Compared to some newer models, the Yeti is spartan.
Eleven models are available, ranging from 28.8 quarts (Tundra 35) to 402.4 quarts (Tundra 420). Yeti was the first to build coolers with the roto-molding process used for making whitewater kayaks. The shells are impact- and stress-resistant. According to Yeti's Web site, the walls and lid contain 2 inches of polyurethane insulation. The owner's manual, however, claims that the lid contains 3 inches of insulation.
The ceiling drops down to form a deep channel that houses a wrap-around, freezer-grade gasket. These gaskets are standard on all coolers in this class. When you close a Yeti, only the vacuum is audible. You hear no plastic-to-plastic contact.
The Yeti is compatible for use with dry ice, and it works well with a combination of Arctic Ice Tundra Series ice packs and loose ice. If you use dry ice, the contents will freeze.
Thick rubber T-straps secure the lid to the shell.
The handles are marine-grade foam tubes and marine-grade ropes. They hang inside recesses on the sides, so they do not increase the cooler width. At both edges are hasps that allow you to lock the cooler with long-shank padlocks. You also can add a security shim, which is sold separately in a security package that comes with a special lock and laminated braided steel cable. This allows you to secure the Yeti to the tie-downs in a truck bed, or a tree or lantern post to prevent theft.
The interior has smooth, tapered walls. The angled bottom has a tapered channel for drainage.
The Yeti's drain plug is a heavy, threaded plastic plug with a thick gasket. You do not have to remove the plug to drain a Yeti, but the plug is not attached. If you lose it, you'll have to buy another ($10).
The Yeti also comes with a metal dry goods basket. This is handy, but it significantly decreases the amount of ice you can put in the cooler.
On the bottom are non-skid feet.
You can get Yetis in your favorite school colors, including cardinal and white with a Razorback logo.
Yeti also has established a cottage industry of accessories. You can attach a custom Yeti bottle opener to your cooler, or a metal cup holder that hangs from the security shim slot.
The Yeti 50, our test model, fits sideways in a canoe and is ideal for canoe camping.
MSRP $380.
Weight 25 pounds
Warranty 5 years.
Sports on 07/06/2014