Soft coolers are not as good at keeping ice.

No. Hard coolers win on ice retention every time.

The physics is simple: thick, rigid insulation (like rotomolded plastic or thick foam) traps cold way better than a soft-sided bag. Soft coolers usually have thin foam or just a layer of fabric with cheap insulation. The zipper is also a weak point — warm air sneaks in. Hard coolers have latches or gaskets that seal tight.

That said, soft coolers are more convenient — lighter, easier to carry, fit in tighter spaces. If you need ice to last all day in hot weather, bring a hard cooler. If you’re hauling lunch to the office or a quick trip to the beach, a soft cooler is fine.

Don’t expect a soft cooler to keep ice solid overnight on a camping trip. It won’t.