ICEMULE Coolers has made a name for itself in the world of soft-sided, portable coolers. Designed for adventure seekers, these coolers offer hands-free carrying, impressive insulation, and a rugged build. Whether it’s a hike, a beach day, or a camping trip, ICEMULE provides a solution that keeps drinks and food cold for hours. This review takes a deep dive into the brand, highlighting features, benefits, and areas where it could improve.
What Is ICEMULE?
ICEMULE is a brand focused on creating highly portable, efficient, and durable soft coolers. Unlike traditional hard-sided coolers, these are lightweight, flexible, and designed for hands-free carrying. The roll-top closure, high-performance insulation, and waterproof exterior make them stand out. Built for convenience, ICEMULE coolers work well in various environments, from rugged outdoor trails to casual tailgating events.
The company offers different models, each catering to specific needs. From small, compact versions for quick outings to large, heavy-duty coolers for group adventures, ICEMULE ensures users have a range of options.
Key Features of ICEMULE Coolers
ICEMULE coolers aren’t just regular soft-sided coolers. They are packed with features that enhance their performance and usability.
1. Patented IM AirValve™ Technology
ICEMULE coolers include an innovative air valve. This feature allows users to release air for compact storage or add insulation by increasing the air inside. It’s a unique advantage that helps with portability while ensuring superior cooling performance.
2. High-Performance Insulation
Each cooler has PolarLayer™ insulation that keeps ice intact for up to 24 hours. The insulation is sandwiched between waterproof layers, preventing heat from seeping in. Unlike many soft coolers that struggle to retain ice, ICEMULE excels in maintaining low temperatures for extended periods.
3. Hands-Free Design
ICEMULE coolers function like backpacks. Their soft, flexible structure allows them to be carried over the shoulders, freeing up hands for other gear. Many models include padded straps, making them comfortable even when carrying heavy loads.
4. Waterproof and Leak-Proof Exterior
The brand uses a heavy-duty Muleskin™ exterior, which is fully waterproof. Users don’t have to worry about water seeping in or leaking out. Whether it’s rain, ocean waves, or river splashes, ICEMULE coolers handle moisture without issues.
5. Roll-Top Closure
Instead of zippers, ICEMULE uses a roll-top closure. This design improves insulation and ensures a secure, waterproof seal. It also allows the cooler to expand based on the load inside.
6. Floats on Water
An unexpected but useful feature—ICEMULE coolers float! Their airtight design keeps them buoyant, making them great for kayaking, boating, or paddleboarding.
ICEMULE Cooler Models
ICEMULE offers various models to suit different needs. Here’s an overview of their popular options:
ICEMULE Classic
The Classic series is ideal for short trips and light packing. It comes in sizes ranging from 9 to 20 liters, making it a great option for day trips. Its compact build and easy portability make it a go-to choice for casual outings.
ICEMULE Pro
The Pro series is for serious adventurers. These coolers feature larger capacities (23-40 liters), reinforced shoulder straps, and better weight distribution. They’re designed for longer trips, where carrying extra drinks or food is necessary.
ICEMULE Jaunt
Jaunt coolers cater to urban explorers. They have a streamlined look, a front zipper pocket, and a smaller capacity (9-15 liters). Perfect for quick outings, concerts, and short hikes.
ICEMULE Urbano
For those who want a cooler that blends with everyday life, the Urbano is a stylish option. It has a modern aesthetic, additional compartments, and a 30-liter capacity.
Performance and Durability
ICEMULE coolers perform exceptionally well in real-world conditions. Their insulation technology keeps ice solid for extended periods, even in warm temperatures. Many users report that ice lasts well beyond 24 hours when the cooler is properly packed.
Durability is another highlight. The Muleskin™ exterior withstands rough handling, abrasions, and extreme conditions. Whether it’s strapped to a kayak, tossed into the back of a truck, or carried through dense forests, these coolers hold up well.
The roll-top closure adds an extra layer of protection. Unlike zippers that can break or get stuck, the roll-top design remains reliable. However, it does require proper rolling and sealing to prevent air leaks.
Ease of Use
ICEMULE coolers are designed for convenience. Their backpack-style carry system allows users to move comfortably without bulky handles getting in the way. Filling and emptying the cooler is straightforward, and the air valve system makes storage easy.
Cleaning is also hassle-free. The waterproof interior wipes clean with minimal effort, and since the coolers don’t have zippers, there’s no worry about dirt or debris getting stuck.
However, loading an ICEMULE cooler requires some strategy. Since they lack structured compartments, users need to pack efficiently to maximize space.
Product Reviews
The Classic™ Medium 15L is a lightweight and highly portable soft cooler, perfect for day trips, picnics, and outdoor adventures. Featuring IceMule’s signature roll-top design, it provides a waterproof and insulated storage solution that keeps ice frozen for up to 24 hours. The comfortable backpack-style straps make carrying easy, even when fully loaded. Its compact size is great for small groups or solo trips. However, since it lacks extra pockets, storage for non-cold items is limited.
Pros: Excellent insulation in a lightweight, easy-to-carry design.
Cons: No additional pockets for organizing dry items.
The Pro™ Large 23L is a rugged and spacious soft cooler built for extended adventures. With its high-performance insulation, it keeps contents cold for over 24 hours, making it ideal for camping, beach days, and tailgating. The backpack-style design ensures comfortable carrying, even when packed to capacity. Its durable, waterproof material enhances longevity and performance in outdoor conditions. While highly effective, the larger size can feel bulky for those looking for a more compact option.
Pros: Large capacity with superior insulation and waterproof construction.
Cons: Bulkier than smaller models, which may be less convenient for short trips.
The Jaunt™ 15L offers a balance of portability and cooling power, making it an excellent choice for day hikes, road trips, or casual outings. With a durable, leak-proof design and padded backpack straps, it provides hands-free convenience while keeping drinks and snacks cold. The front zipper pocket adds extra storage for essentials like keys or utensils, setting it apart from the Classic model. However, its insulation performance is slightly lower than the Pro series, making it best suited for shorter trips.
Pros: Lightweight and includes a front zipper pocket for extra storage.
Cons: Not as heavy-duty as the Pro series for extended cooling.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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With PolarLayer™ insulation and an airtight design, ICEMULE coolers keep contents cold for extended periods.
The heavy-duty Muleskin™ exterior prevents leaks and withstands wet conditions, making it great for water-based activities.
The IM AirValve™ system allows users to compress the cooler when not in use, saving space.
These coolers hold up well under rough conditions. They are abrasion-resistant and designed for long-term use.
The roll-top closure ensures durability. Unlike zippered coolers that often fail over time, ICEMULE’s sealing mechanism is more reliable.
An unexpected but useful feature for boating and kayaking trips. It ensures that drinks and food stay accessible even in water.
Cons
Unlike some competitors, ICEMULE coolers lack interior dividers or compartments, requiring careful packing.
While reliable, it takes some practice to roll the top tightly enough for a secure seal.
Some brands include added accessories like bottle openers or extra pockets, which ICEMULE lacks on certain models.
The Pro series, in particular, can be challenging to carry when packed to capacity.
Final Thoughts
ICEMULE coolers provide a well-balanced mix of durability, ice retention, and portability. They are perfect for outdoor adventures, beach days, and travel. Their backpack-style design makes them stand out from traditional soft coolers, offering hands-free convenience.
While they lack extra compartments and accessories, their performance and build quality more than make up for it. For anyone looking for a cooler that can handle tough conditions while remaining lightweight and functional, ICEMULE is an excellent choice.