YETI Tundra Hard Cooler

YETI was founded in 2006 by brothers Roy and Ryan Seiders in Austin, Texas. Frustrated by coolers that frequently broke or didn't retain ice during hunting and fishing trips, they created a lifestyle brand centered on heavy-duty, rotationally molded (rotomolded) outdoor equipment. The brand's success redefined the cooler category from a commodity item to a high-status lifestyle investment.

While the company has a strong American identity, its manufacturing is global. The Tundra series and other hard coolers are produced in facilities in the United States, the Philippines, and Mexico. Soft coolers, drinkware, and accessories are primarily manufactured in China and Vietnam to meet high global demand. YETI maintains strict quality control measures across all international facilities to ensure every product meets their durability standards.

YETI became a public company in 2018. It is primarily owned by institutional investors, with the Seiders brothers and the private equity firm Cortec Group having previously held majority stakes. Today, YETI Holdings, Inc. remains headquartered in Austin, Texas, operating as an independent retail and wholesale powerhouse in the premium outdoor market.