Coleman Steel Belted Review
Our Verdict
Our Analysis and Test Results
Coleman's Steel Belted is a solid piece of traditional cooling technology. The nostalgic look takes you back.
Performance Comparison
Insulation Value
In our head to head ice retention test, the Steel Belted came out smack in the middle. The much more expensive boxes from Pelican and Yeti far out performed the Coleman. But as compared to those at a more similar price point, the Steel Belted does just fine.
Ease of Use
This cooler is simple in design, with a wide-opening lid and solid lid latch. The lid latch takes some getting used to, and one must occasionally get down and visual with it in order to assure that it is secured. The latch is a two-part contraption that remains secured to the main box portion. Hooks on the latch and lid mate to secure the lid, while an articulating cam pivots to pull the lid and press the gasket tight. This results in a solid, insulating seal. However, again, it occasionally takes a little fiddling to get it just right. In short, this is a very small issue.
Durability
If the legion of similarly designed coolers still in active use after 30 or more years is any indication, this is a very durable design. Our testing supports the same. We had no problems with the overall structure or hardware.
Portability
The Steel Belted cooler is light and has effective and comfortable handles. A cooler of this size, even completely full, is readily transported by any healthy adult, even without wheels.
Value
On a test roster that includes $330 coolers, the price of the Steel Belted model seems downright affordable. However, for the insulating value, something like the Best Buy winning Coleman 62 Xtreme Wheeled cooler is a far better deal. One will pay a bit of a premium for the nostalgic and easily cleaned steel construction of the Steel Belted cooler.
Conclusion
The primary appeal of this insulator is its nostalgic value. Sit in your aluminum-and-mesh lawn chair, prop open your Coleman Steel Belted, and pull out a glass-bottled, ice cold coke. Its like you're in an episode of the Wonder Years. Function and durability support the form, and won't disappoint.