10 Best AO Coolers
for May 2023

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When it comes to keeping your food and drinks cool while out on the water, there are few brands that compare to AO Coolers. AO, or American Outdoors, has been producing some of the best insulated soft-sided coolers in the game since 1996. Their black and sleek designs have become a staple in the boating and sailing community, known for their incredible insulation capabilities and waterproof, leak-proof exteriors. The AO Coolers series includes their popular ballistic line, adding even more durability to their already impressive coolers. Whether you're headed out for a day on the boat or a weekend camping trip, AO Coolers have got you covered. With so many options to choose from, we've compiled a list of the 10 best AO Coolers for your next adventure. From the best cooler for small boats to the most durable cooler for the toughest conditions, we've got you covered. So, grab a cold drink and let's take a closer look at the top 10 AO Coolers for sports and outdoors enthusiasts!

1
9.9
SCORE
AO Coolers Vinyl SUP Soft Cooler, Silver, 15-Pack

AO Coolers Vinyl SUP Soft Cooler

by AO Coolers
What We like

Includes 4 eye-hooks making it easy to tie down and 2 suctions cup for the board

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Product Features

  • Twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers; leak-proof liner
  • Soft cooler with a waterproof vinyl exterior designed for stand-up paddle boards
  • Capacity: 15 cans plus 5 pounds of ice; measures 15 by 9.5 by 9 Inch
2
9.5
SCORE
AO Coolers - AO18MOTO Motorcycle Saddle Bags Soft Cooler (15-Can Capacity), Black

AO Coolers

by AO Coolers
What We like

Slanted design makes it a perfect fit; 15-can capacity

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Product Features

  • Soft-sided motorcycle cooler for saddle bags
  • Twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers; leak-proof liner
  • Also use it as a duffle bag for your clothes
3
9.4
SCORE
AO Coolers 18 Pack Saddle Bag USA Made, Black Canvas (AOUS18MOTO)

AO Coolers 18 Pack Saddle Bag USA Made

by AO Coolers
What We like

Slanted design makes it a perfect fit; 18-can capacity

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Product Features

  • Also use it as a duffle bag for your clothes
  • USA MADE; Soft-sided motorcycle cooler for saddle bags
  • Twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers; leak-proof liner; exterior side pocket
  • Designed to hold ice for 24 hours in 120 degree weather
4
9
SCORE
AO Coolers Marine Flat Fender - Large, Black

AO Coolers Marine Flat Fender

by AO Coolers
What We like

Compact and easy to store

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Product Features

  • Easily fasten together for a custom fender system. Hook & Loop and tie up lines included
  • Double as seat cushions or knee pads
  • Closed-cell EVA foam is puncture proof and won't waterlog
  • Rectangular and flat so they won't roll or ride up
5
8.7
SCORE
AO Coolers Ballistic Series Soft Cooler, Insulated and Leak Proof, 24-Pack, Black/Charcoal

AO Coolers Ballistic Series Soft Cooler

by AO Coolers
What We like

Features two extended side pockets for Dry items

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Product Features

  • Twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers; leak-proof liner
  • Perfect for boating, fishing, hunting, parties, sporting events, and picnics
  • Soft-sided cooler with a strong and dense woven ballistic exterior
  • Built to hold ice for 24 hours in 120 degree weather; 24-can capacity
6
8.7
SCORE
AO Coolers Insulated Fish Bag Kit with 12 Fillet Bags, 4-Foot x 24-Inches, Tuna Blue

AO Coolers Insulated Fish Bag with Kit 12 Fillet Bags

by AO Coolers
What We like

Ultimate insulated fish bag bag kit is perfect for ocean fishing adventures

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Product Features

  • Interior -inch closed cell foam and heavy duty 18 oz vinyl reflective liner keeps your catch cold
  • Available in 6x24 and 4x24 sizes; comes with 12 fillet bags
  • Exterior heavy duty 18 oz vinyl UV resistant exterior is tough with a reinforced bottom that wont scratch the interior of your boat
  • Perfect for large fish like salmon, halibut, wahoo, tuna, dorado (mahi-mahi), and sailfish
7
8.6
SCORE
AO Coolers Ballistic Series Soft Cooler, Insulated and Leak Proof, 12-Pack, Black/Charcoal

AO Coolers Ballistic Series Soft Cooler

by AO Coolers
What We like

Features two extended side pockets for Dry items

more infoarrow_drop_down

Product Features

  • Soft-sided cooler with a strong and dense woven ballistic exterior
  • Twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers; leak-proof liner
  • Built to hold ice for 24 hours in 120 degree weather; 12-can capacity
  • Perfect for boating, fishing, hunting, parties, sporting events, and picnics
8
7.5
SCORE
AO Coolers 24 Pack Carbon Cooler Black 17

AO Coolers 24 Pack Cooler Carbon Black 17"X10"X12" AOCR24BK

by AO Coolers
What We like

Meets airplane carry-on requirements; Color: Black; Sold each

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Product Features

  • AO Coolers 24 Pack Carbon Cooler Black 17"X10"X12" AOCR24BK
  • For Hunting and fishing Parties Sporting Events Camera Gear Picnics Bringing an item for dinner or a potlock? Use this cooler to keep things warm as well
  • Dimensions: 17" length x10" width x12" height; Logo Area: 6"x6"; Capacity: 24 cans plus 14 pounds of ice
9
7.5
SCORE
AO Coolers Ballistic Series Soft Cooler, Insulated and Leak Proof, 12-Pack, Tan

AO Coolers Ballistic Series Soft Cooler

by AO Coolers
What We like

Features two extended side pockets for Dry items

more infoarrow_drop_down

Product Features

  • Twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers; leak-proof liner
  • Soft-sided cooler with a strong and dense woven ballistic exterior
  • Built to hold ice for 24 hours in 120 degree weather; 12-can capacity
  • Perfect for boating, fishing, hunting, parties, sporting events, and picnics
10
7.5
SCORE
AO Coolers 36 Pack Carbon Cooler Black 21

AO Coolers 36 Pack Cooler Carbon Black 21"X10"X12" AOCR36BK

by AO Coolers
What We like

Meets airplane carry-on requirements; Color: Black; Sold each

more infoarrow_drop_down

Product Features

  • For Hunting and fishing Parties Sporting Events Camera Gear Picnics Bringing an item for dinner or a potlock? Use this cooler to keep things warm as well
  • Dimensions: 21" length x10" width x12" height; Logo Area: 6.5"h x 10"w; Capacity: 36 cans plus about 10 pounds of ice
  • AO Coolers 36 Pack Carbon Cooler Black 21"X10"X12" AOCR36BK

AO Coolers has a rich history that spans over three decades. The company was founded in 1991 by Anne and Al Overton, a husband and wife team who shared a love of the outdoors and wanted to create coolers that would help people keep their perishables fresh while enjoying outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and hunting.

The Overtons drew on their own experience as avid outdoors enthusiasts to create a line of soft-sided coolers that could stand up to the rigors of the outdoor lifestyle while offering superior insulation compared to other soft-sided coolers on the market. They named the company AO Coolers, with "AO" standing for "Adventure Outdoors."

From the beginning, AO Coolers stood out for its commitment to quality and durability. The company sourced the best materials available, including high-quality vinyl exteriors, leak-proof liners, and twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers. This attention to detail ensured that AO Coolers offered superior performance in a variety of outdoor environments.

Over the years, AO Coolers has continued to innovate and expand its product line to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. Today, the company offers a wide range of coolers in various sizes, from the 12-can capacity 12 Pack to the 48-can capacity 48 Pack Plus.

One of the standout features of AO Coolers is their waterproof vinyl exterior designed for stand-up paddle boards. This feature allows paddlers to bring cold beverages or food with them on long paddles, without having to worry about their cooler getting wet or damaging their equipment.

With over three decades of experience in the outdoor gear industry, AO Coolers continues to be a leader in the soft-sided cooler market. The company's commitment to quality, durability, and innovation has earned it a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. Whether it's a camping trip, a day on the lake, or a long paddle down a river, AO Coolers has the products and expertise to help you keep your perishables cold and fresh.

Key decision-making factors for a soft cooler designed for stand-up paddle boards include insulation, leak-proof liner, capacity, and dimensions.

Insulation:

Insulation is a critical factor when it comes to soft coolers, especially if you plan to carry food or drinks for a more extended period. The ability to keep your food and drinks at a low temperature is essential during hot summer days or when onboard a boat where there's no refrigeration. This soft cooler boasts twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers, which is a significant advantage. With better insulation, your food and drinks stay cool, which means they stay fresher for an extended period. This factor is essential because the entire point of having a soft cooler is to carry food and drinks and ensure they remain fresh and cool.

Leak-proof liner:

The next crucial factor is a leak-proof liner. This feature ensures that the soft cooler remains dry, regardless of whether it sits in the sun or takes an occasional splash. With a leak-proof liner, there's no risk of having your food and drinks become contaminated by melting ice or water. This factor is critical because a leak-proof liner ensures the safe carriage of food and drinks without any risk of spoilages.

Capacity:

The capacity of the cooler is another crucial factor you should consider when selecting a soft cooler. The capacity determines how many cans or items you can carry. This cooler can hold up to 15 cans, plus 5 pounds of ice, which is excellent for a picnic, a day out in the sun, or a short boating trip. When selecting a cooler, you should ensure that it has enough capacity to carry what you intend to bring. If you plan to go on a trip with several friends or family members, you may need a more oversized cooler with a more significant capacity.

Dimensions:

The overall dimensions of the soft cooler are also vital, especially if you have limited storage space onboard your boat. This cooler measures 15 by 9.5 by 9 inches, which is relatively compact and easy to store. It easily fits onto a stand-up paddle board or can be stowed away in a storage compartment on your boat. This factor is also essential because a smaller cooler makes transporting food and drinks less cumbersome.

Conclusion:

The insulation, leak-proof liner, capacity, and dimensions are key decision-making factors when selecting a soft cooler designed for stand-up paddle boards. The insulation and leak-proof liner ensure that your food and drinks stay fresh and dry, while the capacity and dimensions make transporting the cooler a breeze. When selecting a soft cooler, you should prioritize these factors to maximize the value and usability of your purchase.

One more thing, if you're in the market for a reliable and efficient soft-sided cooler, look no further than the AO Cooler. With twice the insulation of other brands, this waterproof vinyl cooler can hold up to 15 cans plus five pounds of ice. It's the perfect size for stand-up paddle boards or other outdoor adventures. The best part? It's leak-proof lining prevents any mishaps from ruining your day. Don't just take our word for it, check out our list of the Top 10 Best AO Coolers Camping Coolers Reviews of 2023 through Top 10 Best AO Coolers Camping Coolers Reviews of 2023 or purchase one for yourself through Most Popular. Either way, you won't be disappointed.

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