Got cold plunge tubs on your mind? I know that we do!
Cold plunge tubs are splattered ALL OVER social media lately and we were super excited to dig in and discover everything we could about this latest wellness trend.
As someone who absolutely HATES being cold, I will admit that I had a HUGE hesitation to see what these tubs were all about.
But as much as I was scared to take a literal "plunge", I was also very much intrigued. The more that I read up on the benefits of cold plunging, the more I knew that I had to try it first-hand.
You see, cold plunge tubs are a great way to kickstart a wellness regime. They can help with inflammation, mood, and even stress management. These are ALL things that most of us could use a little help with. Am I right?
So, we decided to create an Insider's Guide to the 5 Top-Rated Cold Plunge Tubs available today. We included the best tub to splurge on as well as budget-friendly options too, so that you can find the perfect one for your needs.
Plus, we will also dig into the cold plunge tub benefits, how to choose a cold plunge tub, safety tips and more! With their many health benefits too, there’s never been a better time to dip into chilly waters!
This post is all about the best "Cold Plunge Tubs".
Summary of our Top 5 Picks:
- Best Overall: Renu Therapy Cold Stoic
- Best Runner-Up: The Plunge
- Best Splurge: Morozko Forge Ice Bath
- Best Inflatable: Polar Monkeys Inflatable
- Best Budget-Friendly: XUMAND Cold Plunge Tub Barrel
Cold Plunge Tub Comparison Chart
What are Cold Plunge Tubs?
With all of this talk about cold plunge tubs, do you know what cold plunge tubs actually are?
Well, these tubs are essentially small pools that are kept at VERY LOW temperatures, around ~32-39 degrees Fahrenheit. This is generally WAY cooler than the cold water in your shower.
Ice Baths have SO many benefits and can boost your health in so many ways.
Cold Plunge Tubs are believed to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Improve circulation....and even
- BOOST your mood!
Whether you're an athlete looking to speed up your recovery or someone simply wanting to better your health, there's no denying that cold plunge tubs can be a refreshing addition to your self-care routine!
What Are The 5 Best Cold Plunge Tubs of 2024
We’ve conducted research and selected five of the best cold plunge tubs available for 2024.
These tubs were compared in terms of key categories that we believe should be considered when choosing your tub:
- Price (of course)
- Size
- Maintenance
- Lowest Temperature Setting
- And, more!
By taking all of these factors into consideration, we believe that we selected the absolute BEST cold plunge tubs available today.
We hope that you agree!
Best Overall: Renu Therapy Cold Stoic
When weighing all of the pros and cons of each model, we unanimously agreed that the top choice for best cold plunge tubs is the Renu Therapy Cold Stoic.
Why is this?
Well for one, this Renu Therapy tub has such a BEAUTIFUL design. This tub is so aesthetically pleasing and that you actually want to show it off.
The Renu Therapy tub will for sure elevate ANY home or yard that it sits in.
Plus, it has built-in water filters and an ozone sanitation system which helps keep it sparkling clean with each use. Which means so much less maintenance on your end! i.e.-There is NO NEED to add any chemicals or "shock" to clean it.
This is a HUGE plus on our end. As someone who is constantly battling with the 'balance of chemicals' in my own hot tub, not having to constantly check the chemical levels and adjust them is a major win.
CONSIDERATIONS (at time of publish) | |
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Price (starting at) | $9,700 |
Size (L,W,H) | 64” x 33” x 34.25" |
Lowest Temp | 36 °F |
Cover Included | Insulated Lid Included. Cover is $249 Extra |
Materials | Wood Top (Ranges from Redwood Cedar, Shou Sugi Ban)The RENU is made with super-strong, commercial grade HPDE. |
Maintenance | Monthly: Filter Change Every 6 weeks: Oil and Dirt Buoy Change Quarterly: Spa Stick replacement |
Maintenance Costs | $85- Quarterly Maintenance Package |
Warranty | 5-year limited |
Empty Weight | Starting at 350 lbs |
Extra Add-Ons | $249- Cover (protects entire top vs. only water area) $299 - Extended Warranty $319.99- Upgrade to have a Light included $85 Quarterly Maintenance Package |
The one 'negative' to this tub is the higher price point when compared to some of the other models. We are talking several thousand dollars to essentially get your wellness game on.
But this does comes with 5-year warranty!
The warranty on the Renu is one of the longest warranties that we have seen. This alone should take away any concerns that you might have moving forward.
Plus these tubs are not for the casual wellness enthusiast. For those of you who are SERIOUS about improving your health and wellbeing should be the ones to consider this model.
After all, the old saying Is true "You get what you pay for!"
There are so many benefits to the Renu Therapy Cold Stoic that it's no surprise why so many health enthusiasts alike keep coming back to the Renu. We know that you will as well.
Best Runner-Up: The Plunge
The Plunge is our "Best Runner Up" Cold Plunge Tub on our list.
With so many benefits to it, The Plunge tub was a top contender because of its attractive design, is lighter weight (i.e-easier to move if needed), and the fact that it comes with SO many extras included:
- An insulated spa cover- Helps you keep your tub cool longer.
- Skimmer net- Gets those pesky bugs and debris out easily.
- Cell phone holder-Allows you to easily listen to music or a meditation while talking a plunge!
- (Adorable) rubber ducky!- What can we say. This will just make you smile. 🙂
So not only will you be proud to showoff this tub off to your friends and family, all of the extra bonus items will let them know that you purchased an elite model.
And, when compared to other models, the price point of The Plunge (at the time of writing this) is almost half the cost of other tubs!
CONSIDERATIONS (at time of publish) | |
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Price (starting at) | $4,990 |
Size (L,W,H) | Regular: 67" x 43" x24" XL: 73" x 47" x27" |
Lowest Temp | 39 °F |
Cover Included | Yes |
Materials | High-quality Acrylic and Fiberglass |
Maintenance | Weekly: Oxidizer Maintenance, Cleaning (Jets, Drain), Chemicals Monthly: Filter Change Yearly: Cleaning (Pump, Plumping Deep Clean) |
Maintenance Costs | $190- 6-month Sanitation Kit |
Warranty | 1-year limited warranty (3-5 year warranty can be added for additional cost) |
Empty Weight | Starting at 150 lbs |
Extra Add-Ons | $39- Neck Pillow $338.99- Extended 3 year warranty for Base Plunge Model $676.99- Extended 5 year warranty for Base Plunge Model $600+- Ability to add a "Hot" option $190 - 6-month Sanitation Kit |
However, we took some points off of this tub's rating mainly because:
- The maintenance was more involved that other models (i.e-you need to use chemicals to maintain.)
- The motor is a bit on the louder side
- The components live outside of the unit. (For those of you living in a 4-season climate, that concerned us a bit.)
However, we believed that the benefits of The Plunge FAR outweighed the cons.
And, with all of the other excellent features and benefits, The Plunge tub is a solid "Best Runner Up" choice!
Best Splurge: Morozko Forge Ice Bath
Now, for the pimp-daddy of tubs, the Morozko Forge Ice Bath. Oh how we love thee!
For a truly invigorating cold plunge, the Morozko Forge Ice Bath is unrivaled.
However, it's higher price point makes this cold plunge model the perfect choice when you want to treat yourself to something great.
This one pretty much beats the competition in most categories:
- It's SUPER Cold!- This tub gets down to 32°F and makes it one of the coldest ice baths on the market. It is one of the only ones that actually makes its own ice!!!
- Super Quiet - You pretty much don't even notice that it is on.
- 3-year FULL COVERAGE Warranty- No other model that we saw offered Full-coverage! This alone should give you peace of mind with your investment. I am fairly certain that this company would NOT offer such a warranty if they did not fully standby their product.
CONSIDERATIONS (at time of publish) | |
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Price (starting at) | $12,850 |
Size (L,W,H) | 81.875" x 31.25" x 29.25" 87.875" x 31.25" x 29.25" 93.875" x 31.25" x 29.25" |
Lowest Temp | 32 °F |
Cover Included | Yes |
Materials | Cedar Frame with marine-grade plywood, stainless steel tub. Sealed with marine grade polyurethane to protect the wood against water and sun damage |
Maintenance | Occasional/rare filter and water replacement needed. |
Maintenance Costs | $71- Hayward C225 replacement cartridge |
Warranty | 3-year Full-COVERAGE warranty |
Empty Weight | Starting at 350 lbs |
Extra Add-Ons | Hayward C225 replacement cartridge |
All of this does not come without a high price point. It is the main reason that we did not rank this tub in the #1 spot.
This definitely is an investment piece. But one (that we think) is WELL worth the extra cash.
This tub has top-notch features and unparalleled quality (hello, cedar frame and stainless steel tub). When you buy quality, folks, things generally tend to last longer.
And the maintenance costs are next to none.
Really, when you buy a Morozko tub you really should be able to sit back and relax. And soak. Worry-free.
You will not have to be anxious about things breaking (yay Full Coverage Warranty) or keeping up with the sanitation. The upkeep is very minimal, almost non-existent.
This is why the higher price point to us is more than justified.
It will be your forever tub.
If you are looking to up your wellness game, then look no than The Morozko Forge Ice Bath: the perfect answer when seeking an exceptional chill plunge.
Best Inflatable: Polar Monkeys Inflatable
POLAR MONKEYS INFLATABLE
BEST INFLATABLE
Pros
Cons
CONSIDERATIONS (at time of publish) | POLAR MONKEYS INFLATABLE |
---|---|
Price (starting at) | $3,600 |
Size (L,W,H) | 53.3" x 31.5" x 24" |
Lowest Temp | 39 °F |
Cover Included | Yes (but non-insulated) Insulated Cover an extra $349 |
Materials | Vinyl |
Maintenance | Every 2-3 weeks: Change Filter Every 3 Months: Change Water and add new chemicals |
Maintenance Costs | $169- 6-month Sanitation Kit |
Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Empty Weight | 20 lbs |
Extra Add-Ons | $390 - for Added "Heat" option $170- 6-month Sanitation Kit $349- Upgraded, Insulated Cover |
Our winner for "Best Inflatable Tub" is the Polar Monkeys Inflatable Cold Tub. This is an ideal choice for those seeking a high-quality and convenient inflatable cold plunge tub option.
There is something to be said about inflatable cold plunge tubs. Especially for your first cold plunge option! The inflatable design allows you to easily move or disassemble your tub in a snap. No hired moving services needed!
All-in-all, for an inflatable model, this was one of the better ones we found.
Some of the benefits of this model are:
- Portable- Want to take it camping? No problem!
- Lightweight- You can easily move it from one spot to the next.
- Has a Heat option (but for added $$) - Who doesn't like a 2-for-1 deal?
- Powerful cooling system - This system cools not only efficiently but quickly too.
That being said, there are some cons that naturally come with its design.
Similar to The Plunge tub, the Polar Monkeys Inflatable Tub also requires chemicals. I think most inflatable tubs require chemicals, so it is not a HUGE dealbreaker. The benefits of being able to transport a legitimate cold plunge tub more or less anywhere, outweighs the slight maintenance needed with the chemicals.
Also, the insulated cover is NOT included in this model. And while it doesn't require it, having an insulated cover does help so much more to keep your tub cold and the overall temperature regulated. This does come with a standard cover, so depending upon where you live that is all that you might need!
All up, the Polar Monkey Cold Plunge tub is a SOLID choice for an inflatable cold plunge tub. And one that we would DEFINITELY recommend if you are looking for a quality tub that you can easily take anywhere.
Best Budget-Friendly: XUMAND Cold Plunge Tub Barrel
CONSIDERATIONS (at time of publish) | |
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Price (starting at) | $93 |
Size (L,W,H) | 34" Diameter X 30" Height |
Lowest Temp | TBD |
Cover Included | Yes |
Materials | Polypropylene |
Maintenance | Drain and Refill after Each Use |
Maintenance Costs | None |
Warranty | None |
Empty Weight | 8 lbs |
Extra Add-Ons | None |
There is something to be said about a Budget Cold Plunge Tub! Especially for those of you who have NEVER taken the plunge. (No pun intended).
For those on a budget, looking to "test the waters" (HA!), the XUMAND Cold Plunge Tub Barrel is an excellent choice.
Given that it is a budget model and has a very low price point, there will be some obvious 'misses' with the budget-friendly option.
However, despite this, there are SO MANY benefits to this XUMAND Cold Plunge Tub Barrel tub:
- Low Price Point- If you try it and realize that cold plunging is not for you then no real harm done! It won't break your wallet!
- Compact Design- it provides all of the best aspects of cold plunging in a compact design (it can actually accommodate taller folks up to 6 feet 9 inches tall)
- No Outlet needed- Just fill the tub with water and ice and you are all set.
All-in-all, It's a great starter tub to see if cold plunging is your thing and will give you a first-class (yet affordable!) cold plunge experience at home.
Cold Plunge Tub Benefits
There are numerous benefits to spending time in a cold plunge tub, and it's important to understand what they are in order to fully appreciate them.
One of the most significant benefits is a reduction in inflammation throughout the body.
Regular use of a cold plunge tub can also lead to a strengthened immune response, allowing the body to better fight off infections and illnesses.
Furthermore, the cold water promotes deeper, more restful sleep patterns, offering a natural way to combat insomnia.
And as if these benefits weren't enough, those who regularly use cold plunge tubs also report a reduction in stress levels, leading to an overall enhanced mood and feeling of wellness.
Let’s take some time to examine each one individually so you can gain insight about what kind of benefits freezing immersion has to offer through using chilly dip tubs or plunging pools!
Decrease Inflammation
One of the most notable benefits of cold plunge tubs is their ability to decrease inflammation. Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to a range of health issues.
Cold water therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation by constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow to affected areas. The cold temperature also helps to slow down the metabolic rate, which can reduce pain and promote healing.
To get the most out of these anti-inflammatory benefits you should definitely start with a shorter duration and gradually increase your time spent in the cool temperatures when comfortable doing so.
By incorporating regular cold plunging into wellness plans, many individuals are enjoying far reaching health advantages thanks to reduced inflammation from chilly dives.
Stronger Immune Response
Cold plunge tub benefits are becoming more popular these days, especially for people looking for ways to improve their overall wellbeing.
Aside from its refreshing and invigorating effects on the body, cold plunges are found to have a strong impact on boosting the immune system. Research has linked cold water exposure to an increase in white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off viruses and bacteria. By taking regular dips in a cold plunge tub, the immune system is believed to become stronger and better equipped to handle potential health threats.
So if you're looking for a natural way to improve your overall health and immunity, give the cold plunge tub a try!
Better Sleep
Are you looking for a way to improve your sleep quality? Look no further than a cold plunge tub. While taking a dip in cold water may not sound like the most comfortable experience, it can actually offer a multitude of health benefits. Among these benefits is improved sleep.
The cold water helps to reduce inflammation in the body and promote relaxation, which can lead to better sleep. Additionally, the rush of endorphins released during and after the cold plunge can help regulate your body's circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
So, don't be afraid to take the plunge and enjoy the benefits of a cold plunge tub for better sleep.
Stress Reduction
Immersing yourself in cold plunge tubs can offer substantial physical and mental rewards. The chilly temperatures help to soothe muscle tension as well as circulation of blood, inducing a calmer state. This practice encourages the production of endorphins, which promote an improved outlook on life and reduced stress levels over time.
We find cold plunges to be especially beneficial as a stress relief product for adults. By taking part in regular cold plunges you stand to benefit from several advantages. Including decreased bodily strain, enhanced psychological healthiness, more efficient coping with everyday challenges, and upkeep of balanced wellbeing habits that will last for years ahead!
Improved Mood and Well-being
Taking a plunge in cold water can also lead to improved mood and overall well-being. Endorphins, dopamine, are released when you do this. Giving an uplifting feeling to your body, which also helps enhance the quality of life.
The shocking temperature change sets off a cascade of hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain which can help combat depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue.
So, next time you are looking to shake off the physical and mental stresses of everyday life, consider diving into the invigorating world of cold plunge tubs.
Choosing the Right Cold Plunge Tub
As you weigh your options of cold plunge tubs, various factors should be taken into account. These include design, maintenance, size, temperature range, insulation, and budget.
All of these are important elements to consider when making a selection that will meet your needs.
By keeping these points in mind as you look through our top picks for cold plunges, you’ll have no trouble finding one which both satisfies what’s desired by providing an ideal wellness experience!
Design and Comfort
When selecting a cold plunge tub, design and comfort should be of prime importance. Factors such as size and capacity to make sure the tub is suitable for your space, temperature range so it meets your desired therapy level, and an effective chilling mechanism are all aspects that must be taken into consideration. Having an insulated cover can add greatly to overall experience by preserving colder temperatures in water for longer periods while cleaning up its contents too. All these components when combined together will provide you with a luxurious plunging experience!
Maintenance Costs and Effort
When it comes to choosing a cold plunge tub, it's important to think beyond just the initial price tag. Maintenance costs and effort are also key factors to consider.
While a cheaper model may seem like a tempting option, it could end up costing you more in the long run if it requires frequent upkeep and replacement parts. On the other hand, a higher-quality tub may have a larger upfront cost, but often requires less maintenance over time.
Additionally, the effort required to maintain the tub (such as draining and refilling the water, balancing the chemicals, replacing filters and sanitizing the interior) should also be taken into account when making your decision.
Preserving a properly maintained hot spring bath ensures you have rewarding experiences with chilly therapy through many years ahead.
Size and Capacity
When selecting a cold plunge tub, it is essential to consider both its size and capacity.
There are many different sizes of plunge tubs available. From smaller individual ones up to bigger multi-person versions which allow others to benefit from the therapeutic effects of plunging in icy water. This allows you the flexibility of finding one that can fit your space without missing out on any advantages associated with colder temperatures for therapy purposes.
It’s important not only to make sure that there is enough room for your cold plunge tub (as many are rather large), but also provide enough space for you to comfortably soak. As an inappropriately sized bathtub may provide unsatisfactory results due to too little space to comfortably enjoy this form of treatment.
By considering these factors carefully, we ensure having optimal experiences related exclusively tailored to our own needs while taking advantage of cold immersion.
Temperature Range and Chilling Mechanism
When selecting a cold plunge tub, it is important to determine the temperature range and cooling mechanisms for optimal efficacy.
Generally speaking, the cold plunges we reviewed reached temperatures from 32-39°F. Deciding on the right combination of temperature and chilling system can maximize all of the health benefits that come with taking part in cold therapy sessions!
It’s crucial to make sure your plunge bath has what you need when looking into enjoying its many advantages thoroughly.
Insulated Cover
For a more comfortable and energy-efficient cold plunge tub experience, invest in an insulated cover.
This accessory helps regulate the temperature of your plunge tub while also preventing dirt and debris from entering the water. Not only will this ensure that you enjoy clean therapy sessions, but it can also conserve energy by keeping heat loss to a minimum for longer periods of time.
Quality insulation provides greater protection against any fluctuation in water temperatures, making sure each session is just right!
Price and Budget Considerations
When deciding which cold plunge tub is the ideal choice for you, take into account your financial plan and look at what features different models offer.
From more affordable options to lavish plunge tubs with a high price tag, consider all variables and find one that best fits within your budget.
Making an investment in a quality cold plunge bath can be beneficial for both physical health and psychological wellbeing. By choosing wisely, it will create satisfaction without breaking the bank balance.
Safety Tips and Precautions
When it comes to obtaining the health benefits of cold plunge tubs, safety is key. Before adding these baths into your routine, be sure you’ve consulted a medical professional in case you have existing conditions or ailments. It’s also crucial that water temperatures are not too extreme, this can lead to hypothermia and other potential risks.
Once cleared for use by your doctor, start out slowly with shorter durations until your body begins acclimating itself to the chilly environment present within the plunge pools. Increasing time as needed gradually over time going forward. So long as no issues arise from longer exposure periods previously taken on during earlier sessions.
By following all necessary precautions when using cold plunge tanks one can reap their numerous rewards while still staying safe at the same times, an experience that will surely be enjoyable even beyond its many physical advantages!
Summary
We hope that this guide gives you a deep dive into cold plunge tubs, breaking down the top available models and outlining factors to consider when purchasing one.
There are plenty of advantages that come with regular plunging, from alleviating inflammation and fortifying immunity systems to boosting sleep quality and calming stress levels.
Safety should be a priority for any individual engaging in this kind of activity. Make sure you adhere strictly to maintenance instructions as well as opt for a bathtub suitable for your needs before embarking on this journey towards improved physical health & mental wellbeing!
With an effective cold plunge tub accompanied by dedication, it’s possible unlock all its beneficial effects without doubt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the cold plunge bathtub good for you?
A cold plunge tub can be an ideal way to enjoy the advantages of chilled water therapy in your own home. Such treatment could bring about enhanced blood flow, as well as diminishment of inflammation and muscle soreness. It might even enhance one’s feelings or outlook on life!
Before trying this type of therapeutic approach. It is necessary to consult a healthcare expert first.
What is the ideal water temperature for a cold plunge tub?
For those who love the cold, a plunge tub set at temperatures between 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit provides an exhilarating and refreshing experience. A perfect way to invigorate your senses is by taking a cold plunge in one of these special baths!
How often should the water be changed in a cold plunge tub?
Every make and model is different. Some require that the water be changed after each use, while others almost no water changes.
It’s advised to follow instructions as is suggested by the manufacturer for safe and proper usage and for the longest-lasting cold plunge tub experience.
Can cold plunge tubs be used both indoors and outdoors?
Most cold plunge can be experienced both indoors and outdoors. However, there are exceptions. When in doubt, reach out to the manufacturer to verify whether the tub you are interested in can be used both in an indoor and outdoor setting.
Are cold plunge tubs safe for everyone?
It is important to speak with a medical professional before using any cold plunge tub, as it may not be suitable for everyone’s health. Being careful and consulting your doctor will give you added reassurance that the device can be used safely.