First Thoughts on the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK
The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK, in its compression molded grey form, immediately strikes me as a departure from the traditional clunky coolers I’m accustomed to lugging around. Pelican is known for its rugged, dependable cases, so the idea of a soft cooler backpack from them piqued my interest. My experience in the outdoors demands gear that’s both practical and durable, and I’m eager to see if this cooler lives up to the Pelican name.
I’ve always struggled finding a cooler that’s truly portable for solo trips. Existing hard-sided coolers are often too bulky, and cheaper soft coolers tend to leak or fall apart after a few uses. The promise of a Pelican-engineered, backpack-style cooler seemed like a potential solution to my need for a durable, hands-free cooling solution.
Unboxing the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK revealed a sleek, almost tactical-looking design. The compression molded material felt robust and well-constructed, far superior to the flimsy nylon often found in other soft coolers. The weight was surprisingly manageable, suggesting it wouldn’t be a burden to carry even when fully loaded.
Compared to a traditional Igloo cooler, the Pelican offers superior portability and a more discreet profile. Against a cheaper Coleman soft cooler, the Pelican’s construction promises significantly improved durability and insulation. I ultimately chose the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK for its potential to combine Pelican’s legendary durability with the convenience of a hands-free design, something other coolers couldn’t offer in a single package.
My first impression was definitely positive. I was excited to test its real-world performance and see if it lived up to the initial promise of rugged portability and excellent insulation.
Real-World Testing: Putting PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK on a weekend fishing trip to a remote mountain lake. The cooler carried my lunch, drinks, and some temperature-sensitive bait. I experienced a range of conditions from sunny skies to a brief afternoon rain shower.
The cooler performed admirably, keeping my contents cold throughout the day, even in direct sunlight. It was also remarkably comfortable to carry, even over rough terrain. The backpack straps are well-padded and adjustable, and the weight distribution felt balanced. I was surprised by how easily I could navigate the trails with my hands free. The rain simply beaded off the exterior, keeping the contents dry.
There weren’t any major issues during the first use, but the zipper did feel a little stiff initially. I also noticed that the grey color showed dirt fairly easily.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. It’s accompanied me on numerous hiking trips, range days, and even a few overnight camping excursions.
The cooler has held up remarkably well to the rigors of outdoor use. There are no signs of tears or seam failures, and the insulation performance remains excellent. I’ve intentionally subjected it to some rough handling, and it shows little wear.
Cleaning the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous experiences with flimsy soft coolers that quickly deteriorated, the PELICAN significantly outperforms them in terms of durability and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK
Specifications
The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is a compression molded cooler designed for portable cooling solutions. It features a grey exterior and is designed in a backpack style for hands free carry.
The specifications matter because they directly influence the cooler’s ability to perform its primary function: keeping contents cold while remaining easily portable. The compression molding provides both insulation and durability, while the backpack design offers hands-free convenience.
Performance & Functionality
The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK excels at its intended job: keeping items cold for extended periods while providing comfortable portability. Drinks and food stay chilled throughout a full day of outdoor activities.
A major strength is its robust construction and excellent insulation. One potential weakness might be the single color option which can show dirt readily. It definitely meets my expectations for a premium soft cooler, offering a significant upgrade in durability and performance compared to cheaper alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK’s build quality is exceptional. The compression molded material feels durable and resistant to abrasion. The weight is well-balanced, and the padded backpack straps provide comfortable carry, even with a full load.
The design is user-friendly. There’s no significant learning curve. The wide opening allows for easy loading and unloading of contents.
Durability & Maintenance
The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK appears to be built to last for years. Its robust construction and high-quality materials suggest excellent longevity.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down is generally all that’s needed to keep the cooler clean and functional.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product details list doesn’t specify any included accessories. Customization options are limited. The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is primarily designed for its core function of portable cooling, rather than extensive customization.
It could likely accommodate standard ice packs from other brands. However, the lack of dedicated accessory attachment points limits external customization.
Pros and Cons of PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK
Pros
- Robust construction and exceptional durability thanks to the compression molded design, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- Excellent insulation performance that keeps contents cold for extended periods, making it ideal for long days on the trail or at the range.
- Comfortable backpack design with padded straps that allow for hands-free carry, even with a heavy load, enhancing portability and convenience.
- Easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a simple wipe-down to remove dirt and grime, saving time and effort.
- The Pelican name and reputation for quality.
Cons
- The grey color shows dirt readily.
- The $289.95 price point may be prohibitive for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK?
The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is perfect for avid hikers, fishermen, hunters, and campers who need a durable and portable cooling solution. It’s also well-suited for range days where keeping drinks and snacks cold is essential. Pro anglers will also find great value in the durability of the cooler.
This product may not be necessary for casual picnickers or those who only need a cooler for short trips. Individuals on a tight budget might find more affordable alternatives that still meet their basic cooling needs.
A must-have modification would be the addition of high-quality, reusable ice packs to maximize cooling efficiency.
Conclusion on PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK
The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is a premium product that delivers on its promise of durable and portable cooling. It’s a significant investment, but the robust construction, excellent insulation, and comfortable backpack design justify the price for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
The $289.95 price tag reflects the quality of materials and construction, making it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize durability and performance. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable and convenient way to keep their food and drinks cold on the go.
If you’re tired of flimsy coolers that fall apart after a few uses, the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is a worthy upgrade that will provide years of reliable service. Invest in a cooler that can keep up with your adventures.