Coleman has launched the Snap 'N Go, the world's first collapsible hard-sided cooler that can fold down like an accordion to one-third of its full size for storage. The cooler officially launched on March 17 in three sizes, with prices ranging from $199.99 to $239.99.
The innovative design uses multiple separate panels that bend and fold together, with front and back panels set on hinges that allow them to fold in the middle. This external plastic shell structure differs from typical hard coolers' sealed edges, enabling the compression while maintaining cold retention and leak prevention.
While companies like REI, Yeti, and Coleman have created compressible soft cooler bags, no manufacturer had previously solved the engineering challenge of a collapsible hard cooler. Hard coolers are often preferred by consumers for their superior durability, insulation, and ease of cleaning compared to soft alternatives, but their bulk during storage has been a persistent drawback.
According to Nicolas Duran, Coleman's president of outdoor and recreation, the 18-month development process required solving complex design challenges around maintaining structural integrity while achieving dramatic size reduction. The innovation addresses a significant pain point in the outdoor recreation market where storage space is often limited.