Competitor Challenges YETI's Market Dominance with Lighter, More Budget-Friendly Coolers Offered by Coleman
Coleman, a name synonymous with camping gear for over a century, has recently introduced a new line of coolers aimed at competing with premium brands like Yeti and RTIC, without the hefty price tag. The new Coleman Pro Coolers come with an array of features that make them a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The Pro Coolers are available in three hard-shelled sizes - 25Q, 45Q, and 55Q - and two soft-shelled versions in 16- and 24-can capacities. All Pro Coolers come equipped with an oversized draining spout, tie-down straps, and non-sleep feet, ensuring convenience and portability.
The weights of the hard-shelled Pro Coolers range from 11.4lbs for the 25Q, 19.8lbs for the 45Q, and 33lbs for the 55Q. The 55-quart model features oversized rubber wheels and a telescopic handle for rolling, with side handles for carrying. In contrast, the 45-quart Pro Cooler lacks wheels and a telescopic handle but maintains a similar construction.
One of the standout features of the Pro Coolers is the single-handed steel latch for closing, making it easy to operate with just one hand. The new blue soft-shelled Pro Coolers start at $60, similar to previous prices, while the hard-shelled versions are priced between $160 and $300.
The estimated ice retention for the new hard-shelled Pro Coolers is 3 days for the 25Q, 4 days for the 45Q, and 5 days for the 55Q. These figures are lower than those of high-performance rotomolded coolers, but they still provide adequate ice retention for most camping trips and day outings.
The new Pro Coolers come with a 10-year warranty from Coleman, reflecting the brand's confidence in the durability of its products. Coleman's current lineup also includes tents, sleeping bags, portable grills, and other ice chests, making it a one-stop-shop for camping essentials.
In a price comparison with Yeti and RTIC, Coleman Pro offers the most affordable price point, targeting budget-conscious buyers. RTIC is priced significantly below Yeti, typically at about two-thirds the cost for comparable sizes and features. Yeti, on the other hand, is positioned at the premium end, with some models reaching $800 or more depending on size and configuration.
While Coleman Pro coolers may not match the ice retention capabilities of high-end rotomolded coolers, they offer a strong value proposition for those seeking an affordable and functional cooler. For those looking for strong ice retention and are willing to invest more, RTIC and Yeti still remain competitive options.
[1] https://www.yeti.com/coolers/ [2] https://www.yeti.com/coolers/roadie-48.html [3] https://www.rticoutdoors.com/collections/coolers/products/rtic-tumbler-60-quart-cooler
The Pro Coolers, with their budget-friendly prices, are a fitting addition to one's lifestyle, blending the essential style of outdoor camping gear with the necessities of home-and-garden life. The advanced features and durable design of these coolers make them an attractive choice for those seeking affordability without compromising on quality.
