Paddleboard coolers ensure you are hydrated every time you are afloat. How well your cooler works will depend on how you attach it to your SUP.
It is easy to do this as most coolers come with instructions on how to install. This article covers some of the best paddleboard coolers in the market.
Besides, you will learn the general guidelines for installing one on your stand-up paddleboard.
4 Best Coolers for Paddle Boards
Here are a few of the excellent options in the market. Depending on your needs and your style of paddleboard, you won't lack something to buy.
1. AKASO 6L Cooler Bag (Best for Bringing Lunch)
The AKASO 6L Small Collapsible Cooler Bag for 12 Cans is a must-have, especially for outdoor activities or picnic lovers. It's easy to carry and collapse into the palm of your hand when not in use!
This cooler bag also comes with a shoulder strap. So you can wear it on your back when carrying heavy items. The top has a handle that makes it easy to grab from the fridge. You can put things inside without spilling anything all over the floor.
It is a handy collapsible bag. You don't have to be anxious about forgetting ice packs again! Ride on the water safe, be hydrated, and stay stress-free.
2. THURSO SURF SUP Paddle Board Cooler
You are on the go and need to pack up your SUP. You don't want it to get ruined by all the sun or rain. So this model gives you a great cooler bag that is perfect for you. This one from THURSO is the real deal.
It has a unique design with a waterproof insulated compartment. Thus, it will keep your drinks cold and dry in any conditions! It also comes with a mesh pocket for snacks. The shoulder strap makes it easy to carry on those long walks back home from the waters.
The padded foam paddler pad will keep your board safe while transporting it around too!
3. Skywin Kayak Cooler
The Skywin Kayak Cooler is the perfect size for those looking to enjoy a day on the water. The capacity is more than enough, especially when you consider that it can carry several cans. It's durable, easy to use, and lightweight as well!
What's more, it is one of the best coolers out there. It features high-quality materials, and it does a great job at keeping your food cold for long.
Besides, it also has an easy-to-use design that can be opened and closed in three seconds! The downside of this unique cooler is that it is limited to specific boards and tandems. But if you're looking for a high-quality cooler, then the Skywin Kayak Cooler should be on your list.
4. AKASO12L Soft Cooler (Long Ice Retention)
AKASO is the leading brand in outdoor products. If you're looking for a cooler bag that can hold up to 24 cans, then this product may be the one for you!
This cooler bag is leak-proof and waterproof, with an easy zipper access design. It is spacious enough to stock extra food if you expect to paddle or stay out longer. The material itself is durable and water-resistant. So it will maintain your cold drinks cold even if you cover them in condensation from outside temperatures!
How to Choose the Best Paddle Board Cooler?
Here are a few crucial pointers to have ready when selecting the best paddleboard cooler.
1. Hard Cooler or Collapsible Cooler?
Collapsible paddleboard coolers come in a bag that can be worn like a backpack or slung over your shoulder. These have the perk of being easier to carry around.
But they can't hold as much as hard coolers. Hard-sided paddleboard coolers can hold more. But they are harder to carry around and store on a paddleboard. That's because they don't roll up as collapsible ones do.
2. Storage
You want to decide what size cooler is best for your needs. There are two standard sizes: small or large. It also factors in the storage. Here, it is about how much it can hold and the amount of space it takes on your paddleboard.
3. Ice Retention
Its ice retention will determine how long your food and drinks will stay cold. The more ice, the longer it'll keep things chilled. So you want to determine that whatever cooler you choose has a good amount of insulation. If possible, on both sides.
Suppose you have a collection of coolers or are looking to have them for various activities. Ensure that you know the duration you will be out. You wouldn't want a cooler that chills your supplies of 6 hours when you'll be out paddling for 9 hours.
4. Cooler Mount
How you mount your cooler on the paddleboard is something that matters a lot. It is either on the deck or in a dry bag. It will depend on what type of cooler you have. A soft-sided board should be mounted inside. A hard-sided one can go either way.
If you're looking for an easier option, don't worry. There are also paddleboard coolers that come with integrated mounting systems. So they don't need to be tied down.
Ways to Attach Cooler to Paddleboard
This section explains how you can attach your cooler to your paddleboard. You wouldn't want to damage it whatsoever.
1. Paddle board Cooler Seat
There are a few different ways to attach the cooler seat. You can attach some of them with straps and others with bungee cords.
A paddleboard cooler seat is a helpful accessory for paddlers. Those who like to pack snacks and drinks onto their boards own them. It is a chair that attaches to the nose of your board. So you can sit in comfort as well as store things in front of you.
It also provides another point of contact between your body and the board. So, it means that you can use it as a seat and attachment point.
If you're using it for a day of paddling before going home, an insulated seat is ideal. It will maintain your drinks and snacks cool.
When attaching your paddleboard cooler seat, check that you fasten it well. It is for optimal performance on the water.
Place hard-sided coolers in front of you so they won't topple over when paddling!
2. Paddle board Cooler Mount
A paddleboard cooler mount is a kit that attaches your cooler to the top of your board. These are most often bulky, hard-plastic contraptions. Thus, one must secure both the deck of the board and the rim of the cooler with bungee cords.
Attach your paddleboard cooler mount to the underside of the board. You can do this by slipping it over one end. Proceed to press down on both ends until they snap into place.
You can change how close you want the plastic clamp to grip your board. Do this by tightening or loosening its screws.
3. How to Attach Cooler to Paddleboard
You can attach about any cooler to a paddleboard. But it is best if the cooler is light and has no sharp edges. You'll need a set of bungee cords with hooks on one end and ensure that your cooler is closed well.
Don't attach a rope to the handle of your paddleboard's carrying strap, and try to swing it over one arm. It can result in injury if you're not careful! Instead, tie the handles together. Then, you can bring them back around your waist for secure transport.
Final Thoughts!
There can be a handful of things to think about when picking the cooler for your paddleboard. But it is not that complicated. You can opt for an ice cooler that is lightweight and has no sharp edges.
We always recommend getting a good quality cooler. So you don't have issues with leaks or broken seals! These coolers should be easy to carry and have good insulation, so you're not in the water with a wet trunk.
