We tried it | 8 drinking vessels that will keep your beer ice-cold on hot summer days
By testing, we mean we took the temperatures of each beer to find out how the vessels retained their chill on a 90-degree day.
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We’re all on the hunt for outdoor products that are going to enhance our experiences, and beer gear is no exception. On a recent 90-degree day in sunny Colorado, I drank beer from eight different vessels (with help from a few friends) designed to keep my beer ice-cold and therefore, make drinking beer outdoors as pleasant of an experience as it should be.
Each beer started at 38 degrees (with the exception of two bottles tested). I took the temperature of the beer after 30 minutes to see how each was fairing in the heat of my backyard. I used beer from Upslope Brewing since it’s made to be enjoyed outdoors and I used a standard beer thermometer from my local brewery and homebrew supply store, Brewmented.
Find out how each brand performed and what features each has to offer.
How to keep beer cold outdoors
Stanley Classic Vacuum Stein
Holds: 24 oz.
Temp. after 30 minutes: 40 degrees
Price: $35
The leakproof lid on this heavy-duty mug is designed to keep beer carbonated, but it’s also great for keeping out campfire debris or keeping out unwanted guests in a particular buggy area. The double-wall vacuum insulation helps keep liquids cool for up to nine hours.
Hydro Flask True Pint
Holds: 16 oz.
Temp. after 30 mins: 44 degrees
Price: $24.95
These lightweight (7.8 oz.) pints are perfect for camping or hiking with a group. Available in nine different colors, the pints are specifically designed for stacking, making it easy to transport multiples. Plus, TempShield eliminates condensation on the outside and having no lid makes drinking a breeze.
YETI Rambler Colster
Holds: One standard can or one standard bottled beer
Temp. after 30 minutes: 42 degrees (for the can) / 46 degrees (for the bottle; bottle temperature started at 40 degrees)
Price: $24.99
While almost all other products tested required pouring the beer in (which is ideal for growler-usage), this is the only true “koozie” on the list. The Colster keeps it simple and old school. But this is definitely not your grandma’s koozie. Its exterior is puncture resistant and sweat-proof, a double-wall insulation keeps it cold for hours, and a secure lid ensures bottles and cans stay put.
Klean Kanteen Insulated Tumbler
Holds: 16 oz.
Temperature after 30 minutes: 42 degrees
Price: $23.95
The splash-resistant tumbler lid keeps beer from spilling, and the lightweight design makes it a good backpacking companion. It’s easy to grip, and the outside is chip resistant, keeping it looking shiny and new even after one too many beers.
Ecovessel Insulated Beer Mug
Holds: 16 oz.
Temperature after 30 minutes: 48 degrees
Price: $21.95
The sliding lid is easy to close to keep things out and avoid spills, but it’s simple to slide open and sip. The extra wide grip handle is easy to hold. The two layers of premium stainless steel keep beer cold, but would also keep coffee hot.
Stanley Classic Vacuum Pint
Holds: 16 oz.
Temperature after 30 minutes: 42 degrees
Price: $25
There is a built-in removable bottle opener right on top of the lid so you never have to worry about having a beer and not being able to drink it. This sturdy, durable pint glass is estimated to stay cold up to 4.5 hours.
United by Blue Buffalo Roam Stainless Compass Cup
Holds: 12 oz.
Temperature after 30 minutes: 50 degrees
Price: $16
This handy cup has two main features that make it an ideal backpacking companion—it doesn’t weigh much (6 oz.) and it’s super versatile. The insulated stainless steel is great for beer drinking, but the movable handles make it ideal for holding campfire coffee or soup when temperatures drop.
ORCA Coolers Rocket
Holds: One standard beer can or one standard bottle
Temperature after 30 minutes: 44 degrees (bottle started at 40 degrees)
Price: $29.99
The double walled outer layer completely hugs an standard bottle, keeping it cold for hours and also protecting it from tips. On the base, there’s a built-in, non-removable bottle opener so you’ll never lose it. The top two components fit together to create a base for a can, so you can also use it for canned beer as well as bottles.
Know of any other great outdoor beer gear? Let me know about it.
