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Neoprene vs Foam Koozie: Which One Is Better & Why?

Neoprene vs Foam Koozie: Which One Is Better & Why?

 Koozies have been around for longer than many people realize having originally been invented in Australia back in 1967. They have since gained much popularity around the globe, and in the US have become a common sight at many events; from music festivals to sporting events and everything in between.


So, you undoubtedly already know Koozies are great for keeping your drink cool, and that they can be a great promotional tool for your business, but did you know that not all Koozies are the same? Sure, Koozies can be found in many different colors, sizes, and styles, but the material they're made from may not be something you've considered.

Koozies (sometimes referred to as Coozies or coolers) can be made of several different materials but most commonly they’re constructed using either neoprene or foam. Some people think neoprene is better because it's thicker and lasts longer. Others prefer foam because they're cheaper. Both have their pros and cons, but which one is better, and which type should you get?

Let’s take a look at some of the differences between the two material types to help you decide which Koozie is right for you...

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Neoprene Koozie
When you think of neoprene, the first thing that probably springs to mind is a wetsuit. A fantastic example of the insulation properties of neoprene, wetsuits are made from a heavy-duty neoprene material and are designed to keep you warm in cold water. Neoprene koozies are made from the same material and provide a similar type of insulation - but of course, with a koozie, the purpose is to keep your drink cold instead of keeping you warm!

Neoprene is a type of synthetic closed-cell rubber-based product with a foam-like texture - great for keeping a firm, comfortable grip on your ice-cold cans while keeping your hands dry and warm. It’s a material that is renowned for both its flexibility and durability - neoprene fabric has a lot of stretch to it. This not only means that neoprene koozies are longer-lasting, but their flexibility also allows for easy insertion and removal of your drink can or bottle while providing a snug fit. They can easily fit around different-sized bottles or cans without distorting the shape too much - ideal if you plan on using your koozie for a variety of drinks.

The strength and durability of neoprene koozies mean they can be screen printed or embroidered with your logo too. They are especially suitable for more detailed or intricate designs, making them ideal for all kinds of branding and personalization - perfect if you want to promote your business on the go.

Neoprene koozies are made to be used over and over again. A neoprene koozie will typically cost more to start with, but if you look at it in terms of the number of times you use your koozie, then it's actually much less expensive over time. It’s also worth the upgrade for the added benefits.

Here are a few of the pros and cons when it comes to neoprene koozies...

Slim / Regular Neoprene Can Koozies Sleeves

Pros -
• Greater durability than Koozies made from foam. Longer lasting.

• Superior insulation properties. Drinks stay cooler for longer. •

More effective at wicking moisture

• Highly flexible.

• Provide a great, snug fit.

• Ideal for printing detailed designs and logos.

• Economical print options

Cons -
• More expensive than koozies made of foam.
• Limited color options.

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Foam Koozie
Unlike the rigid foam can coolers you may remember from the 1980s, most foam koozies now benefit from a fully collapsible design and are typically constructed using polyurethane foam.

Foam koozies can be found in many different colors, designs, and styles much like neoprene koozies - but they're usually cheaper. They’re made from a lightweight, porous material (making them less insulating than neoprene koozies) and are therefore cheaper to produce.

Koozies that are made from foam tend to be thinner and less durable than their neoprene counterparts, but of course - not everyone is concerned about durability - especially if you only plan on using your koozie for a single event or trip. In fact, they’re often used as giveaways at concerts and other events for this very reason - they’re inexpensive to purchase in bulk and do a decent job of keeping your drink cool.

Koozies that are made from foam also tend to lack the stretch and flex of neoprene - it can be more difficult to insert/remove your drink.

Here are some of the pros and cons of foam koozies...


Pros -
• Cheap to buy in bulk and less expensive than neoprene versions.

• Many different colors, styles, and designs available.

• Economical print options.


Cons -
• Less effective insulation.

• Less flexible.

• Less durable.

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Conclusion
Koozies come in many different styles and materials and hopefully, you’re now feeling more informed having read this article and weighed up all the pros and cons.

The most important thing to consider when choosing which type is right for you is what you will be using it for. Koozies made from neoprene are best suited to those who plan on repeat and extended usage. Foam may be your best option if you’re on a tight budget and are looking for single-use options.

Koozies made from neoprene offer the best insulation properties by far and are our definite favorite. If you’re looking to buy a koozie that performs well and lasts for a long time, then neoprene is the way to go.

Even with neoprene can coolers though, there can be important differences in quality and thickness. A Koozie that is too thin will not keep your drink cold for very long - and may let moisture through. Thicker neoprene means more insulation and better temperature control.

The industry standard thickness is 3mm but we offer koozies made from neoprene that are even thicker at a full 4mm. A thicker koozie like the ones we offer will keep your drink colder for longer, and also provide better protection against condensation.

We also pride ourselves on our fast customer service, reliable delivery times, and extremely competitive pricing on all of our koozies. So, if you have any questions about anything we’ve covered or would like to discuss design options, just give us a call or drop us a message and we’ll be happy to help!

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