It’s official. Cordova Outdoors hard coolers are certified bear-resistant and passed the test with real live bears. The Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) puts outdoor gear and equipment through their paces every year using a rigorous set of testing protocols and a few inquisitive 700-pound grizzly bears.

The IGBC is a truly unique organization that brings together a team of biologists, trained inspectors and administrators whose sole purpose is to make the great outdoors safer for both bears and humans. It’s a worthwhile burden to bear (you knew there’d be bear puns), and Cordova Outdoors shares IGBC’s commitment to conservation and minimizing man’s environmental impact. Enjoying nature responsibly is always paw-sible!

Bear-Resistant Coolers Are IGBC Approved

So, how did Cordova earn IGBC’s seal of approval?

• The testing team places a food item in the bear-proof cooler and smears the surface with an attractant like peanut butter, honey (of course) or fish oil.
• They latch and secure the bear-resistant cooler with a padlock. Each Cordova Outdoors hard cooler is designed to accommodate two locks (not included) that ensure a tight seal.
• Play time! The bear proof cooler is placed in an enclosure containing multiple grizzly bears.
• The bears take turns biting, clawing, pounding and rolling the cooler for 60 minutes or until they decide it’s just not worth it.
• Testing personnel retrieve the bear-resistant cooler and conduct a thorough inspection, looking for any breaches or damaged latches and hinges.
• When everything is found in working order and the food items are still intact, the cooler passes the test and receives a certification number.
• With your Cordova and a lock of your choice, explore bear country with confidence. Other woodland critters will barely notice as you unwind at the campsite after a strenuous hike with a cold beverage as you unload the cooler to prep for chowtime. Beyond the “bear” necessities, discover how Cordova’s outdoor coolers can make your next backcountry adventure even cooler.

Find the Perfect Size for Every Adventure

Cordova Outdoors hard coolers aren’t just built to handle grizzlies, they’re made to fit whatever kind of trip you’re planning. From quick solo outings to full-on basecamp setups, there’s a size that makes packing simple and stress-free.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the available sizes:

• 25-quart: Perfect for a personal day trip or a light pack for two
• 45-quart: A great go-to for weekend camping or small group adventures
• 50-quart: A little extra room (and wheels) for longer days out or when you want to bring more without going oversized
• 65-quart: Ideal for extended trips, family camping or stocking up for a few days off-grid
• 125-quart: Built for big groups, long hauls or anyone who likes to overpack and stay prepared

No matter which size you choose, every cooler is designed with the same rugged durability and IGBC-certified bear resistance backed by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee testing process.

So whether you’re packing lunch for a short hike or loading up for a week in the wild, there’s a Cordova cooler that fits the trip and keeps everything protected along the way.

FAQ Section 

Can bears smell through coolers?

Yes, bears can generally smell through coolers, even those marketed as "bear-resistant" or "bear-proof." While high-quality coolers can significantly reduce the scent dispersion and can delay a bear getting to your food, they are not entirely odor-proof.

How to keep bears out of a cooler?

Keeping bears out of a cooler requires a few steps. The best and most effective method to keep bears out of a cooler are to get bear-resistant coolers like the ones Cordova offers and by practicing strict food storage hygiene.

Are there coolers that are bear proof?

Yes, there are coolers officially certified as bear-resistant. Cordova Outdoors hard coolers, for example, have successfully passed rigorous testing protocols that were conducted by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC). 

How to tell if a cooler is bear proof?

The most definitive way to determine if a cooler is bear-proof is to look for certification from the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC), like Cordova Coolers. This certification signifies that the cooler has undergone rigorous testing with live bears or bear simulations and has proven resistant to bear attempts to access its contents.