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In a nutshell, the Cool Trail Pack Cooler from REI Co-op appears to be a real boon for those seeking a versatile, practical, and environmentally conscious option for their outdoor pursuits. With its spacious capacity, comfort-focused design, and bonus feature of converting into a backpack, I feel it might serve many outdoor enthusiasts well.
However, it’s also worth noting that its size and weight, while suitable for some, might not fit all preferences or needs. The dual-functionality might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you prefer specialized gear. And while it’s built for camping and casual use, it might not be the best choice for extreme outdoor adventures or those seeking luxury finishes on their gear.
At the end of the day, it’s all about what works best for you. The Cool Trail Pack Cooler might be a great fit for some, while others may prefer a different approach to their outdoor gear. Variety, after all, is what makes our outdoor adventures all the more vibrant, and there’s plenty of it to be found in the outdoor gear market.
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REI Co-op Cool Trail Pack Cooler Review: Who is it for?
In my humble opinion, the Cool Trail Pack Cooler from REI Co-op is a versatile product designed with a variety of outdoor enthusiasts in mind. There’s a lot to appreciate about this product, and I believe it has certain features that make it especially suited to specific user profiles.
Firstly, the leakproof cooler insert that can be removed to transform the cooler into a spacious backpack. This function makes the product ideal for those who enjoy day hiking. You could pack all your chilled snacks and beverages in the cooler and then once they’re consumed, you have the option of using it as a roomy pack for the rest of your hike. It’s a 2-in-1 product that I think will appeal to practical hikers who like to make the most of the gear they carry.
The adjustable, padded hipbelt and shoulder straps give this cooler a comfortable fit, which is essential for those long walks to the beach or treks to the perfect picnic spot. If you’re someone who values comfort in your outdoor gear, I reckon this might be a great fit for you. It accommodates a range of waist and torso sizes, from 28-46 inches and 17-19 inches respectively, making it a suitable choice for a variety of body types.
Next, the external gear pockets and top pocket allow you to carry plenty of trail supplies. This feature, along with the front lash straps designed for attaching bulky items, makes this product a practical option for campers. If you’re someone who enjoys camping trips and needs a cooler that can double as a storage solution for your gear, I believe this product could serve you well.
The product’s construction also caught my eye. Made from recycled ripstop nylon outer and polyester inner, it’s both durable and environmentally friendly. It meets the bluesign® criteria and contains recycled materials, which is a big plus for any environmentally conscious outdoor enthusiasts. If sustainability is a factor you consider when purchasing outdoor gear, this cooler might align with your values.
Weighing in at just over 3 lbs, it’s relatively lightweight for its size, which is a nice feature for those long treks. With dimensions of 22 x 17 x 9 inches and a gear capacity of 38 liters or 2,319 cubic inches, it’s spacious enough to store a decent amount of food and drink, making it suitable for group outings as well.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that this cooler is soft-sided and designed for casual use as well as camping. So, if you’re someone who often has picnics, goes to beach parties, or tailgates at sporting events, I think this cooler could be a handy addition to your gear collection.
In summary, the Cool Trail Pack Cooler is a versatile, practical, and sustainable product. From my perspective, it seems well suited to hikers, campers, beach-goers, tailgaters, and anyone in between who values a combination of comfort, practicality, and sustainability in their outdoor gear. But of course, everyone’s needs are different, and what works for one person may not work for another. That’s the beauty of outdoor gear – there’s something for everyone!
REI Co-op Cool Trail Pack Cooler Review: Who isn’t it for?
Now, let’s shift gears and focus on the Cool Trail Pack Cooler’s potential shortcomings and who it might not be the best fit for.
I’d like to start by saying that it’s worth considering the cooler’s size and weight. Although it’s relatively lightweight for a cooler of its capacity, at over 3 lbs when empty, it could be a bit heavy for someone who prefers ultra-light gear or has a smaller frame. Plus, if you’re planning to fill it up to its full 38-liter capacity, it’ll get heavier. So, it might not be the best choice for individuals concerned about carrying weight, especially during longer hikes or expeditions.
Similarly, those who lean towards minimalist packing or require sleek, compact gear might find this pack a bit bulky. With dimensions of 22 x 17 x 9 inches, it’s generous with space, which is great for group outings or longer camping trips. However, if you usually embark on solo adventures or short trips, the size might be more than what you need. Furthermore, in urban settings or crowded public transport, a cooler of this size could prove cumbersome.
Talking about its dual-function as a cooler cum backpack, while I find this a versatile feature, it’s not without its potential drawbacks. If you’re someone who prefers specialized gear for each purpose, you might not be thrilled with this 2-in-1 concept. The cooler function could compromise some backpack features you value, like multiple compartments for organized packing or certain comfort features. Also, if you prefer a dedicated cooler for your food and drinks and a separate backpack for your gear, this product might not be the best fit for you.
One more thing to consider is the cooler’s best use as outlined by REI. Defined as suitable for camping and casual use, it might not be the best choice for extreme outdoor activities or harsh conditions. If you’re an avid mountaineer, extreme sports enthusiast, or someone who frequently explores in challenging terrain or weather conditions, you might need a cooler with more robust features, like additional insulation or hard-sided construction for superior durability and protection.
Lastly, the product is made from recycled ripstop nylon outer and polyester inner, meeting the bluesign® criteria and including recycled materials. While this is fantastic from a sustainability standpoint, this might not be the cooler for you if you prioritize other features like premium finishes, leather accents, or metal hardware that might usually accompany high-end, luxury outdoor gear.
In conclusion, while the Cool Trail Pack Cooler is a versatile and practical product, it might not be the best choice for ultra-light gear enthusiasts, minimalists, individuals who prefer specialized gear, extreme outdoor adventurers, or those who prioritize luxury finishes in their outdoor equipment. However, this is just my humble opinion, and different individuals have different needs and preferences when it comes down to selecting the right gear. It’s essential to consider these points but also to assess the product in relation to your specific needs and activities. After all, variety is the spice of life, and there’s outdoor gear to suit every way of life.
REI Co-op Cool Trail Pack Cooler Review: Conclusion
In a nutshell, the Cool Trail Pack Cooler from REI Co-op appears to be a real boon for those seeking a versatile, practical, and environmentally conscious option for their outdoor pursuits. With its spacious capacity, comfort-focused design, and bonus feature of converting into a backpack, I feel it might serve many outdoor enthusiasts well.
However, it’s also worth noting that its size and weight, while suitable for some, might not fit all preferences or needs. The dual-functionality might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you prefer specialized gear. And while it’s built for camping and casual use, it might not be the best choice for extreme outdoor adventures or those seeking luxury finishes on their gear.
At the end of the day, it’s all about what works best for you. The Cool Trail Pack Cooler might be a great fit for some, while others may prefer a different approach to their outdoor gear. Variety, after all, is what makes our outdoor adventures all the more vibrant, and there’s plenty of it to be found in the outdoor gear market.