Let’s Talk About Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless coolers come and go. But the Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models, from the renowned Pelican brand, immediately caught my attention with its promise of extreme ice retention and rugged durability. Its sleek design and the Pelican name hinted at a premium product built to withstand the harshest conditions, and the guaranteed for life warranty sealed the deal.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a cooler that could keep ice frozen for extended backcountry trips. My typical coolers would leave me with a soggy mess after just a few days, forcing me to ration food and water carefully. I needed a cooler that could handle the demands of week-long expeditions into the wilderness.
Unboxing the Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models, my initial impression was one of solid, robust construction. The white and gray color scheme is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, reflecting sunlight and minimizing heat absorption. The heft of the cooler, while substantial, conveyed a sense of quality and indicated the presence of significant insulation.
Compared to my previous cooler, a Coleman Xtreme 70 qt, the Pelican IM Elite Cooler felt significantly more robust. While the Coleman served adequately for shorter trips, its ice retention paled in comparison to Pelican’s claims. I also considered a Yeti Tundra 65, but the Pelican IM Elite Cooler’s lifetime guarantee and slightly larger capacity tipped the scales in its favor.
My first impression was definitely excitement. I was eager to put the Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models to the test and see if it lived up to its claims of superior ice retention.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models through its paces on a week-long fishing trip in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) of northern Minnesota. The BWCAW is known for its pristine lakes, challenging portages, and unpredictable weather. I filled the cooler with ice, food, and beverages, and subjected it to the rigors of canoe travel and backcountry camping.
The cooler performed admirably, even in challenging conditions. Temperatures fluctuated between 50°F and 80°F, and the cooler was exposed to both sun and rain. Despite the varying weather, the ice remained frozen solid for the first five days, and only began to melt significantly on day six and seven.
The cooler was surprisingly easy to use. The wide, gloved-use latches made opening and closing the cooler a breeze, even with wet hands. The molded-in tie-downs were also invaluable for securing the cooler in the canoe during portages.
The only minor issue I encountered was the cooler’s weight when fully loaded. It required two people to comfortably carry it over the longer portages.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has accompanied me on numerous camping trips, hunting expeditions, and even a few tailgating events. The cooler continues to perform as expected, consistently delivering exceptional ice retention.
The cooler has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The durable polyethylene construction has resisted scratches and dents, and the stainless steel hardware remains corrosion-free. A few scuff marks are present, but they don’t detract from the overall appearance or functionality of the cooler.
Cleaning the cooler is a simple process. The sloped drain and tethered threaded plug make it easy to drain melted ice and water. A quick scrub with soap and water is all it takes to remove any dirt or grime.
Compared to my previous coolers, the Pelican IM Elite Cooler significantly outperforms them in terms of ice retention and durability. It has exceeded my expectations and proven to be a worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
The Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models boasts impressive specifications that contribute to its exceptional performance.
- Up to 10 days ice retention: This is achieved through a combination of thick insulation and a freezer-grade gasket.
- Freezer Grade Gasket: Provides a tight seal, preventing warm air from entering the cooler.
- 2″ Polyurethane Insulation: Thick insulation is key to minimizing heat transfer and maximizing ice retention.
- Dual Handle System (Molded-in & Hinged Handles): Offers multiple carrying options for added convenience.
- Press & Pull Latches (Wide for Gloved Use): Easy to open and close, even when wearing gloves.
- Molded-In Tie Downs: Allows for secure attachment to vehicles, boats, or other equipment.
- Non-Skid & Non-Marking Raised Feet: Prevents the cooler from sliding around and protects surfaces from scratches.
- Molded-In Lock Hasp, Stainless Steel Plate: Provides a secure point for locking the cooler to prevent theft or unwanted access.
- Sloped Drain & Tethered Threaded Plug (Garden Hose Attachable): Simplifies draining and cleaning the cooler.
- Corrosion Resistant Stainless Steel Hardware: Ensures long-lasting durability, even in harsh environments.
- Integrated Fish Scale on Lid: A handy feature for anglers to measure their catch.
- Guaranteed for life: Pelican’s lifetime warranty provides peace of mind.
- Made in specialized factories: Ensures high quality standards.
- Custom Color Program: Allows for personalization (although only White/Gray reviewed here).
These specifications are crucial for ensuring optimal performance and user experience. The thick insulation and freezer-grade gasket are essential for achieving exceptional ice retention. The durable construction and stainless steel hardware ensure that the cooler can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Performance & Functionality
The Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models excels in its primary function: keeping contents cold for extended periods. The 10-day ice retention claim is ambitious, but realistic under optimal conditions. In my testing, the cooler consistently kept ice frozen for at least five days, even in hot weather.
The cooler’s strengths lie in its robust construction, exceptional insulation, and user-friendly design. The only area that could be improved is the weight, which can be significant when the cooler is fully loaded.
The Pelican IM Elite Cooler meets and, in some cases, exceeds expectations. Its ability to maintain ice for extended periods makes it an invaluable asset for any outdoor enthusiast.
Design & Ergonomics
The Pelican IM Elite Cooler’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The polyethylene construction is incredibly durable, and the white and gray color scheme is both stylish and practical. The weight of the cooler, while substantial, is a testament to its robust build quality.
The cooler is remarkably user-friendly. The wide, gloved-use latches are easy to operate, and the molded-in tie-downs provide secure attachment points. The sloped drain and tethered threaded plug simplify draining and cleaning the cooler. There is no real learning curve; it is intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models is built to last. Its durable polyethylene construction and stainless steel hardware are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. With proper care and maintenance, this cooler should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the cooler is a straightforward process. Regular cleaning with soap and water is all that is required to keep it in good condition. The lifetime guarantee provides further assurance of the cooler’s long-term durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pelican IM Elite Cooler comes with a tethered drain plug. While there are no major customization options for this model beyond the custom color program (availability may vary), its compatibility with generic cooler accessories, like dividers and baskets, means additional organization within is possible. Be sure to check Pelican’s website or authorized retailers for the most up-to-date information on available accessories.
Pros and Cons of Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Exceptional Ice Retention: Keeps contents cold for extended periods, even in hot weather.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- User-Friendly Design: Easy to use and maintain.
- Lifetime Guarantee: Provides peace of mind and assurance of quality.
- Secure Latches & Tie-Downs: Keeps contents secure and the cooler in place.
Cons
- Weight: Can be heavy when fully loaded.
- Price: Higher initial cost compared to some other coolers (but justified by the quality and features).
Who Should Buy Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models?
This cooler is perfect for serious outdoor enthusiasts, including hunters, anglers, campers, and anyone who needs to keep food and beverages cold for extended periods. It’s ideal for backcountry trips, multi-day hunting expeditions, and long fishing trips.
Those who prioritize lightweight gear or are on a tight budget might want to consider other options. Cheaper coolers exist, but will likely sacrifice ice retention and longevity.
A must-have accessory would be cooler ice packs or gel packs to supplement the initial ice load.
Conclusion on Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models
The Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models is a top-tier cooler that delivers exceptional performance and durability. While the initial cost may seem high, the cooler’s long-term reliability and superior ice retention make it a worthwhile investment.
The price is definitely justified given its performance and the peace of mind provided by the lifetime guarantee. This is not a cheap cooler, but rather an investment in keeping your goods cold.
I would highly recommend the Pelican IM Elite Cooler to anyone who needs a reliable and durable cooler for their outdoor adventures. It is a product that lives up to its promises and will provide years of reliable service. So, ditch the cheap coolers and upgrade to the Pelican IM Elite Cooler, White/Gray, 70 qt – 1 out of 2 models – you won’t regret it!