Cold plunge pools or cold plunge tubs are hot topics in wellness at the moment. Whether you’re looking to improve your physical or mental well-being, a dip in ice-cold water is the water to go.
By now, you’re likely no stranger to cold immersion or the benefits of cold plunges. From muscle pain relief and improved blood flow to reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system, it turns out that exposing yourself to frigid temperatures can do a lot of good for your body. Hence, owning a cold plunge tub is a no-brainer these days. Whether you’re an athlete looking to relieve aches and pains after rigorous workouts or just like to improve your overall health and wellness, an at-home ice bath means you start recovering through cold water therapy faster.
But before you dive headfirst into ice bathtub shopping, here are a few things to know about choosing the best cold plunge tub that’s worth the hype and your money.
How We Chose the Best Cold Plunge Tub
As cold plunges exploded in popularity in recent years, there are now plenty of cold tubs you can choose from. Some you can get for as cheap as $50, but if you want a quality one, expect to spend around $2,000 to $10,000, and even pricier models, as expensive as $20,000.
Price tag aside, good-quality ice plunges come in various sizes and portability. Some cold plunge tubs have bigger capacity and space than others; some are perfect for the deck, patio, or backyard, while there are smaller options to fit a smaller bathroom. The style also varies, with cold plunges available in barrel types, one where you sit inside, and tub types, which are designed for you to lie in.
Another feature we looked at is the temperature of the cold bath. Cold plunge pools have different minimum temperatures. Some ice plunges can only go as low as 42°F, while others can go as low as 35°F.
In terms of function, we have considered two types of cold plunge pools:
- Ice Bath Tub: The manual version—plain, insulated containers for ice bathing. It’s the affordable, more portable ice plunging option. An ice tub is also straightforward to use-—simply fill it with water and ice. You can also build a simple DIY cold plunge.
- Electrical Cold Plunge Pool: The automatic version. It’s typically the size of a bathtub or hot tub and has a built-in chiller for ease of use. It’s a nifty setup with features like an automatic water temperature setup and water filtration system, although these conveniences come at a considerable price tag.
Our Top 10 Cold Plunge Tub Picks
Our Best Cold Plunge Overall: The Cold Plunge
Taking into account the features and functionality you need from a cold plunge pool—powerful cooling and filtration—and build quality, The Cold Plunge takes the top spot in our top cold plunge picks.
It’s an electrical cold plunge pool; using it is as straightforward as plug and plunge. The 31.5 inches wide, 67 inches long, and 24 inches deep standard plunge has more than enough room to sit comfortably for a full-body immersion. Although if you want even more legroom, the XL version is available. Both units are designed for indoor and outdoor use, meaning you can place your cold plunge pool virtually anywhere, and it can withstand rain or shine.
Pros:
- Cools down up to 39°F
- Self-filtration
- UV sanitation system
Cons:
- You pay for the quality
What we like: The Cold Plunge hits the spot in terms of looks, durability, and function. It’s an acrylic and fiberglass tub with a metal base for reinforcement, making sure the unit lasts a lifetime. It’s outfitted with an underwater light, perfect for when you’re in the mood for a late-night or early-morning plunge.
In terms of function, The Cold Plunge has everything you need to recreate a spa experience at home. It’s self-cooling and filtering, designed to be self-contained, meaning no plumbing is necessary. The unit features circular filtration, which means the water constantly circulates to ensure the best water quality. Not to mention, the built-in ozone sanitation feature gets rid of unwanted contaminants in the water. The plunge is ready to use every day and can reap all the rewards of cold immersion with temps as low as 39°F.
What we don’t like: The Cold Plunge is a go-to in this space. There’s nothing specific that we don’t like about this cold plunge pool beside the fact that its features and convenient functions come at a price. It’s not a cheap buy, but if you’re looking for a high-end quality cold plunge, you won’t regret buying this one.
Also a Great Cold Plunge Option: The Dream Pod
Our other top pick brand when it comes to cold plunge is Dreampod. The brand is famous for its flotation tanks, but its Ice Series has the mix of features we’d recommend—sleek design, quality build, and powerful cooling.
The Dreampod Ice Series is all about giving you options. You have the standard bath that’s about 63 inches long, the standard barrel for a smaller footprint, and the inflatable Ice Bath flex. Regardless of which model you pick, they all come with the same external compact, quiet, and simple-to-setup chiller.
Pros:
- Sleek, UV-protective finish
- Cold plunge hybrid
- No risky ozone filters
Cons:
- Less tub space
- Extra cost for the hybrid feature
What we like: The Dreampod Ice Series is suitable for all-weather use. It’s made with durable double-walled commercial-grade fiberglass with an anti-slip base. The unit is suitable for indoor or outdoor use, and we like the UV finish that gives the unit a sleek, modern look and UV protection that will fit perfectly on the patio.
The Dreampod cold plunge is big in auto mode. It has automatic filtration with a 10-micron filter and antibacterial UV light, an automatic timer in case you get too comfortable in the cold, and automatic dosing to keep the water sparkling clean and ready for plunging.
The external chiller itself is portable and has built-in overloading for safety. You can plug the unit into a regular outlet, and it will deliver cool water temperatures up to 37°F.
What we don’t like: Again, it’s a cold plunge hybrid. If you only want a cold plunge, you’ll have to pay $1000 more for this unit than The Cold Plunge, which is our top option, for a feature you won’t use. But if you’re looking for a hybrid, it’s one of the great options out there.
Best-Looking Premium Cold Plunge: Renu Therapy
Renu Therapy’s Cold Stoic tank is built with luxury and relaxation in mind that fit your needs and aesthetic preferences. You’ll have a variety of aesthetic options, including the base color and the type of wood for the breath deck, which can help you match your indoor or outdoor space design. And the unit is 100% weatherproof, with all the equipment safe inside a weatherproof enclosure.
The base model, 34 inches deep, 33 inches wide, and 64 inches long, is comfortable and deep enough for full-body immersion. But if you need more room, Renu Therapy offers the upgraded Cold Stoic 2.0 and the large-sized Siberian Cold Plunge models.
Pros:
- Customizable to fit your aesthetic preferences
- Handmade in the US
- Lower cooling costs
Cons:
- High-end price
- Lighting is not included
What we like: It is energy efficient. Renu Therapy has patented insulation that can keep extreme cold temperatures up to 39°F with 25% lower cooling costs compared to other cold plunge units.
Another thing that we like about this plunge pool is the natural sanitation and filtration system. Renu Therapy uses a four-part filtration system without using any harsh chemicals that can damage your skin or the environment. It doesn’t only maintain the coldness of the water but also the water quality, which also reduces the need for maintenance.
The cold plunge includes a handmade step stool, insulated lid, and a 5-year limited warranty.
What we don’t like: As a luxury cold plunge pool, the Cold Stoic also comes with a luxury-level price tag. It’s more like something you’d find in a spa or a professional setting than at home. That said, if you’re flush with cash and willing to spend extra, this unit is simply one of the prettiest-looking cold plunges you can get. Also, it doesn’t have a built-in lighting system, although you can pay a few hundred dollars if you want a light attachment. Again, high-end price tag.
Top-Class Cold Plunge: Blue Cube
It will cost you a pretty penny, but Blue Cube is the pinnacle when it comes to top-class cold exposure therapy. Their cold plunges are built with industrial-grade materials—a stainless steel tub with treated hickory, padauk, and wenge wood siding and boat varnish.
For residential use, Blue Cube has two options: the Mini-Me cold plunge, a good starter option, and the Malibu 56, which is designed for a full submersion experience for any size person. Both versions are self-contained units, all-American made, and come with a spa cover.
Pros:
- Energy efficient
- Quality build
- Reliable cold exposure
- 5 year warranty
Cons:
- The base unit is limited in size
- Very high price range
What we like: It’s the highest flow rate cold plunge. The high water flow rate means you experience reliable, consistent cold water up to 36°F (for the Mini-me model). Your body temperature doesn’t affect the water temperature, so there is no escaping the cold with the Blue Cube cold plunge. In other words, the cold will feel like the winter stream, and you get the full benefits of cold immersion therapy.
We also like the ergonomic design. Blue Cube cold plunges are designed for comfort. They have back support, made to feel like a bathtub, and brace for your feet. Another incredible feature is that it supports back-to-back plunges. If you have friends or family who also want to take a dip, the Mini-Me cold plunge supports up to 35 continuous baths.
What we don’t like: The base model from Blue Cube is aptly named Mini-me. There’s a major downside in size. It’s only half the size of the Malibu 56 model, not particularly comfortable for people over 5’11’’ and 275 pounds. In addition, Blue Cube has a very specific target market—spas, businesses, and high-income earning customers. And the price of their cold plunges reflects that. That said, if you’re willing to pay for the best-of-the-best cold plunge, we would recommend the Blue Cube cold plunge.
Best Space-Saver: Ice Barrel Tub
The Ice Barrel will give you a distinctly different cold immersion experience. It’s one of the only manual ice baths we have on this list, and one in vertical format, designed for crouching down instead of lying in like you would in a bathtub. A step stool is also included to make stepping in and out of the tub easier. Just fill it with water and ice, and you’re ready to take the plunge.
Pros:
- Space-saving design
- Durable, made to last long
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- You need to manually fill it with ice
- No self-sanitizing/filtration system
What we like: It saves a lot of space. If you’re short on space for a cold plunge pool, the Ice Barrel Tub’s upright shape will take up less space than traditional ice tubs. On top of that, the ice tub comes with an insulated lid that can keep the water chilly for at least three days.
What we don’t like: It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of a cold plunge or ice bath—no self-cleaning, self-cooling feature. That said, it’s exponentially cheaper than automatic ice plunge tubs.
We would highly recommend the Ice Barrel Tub for ice-plunging newbies looking for a quality, beginner-friendly unit designed specifically for cold immersion.
Best Simple Design: The Cold Life Plunge Tub
The Cold Life Plunge is very simple and straighforward. Similar to the Ice Barrel, you have to manually fill it up with ice and water before use. Personally, I like this simple design as I have an easy source for ice from an ice machine. It’s less expensive that some self cooling units but the primary benefit in my opinion is the small amount of space it takes up.
Pros:
- Made in the USA
- Durable, made to last long, high grade steel
- Compact and sleek design
Cons:
- You need to manually fill it with ice
- No self-sanitizing/filtration system
Best Budget Option: WEY & FLY Portable Foldable Bathtub
Wey & Fly is a suitable option for those who want to add a cold plunge to their health and wellness routine without spending hundreds to thousands of dollars. They have a pretty spacious vertical bathtub for ice bathing, suitable for soaking up to your shoulders while sitting cross-legged in the tub.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- With insulated bottom
- Suitable to use as a hot tub
Cons:
- A struggle to get in and out of
What we like: Besides the affordable price tag, we like the insulated bottom of this foldable bathtub. The 6mm built-in pearl insulation layer and the bottom insulation help maintain the water temperature. On top of that, its foldable feature makes this bathtub a solid choice for portable use.
What we don’t like: As you can expect from the tub’s low price tag, it doesn’t have the same functions or level of quality as the other cold plunge pools on our list. The high wall is both an advantage and a disadvantage. It’s suitable for a deep bath, but it’s a struggle to get in and out of it, which may not be advisable for people with mobility issues. That said, it’s a good option if you’re looking for an affordable entry-level ice bathtub to use in the short or medium term.
Best Premium Portable: Mountain Top Recovery Peak Performance Bundle
The Peak Performance Bundle from Mountain Top Recovery is a premium portable option for users looking to save money and still get some of the bells & whistles of a premium cold plunge.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Wifi-enabled
- Setup in as little as 15 minutes
- UV, Ozone, and sediment filtration
Cons:
- Up to 2 month lead time after purchase
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What we like: I really like this cold plunge tub. It is a simple design but also has some premium features. The 15 minute setup time is absolutely wonderful and doesn’t require an overly large space to setup. It also can cool the water to 37 degrees, which makes a big difference in your cold plunge therapy!
What we don’t like: One of the drawbacks of the portable and lightweight design is the structural feel of the tub. It does not feel as sturdy as some of the other cold plunge tubs that are metal or wood. It does feel sturdy enough but there some concern of longevity of the tub itself.
Best Sauna Style Match: Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge
If you prefer the look of a hardwood and want a beautiful cold plunge to match your sauna, consider the Redwood Outdoors Cold Plunge. The Redwood unit comes in a beautiful spruce with a simple, space saving design.
Pros:
- Beautiful match to your sauna
- Easy intuitive app
Cons:
- No UV sanitation included
What we like: The unit comes fully assembled before delivery and is a beautiful model to match your outdoor sauna with it’s spruce exterior. The temperature range is hard to rival getting down to 37F.
The chiller operates off of household 110V / 60Hz electricity and can be plugged into any standard US outlet. Inside the metal casing, the integrated pumps and chiller deliver ice-cold water directly to your cold plunge tub. The whole system is operated by a digital control that you can adjust with a simple touchscreen display.
What we don’t like: Redwood ice baths do not come with built-in standard filtration systems like some of the more advanced options we’ve reviewed.
Runner-Up: Morozko Forge
Morozko Forge is a truly one-of-a-kind tub that we just need to include it on our list. It hits the mark between traditional/manual ice bath experience with convenience. Morozko Forge is the only ice bath that can make its own ice and maintain freezing-cold temperatures.
The base model is offered in 60 inches, 66 inches, and 72 inches tub lengths, all made with a stainless steel tub with an angled back for comfort, a cedar frame, a marine-grade plywood bath deck, and a boat finish. On top of that, each unit features all-weather protection, including aluminum fans and electrical grounding, suitable for indoor and outdoor locations.
Pros:
- Can maintain literally freezing temperatures
- The most convenient ice tub in the market
Cons:
- Less tub space
What we like: Sub-zero temperature. So far, only the Morozko Forge cold plunge can support cold water immersion of up to 32°F. On top of that, it’s a fairly maintenance-free unit. Morozko Forge uses ozone filtration to keep ice water crystal-clear. There’s no need to schedule a regular water change or add chemicals for a well-maintained ice bath. You’re only recommended to change the filter twice a year.
What we don’t like: The Morozko Forge is a sleek home ice bath. But the base size gives you less space to get comfortable compared to other cold plunges in its price range. That said, you can upgrade to a longer tub size for a prize, although the width and depth stay the same. Because it’s on the pricey side, we’d recommend getting the Morozko Forge for those who are serious about ice baths and cold therapy training.
Cold Plunge FAQs
Q: When is the ideal time to take a cold plunge?
A: You can take a cold plunge or an ice bath at any time, but depending on your goals for cold immersion, certain times work best than others.
- First thing in the morning. It will help wake you up and keep you alert to start the day.
- After a workout. A cold plunge will help with muscle recovery after a strenuous exercise.
Generally, it’s best to take a cold plunge away from bedtime to prevent any sleep disturbances.
Q: Can you cold plunge in the bathtub?
A: Sure. You can create a makeshift cold plunge pool by filling your bathtub with water and a lot of ice. It could be a cheap option for trying out cold plunging for beginners. However, in the long term, buying ice to fill your tub can become a hassle and expensive.
Q: How should you prepare for a cold plunge?
A: There’s more to a cold plunge than cold plunging itself. Doing some preparation before soaking in ice-cold water will make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. To prepare for your cold plunge, especially if it’s your first time, consider these few things beforehand:
- Get comfortable with cold showers. Taking regular cold showers will give you an idea of the basic physiological responses you’ll experience when taking your first cold plunge.
- Change into your cold plunge clothing. Opt for minimal clothing to help maximize the benefits of your ice-cold bath. A sports bra, shorts, or a swimsuit are common choices for women. For men, trunks or swim briefs are good options.
- For a DIY or manual cold plunge or ice bath, prepare your thermometer and get a timer ready and within reach.
- Practice breathing techniques before, during, and after cold plunge sessions. Breathing is a powerful part of your cold plunge as it’s easy to lose your breath with the cold temperature. So, focus on deep breathing through your nose.
Q: What is the best temperature for a cold plunge?
A: The best temperature for a cold plunge depends on you, your tolerance for the cold, and the goals you may have. It’s okay to start around 50°F to 59°F if you are new to cold plunge and work your way down as your body gets used to the cold bath routine. Other users and high-performance athletes can tolerate colder temperatures between 40°F to 50°F, and cold plunge enthusiasts can go as low as 38°F or even lower.
The key is to find that sweet spot temperature for you. It can be any temperature that makes you feel uncomfortable but still motivated to make cold plunging a regular practice.
Q: How long should you stay in a cold plunge?
A: It depends on your body’s tolerance to cold temperatures. If you’re new to cold plunges, start slowly by staying in the cold water for shorter periods or a few minutes at a time. And as your body becomes more accustomed to the ice-cold water, you can gradually increase the time you spend in the tub.
The time you spend in a cold plunge also depends on your goals. For example:
- If you simply want a quick shock to your system, you can take a cold plunge for 30 seconds to a minute.
- If you’re looking to experience the physical and psychological benefits of cold immersion, plan to stay in the tub for at least three minutes.
- For muscle recovery, a 10-15 minute cold plunge is ideal.
But remember, make sure you’re not staying too long in the cold water to avoid hypothermia.
Q: What should you do after a cold plunge?
A: Try warming your body gently from the inside by sipping a warm drink or walking around if you’re feeling okay to generate body heat.
It may be tempting to jump into a hot shower right after getting out of the cold plunge pool but don’t take the easy way out. Contrast therapy may have its benefits but allow your body to naturally and gradually raise its temperature first, as any immediate switch from cold to hot can be too much of a shock.
Q: Can you cold plunge every day?
A: You can take a cold plunge every day, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should. When you take a cold plunge daily, your body will easily adapt to the cold. When you don’t feel the same shock or high as you did from the cold like before, the effects of cold immersion become marginal.
Ideally, it’s recommended to take cold plunges a few times a week—two to four times a week—to keep things interesting.
Q: Do cold plunge tubs come with a warranty?
A: Most reputable cold plunge tub brands will have some sort of warranty, normally a year limited warranty on defects. Some brands, such as Renu Therapy, offer a 5 year warranty, but with this longer warranty comes a higher price tag.
Q: Does a cold plunge tub come with a cover?
A: Yes, most cold plunge tubs comes with some sort of cover, especially the cold plunges that are powered by electricity.
Q: Do cold plunges use standard 110v or 220v plugs?
A: Most residential models of cold plunge tubs will use standard 110v plugs. Once you get into more powerful units or commercial units, they may require more powerful 220v plugins.
Conclusion
Before you splurge on a cold plunge and pick what’s “hot” in the market, there are some qualities and features to consider—barrel types for sitting in vs. tub types for lying in, manual ice bathtubs vs. electrical cold plunges with a chiller and temperature capacity.
Whether you are looking for an affordable entry-level ice bath or a more premium cold plunge model, adding a cold plunge pool to your home is arguably a plus point in terms of health and wellness.
Hope you enjoyed reading this cold plunge buyer’s guide and roundup. Now, it’s time to choose the cold plunge that best suits your needs and goals.
Even if you don’t end up getting a cold plunge tub, you may consider investing in a traditional or infrared sauna for your home.
