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Cordova Outdoors and Cordova, Alaska: A Sense of Place and Purpose

Two-thirds of the way from the equator to the north pole, but still “south” by Alaskan standards, on the eastern shore of Prince William Sound, Cordova, Alaska is inhabited by hearty souls who embrace the natural beauty of their hometown. Symbiotically, Cordova Outdoors products, inspired by the beauty of the Alaskan experience, are built by good people driven to make great coolers worthy of the Cordova name. Our products are designed to perform exceptionally well no matter where they’re put to the test.

Going Back to Our Roots, in Cordova, AK

On the North American continent, but inaccessible by road or rail, Cordova, AK is effectively an island. With glaciers and the Chugach Mountains to the north and east, America’s ONLY single-seat ski lift (because there’s no such thing as friends on a powder day) just above town, and a harbor, with one slip for every three residents, Cordova is literally built for people to get outdoors. With abundant wilderness in two directions, and Prince William Sound offering quick access to the Gulf of Alaska and the beautifully treacherous North Pacific Ocean in the other two, it is a place that can both harden and heal your soul if you’re prepared for the conditions. Kayaking amidst towering icebergs, fishing for prized salmon in crystal-clear streams, and hiking through ancient rainforests are just a few of the adventures awaiting visitors and locals alike.

Remote, picturesque, weathered, and remarkably lush, Cordova has a population of approximately 2,600 residents and is an idyllic destination for those seeking an authentic Alaskan experience. With roughly half of the town’s population involved in the commercial fishing industry, this place is deeply connected with and dependent on the natural environment. Thirty-plus years ago the Exxon Valdez oil spill on Bligh Reef decimated both the ecosystem and the economy in Cordova. It took the better part of a decade for the salmon to return but the herring have not (yet), and scars remain. Predictably, Cordova is a place with a strong sense of community and environmental consciousness.

Outdoor Gear Built for Adventure

It is with deep respect for this place, its history and values that Cordova Outdoors works to provide products worthy of the Cordova name. Originally developed to by deep-sea fishermen who call Cordova’s harbor their home, Cordova Outdoors’ premium insulation and hydration products are designed to perform regardless of whether the weather is fair or foul.

Our rotationally molded (“rotomolded”) coolers are manufactured from start to finish at our own facility in the Pacific Northwest, near Boise, in Idaho’s Treasure Valley. We build our coolers especially to withstand high impact and heavy loads (check out our Instagram Reels where you can see us put our Basecamp ClassTM Coolers to the test and up against the competition). We have thought through and refined every aspect of our hardshell coolers. We know the importance of having gear that can be relied on when it is put to the test. We invite you to test ours.

Learn more about the roots of Cordova Outdoors

Eco-Friendly Cooler Company

We also work to minimize our environmental footprint, regrinding scrapped cooler shells, rather than sending the plastic to a landfill, to invent our Obsidian Basecamp ClassTM Cooler. Black because it is the sum of all the colors we make, combined into one recycled and strikingly beautiful cooler. We also use EcoFoam, which contains no fluorocarbons O-zone depleting propellants. And aluminum handles – ridiculously durable and endlessly recyclable.

Soft Coolers that Go Hard

Our Backcountry ClassTM Coolers are equally meticulously designed and tailored for times when you’re carrying what you need to keep cool with you. We’ve tested and tweaked this gear for years. One piece of advice for all who use it: Take care of your gear and your gear WILL take care of you. Most importantly and especially: LUBRICATE the watertight main compartment zipper.

Cordova Outdoors & Cordova, Alaska Roots

Cordova Outdoors and the town of Cordova, Alaska, share a unique and symbiotic relationship. The company's commitment to providing top-quality outdoor gear aligns seamlessly with the town's adventurous spirit and dedication to preserving its natural wonders. As Cordova Outdoors equips explorers with the tools they need to venture into the wilderness, it also acts as a catalyst, inspiring locals and visitors to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Cordova responsibly.

The bond between Cordova Outdoors and Cordova, Alaska, goes beyond business; it is built on a shared love for the outdoors and a profound respect for the town's pristine environment. Together, they contribute to making Cordova an unforgettable destination for anyone seeking an authentic American adventure.

Get Gear You Can Trust from Cordova Outdoors

The great outdoors are calling your name. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or fishing, we have a diverse collection of hard coolers, soft coolers, and drinkware that will keep your food and drinks at the ideal temperature. Take us with you when you go.

Shop All Coolers by Cordova Outdoors

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