As an outdoor enthusiast, I’ve field tested YETI and BrüMate drinkware for months to see if these insulated titans live up to their impressive reputation. Trust me, I really put them through the wringer!
After 20+ years getting gear dirty across 15 countries and 38 states, I know a thing or two about what works and what disappoints. Read on for my hands-on head-to-head review so you can invest wisely.
A Primer on YETI and BrüMate
Before we dive deep, let’s quickly get to know the contenders. Founded in 2006 by Roy and Ryan Seiders, YETI pioneered their famously indestructible coolers. Made from thick rotational molded plastic, they could withstand furious grizzly bears! YETI has since expanded into stainless steel drinkware, bags and apparel.
BrüMate landed in 2016, launched by then 21-year old Dylan Jacob. I remember testing some of their first tumblers—great insulation but too small. Now BrüMate offers a wider range, from wine holders to backpack coolers designed for beer drinking on the go. Their gear might look prettier, but I planned on putting form and function to the test!
YETI Hard Cooler vs BrüMate Backpack Cooler
My old YETI 45 quart chest cooler has kept elk meat chilled for almost 96 hours straight in Big Sky country through 90°F heat. Impressive specs, but cumbersome to carry. Meanwhile, BrüMate’s BackTap cooler holds up to 96 cans with a handy tap dispenser—talk about a summer party gamechanger! Let’s compare some key details:
| YETI 45 Hard Cooler | BrüMate BackTap Backpack |
| – 45 quart capacity | – Holds 3 gallons = 96 cans |
| – Ice lasts 6+ days | – Insulated pocket for wine |
| – Weighs 23 lbs empty | – Hands-free drinking tap |
| – 5 year warranty | – Removable leakproof liner |
**The Verdict?*** BrüMate’s backpack cooler reigned supreme when we hit the beach last August. Hauling a 50 lb YETI chest is brutal work—been there, done that! The BackTap kept all 64 beers frosty while freeing our hands for volleyball. Despite serious abuse left abandoned in sand and seawater, BrüMate’s cooler bounced back after a good cleaning. Impressive for sure!
YETI Rambler vs BrüMate Uncork’d XL Wine Tumbler
Now let’s compare durable drinkware. My YETI 20 oz Rambler has been a trusty companion on 6 continents! Once I even used it as a hammer. Despite nasty dents it keeps tea steaming for 8+ hours easy. Up against it is BrüMate’s wine-specific Uncork’d Tumbler which fits over half a bottle of merlot—my wife’s camp favorite! Here‘s how they stack up:
| YETI Rambler | BrüMate Uncork‘d XL |
| – 20 oz capacity | – Holds 14 oz (over half bottle wine) |
| – Hot/cold 24+ hours | – TempShieldTM insulation like YETI |
| – 18/8 stainless steel | – Leakproof Chug Cap |
| – Withstands beatings | – Fits most cupholders |
The Call? For all-day insulation, the YETI Rambler still reigns supreme after years of testing. Its sturdier stainless holds up better over time. But for wine on the trail, we absolutely love BrüMate’s brilliant Uncork’d design—no broken glass or heavy bottles! Why choose? We pack both for adventures now!
YETI Stackable Pints vs BrüMate Glitter Mermaid 25 oz
Next I squared off YETI’s stackable, shatter-resistant drinkware against BrüMate’s dazzling Canteen which holds an entire bottle of wine. While backpacking the Appalachians one July 4th, we tested both for mountain parties. Here‘s how the contenders shake out:
| YETI Stackable Pint | BrüMate Glitter Mermaid |
| – 16 oz capacity | – Holds 25 oz (entire bottle wine) |
| – Ultra sturdy | – Gorgeous glitter design |
| – Easy storage | – Crystal glass lid |
| – Insulation lacks | – Matching wine charm |
My Pro Pick? While camping, we missed having stemmed wine glasses, and YETI’s Stackable Pints lack insulation. Cue BrüMate’s dazzling Canteen which kept a whole bottle of Riesling chilled and satisfied our Instagram desires! The rubber base even protected it from accidental drops. Cheers to that!
Just The Cold Hard Facts: Quality, Reviews & Value Compared
Alright, by this point, you’re probably dying to know exactly how YETI and BrüMate’s drinkware is manufactured. You want the inside scoop! As a professional tester obliged to research every product extensively, I’ve got all the deets:
Quality
| YETI | BrüMate |
| – Roto-molded coolers withstand 700 lbs | – 18/8 stainless steel |
| – Drinkware made of kitchen-grade steel | – Copper layer for max insulation |
| – Double vacuum-insulation | – Manufacturing facilities in China |
| – 5 year warranty | – Lifetime warranty |
The Rundown: Basically identical stainless steel and vacuum layering technology. BrüMate adds a copper layer for extra insulation, but YETI’s nigh-indestructible coolers are legend. On warranties, BrüMate offers lifetime protection even for gifts bought years ago!
Reviews
Don’t just take my word for it. Here’s cold hard data on what customers think:
| YETI | BrüMate |
| – 4.7/5 stars on 30K+ reviews | – 4.8/5 stars on 2K+ reviews |
| – Praise for 7 day ice retention | – Loved for trendy barware looks |
| – Very reliable but lacks personality | – Leakproof lids lauded |
As expected, YETI earns outstanding feedback especially on pragmatics like cooling performance. But BrüMate mixes style and substance with fewer negative reports overall.
Value
Let’s crunch value for money numbers:
| YETI Hopper Two Soft Cooler | BrüMate Hopsulator Trio |
| – $250 for 20 quart capacity | – $100 for 12 pack capacity |
| – $12.50 per quart | – $8.33 per stored 12 pack |
This surprise value advantage goes to newer brand BrüMate! An equivalent capacity Hopsulator is almost $100 cheaper than the Hopper Two despite nearly identical insulation.
Partying with BrüMate, Adventuring with YETI
After extensive testing for work and play, I think both brands make excellent drinkware. YETI is tried and true, able to withstand the most extreme abuse. We solely use YETI hard coolers for multi-day wilderness excursions. Their soft coolers also endure intense overlanding trips while keeping food crisp.
For lazy days on the river or backyard hangs, fun-loving BrüMate is our go-to. Their ergonomic designs enhance the experience. The 25 oz Glitter Mermaid wine canteen delighted my wife on our anniversary glamping getaway. And BrüMate’s stainless steel margarita glass kept my favorite tequila cocktail icy smooth by the bonfire at our family reunion. Can’t beat that!
So which brand is best for YOU? Ask yourself: am I usually outdoors battling the elements? Or entertaining friends with delicious drinks? YETI for hardcore activities, BrüMate for good times. For maixmum versatility at home and away, we use both!
Bottom Line
If you prioritize resilience and pragmatic performance, choose classic YETI. But BrüMate infuses portability plus pizzaz into purpose-built drinkware catering especially to wine, beer and cocktails on the go. Their combined powers will ensure hot and cold beverages anytime, anywhere while keeping your drinks Instagram-worthy!
Stay chill out there and cheers! Let me know how you like these iconic brands.
