There is nothing better than going for a nice paddle on a hot summer day! But to make the day even better you might want to have a cold drink out on the water. The best way to do this is by bringing a cooler on your paddle board. Therefore, to make your search easier, we have put together a list of our top picks for the best paddleboard coolers.
YETI Tundra 35 Cooler
Extremely durable!
The YETI Tundra 35 Cooler is one of the best SUP coolers when it comes to durability.
It features a rotomolded construction with thick walls. Moreover, these walls contain a foam of commercial-grade polyurethane for insulation.
The cooler has a 2:1 ice to supplies ratio. However, this means that there isn’t much space left for contents inside the cooler.
Fortunately, the combo of thick walls and permafrost insulations retains the ice well enough and makes the cooler extremely durable.
As for the latches, this cooler features a heavy-duty rubber T-Rex lid latch. With it, you won’t have to worry about a busted lid.
Furthermore, the cooler has carrying handles on both sides so two people can easily grip it. There are also recessed handles if you are going to bring the cooler by yourself.
This cooler has rubber feet at the bottom which is ideal for your SUP deck. Plus, it includes a dry food rack for the sandwiches.
It measures approximately 21 inches in length, 16 inches wide, and 15.5 inches high.
The cooler can store 20 cans of beer and enough ice to keep them cool.
PROS
- Excellent Durability
- Permafrost Insulation
- Powerful Lid Latch
- Portable
- Decent Carrying Capacity
CONS
- Expensive
VERDICT
The YETI Tundra 35 Cooler is ideal for rough water SUPers.
Source: www.amazon.com/Engel-Cooler-Dry-Box-Grassland/dp/B00BD26JMM
Engel Cooler/Dry Box 13 Qt
Leak-proof & Compact!
The Engel Cooler/Dry Box 13 Qt is an excellent combination of an EVA gasket, airtight seal, and a compact design.
It has a marine-grade stainless steel construction with a non-absorbent surface which keeps the Engel Cooler free from dirt and odors.
The insulation includes a core Polystyrene shell and PP Copolymer. This method makes the Engel perform as a cooler and a dry box.
Moreover, instead of the traditional rubber gasket, the Engel Cooler/Dry Box uses an EVA foam gasket. This foam makes the seal watertight.
If you are going to paddle for a long distance, then the lightweight cooler will be a blessing for you. After all, you will paddle easier with less weight.
As for mobility, this cooler has an overhead central carry handle for ease of portability. It also has straps for shoulder carry.
This cooler comes with an attachable hanging tray. You can use the tray to store your dry supplies.
It measures about 15 inches in length, 10 inches wide, and 11 inches high.
The cooler can carry about 13 quarts and a bit of ice.
PROS
- Compact
- Leak-proof
- Durable
- Portable
- Can Store Warm And Cold Food
CONS
- Smaller Ice Life
- Limited Storage Capacity
VERDICT
The Engel Cooler/Dry Box13 Qt is the best option for SUPers looking for a cooler/dry box combination
YETI Roadie 24 Cooler
Efficient & Lightweight!
The YETI Roadie 24 Cooler is highly efficient for its size and is pretty lightweight.
For instance, this cooler is about 10% lighter and performs 30% better than a Roadie 20, and it features a rotomolded construction.
It comes with improved latches making it possible to access the cooler with only one hand.
The well-thought-out design of the cooler includes a webbing handle for a comfortable carry.
On an iSUP, space is precious, and the YETI Roadie 24 Cooler takes up very little space.
However, this little space does not mean the cooler carries less. YETI has made this cooler to be taller than the standard ones for SUPing.
It measures about 16.5 inches in length, 14.5 inches wide, and 17.5 inches high.
The cooler can store about 24 quarts or 18 cans with ice.
PROS
- Highly Efficient
- Lightweight
- Flexible
- Sturdy
CONS
- Not Completely Airtight
- No Drains
VERDICT
The YETI Roadie 24 Cooler is suitable for SUPers who want smaller yet efficient coolers.
Source: www.amazon.com/Engel-Cooler-Dry-Box-Holders/dp/B00MOZ8UCY
Engel 19 Quart Cooler with Rod Holders
Affordable & Durable!
The Engel 19 Quart Cooler with Rod Holders is one the best budget SUP cooler. It’s versatile and pretty durable.
It features Polystyrene foam with PP Copolymer for insulation, making it a cooler that can also perform as a dry box.
This cooler also has a high-impact plastic and non-absorbent surface to keep it relatively free of odor and dirt.
Moreover, an EVA gasket seal ensures that the cooler is airtight. With it, you won’t have to worry about water getting to your supplies.
The cooler comes with four removable fishing rod holders. You can attach these holders to the sides of the cooler.
Furthermore, it features an ABS carry handle on its top and a strap to carry it over your shoulder for portability.
It measures approximately 21 inches in length, 11 inches wide, and 13 inches high.
The cooler can carry about 19 quarts or 12 cans with ice.
PROS
- Affordable
- Sturdy
- Fishing Friendly
- Can Store Warm & Cold Supplies
- Portable
CONS
- Low Storage Capacity
VERDICT
The Engel 19 Quart Cooler with Rod Holders is excellent for the SUP angler.
Source: www.amazon.com/Arctic-Freeze-Zipperless-Hardbody-Cooler/dp/B07M5MCGX6
Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler
Versatile & Affordable!
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler is one of the most versatile SUP coolers. Plus, it’s pretty inexpensive.
It features a triple-layer heat barrier and a cold block base for insulation. Also, the Rhino-Tech exterior material is durable, resists stains, and is easy to clean.
The cooler also comes with a smart shelf to store your dry food.
This cooler has a zipperless flip-open lid for ease of access. With it, you will no longer have to deal with broken latches.
As for portability, the cooler has a shoulder strap. The padded strap ensures comfort while carrying the cooler.
It measures about 12.25 inches in length, 8 inches wide, and 12.25 inches high.
The cooler can carry around 16 cans with ice.
PROS
- Versatile
- Affordable
- Easy To Use
- Portable
CONS
- Less Durable
- Not Airtight
VERDICT
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler is ideal for short SUPing trips.
THURSO SURF SUP Deck Bag Paddle Board Cooler
Highly Portable & Easy To Install!
The THURSO SURF SUP Deck Bag Paddle Board Cooler is compact and highly portable. For easy installation, it comes with hooks and suction cups.
It combines high-density oxford fabric with an aluminum interior for insulation and offers decent durability.
Moreover, it has a mesh pocket to keep your items separated and protected. You will have an easier time organizing your supplies due to this design.
For portability, it has side handles. The compact and lightweight form enables you to carry it around without much effort.
In addition, the package includes four suctions cups and hooks for quick installation. There’s also a waterproof pouch for your phone!
However, the bag is not entirely waterproof. But, it will keep excessive water from entering the interior.
It measures approximately 14 inches in length, 12 inches wide, and 4 inches high.
The cooler can store ten cans and ice.
PROS
- Highly Portable
- Easy Installation
- Travel Friendly
- Affordable
- Easy To Organize Supplies
CONS
- Low Storage Space
- Not Watertight
VERDICT
The best cooler for the traveling SUPer.
What To Look For In A Paddle Board Cooler?
The best paddleboard cooler will be lightweight, durable, efficient, and most of all, portable. Also, the key is to get one that fits onto your board.
If you plan for extended expeditions or SUP fishing trips, the YETI or ENGEL will offer you excellent performance.
However, if you are going for recreational SUPing, then one of the smaller, lightweight coolers like the THURSO SURF SUP Deck Bag will suit you better.
Also, keep an eye out for coolers that support dry ice. These will give you almost three times the performance.
Take note that hard body coolers can crack over time if the construction material is not durable enough.
Conclusion For The Best Paddle Board Cooler
Whether you are a seasoned SUPer or just looking to learn the ropes, a paddleboard cooler will keep you refreshed in your journey.
However, you will need to get one that suits you and your board for the cooler to be effective.
So, once you have made your selection, attach your cooler to your paddle board and enjoy your future SUP adventures!