Spring is just around the corner, which means it’s time to begin gearing up for your next outdoor adventure.
Perhaps, you’re planning your next camping extravaganza as the weather warms up, or you’re considering hosting a few backyard barbecues to celebrate the longer days ahead. Or, if you’re anything like me, you’re already counting down the days till tailgating season. Even if September may seem out of reach, I don’t believe there is such a thing as prepping for game day too early.
In honor of this summer fun to come, let me introduce you to RTIC. Being outside all day requires some essentials; a durable cooler, insulated totes, backpacks, folding chairs, and perhaps some hefty drinkware that can bare a few blows. All of this gear and more can be found at my new favorite one-stop-outdoor shop — RTIC.
The brand’s mission is to achieve two simple things: keeping your drinks icy cold and your wallet happy. It’s really as simple as that. In addition to engineering affordable gear, RTIC also offers customization services. That means you can put your brand, team, or company logo on many of their high-quality products. A great gift idea for the gearheads out there.
Wondering which RTIC products are right for you? Let me take you on a guide through some of the best-selling RTIC gear. I’ve had the opportunity to test some products from RTIC firsthand. Read on for my notes on everything from the ultra-light wheeled cooler to the iconic stainless steel tumbler.
Ultra-Light Wheeled Cooler Review
Pros:
Cons:
- The thick insulating walls do take up some space on the inside — though there still is plenty of room
Specs: Dimensions: 29 × 18 × 18 inches, 30 pounds
I tested out the 52-quart Ultra-light Wheeled Cooler, which I quickly suspected was a best-seller — it has received 4.9/5 stars from reviewers. The cooler has a 78-can capacity and is said to be 30% lighter than competing wheeled coolers. When I saw the huge box sitting in the package room, I started looking left and right for someone to help me carry it. That was not necessary. It’s true — this cooler is shockingly light, given its dimensions.
Another thing I love about this cooler is the ease of movement. The wheels roll and turn very easily, which makes me think it would be an excellent choice for tailgating. But, my absolute favorite element of the design is the way it seals shut. Growing up, I always remember the fuss of snapping on latches that never seemed to work. RTIC uses silicone t-latches that clamp down with barely any pressure.
If you’re not already sold, there are a couple of other features worth mentioning. This cooler has a built-in, stainless steel bottle opener, so you can open drinks anytime, anywhere. There is also a convenient, silicone cargo net built into the lid for easy storing of smaller items. These small features mark the difference between this cooler and some of its competitors.
Soft Cooler Pack Review
Pros:
- Well-placed, thick straps and cross-body band easy for carrying
- The material is waterproof and built to float without letting the inside get wet
- Different size and color options
Cons:
- Deep and narrow build is more suited for drinks over food
- The zipper is a bit stiff (but very durable)
Specs: 15 x 12 x 11 inches, 4 pounds
Meet RTIC’s soft-sided cooler pack. The catch of this cooler is that it floats, which is exceptionally attractive for those who enjoy floating a lazy river or having a mid-summer pool party. I submerged it in my bathtub to test it out myself — and it worked! If you’re looking for a leak-proof cooler that can come along on your water adventures, you’ve found the one.
I’ve always been a bit hesitant about using soft coolers for drinks that need to stay cold. By nature, it seems like the hard-top version would be better at temperature regulation This one changed my mind. After 24 hours of sitting inside, the drinks I pulled out felt colder than the ones I put in. According to RTIC, this small cooler can keep most drinks cold for two days. I suppose I had time to spare.
Everyone has different needs when it comes to gear. This cooler comes in four different sizes — holding 12, 20, 30, or 40 cans. You can also choose from six bright shades.
Road Trip Tumbler Review
Pros:
- Ceramic-lined coating for improved taste
- 3-in-1 Lid (two straws included)
- Up to 24-hour Ice Retention
- Safe in the dishwasher
Cons:
- Both the 30-ounce and 40-ounce options are on the larger side Z — great for some occasions but not ideal for all
Specs: 3 x 11 x 4 inches, 30 ounces or 40 ounces
I love a good tumbler. The right one will actually encourage you to drink water all day (something far too easy to forget to do, in my opinion). My take is that RTIC’s Roadtrip Tumbler even makes your water taste better. The ceramic-lined interior protects beverages from any metallic taste or smell, so every sip tastes great.
In terms of design, I love that this tumbler offers a very large handle, which is easy to carry and hold when you’re on the go. You’ll also notice that the bottom of this bottle is slightly more narrow so it fits in more cup holders. The straw is especially useful for taking a sip while driving so you don’t have to worry about spills (ie. road trips). Those who prefer drinking straight out of the bottle can also use the open-mouth setting.
The Road Trip Tumbler comes in multiple of shapes and shades. You can choose between the 30-ounce or 40-ounce option (both of which I would consider on the bigger side of water bottles). And, for those who are looking to shop for the entire team, you can bundle and buy a 12-pack for some additional savings.
Bottle Review
Pros:
- Four size options (26, 32, 36, and 40 ounces)
- Holds ice for up to 24 hours
- Heavy-duty lid seal locks in the cold
Cons:
- The top lid gathers a small amount of condensation
Specs: 9.5 x 3.5 inches, 26, 32, 36, and 40 ounces
RTIC’s simple, best-selling bottle is another great choice for those working on their hydration. The sleek design features an extra wide opening for easy filling, drinking, and cleaning. The cap seals tight, and offers a convenient handle. You can also throw the entire bottle in the dishwasher, which makes the cleaning process so much easier.
I tested this bottle with both hot and cold beverages and was satisfied with the results of both experiments. The stainless steel material easily kept my morning coffee warm, but my hands weren’t overheating the way they would with a typical coffee mug. Better yet, after a long day at work, the ice in my water was still floating around. I give the temperature retention a rating of 10/10.
In general, RTIC offers a large selection in terms of colors and sizing for all its products, but this bottle is really where your preferences can shine through. Take a look at some of the new shades — like cypress pine, olive, and very berry. You can even choose a different color for the lid and add a custom sleeve. Or, better yet, engrave it with your own artwork and text.
The bottom line
I’m familiar with a few of RTIC’s competitors in the gear space — YETI, IGLOO, Pelican, to name a few. While each brand has its own charm and unique aesthetic, I’d say that RTIC holds it’s place as the top brand for gear that is not just high-quality but won’t break the bank.
RTIC also offers customers exclusive discounts. All Active Military, Active Military Spouses, and First Responders are eligible for a 10% discount. And shoppers who make referrals can give their friends 10% off of their first order, and will also receive a $20 reward themselves when they make a purchase.
The brand has a 30-day return policy which means that you will get your money back if you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase or change your mind for any reason. Another perk — shipping is also free for all orders over $35.
How we tested
To provide a comprehensive review of this brand, I put the products to the test. I’ve evaluated the gear on three main points — aesthetics, functionality and durability.
Aesthetics: Sure, outdoor gear isn’t necessarily the most exciting stuff to have around the house. In fact, most of it tends to live in the garage. But, I’ve found that products from RTIC are actually nice enough to want to show off. They’re offered in a range of colors and delightful patterns (camo and red, white, and blue included). At RTIC, you can easily find something gear that goes with your style.
Functionality: When I began this review, I wanted to be sure that the gear was user-friendly. How heavy is it? How easy to move? How cool does it really keep your liquids and foods? From my testing, I’ve found that RTIC products are intelligently designed — the handles are always in just the right places, the lids clasp on tight to prevent leaks, and the ice doesn’t sweat.
Durability: With any sort of gear, you want to make sure your purchase is going to last. To get an idea of how tough RTIC’s materials were, I wasn’t too friendly with the products. Each one was put through a military-style drill. Cooler wheels were pushed over rough terrain. The tumbler was banged on the floor and put through the wash. The soft cooler pack’s edges were slammed into a corner. And from all of this, I can confidently tell you, that you’re getting your money’s worth.
For more recommendations, check out the New York Post Shopping section.