YETI has built a reputation turning everyday items into premium experiences, be it coolers that can probably survive apocalypses or tumblers that guard ice like Fort Knox. But now they’ve outdone themselves in the category of the mundane, and seem genuinely pleased with that fact.
While most brands chase the latest tech trends or outdoor innovations, YETI decided to tackle one of the most basic garage tasks with the same obsessive engineering that made their coolers legendary. Yet somehow, in the Texas-based company’s hands, this utilitarian garage staple has now become something you might actually want to show off rather than hide it behind your toolbox.
When Over-Built Meets Simplicity
Simultaneously ridiculous and oddly compelling, the Can Crusher represents YETI’s most unexpected departure from their core outdoor portfolio yet. Sure, they’ve dabbled in accessories like bottle openers and ice scoops (both with about a $50 price tag), but a can crusher feels like something dreamed up during a particularly ambitious brainstorming session. Or maybe the design team was just bored. On the other hand, there’s something genuinely thoughtful about applying premium materials and construction to such a simple task.
Weighing a hefty 5.3lbs, this isn’t your grandfather’s flimsy aluminum crusher that’s now turned brown. The powder-coated steel helps prevent rusting that plagues cheaper alternatives, while the included mounting hardware seems intentionally designed to help make installation easier. The brand has also included what appears to be a padded handle for making the crushing process easier, since they admit it might take some muscle to use. With the Can Crusher, YETI has essentially taken a $15 hardware store item and reimagined it as a piece of furniture, wherever you decide to put it.
The Engineering Behind the Crunch
While you could just as well use a heavy rock, YETI’s approach here mirrors their cooler’s “built to last” philosophy. The Can Crusher handles standard 12-ounce cans, slim cans, and 16-ounce tallboys with equal efficiency, compressing them into hockey puck-sized discs. That might sound excessive for crushing aluminum, but if you’ve ever dealt with an old, bent crusher, you’ll know how frustrating inconsistent results can be.
With clean lines and solid construction, the design itself is refreshingly straightforward with no unnecessary flourishes or gimmicky features. The YETI logo placement is subtle but still present enough for those who want to show off their latest toy.
Despite the eyebrow-raising $125 price tag, the over-built Can Crusher is backed by a five-year warranty, which is more than most other options out there.
Spec Sheet
Model: YETI Can Crusher
Material: Powder-coated steel
Weight: 5.3lbs
Dimensions: 7.3″ x 3.5″ x 12.8″
Compatibility: 12oz cans and 16oz tallboys
Mounting: Wall-mount with included hardware and template
Warranty: 5 years
Price: $125
Limited Edition?: Yes, unspecified (YETI exclusive)
Pricing & Availability
The YETI Can Crusher launched this week as a limited-edition release, available exclusively through YETI’s website for $125 — not available through third-party retailers like their other gear. However, those of you hoping to get one for yourself will notice the unit is already sold out.
Recap
YETI Can Crusher
YETI decided to make a $125 can crusher with no bells & whistles. However, the garage staple is over-engineered in the best way, weighing 5.3lbs with powder-coated steel construction. The limited-edition unit is already sold out.
