Ice Chests & Hard-Sided Coolers (203 items found)

Whether you need a heavy-duty ice cooler for outdoor excursions or a table-top water cooler for the office or kids’ sporting events, you’re sure to find the right coolers for your needs at Ace. Shop a selection of ice chests and hard coolers from leading brands like YETI and Igloo today.

Benefits of Hard Coolers

Hard-sided coolers are a staple of outdoor adventures like camping and tailgating. When you need to pack a lot, or you’re serving a crowd, hard-sided ice chest coolers have a few advantages over soft-side coolers:

• Hard coolers are available with larger carrying capacities to serve more.
• They tend to be considerably more durable, making them ideal for rugged adventures.
• Hard ice chests with wheels make heavier loads easier to transport.
• Ice chests can keep items cooler for longer.

What to Look for in an Ice Chest Cooler

When you’re deciding on how to buy your ice chest cooler, you will want to consider a few things, including its carrying capacity and whether it is wheeled.

• Can Capacity: Ice chest capacity tends to be measured in 12-ounce cans but also in quarts. For quick reference, a 24-quart arctic cooler can hold 18 cans.
• Insulation: Look for hard coolers with extra thick walls or vacuum technology for greater insulation, which will keep your ice retention high and refreshments cool.
• Transport: Chest coolers with rubber grips make for more comfortable transport and are strong enough to handle heavier loads. Although not all models have wheels, coolers allow you to easily haul heavy loads to tailgates, boats, campsites and more.
• UV Inhibitors: From the boat to the beach or campsite, chances are your ice chest will see lots of sun for long periods. UV inhibitors help protect your investment from sun damage to ensure more long-term use.
• Anti-Skid Feet: Skid prevention technology helps your ice cooler stay in place on flat surfaces like boats, preventing hazardous situations and spills.
• Interior Dividers: Look for models designed with dividers like food baskets to keep items well organized and in good condition.

Arctic Coolers for the Right Occasions

Hard ice chests are great for outdoor social gatherings, camping trips and beach days. Here are a few occasions where a hard cooler might be the best choice for you.

BBQs and Tailgates

Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or tailgating the big game, a large ice-chest cooler is a necessity. Opt for a large hard cooler to house multiple canned and bottled beverages on ice so you don’t have to run back and forth from your fridge to replenish guests. Look for 5-gallon coolers with cup dispensers that make hydrating a breeze at tailgates and other outdoor events.

Camping Adventures

When you're going to be away from the comforts of home for days on end, you need ice chests that will keep ice frozen for longer. Check out our double-wall insulated options for maximum coolness, plus features like comfort grip handles and rugged wheels for easy maneuvering through the outdoors.

Beach Outings

Hard ice coolers are a beach day staple. They keep refreshments cool even with the hot sun beating down. Look for well-insulated coolers with UV protection to keep sandwiches, fresh fruit and beverages cold and ready to serve as you lounge on a beach chair and soak up the sun.

Fishing Trips

Many hard-sided coolers are perfect for people who love fishing. Find options with molded-in fish rulers, tie-down spots, anti-skid feet, bottle openers and can holders to let you relax as you focus on catching the big one.

Chest Cooler Accessories

Make your favorite outdoor cooler even more convenient by pairing it with cooler accessories from Ace Hardware. Reusable ice packs, clip-on cup holders, handy tie-down straps and other add-ons help make the most of your ice chest.

Shop Ice Chest Coolers at Ace Hardware

For all your outdoor living excursions and big events, shop hard ice coolers at Ace. And if you need any help deciding which cooler is right for you, find ice chests near you at Ace, where our knowledgeable associates can help steer you in the right direction.