Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler Review

First Impressions of Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler

The cooler market is saturated with options, from budget-friendly to nearly indestructible. But Rugged Road claims to have cracked the code with the Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler, offering extreme durability and ice retention at a significantly lighter weight than the competition. This promise of bomb-proof construction stemming from military tech combined with portability piqued my interest, setting the stage for a thorough examination.

I’ve spent years lugging heavy coolers into the backcountry for elk hunts, onto boats for deep-sea fishing, and to remote campsites. The recurring problem has always been the compromise between ice retention and manageable weight. The Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler aims to solve this, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

Unboxing the cooler, the first thing I noticed was the texture of the exterior. The “Get-A-Grip” finish definitely feels grippy, almost like a truck bed liner, which bodes well for resisting scuffs and scratches. Picking it up, the 13-pound weight is immediately noticeable – it’s significantly lighter than my comparable capacity coolers from other brands like Yeti and Pelican. The build quality appears solid, although only time will tell if the Rigorite coating truly lives up to its bomb-proof reputation.

Compared to my Yeti Tundra 65 and Pelican Elite 50, the Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler boasts similar internal capacity with a drastically reduced weight. I chose this cooler because the weight savings are paramount when packing for multi-day backcountry trips. While the others are reliable, their heft becomes a burden when every ounce counts.

My initial reaction was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. The weight is a game-changer, and the construction seems robust, but the proof is in the pudding when it comes to ice retention and long-term durability.

Real-World Testing: Putting Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved a three-day fishing trip off the coast of Southern California. The Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler held ice remarkably well, even in the direct sunlight and warm temperatures. The boat was rocking and rolling all weekend but the textured exterior kept it from sliding around on the deck.

The cooler performed admirably, keeping drinks and fish cold throughout the weekend. I experienced no issues with the lid latch or handles. No surprises presented themselves after first-time use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler has become my go-to cooler for nearly all my outdoor activities. I’ve taken it on multiple camping trips, hunting expeditions, and even used it as extra seating around the campfire. The finish has held up exceptionally well, with only minor scuff marks despite some rough handling.

Durability has been impressive, with no cracks, dents, or other signs of structural weakness. Cleaning is surprisingly easy; the smooth interior wipes clean with minimal effort. Compared to my previous coolers, the Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler outperforms in terms of weight and ice retention, making it a clear winner in my book.

Breaking Down the Features of Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler

Specifications

• The Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler boasts a 65-can capacity, providing ample space for beverages and food. Its light 13 lb weight is a standout feature.
• The cooler features internal dimensions of 20.5×19.5×10 inches and external dimensions of 27x24x15.5 inches. These dimensions are crucial for balancing internal storage with external portability.

Performance & Functionality

• The Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler excels at its primary job: keeping contents cold. The combination of the Fridgite high-density ice-retaining core and the tight-sealing lid ensures impressive ice retention.
• The cooler’s strength is its weight-to-capacity ratio. It’s notably lighter than comparable coolers without sacrificing significant ice retention, however, some users may find the price point a drawback.

Design & Ergonomics

• The Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler has an incredibly grippy exterior finish and a streamlined profile. The cooler’s double up handle system makes for easy carrying, even when fully loaded.
• The cooler has a simple, effective design with no unnecessary frills. It’s ready to go right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

• The Rigorite blast-resistant coating promises exceptional durability. Time will tell how the cooler withstands the elements over years of use.
• The Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler is straightforward to maintain. Its smooth interior and durable exterior make cleaning quick and hassle-free.

Accessories and Customization Options

• The Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, focusing instead on core performance. The Kick Flip Lid is a welcome addition, offering a detachable/reversible functionality.
• While there are no officially listed customization options, the robust construction suggests it could handle aftermarket modifications. Possibilities include tie-down straps or custom paint jobs for personalization.

Pros and Cons of Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler

Who Should Buy Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler?

The Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler is perfect for serious outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize weight savings without sacrificing performance. This includes backcountry hunters, avid campers, pro anglers, and anyone who needs a durable and portable cooler for extended trips.

Those on a tight budget or who don’t need extreme durability may want to explore less expensive alternatives. If weight isn’t a primary concern, other coolers on the market offer similar performance at a lower price point.

A must-have accessory is a set of tie-down straps to secure the cooler in the back of a truck or boat. Consider custom dividers to organize contents within the cooler.

Conclusion on Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler

The Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler lives up to its promise of delivering exceptional performance in a lightweight package. Its bomb-proof construction, combined with impressive ice retention, makes it a top contender in the premium cooler market.

While the price is undeniably high, the value proposition is strong for those who need a cooler that can withstand the rigors of serious outdoor use without breaking their back. The Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler is an investment in durability and convenience that will pay off for years to come.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Rugged Road 65 Cans Version 2 Hard Cooler to anyone seeking a premium, lightweight, and incredibly durable cooler. If you are tired of lugging around heavy coolers then give this one a shot!