Kort

I did my research, and the Coleman 54-Quart Steel-Belted Cooler kept coming out on top. It isn't the largest or least expensive offering, and it isn't rated to keep things iced for more than four days. However, it is built like a tank with tough metal components and hard shell, and it does keep things iced for at least 3 days (dependent on usage). My candy red model arrived with a tiny cosmetic ding on the front, but was otherwise unblemished. The hinges, handles and lock are all constructed from sturdy metal, and the cooler feels as if it were built like a tank. It has a black, plasticized bottom that keeps it from sliding around and scuffing whatever surface it is placed on. The floor of the cooler features a channel for optimal drainage of melt water via the plug on the bottom right side.

I just got rid of a bunch of older coolers that had outlived their usefulness. This is a perfect replacement. It is tough enough to handle use and abuse during road trips, and is a welcome addition to my hurricane season preparedness equipment. If you want a sturdy cooler built with premium components that keeps your food and drink cold for more than a couple of days, this vintage-styled Coleman is worth checking out.

~ Kort

David A

bought this cooler because I was absolutely tired of looking at generic, blocky grey plastic coolers, and I wanted something with a bit of classic style for our weekend camping trips and backyard barbecues. On looks alone, this thing is a 10/10. It has that perfect, timeless American vibe, and the flat lid makes an awesome extra seat around the campfire or a steady table for drinks.
​Capacity-wise, it’s fantastic. Because the walls aren't three inches thick like a Yeti, the cooler isn't massive on the outside but it holds a ton of food and drinks on the inside—easily enough for a 3-day trip. It's also way lighter to carry when empty than a rotomolded cooler.
​That said, you need to know what you’re buying. This is a steel cooler, which means if you leave it sitting out in the direct sun, that metal shell acts like a heat magnet and your ice will melt way faster. If I pre-chill it and keep it tucked under the shade structure or a tree, I can easily get about 3 days of solid ice retention, which is perfect for a standard weekend trip. If you need a 7-day deep-woods cooler, look elsewhere.
​My only real gripe is the latch mechanism. It looks like the heavy-duty metal latches from the old days, but the internal components are mostly plastic. It turns and locks, but if you pull hard enough on the lid, it will pop right open without much effort. It definitely doesn't create a completely airtight seal, and if this thing tips over in the back of your truck, it will leak water.
​Also, keep in mind that the painted finish will scratch and dent if it’s banging around with other heavy gear. Personally, I think the scuffs give it a bit of rugged character, but if you want it to stay pristine, you’ll have to baby it.
​Pros:
​Incredible retro look; gets compliments everywhere I take it.
​Huge interior space without being awkwardly bulky or heavy.
​Lid is sturdy enough to sit on (up to 250 lbs).
​Solid leak-resistant drain plug.
​Cons:
​Latch doesn't lock tightly or create a watertight seal.
​Steel body gets hot if left in the sun.
​Overall, I love it. It's a great blend of nostalgia and everyday functionality. Just treat it like a classic weekend cooler rather than an expedition-grade box, and you'll be super happy with it!

ALDO GONZALEZ CABALLERO

INCREÍBLE la calidad y durabilidad que presenta esta hielera Coleman. El acabado exterior le da un toque elegante y robusto a la vez, ideal para salir al camping o a nadar y mantener tus bebidas frías por varios días. Vale cada peso que inviertas en ella! Difícil de superar hieleras cómo éstas…