PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK Review

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK Made a Bold First Impression

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK arrives as a premium contender in the portable cooling market, promising PELICAN’s renowned durability in a convenient, hands-free design. I was immediately drawn to its compression-molded exterior and promises of all-day ice retention – a stark contrast to the flimsy, leaky coolers I’ve wrestled with on countless expeditions. This review dives deep into its performance, features, and overall value.

My quest for the perfect cooler backpack stemmed from a recurring problem: bulky traditional coolers hindering my mobility on extended backcountry hunts. I needed something rugged enough to withstand harsh environments, yet comfortable and practical for long treks. The promise of PELICAN‘s legendary toughness, combined with the backpack format, seemed to offer a solution.

Unboxing the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK was a surprisingly tactile experience. The grey compression-molded exterior felt incredibly robust, almost armor-like, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand serious abuse. Its weight, while noticeable, felt justified by the apparent quality of materials and construction. This wasn’t a lightweight afterthought; it felt like a serious piece of gear.

I considered the Yeti Hopper BackFlip and the RTIC Backpack Cooler before settling on the PELICAN. While both boast excellent insulation, the PELICAN‘s rigid, compression-molded design promised superior durability and structure. The PELICAN‘s design seemed more geared towards the harshness of tactical and hunting scenarios.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The price tag of $289.95 is definitely an investment, but the build quality and promise of PELICAN’s legendary durability were compelling. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK was a three-day backcountry fishing trip in the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains. I needed to keep food and drinks cold, while still being able to hike several miles each day to reach remote fishing spots. The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK was loaded with ice packs, water bottles, sandwiches, and a few celebratory beers.

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK faced varying conditions during the trip, including direct sunlight, light rain, and cool evening temperatures. The compression-molded exterior proved remarkably water-resistant, and the insulation kept the contents cold for the entire three days, despite repeated openings and closings. The ice packs were still mostly frozen upon my return.

The backpack was relatively easy to use, with comfortable shoulder straps and a surprisingly ergonomic design. The weight distribution was well-balanced, even when fully loaded, and I didn’t experience any significant discomfort during the long hikes. No time was needed to “get used to it”, it felt like a natural extension of my gear.

After the first use, I was impressed with the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK‘s performance, but a slight concern emerged. The internal space felt a bit smaller than I anticipated, and I had to carefully pack my items to maximize the available volume. This would be something to monitor in future tests.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK continues to impress. It has accompanied me on numerous hunting trips, range days, and even casual picnics, consistently delivering reliable cooling performance. The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK performs just as exceptionally in short uses as it does in extended uses.

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK has proven to be incredibly durable, with no signs of significant wear and tear despite being subjected to rough handling and harsh environments. The compression-molded exterior has resisted scratches, punctures, and abrasions, maintaining its structural integrity and appearance. The zipper is still smooth and reliable.

Cleaning and maintaining the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is surprisingly easy. The smooth interior lining can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth, and any spills or stains are quickly removed. The durable exterior resists dirt and grime, requiring minimal maintenance.

In comparison to my previous experiences with cheaper soft coolers, the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is in a different league. Its superior insulation, durability, and ergonomic design make it a clear winner, justifying the higher price point. It outperforms other coolers in its ruggedness, ice retention, and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK

Specifications

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK boasts the following key specifications:

• Compression Molded Grey: Provides a rugged, water-resistant exterior for enhanced durability. The grey color helps to reflect sunlight and keep the contents cooler.
• High-Density Insulation: Offers exceptional ice retention, keeping contents cold for extended periods. The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK holds ice for extended durations of any travel and exploration.
• Leak-Resistant Zipper: Ensures a secure closure and prevents leaks, even when the cooler is jostled or inverted. This eliminates the risk of messy spills and keeps the contents dry.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK‘s performance and user experience. The compression-molded exterior provides unmatched durability in rough environments. The high-density insulation translates to longer ice retention. The leak-resistant zipper ensures worry-free transport.

Performance & Functionality

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK excels at its primary job: keeping food and drinks cold. Its insulation provides all-day cooling, even in hot weather conditions. The rugged exterior protects the contents from damage, and the comfortable backpack design allows for easy transport.

• Strengths: Exceptional ice retention, durable construction, comfortable to carry. These are all exceptional strengths that really set the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK apart from the competition.
• Weaknesses: Internal space could be slightly larger, the price point is higher than some competitors. While the high price point is certainly a weakness, the pros outweigh the cons for what you are receiving.

Overall, the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of rugged durability and all-day cooling performance, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. This is definitely an investment that anyone would be thankful for.

Design & Ergonomics

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is well-designed, with a focus on both durability and functionality. The compression-molded exterior is visually appealing and provides a solid, protective shell. The padded shoulder straps and back panel enhance comfort during transport.

The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The weight, while noticeable, is evenly distributed, making the backpack manageable even when fully loaded. This shows the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is a well-made, well-engineered, product.

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is relatively user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive design. No learning curve is required, and the backpack can be easily loaded, carried, and cleaned. It is designed to be easily used by anyone on the go.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the PELICAN name, this backpack is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand years of use and abuse. The exterior is resistant to tears, punctures, and abrasions.

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is easy to maintain and repair. The smooth interior lining can be easily wiped down, and the exterior is resistant to dirt and grime. Replacement parts, such as zippers and straps, are readily available from PELICAN.

Accessories and Customization Options

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, focusing instead on core functionality and performance. There are no additional customization options, such as interchangeable straps or modular attachments.

While the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK isn’t specifically designed for use with accessories from other brands, its standard backpack design allows for compatibility with many generic hydration reservoirs and external attachment systems. Any gear that fits on a standard backpack, should be able to fit on this.

Pros and Cons of PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK

Who Should Buy PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK?

Perfect for: Hunters, anglers, campers, and anyone who needs a rugged and reliable cooler backpack for extended outdoor adventures. Tactical gear specialists and survivalists would also be great users of the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK.

Who should skip this product? Individuals who only need a cooler for short trips or those on a tight budget may find the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK to be overkill. Individuals who don’t need a rugged solution, need not apply.

Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality ice packs or reusable gel packs will further enhance ice retention. Also, a modular attachment system to carry more gear.

Conclusion on PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK

The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK is a premium cooler that delivers on its promises of durability and performance. While the price is higher than some competitors, the exceptional ice retention, rugged construction, and comfortable design justify the investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a PELICAN, so you know you are buying quality.

The value proposition is strong, especially for those who prioritize reliability and durability in demanding environments. The PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK shines in situations where other coolers would fail. This investment will be worth the money.

I would absolutely recommend the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK to anyone seeking a top-tier cooler backpack for their outdoor adventures. If you need a cooler that will endure the test of time, buy the PELICAN SOFT COOLER BACKPACK today!