Ahoy there, all ye paddleboarders! Ready to soar through the waves, feel the salty mist on your face and soak up some sunshine? Before you paddle yourself silly, you need to add some chill to your adventure.
There's nothing better than hitting the water on your paddleboard, but the hot weather can make it hard to keep your drinks and food cool. Lucky for you, there are plenty of coolers on the market that will help solve this problem. So when you're on your next water adventure, you can grab a cool drink to keep you refreshed, hydrated, and energized.
While you can always hurl a flimsy cooler or an old backpack on board, why not invest in a quality cooler that can keep your perishables cool, your drinks cold, and your spirits high?
In this post, we'll share a quick guide for what coolers to look for. We will also review three of the best coolers out there. Our goal is to provide you with all the information that you need to choose the right one for you. So, sit back and relax as we surf into features to look for.
What you need to know
Paddleboard coolers are essential if you plan on heading out for an extended session. You'll need a reliable cooler that can keep snacks and drinks cold while navigating all kinds of terrain.
Size Matters - Consider the size and capacity of your paddle board cooler according to your paddle boarding frequency, food and beverage preferences, and storage capacity. For solo explorers, a 15-liter cooler that can hold four cans and some snacks might suffice. For family outings, picnics, and beach parties, a 50-liter plus cooler with enough space for lunch, ice, and a few drinks would be more practical.
Design - Look for a paddleboard cooler that has a lightweight and streamlined design, easy to carry, and ergonomic to handle over long distances. An ideal cooler should have a 100% waterproof, durable, and sturdy shell, adjustable and padded shoulder straps, and external mesh pockets and bungees for storing paddle clips, carabiners, and other accessories.
Performance - The core function of any paddleboard cooler is to keep your food and drinks fresh and chilled for extended hours. Opt for a cooler that has an efficient and effective cooling system, such as thick insulation, double-walled vacuum seals, and airtight gaskets. Some coolers even come with specialized ice packs or built-in refrigeration systems that can lower the temperature up to 40 degrees Fahrenheit below the ambient temperature.
Price - Paddleboard coolers come in various price ranges, from the inexpensive and basic off-the-shelf models to the high-end and technologically advanced ones. Determine your budget and compare the prices and features of different coolers to select the best value for your investment. Keep in mind that a good paddleboard cooler is more than just a luxury or a convenience, but also a safety item that can save you from dehydration, foodborne illnesses, or accidents.
Reviews - Look for a reputable and certified brand that has a track record of delivering high-quality and customer-centric products. Check the online reviews and testimonials of other customers who have used paddleboard coolers you're interested in to learn about the pro and cons, the performance, and the durability of the product. Don't be swayed by one-sided or biased reviews, but instead look for unbiased, factual, and detailed feedback from objective and trustworthy sources.
Not only is it important to consider the size, volume, insulation properties, construction materials and the features above. Other factors like the handle design should make it easy to transport your cooler from place to place, and the straps or tie-downs help keep it secure in rougher water. Make sure you check the seal on the lid - a tight seal will ensure that no water enters your precious cargo! Also, check how much weight your paddleboard can safely carry. With all these in mind, you are now ready to find the perfect paddleboard cooler for your next adventure!
How We Chose the Best Paddle Board Coolers
When reviewing paddleboard coolers, we consider a variety of factors. Firstly, we look at the size and volume of the cooler - is it suited to your needs? We also investigate the insulation properties - which models keep food and drinks colder for longer? Additionally, we take into account the exterior construction of each model to make sure that it is up to the task of taking on all sorts of terrain. Furthermore, we look into convenience features such as handles, straps, and tie-downs. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with enough information for you to choose the best paddleboard cooler for your needs. So, grab your paddleboard and let's go surfing.
🏅 LOKO Desert Expandable Coolers
Why we ❤️ this SUP cooler
The LOKO Desert Expandable Cooler is truly a paddleboarder's dream item. Specifically designed for Arizona weather, you can trust your food and drinks to stay cool and fresh for over 12 hours. Perfectly outfitted with waterproof material, a stylish top zipper to fit thin items, an interior mesh pocket, and four adjustable straps with carabiners that easily attach to the paddle board or kayak's D-ring bungies - these soft coolers offer up supreme storage solutions along with maximum cold temperature retention. As perfect as it gets; if you're looking for an amazing paddleboard cooler - LOKO Desert fits the bill!
🆒 features
Whether you paddleboard on the weekends or do it as a full-time hobby, being able to store cold drinks easily is a must. LOKO Desert Expandable Coolers provide paddleboarders the convenience of holding an ice cold drink and with its waterproof material and water-resistant zippers, paddleboarders can now cool down and enjoy themselves despite their paddleboarding adventures. This soft cooler can be expanded or collapsed to fit your preferences, in addition to having external zipper pockets and internal mesh pockets that can securely store all your accessories like snacks, keys and cards. The adjustable straps make attaching this cooler easy and you won’t need to worry about it detaching ever because it attaches right to the carabiners and D-rings of the paddle board.
🥈 SUP-NOW Paddleboard Cooler
Why we ❤️ this SUP cooler
The SUP-Now Paddleboard Cooler DELUXE Edition with Waterproof insert is one of the best budget SUP coolers that you can find on the market. It's soft side cooler has superior insulation and the ability to keep food and beverages ice cold during your paddleboarding session. It also comes with a free waterproof insert which allows you to take along valuable items such as phones, keys and wallets. What's more, you can even use your phone while in the waterproof insert - making it an ideal choice for capturing memorable moments while out on the water. With its great features and unbeatable price point, it undoubtedly offers exceptional value for money.
🆒 features
This deck cooler bag from SUP-NOW is a valuable asset for paddleboarders looking for an affordable and high-quality solution. This new edition of the paddleboard cooler features a modern gray color that stands out on the waves, larger water-resistant material, and more insulation to keep your food and drinks cool. Additionally, it comes with a free waterproof phone pouch and a clip and rope system to securely attach the paddleboard cooler to even inflatable paddle boards. Furthermore, it’s been tested by paddle boarders across the globe and is loved for its affordability and effectiveness at keeping items chilled while out on the water. Get your paddleboard cooler today and enjoy paddle boarding with convenience!
🥉 YETI Roadie 24 Cooler
Why we ❤️ this SUP cooler
The YETI Roadie 24 Cooler is a must-have for any outdoor activity or paddleboard adventure. Not only does it make an exceptional camping companion for storing food and drinks, but its generous size allows for items that are taller than typical coolers. The cooler also doubles as a convenient seat, making it the perfect size to fit easily into a camper van. Besides being spacious and accommodating, the Roadie 24 is made with strong materials that guarantee quality results – however, this extra strength also causes the cooler to be quite heavy when lifting. No matter your ultimate destination, the YETI Roadie 24 Cooler provides great substance without compromising style.
🆒 features
The YETI Roadie 24 paddleboard cooler has revolutionized the way we keep our food and drinks cold while on the go! It's 10% lighter in weight than its predecessor, while still being incredibly tough. The taller build allows it to accommodate a standard bottle of wine or a 2-liter bottle upright. Additionally, it boasts 30% better thermal performance than its predecessor, meaning your food and drinks will stay cooler for longer. With QuickLatch technology built-in, you can open and close the cooler with just one hand! The paddleboard cooler also holds 18 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio or 24 lbs of just ice, allowing you to take all your favorites without worrying about running out of space or capacity. Helping make paddleboarding trips much more enjoyable - YETI’s Roadie 24 paddleboard cooler is an absolute must have addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s arsenal!
Cooler for SUP FAQs
Choosing the right paddleboard cooler can be confusing. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about them.
What size paddleboard cooler do I need?
The size of the cooler you need depends on how much food and drinks you are bringing along and where you'll be paddling. If you're just going out for a short trip, then a smaller cooler should suffice. If you're planning a long journey, then a larger one might be necessary.
Is a paddleboard cooler lightweight?
Yes, most models have features to make them very lightweight, so they're easy to transport and carry around with you wherever you go.
How durable is a paddleboard cooler?
High quality insulation and construction ensures your items stay safe and protected from the elements when out on the water. Most coolers are built to last, for continuous use without worrying about wear and tear.
What convenience features does a paddleboard cooler have?
Look for additional features such as handles, straps, tie-downs and more that can make packing up your things simple and efficient before heading onto the water.
Are there different types of paddleboard coolers available?
Yes, coolers come in all shapes and sizes with different functions to meet individual needs – ranging from small ones designed for day trips to larger ones made for longer journeys with provisions for all your supplies.
How well insulated is a paddleboard cooler?
The insulation in most models is excellent and made with high quality materials that keep your beverages cold throughout the day despite any changes in outside temperature or direct sunlight exposure.
How to strap a cooler to a paddleboard?
First, you’ll need a paddleboard cooler that is specifically designed for a paddleboard. This type of cooler will have attachment points at both the front and back so that it stays securely in place - often using bungee or other elastic cords or straps. The ideal size of your cooler should depend on your board size, but typically coolers ranging from 25-60 quart capacity should fit most boards easily. Make sure the shape and design don't interfere with comfortable paddling, as this could cause strain on your back when you're out in the water!
Next, there are several ways to attach the cooler onto your board while still keeping it accessible during use:
•Using clips: Clips such as carabiners work well for strapping down items like coolers onto boards because they allow quick release in case of emergencies; however make sure any plastic clips used can handle saltwater conditions without rusting!
•Using tie-down straps: Tie-down straps are strong enough when installed correctly with high tension so they won't come loose even after long periods out at sea – make sure you get ones rated for outdoor use though! If possible wrap them around the board twice before buckling up for extra security.
•Using suction mounts: Suction mounts offer a more permanent option if needed – just make sure you clean off any debris or dirt from where you're mounting them before attaching so they stay secure over time!
Can I add accessories to my paddleboard cooler?
Yes! Many brands offer an array of accessories that can help make using your cooler more convenient – like cup holders or mounting brackets for attaching additional cargo items onto the board itself during your expedition.
Paddleboard Cooler for You
Paddleboard coolers are a great way to keep your food and drinks cold while out on the water. They come in various shapes and sizes so it's important to seek the one that best suits you. With excellent insulation and a range of convenient features, you can rest assured that your items will remain safe and preserved when out on your next water excursion.
So you've learned the key features to consider when selecting a cooler that can fit your needs, budget, and style. So go ahead and hit the waves, soak up the sun, and enjoy the cool breeze of summer with your new cooler. Remember, life is too short to be thirsty or hungry on a paddleboard.
Chill out in style and make every paddleboard adventure a refreshing and memorable one!
Please check out our other SUP articles:
Some of the links on this website may generate an affiliate commission, at zero cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Your subscription and associate links helps make this site possible; and allows Gold Medal Ratings to exist. Thank you!
