"Chill out with the ultimate Igloo Yukon Cooler experience: A comprehensive review"

Last Modified by Brandon F. on July 13, 2022

In the realm of high-end coolers, the Igloo Yukon Cooler is Igloo's valiant attempt to compete with the "big boys." The manufacturing techniques, functionality, and design utilized are akin to those found in Yeti, RTIC, Orca, and other popular brands. This has culminated in a durable cooler with a remarkably impressive ice retention time. Of course, this also means the cooler is more expensive than Igloo's other products.

We have shortlisted the top picks of Igloo Yukon Coolers. For a comprehensive evaluation, scroll down.

Model

Igloo Yukon Cold Locker Cooler, Tan, 50-Quart

Igloo Yukon Cold Locker Cooler (White, 70-Quart)

Tested Ice Life (Hours)

Storage Volume (Quarts)

Price (Amazon)

Model

Igloo Yukon Cold Locker Cooler, Tan, 50-Quart

Tested Ice Life (Hours)

Storage Volume (Quarts)

Price (Amazon)

Impressive Ice Retention Model

Igloo Yukon Cold Locker Cooler (White, 70-Quart)

Tested Ice Life (Hours)

Storage Volume (Quarts)

Price (Amazon)

The Igloo Yukon Cooler Array

Get it on Amazon

The Igloo Yukon Series has undergone a few modifications over the years. Initially, it was referred to as the "Igloo Yukon Cold Locker" Series, but Igloo has since abbreviated it to just "Igloo Yukon." However, the "Cold Locker" label still appears on the packaging. Furthermore, the model selection has been streamlined, with the 120-quart option and the 50-quart wheeled option no longer available. There are only two non-wheeled alternatives: a 50-quart and a 70-quart, both available on Amazon.

For those seeking a cooler that can accommodate a large family or a tailgate party, the removal of the 120-quart option from the Igloo Yukon Cooler lineup may come as a disappointment. However, the remaining sizes available offer ample space for most.

The Igloo Yukon Cooler is not to be underestimated, despite the brand's association with lower-end coolers. This cooler is designed to compete with the best in the business, such as Mammoth and K2, and boasts many of the same features.

One of the standout features of this cooler is its thick insulation. With a minimum of 2 inches in the body and 3 inches in the lid, the insulation is among the thickest in the industry. The one-piece construction, courtesy of roto-molding, ensures that the insulation is consistent and effective.

The Igloo Stable Grip Integrated Handles are also a great feature. Unlike the typical rope handles used by other brands, these handles are larger and more compatible with gloves and larger hands. They also double as an anchor for tie-down loops.

An oversized tethered drain plug makes for easy removal of water, while a large rubber gasket provides a tight seal between the lid and the body to maximize cooling performance. The unique latch design utilizes a hole in the middle that hooks onto an attached steel pin on the body of the cooler to keep everything securely in place.

Overall, the Igloo Yukon Cooler is a well-designed and well-insulated option for those in need of a large cooler with premium features. It may not have the same name recognition as other top brands, but it is certainly worthy of consideration.

This high-grade cooler boasts a sturdy steel construction, with both pins and rods fashioned from this metal, alongside any other necessary hardware. This design feature provides a long-lasting lifespan, ensuring corrosion and rust resistance.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, this cooler is a great companion. It comes equipped with two impressive features that you'll find particularly useful: a built-in bottle opener and an integrated fish ruler. With the ruler embossed right on the lid, you'll no longer need to pack cumbersome measuring tools, and having a bottle opener on hand is always handy.

One of the most important factors for premium coolers is ice life, and the Igloo Yukon Cooler certainly excels in this department. According to Igloo, these coolers can maintain ice for up to seven days, setting a benchmark for other premium brands.

However, we can't rely solely on promised numbers, as cooler companies are known to exaggerate and use "best-case" scenarios. So we conducted real-world tests, leaving the coolers outside in hot conditions, only partially filling them with ice and opening them regularly.

Our findings were impressive, confirming the Igloo Yukon's ice life. The 70-quart model came close to the promised seven days when only half-full.

Aside from its excellent performance, this cooler also looks rugged and reliable, with a solid construction that exudes quality. We particularly like the molded side handles, which provide a unique touch compared to standard rope handles. Overall, the Igloo Yukon Cooler is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, long-lasting cooler that performs well in real-world conditions.

The latch design of the Igloo Yukon Cooler is unlike the typical T-latch that we are accustomed to seeing. Moreover, the stainless steel hardware adds "bling" to the handles and creates a sophisticated look that is sure to earn compliments in any social setting.

When it comes to color choices, your selection is limited to white and tan for both the 50-quart and 70-quart options. It would be nice if Igloo expanded its palette to accommodate a few more hues, but that's only a minor quibble.

When most people think of Igloo, affordability is one of the first things that come to mind. However, the Yukon Cooler is different. The asking price is pretty high and falls in line with what you are used to seeing from other premium cooler brands. Nevertheless, this isn't any ordinary Igloo Cooler. The Yukon can go toe-to-toe with many of its competitors in terms of toughness, ice life, and features.

While a comparison between an Igloo Cooler and a Yeti Cooler would typically be inappropriate, in this case, it's very apt. A Yeti Cooler will generally have a longer ice life, be tougher, and offer more features than an Igloo Cooler. Yetis will also be pricier.

But in the case of the Yukon, it shares many characteristics with the Yeti and can hold its own with the best that Yeti has to offer. Although Yeti has a larger range of sizes, color options, and accessories, the Igloo Yukon slightly outperforms an equivalent-sized Yeti in terms of ice life. Additionally, the Igloo Yukon is essentially identical to the Yeti in terms of toughness and build quality. Finally, the Igloo Yukon, while expensive, is still considerably less expensive than the budget-busting Yeti.

In conclusion, unless you're looking for a specific size or hue that Igloo does not offer, the Yukon makes a compelling case due to the money you'll save.

Looking for a tough and durable cooler that can keep your drinks and food cold for days on end? Look no further than the Igloo Yukon Cooler. This cooler is built to last with its thick rotomolded plastic construction and comes packed with features such as dual reversible ski pads, wider gripped handles, cool riser technology, UV inhibitors, stainless steel hardware, and dual lock lids. You can choose between the 50 and 70-quart models, available in white and tan colors.

Insulation Ability –

When it comes to keeping your ice frozen, the Igloo Yukon Cooler excels. With nearly 2 inches of insulation on the lid and body, this cooler creates an impenetrable barrier of cold. The lid also closes air-tight thanks to the large rubber gasket and latch design. Plus, the cooler's riser technology means you can place it directly on hot surfaces without fear of heat exchange.

Expect your ice to stay frozen for up to 7 days, even in the hot summer months with the 70-quart model. The 50-quart version may not last as long, but it's still capable of keeping your drinks cold for multiple days.

Mobility and Durability –

If you're worried about the durability of your cooler, you won't have to with the Igloo Yukon Cooler. This cooler can handle any abuse you throw its way, as evidenced by the IGBC sticker on its side. The metal hardware is also strong, and there are no weak points in the handles or hinges as you might find in lower-end models. Plus, features like the built-in fish scale and bottle openers are a nice touch.

The downside to all this durability is that the cooler is quite heavy and bulky, requiring two people to carry even in the smaller sizes. And speaking of sizes, there are only two available.

Visual Appeal –

If you're looking for a cool-looking cooler, the Igloo Yukon is a great choice. Its sturdy construction, high-quality hardware, and hinges all make it look like a rugged competitor. Even the locks on the lid and threaded drain plug are beefed up, adding to the overall feel of toughness.

Cost –

Be prepared to pay a premium price for this premium cooler. It's still less expensive than traditional high-end brands like Yeti and Pelican, but it's not cheap either.

Overall Rating –

We give the Igloo Yukon Cooler a solid 4 out of 5 coolers. It's a highly effective insulator packaged in a tough shell with very few weaknesses. It offers enough features to appeal to a broad range of consumers looking for a premium large cooler, but the price may be a bit steep for some. Nonetheless, it's definitely worth checking out if you're in the market for a top-of-the-line cooler. Don't forget to check current prices on Amazon before making your final decision.