Ao Vinyl Cooler Review

Storage Size: 12, 15, 24, 36, and 48 cans (approx. 16 to 60 quarts) sizes

Construction: Plastic and vinyl composition

Cost: Intermediate-priced

Features: Removable shoulder strap, side storage pocket, leak-proof liner

Pros: Great cooling ability, two carrying choices, strong material

Cons: Still prone to scratches, not many external features, looks are questionable

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Last Updated by Brandon F. on December 22, 2022

This is our Ao Vinyl Cooler Review.  The Ao Vinyl Cooler is intended for those that like to take their adventures off-road and into the great outdoors.  The material used is much more durable, which makes it better suited for the desert, woods, snow, etc.  Specifically, 1000 denier vinyl is the material choice.  This particular material is tear-resistant, waterproof, and anti-mildew.

In addition, these coolers still contain the thick foam outer layer which promises a full day of cooling ability.  Most sizes either have an overhead handle, side shoulder strap, or both.  This product is available in a variety of colors as well as 12, 15, 24, 36, and 48 can sizes (approximately 16 to 60 quarts).  It is made of tough vinyl and plastic.

Insulation ability – 

This product does live up to its promises which is very impressive for a soft-sided cooler.  You can anticipate a full day of cooling even in the warm summer heat with this item.  We believe a combination of the upgraded material, good sealing, and thick foam is to thank for this.  In addition, the ice that does melt should mostly stay contained since the outer material is essentially water-tight.

Mobility and durability – 

As most soft-sided coolers tend to be, mobility is quite simple with this product, albeit this cooler is larger than expected for a given size. The larger sizes will have options for both overhead handles and carrying straps which assist with flexibility as well as make it easier for those times when the larger sizes are called (since it can become quite heavy).

The upgraded material does a good job of handling abuse, although we still don’t see it being able to handle extreme outdoor environments for long like certain other soft coolers that we have tested.   It can still be prone to scratches and damage and these areas can become weak points for additional damage.

Visual Appeal – 

These Vinyl line doesn’t have as many outside pockets and netting features as some of Ao’s other offerings, so the outside can appear a bit bare.  Also, the upgraded material is very shiny and whether or not this is an attractive look to someone is up to personal preference.

Cost – 

This cooler is available online at the lower end of the intermediate tier.  The price does vary quite a bit however so make sure you shop around.

Overall Rating – 

We give the Ao Vinyl Cooler Review 3 coolers out of 5.  A tough product that has a good ice life for being a soft-sided cooler, while adhering to some of the benefits that those types of coolers bring.  It does fall a bit short in the looks category, though.  However, for someone looking for a rugged but still somewhat mobile cooling solution, this should do the trick.