The YETI Roadie 32 wheeled cooler strikes a practical balance between portability and performance, but its price tag, ranging from $350 to $375 at the time of writing, also makes it one of the most expensive coolers available today. Designed for day trips and weekends away, this cooler is a rugged, hard-wearing option for those who need reliable cooling on the go.
Rugged Design and Construction
Built to Last
Built with the same rotomolded construction found in the brand’s toughest hard coolers, the Roadie 32 is virtually indestructible. Its RockSolid shell can withstand bumps and drops, while the NeverFail hinge system uses dual pins to prevent failure.
Inside, thick PermaFrost insulation lines the walls and lid, and a ColdLock gasket creates an airtight seal to maximize ice retention. With a 32-quart capacity, the interior can hold up to 50 cans or more than 30 pounds of ice, and its height allows for storing wine or 2-liter soft drink bottles upright.
It is available in about nine colorways, including both permanent and limited editions.
Unmatched Mobility
What sets the Roadie 32 apart is its mobility. The puncture-resistant, ultra-quiet NeverFlat wheels provide second-to-none stabilization, allowing the cooler to roll smoothly and steadily over uneven terrain like cobblestones, grass, and sand. The four-stage Periscope telescopic handle is sturdy, ergonomic, and easy to control with a release button.
For lifting, low-profile LipGrip side handles are designed for two-person transport, though they can make carrying the cooler up and down stairs a challenge.
Key Features and Minor Flaws
Other features include a QuickLatch system for easy one-handed closing and a leak-resistant BESTDAM drain plug. However, the drain hole is not positioned at the very bottom, meaning the cooler must be tipped slightly to drain all the water.
Also, unlike some other YETI models, the Roadie 32 is not bear-proof as it lacks padlock holes.
Impressive Ice Retention
In real-world testing, the cooler’s performance is impressive. In one test reflecting regular use—opening the cooler every two hours and removing cans—it was still cold with some solid ice after 72 hours.
Another experiment, where the cooler was kept on a balcony in 64°F temperatures and opened a few times a day, found that ice cubes remained after a week, and the contents were still cooler than the ambient temperature after 10 days.
This makes it a reliable choice for weekend getaways or even camping trips lasting more than three days.
Read Next: How to Pack a Cooler for a Boat Day
The Verdict
Although it is expensive compared to alternatives that cost under $100 for more than double the capacity, the YETI Roadie 32 is a brilliantly judged cooler. It is well-crafted, easy to move, and keeps its contents ice-cold for days.
While the drain plug placement could be improved and it lacks bear-resistance, these are minor complaints. For those willing to invest in a premium cooler that offers YETI-grade performance and will last a lifetime, this is one of the smartest options available.
Buyer’s Checklist
- Best for: boaters, anglers, campers, weekenders, tailgaters
- Capacity: 32 quarts (up to 50 cans or 30+ pounds of ice)
- Mobility: never-flat wheels, four-stage telescopic handle, side carry handles
- Price range: about $350–$375
- Not for: users who need bear-resistant padlocking or ultra-lightweight soft coolers
FAQ
Is the YETI Roadie 32 good for boats?
Yes. The wheels and telescopic handle make dock and ramp travel easy, and the insulation supports full-weekend trips when packed correctly.
How long does ice last in the Roadie 32?
With frequent-opening use, expect solid ice after about 72 hours. In mild conditions with limited openings, ice can last up to a week, with contents staying cooler than ambient beyond that.
Does the Roadie 32 fit wine or 2-liter bottles upright?
Yes, the interior height supports upright storage for tall bottles.
Is the Roadie 32 bear-proof?
No. It lacks padlock holes, so it isn’t rated as bear-resistant.
Does the Roadie 32 leak when draining?
The drain plug is leak-resistant, but because the port sits slightly above the floor, tilt the cooler to remove all water.
Buy Now: Shop the YETI Roadie 32
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