Planning an adventure in the great outdoors can be exciting and daunting at the same time.
After all, not picking the right equipment can put a damper on your day. And when it comes to coolers, lugging around a heavy model during a hike sounds less than ideal.
Fortunately, Yeti provides two compact and lightweight options, so you never have to compromise on little pleasures, such as an ice-cold beverage, even when you are in the backcountry.
But which Yeti cooler is the best choice for you? Read this Yeti Hopper Flip 8 Vs. 12 review to decide today.
YETI Hopper Flip 8 Review
The Yeti Hopper Flip 8 exemplifies “big performance in a small package.” Indeed, with the dimensions 10½” x 11½” x 8”, this small unit is an excellent solution for those who prefer to travel light during their outdoor adventures.
Additionally, the cubed body makes this cooler easy to store in your backpack or a corner when not in use. But despite its small size, the Yeti Hopper Flip 8 can accommodate eight cans of soda or beer and keep them cool all day long.
Perhaps, the highlight of this cooler is its insulation capabilities. Equipped with Yeti’s trademarked Coldcell technology, the closed-rubber foam ensures that your cold beverages remain refreshingly icy for at least 24 hours.
And while this unit seems like the perfect accompaniment for a leisurely day on the golf course, you can also carry it to the most challenging hiking trails. Either way, this durable piece won’t give in to wear and tear, mildew, or sun damage.
YETI Hopper Flip 12 Review
Providing the ultimate portability for your snacks and beverages is the Yeti Hopper Flip 12, which is available in four exciting colors. So whether you prefer the Highlands Olive, Navy, Harvest Red, or Charcoal model, each unit looks equally sharp and well-made.
And just as one might expect, this cooler lives up to its name in terms of durability and performance. For starters, the exteriors feel soft to touch but can withstand the challenges that come with any intense outdoor activity.
In fact, you can take this waterproof and leak-proof unit on a kayaking adventure, and you won’t have to worry about water damage or spills. And you don’t have to limit yourself to carrying cans and bottles.
That said, the inner lining is made of FDA-approved food-grade material, so the unit conveniently doubles up as an excellent picnic or snack basket.
For the best results, use an ice supplement, such as the Yeti thin ice, and place it around the contents of your cooler. Many satisfied customers in the website’s review section have mentioned how taking this extra precaution has kept ice blocks from melting for as many as two days.
YETI Hopper Flip 8 Vs. 12, The Difference
Capacity
At first glance, you may notice how the Yeti Hopper Flip 8 appears considerably smaller than the Hopper Flip 12 model. And indeed, the names themselves indicate the holding capacity of each product.
That said, the smaller model can be fitted with a total of eight cans of beverages, with some allowance for ice supplements. In the case of pint-sized bottles of beer or soda, you may have to lay them on their sides and only fit about four or six bottles at a time.
On the other hand, the Hopper Flip 12 provides enough storage for a total of 12 cans, with extra room for small knick-knacks. Needless to say, the former has been seemingly designed for day use, while the latter may be more suitable for overnight camping trips.
Size
At 10½” x 11½” x 8”, The Yeti Hopper Flip 8 is a compact and lightweight unit that you can easily carry around. While its portability and convenience remain its USP, some outdoor enthusiasts prefer the much more spacious Yeti Hopper Flip 12.
With the dimensions 11½” x 12⅝” x 10”, this unit provides a higher holding capacity, but it may be a tad too bulky for day-to-day use. However, if you plan outdoor and overnight activities frequently, this may be the right option for you.
Ice Retention Capacity
Yeti coolers are known and loved for their insulation and ice retention capacity. However, customers have noticed some differences in the functioning of both these products. It is also worth noting that both coolers require ice supplements for optimal ice retention. Users may also want to pre-chill the unit and their items in a refrigerator before storing them in the cooler.
Once you have taken the necessary precautions, ensure that the unit is appropriately zipped from all sides. After this, you can expect the Hopper Flip 8 to keep ice frozen for just under 24 hours. On the other hand, the Hopper Flip 12, when equipped with 4lbs of Yeti Ice, will ensure that ice or frozen items do not thaw or melt for upto 30 hours.
However, keep in mind that these numbers may vary depending on several other factors, including the quality of ice supplements and the ice temperature. For more tips on optimizing ice retention capacity, visit the official website and reach out to the product experts at Yeti.
YETI Hopper Flip 8 And 12, The Similarities
Durability
Yeti coolers are premium products exclusively meant for outdoor use. That said, the designers make sure that each model is made with durable material that can even endure the harsh environment of the wilderness.
To do this, the makers have introduced their trademarked Dryhide Shell, a high-density fabric equipped with UV ray protection and resistance to mildew. At the same time, this puncture-proof fabric is soft to touch, and the handles and shoulder strap are comfortable to use.
Zipper & Waterproofing
The Dryhide Shell is engineered to be waterproof, so you won’t have to think twice before taking Yeti coolers on your next kayaking adventure or sailing trip. What’s more, the leak-proof design ensures that there is no mess even as you hit big waves.
And while the trademarked Hydrolok Zipper keeps your items in place, it also prevents air from entering or escaping the unit. As a result, your food, beverages, and ice packs remain frosty throughout your trip.
However, some customers have noticed that the tough-as-nails, airtight Hydrolok zipper may sometimes be challenging to unzip due to its heavy and rigid mechanism. In such cases, the manufacturer recommends that buyers apply a bit of the Yeti Zipper Lubricant so the zipper can slide easily.
Insulation
Yeti coolers live up to their name and fulfill their duty of providing optimal cooling and insulation. For starters, the Hydrolok zipper prevents any airflow in the unit, which may otherwise interfere with the insulation process.
At the same time, the inner lining of the coolers is fitted with a thick closed-cell rubber foam layer that locks in and maintains a cool temperature. Also known as Coldcell Insulation, this trademarked technology by Yeti is far superior to most of what the industry offers.
Design
The Yeti Hopper Flip 8 and 12 are similar in design, barring a difference in size and capacity. First off, both of these cubed units have a rugged appearance and are available in multiple stylish colors.
At the same time, the versatile design makes them suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities. For instance, these units provide great accompaniments to your hiking gear and double up as a course cooler for golf trips.
Upon closer look, you will find other similar features, including a top handle and a long shoulder strap that are wide and easy to use. And on either side of the brand logo are a set of loops known as the Hitchpoint Grid.
This loop system is a nifty addition capable of holding other accessories that will come in handy during outdoor trips. For instance, you can use these to attach Yeti tools, such as the corrosion-resistant Molle Bottle Opener or the water-resistant Sidekick Gear Case.
What’s more, both products feature a wide-mouth opening, displaying all your items in plain sight and facilitating easy access at all times.
Final Thoughts
Yeti coolers are the best companions for all your outdoor adventures. And whether you pick the Hopper Flip 8 or the Hopper Flip 12 model, you receive a functional and stylish design perfect for a day picnic or a hike in the woods.
However, the compact size of the Hopper Flip 8 may be more suitable for day trips as it provides enhanced portability, in addition to optimal cooling.
But keep in mind that this model has a lesser ice retention capacity, and your frozen goods may begin to thaw or melt after the first 24 hours. That said, the Hopper Flip 12 may prove to be the better of the two — given its ability to retain ice for longer. What’s more, it can hold more items without being too bulky.
Either way, you can now keep cool and stay organized wherever you go.
