First Thoughts on the PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART
The PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART promises rugged durability and impressive ice retention, a critical combination for anyone serious about outdoor adventures. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless coolers come and go, making bold claims, but few truly deliver under pressure. The PELICAN brand has a reputation for quality, and I was eager to see if this smaller offering lived up to the hype.
My need for a cooler of this size stemmed from solo backcountry trips where space and weight are paramount. I needed something smaller than my larger 65-quart cooler, but more robust than a cheap, flimsy cooler that wouldn’t last a season.
The initial unboxing was impressive. The PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART felt incredibly solid and well-built. The hunter green and tan color combination is aesthetically pleasing and practical, blending well with natural environments. The leg cut-out design is a unique feature I haven’t seen on many coolers in this class. This cooler felt significantly more substantial than competing models like the Yeti Roadie 24 or the RTIC 20, which I considered before settling on the PELICAN. I chose the PELICAN based on its reputation for durability and its unique leg cut-out design. I was immediately excited to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART on a three-day solo fishing trip in the Ozark Mountains. The cooler endured bumpy gravel roads, humid conditions, and direct sunlight for hours. I pre-chilled the cooler the night before and packed it with ice, drinks, and food.
Even after the first day, the ice retention was impressive, with minimal melting. The cooler was easy to carry, even fully loaded. There were no immediate issues, and I appreciated the solid latches that kept the cooler securely closed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART has proven to be a reliable companion. It’s been on numerous camping trips, range days, and even served as extra seating at a few outdoor events. The cooler has held up exceptionally well.
The exterior shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being tossed in the back of my truck and subjected to various outdoor conditions. Cleaning is a breeze, as the interior surface is smooth and non-porous. It’s far more durable than the Igloo cooler I previously relied on, and the ice retention is significantly better.
Breaking Down the Features of PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART
Specifications
- The PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART is designed for maximum ice retention and durability. Its 20-quart capacity is perfect for personal use or short trips.
- The cooler features molded-in handles for easy carrying. These handles are robust and comfortable even when the cooler is fully loaded.
- It boasts integrated cup holders on the lid, adding convenience. These cup holders are surprisingly stable.
- The hunter green and tan color combination is both stylish and practical. It blends well into outdoor environments while also masking dirt and grime.
- A distinctive leg cut-out design allows for comfortable seating. This thoughtful design is something you won’t find on every cooler.
These specifications are significant because they contribute to the cooler’s portability, convenience, and overall usability. The robust construction ensures it can withstand harsh conditions, and the integrated features enhance the user experience.
Performance & Functionality
The PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART performs its primary function – keeping contents cold – exceptionally well. Ice retention is consistently impressive, often lasting for several days in moderate temperatures. This exceeds my expectations for a cooler of this size.
Its primary strength lies in its ruggedness and reliability. The latches are secure, the handles are sturdy, and the overall construction inspires confidence. A potential area for improvement might be the addition of a drain plug for easier water removal, though the smaller size makes it manageable to simply tip and pour.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART is outstanding. The materials are clearly high-quality, and the construction feels incredibly solid. The cooler feels well-balanced and comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded.
The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The latches are easy to operate, and the integrated cup holders and leg cut-out enhance the overall experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART is built to last. The robust construction and high-quality materials suggest that it will withstand years of regular use. Maintaining the cooler is straightforward.
The smooth interior surface makes it easy to wipe clean, and the durable exterior can handle a variety of cleaning agents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART comes standard with integrated cup holders. There are no specific customization options for the cooler itself, but PELICAN offers a range of cooler accessories that could potentially be used with the IM 20 QUART, such as ice packs.
The cooler is also compatible with universal cooler accessories like bottle openers and tie-down straps.
Pros and Cons of PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART
Pros
- Exceptional Ice Retention: Keeps contents cold for extended periods.
- Rugged and Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Integrated Cup Holders: Adds convenience and functionality.
- Comfortable Leg Cut-Out Design: Provides a comfortable seating option.
- Easy to Clean: Smooth interior surface simplifies maintenance.
Cons
- No drain plug: Water removal requires tipping the cooler.
- Price Point: It is more expensive than some competing coolers in its size class.
Who Should Buy PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART?
The PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART is perfect for solo adventurers, campers, fishermen, and anyone needing a rugged and reliable cooler for personal use. It’s also an excellent choice for professionals like construction workers or field researchers who need to keep food and drinks cold in challenging environments.
Those seeking a larger capacity cooler or those on a very tight budget might want to consider alternative options. A must-have accessory is a quality set of ice packs to maximize ice retention.
Conclusion on PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART
The PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART is a top-tier cooler that delivers on its promises of durability and ice retention. While the price point may be higher than some competitors, the quality and performance justify the investment.
I would highly recommend the PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART to anyone seeking a rugged, reliable, and high-performing cooler for personal use. If you’re ready to invest in a cooler that will last for years and keep your contents cold in any environment, then the PELICAN COOLERS IM 20 QUART is an excellent choice. Get yours today and experience the difference!