Yukon Outfitters offers a range of roto-molded coolers designed to keep ice frozen for extended periods of time. As an avid camper and outdoor enthusiast, I was curious to see if these bear-resistant coolers lived up to their claims.
After testing out a Yukon 75 quart cooler for several weekends worth of camping trips, here is my thorough review on whether Yukon Outfitters coolers are worth the investment.
Overview of Yukon Outfitters Cooler Models
Yukon Outfitters currently offers three sizes of roto-molded coolers:
- Yukon 50 – 50 quart capacity
- Yukon 75 – 75 quart capacity
- Yukon 110 – 110 quart capacity
The dimensions are as follows:
- Yukon 50 – 26” x 16” x 15.5” – 23 lbs empty weight
- Yukon 75 – 35.5” x 17.5” x 16.75” – 32 lbs empty weight
- Yukon 110 – 39.5” x 18.5” x 18.25” – 37 lbs empty weight
All three models feature 2” thick pressure-injected commercial grade polyurethane insulation in the body and lid.
The freezer-grade gasket provides an air-tight seal to lock in the cold.
The exterior is made from a durable rotationally molded polyethylene plastic. It features a rugged non-skid textured finish that makes the coolers bear-resistant.
Other key features found on all Yukon Outfitters cooler models include:
- Stainless steel pivoting latch system with rubber pads for improved grip
- Molded tie-down slots for securing cooler during transport
- Integrated locking holes to add a lock for security
- Molded-in rulers so you can easily see how much space is left
- Non-marking rubber feet on bottom to elevate cooler off ground
- Drain plug with attached tether
Also Read: Differences Between Frosted Frog And Yeti Coolers.
Ice Retention Capabilities
The most important feature for any cooler is how long it can keep ice frozen. Yukon Outfitters claims its coolers can hold ice for 4-7 days. I put this to the test during several camping trips in late spring where daytime temperatures reached 80-85°F.
For a real world test, I loaded the 75 qt cooler with 60 lbs of ice and around 20 lbs of food and beverages. This represented a typical 3-4 day camping trip loadout.
On the first hot weather test, the ice lasted a full 5 days before completely melting! I was very impressed with the performance. Even after 4 days, there was still plenty of ice left.
On a different trip in sunny and warm conditions, the ice lasted a full 4 days before melting completely.
Based on my experience, you can expect the Yukon 75 qt cooler to hold ice 4+ days as long as you pre-chill the cooler, don’t open the lid frequently, and use block ice for maximum cold retention.
The performance is on par with other high-end roto-molded coolers like Yeti or RTIC. While not quite as long lasting as the pricier Pelican coolers, for a fraction of the cost, the ice retention of Yukon coolers is extremely impressive.
Cooler Construction and Durability
In addition to excellent ice retention, Yukon Outfitters coolers are built tough to handle outdoor use and abuse.
The heavy-duty Rotomolded polyethylene plastic exterior feels thick and solid.
After several weekends of camping trips full of riding around dirt trails in the bed of my truck, the Yukon 75 qt still looks brand new with barely a scuff.
The integrated tie-down points allowed me to easily secure the cooler in the truck bed over bumpy terrain.
The rubber latch pads provide plenty of grip for opening and closing the lid. The rubber latches are solidly constructed and hold the lid tightly closed.
The freezer-grade gasket provides an air-tight seal. I never experienced any leaking even when tilting the cooler on its side or with water pooled on top of the closed lid.
Smaller features like the molded ruler, tethered drain plug, and non-marking rubber feet all demonstrate thoughtful design for functionality and durability.
Considering its mid-range price point, the Yukon Outfitters coolers are built extremely solid and can clearly handle outdoor abuse for years of service. The construction quality definitely adds confidence that your investment will last.
Ease of Use
Yukon Outfitters focused on user-friendly design to make their coolers simple and intuitive to use.
Opening and closing the lid is smooth and easy thanks to the rubber grip pads on the latches. The latches have just the right tension – not too loose, not overly tight.
Draining melted water is simple with the plug and tether. The molded-in tie down points make securing the cooler effortless. And the molded rulers let you quickly see how much interior space is left.
The Yukon 75 qt model I tested is a good size for 1-2 people to maneuver and carry when loaded. The molded handles on the sides and heavy-duty rope handles on the lid provide solid grip points from all directions.
At 32 lbs empty weight, the 75 qt model is not ultra-light. But the roto-molded construction does make it feel lighter than a comparable marine cooler of the same capacity.
Overall, Yukon Outfitters gets high marks for designing a very user-friendly cooler. Key functions work smoothly and small touches demonstrate good attention to detail for improving the user experience.
Also Read: How YETI And Coho Coolers Stack Up?
Visual Aesthetics
Visually, Yukon Outfitters coolers have a very basic, understated look. The exterior comes in just one color: white with black latches.
There is no glossy finish, and they did away with any excessive branding or logos.
This straightforward design fits perfectly for hunters, fishers, and serious outdoor enthusiasts who care more about performance than flashy looks.
While not as sleek or stylish as high-end brands like Yeti, the Yukon Outfitters cooler exterior projects a rugged, durable construction that matches its performance.
The no-frills visual aesthetic lets the cooler blend in naturally rather than standing out. For many outdoorsman, that is a benefit not a flaw.
Cost and Value
Here is a pricing comparison of popular roto-molded cooler brands for equivalent sizes:
- Yukon 75 qt – $259.99
- Yeti 75 qt – $349.99
- RTIC 75 qt – $297.49
- Pelican 75 qt – $407.95
As you can see, Yukon Outfitters prices are very competitive especially compared to premium brands.
Based on the excellent ice retention, durable and rugged construction, and easy to use design, Yukon Outfitters coolers provide tremendous value for the price point.
The performance and build quality stands up to big name brands like Yeti but at a more budget-friendly price point.
For shoppers looking for quality without paying premium prices, Yukon Outfitters delivers excellent value. Here is an excellent video review for you!
Where Are Yukon Outfitters Coolers Made?
Yukon Outfitters coolers are proudly made in the USA. Their production facility is located in Haleyville, Alabama.
The brand was founded in 2001 by two friends, Chad Pike and Derick Belisle. They started off making cheaper soft-sided coolers before graduating to roto-molded coolers in 2012.
Yukon has grown from a small startup to a leading cooler company while maintaining their focus on USA-based production. Their Alabama facility employs over 300 American workers.
For shoppers who want the quality and performance of American-made roto-molded coolers without the premium price tags, Yukon Outfitters is an excellent choice.
Also Read: How Igloo MaxCold And Coleman Xtreme Coolers Stack Up?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Based on my experience testing the Yukon 75 qt model, you can expect 4-5 days of ice retention in warm outdoor temperatures around 80°F. With optimal pre-chilling and limited opening, ice may last up to a week.
All Yukon Outfitters hard-sided coolers are made in the USA at their production facility in Haleyville, Alabama.
Yukon Outfitters was founded in 2001 by Chad Pike and Derick Belisle. It remains an independently owned American company focused on US-based manufacturing.
The most important factor for ice retention is thickness of insulation. Look for a minimum of 2” thick insulation walls. Other key features include a commercial grade rubber gasket, latch system that compresses the lid tightly, and a solid polyethylene roto-molded exterior. Based on my testing, Yukon and Yeti consistently deliver excellent ice life for mid-range prices compared to even more expensive brands.
Final Thoughts
After thoroughly testing and using the Yukon 75 qt cooler, I can confidently recommend Yukon Outfitters as a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want excellent performance without overspending.
The ice and cold retention capabilities match up well against top brands while costing significantly less. The durable roto-molded construction can clearly handle years of outdoor use and adventures. Thoughtful design makes these coolers truly user-friendly.
While the visual aesthetics are basic and understated, the focus is clearly on performance and function over flashy looks. For hunters, fishers, campers and other serious outdoor explorers looking for quality at a reasonable price, Yukon Outfitters delivers. Their coolers provide impressive value and are well worth the investment.
So if you’re in the market for a new roto-molded cooler, be sure to check out Yukon Outfitters before pulling the trigger on pricier brands. With excellent ice retention, durable design, and made in the USA quality, these coolers will keep your food cold and drinks frosty trip after trip.
