Outdoor Gear Lab
The Canvas cooler uses a large mouth design to make it easy to put drinks or food in the bag without feeling like trying to get jawbreakers out of a glass jar.
- Best Cooler
What makes this cooler our pick is the 3/4-inch insulation and the durable exterior lining, whether you choose the canvas, vinyl, or woven vinyl model.
- Business Insider

What reviewers didn't like

With the AO, we weren’t entirely satisfied by its size, especially compared with the other 24-pack models in the test.
- New York Times Wirecutter
A few users feel the shape is awkward. Occasional reports of quality issues with zipper and lining.
- BestReviews
A number of users caution that the strap is not as strong as it could be.
- New York Mag
Quite expensive
- Guy Stop Travel
Its single-shoulder carry style with a full load is hard to enjoy for long distances.
- Outdoor Gear Lab
A small group of reviewers also found inconsistencies and loose stitches, which I'm now convinced happens with some frequency, and the basic YKK zipper also leads me to believe it doesn't quite stack up to the Yeti.
- Business Insider

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View our Small Cooler buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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