Coleman’s Coastal Xtreme is a widely popular cooler that’s simple, cheap, and has the right construction to keep its contents chilled for long periods of time. In this review, we’ll dive into a couple specific categories to see what makes the Xtreme a bestseller.
Design
The Xtreme is shaped like most rectangular coolers but lacks the forward facing T-latches. Instead, the lid is flattened with the exception of four holes that act as cup/can holders.
Because of the lack of T-latches, it’s easier to accidentally open or leave the lid slightly open. You’ll want to make sure the lid is shut tight whenever you open it. I’m a big fan of T-latches and the security they bring, but the Xtreme will still close tight if you maintain and clean the area around the rim of the lid. Since its safe to sit on, your own weight can act as that extra sense of security.
This cooler has a larger overall depth and can hold an astonishing 70qt worth of contents, or the equivalent of 100 cans. If you decide to fill up the Xtreme to full capacity, you can bet you’ll need two people to carry it. The comfort handles have extended supports connecting them to the cooler. This way, you won’t be crushing your hands against the cooler or get a bad grip.
Compared to Other Brands
Through the combination of carrying weight and price, the Xtreme actually fairs better than most Yeti, RTIC, and ORCA coolers of similar size. Most companies price their coolers in the hundreds of dollars, even with the smallest capacity.
The Xtreme is dirt cheap, plain and simple. You could buy two or three Xtremes for the price of one of the larger coolers from Yeti, RTIC, or ORCA. On the other hand, it lacks the high-quality roto-molded construction that keeps ice and contents cooled for up to ten days. The Xtreme is only rated to chill contents for up to five days.
What are Others Saying?
Currently, the Xtreme holds a very high rating almost everywhere on the internet. Among the biggest compliments are the insulation properties in 90°F weather and of course, the incredibly low price compared to other brands.
Among the fan hype are people who have bought multiple Xtreme’s over the years, whether to replace one or simply have multiple. As we mentioned earlier, two or three Xtreme’s can cost less than one full cooler from Yeti, RTIC, and ORCA. For some, that is an almost unbeatable bargain.
One noticeable complaint is the hinges on the back that connect the lid to the rim. Some people have had problems with these lids breaking off in one way or the other. While they can be replaced, we can see how it can be an inconvenience to people who travel far and don’t have the means to replace them right away.
Overall
While the problem with the hinges is sure to make some question the Xtreme’s long-term durability, rest assured that it’s not a very common problem. While it does lack a full ten-days insulation like many of Yeti, RTIC, and ORCA coolers, that means the Xtreme is perfect for shorter trips.
In the end, we’re very satisfied with just about every aspect of the Xtreme. It’s nothing fancy but still has an above average carrying capacity. Click here to check its current price.
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