So, you’re ready to make the (financial) plunge into an ice bath tub? I’ve searched high and low to find the best tubs for ice baths in 2024 to bring you this definitive list so that you can choose the correct one right from the start.
Table of Contents
The Best Ice Bath Tubs
Note that this site is supported by my readers. I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you buy through the links below. For more, see my disclosures page.- Sun Home Cold Plunge – Best Luxury Tub
- The Cold Pod – Best For Most Lifters
- Rubbermaid Stock Tank – Best Budget Ice Bath Tub
- Ice Barrel – Best for Small Spaces
- Polar Monkey’s The Portal – Best for Rust-Resistance
1. Sun Home Cold Plunge – Best Luxury Tub
Rating: 4.7/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 6.4′ x 2.3′ x 2.1′
- Tub Weight – 5.5 lbs
- Chiller Weight – 88 lbs
- Capacity – 360 liters
- Number of people it fits – two
- Shipping time – immediate
- Warranty – 1-year limited
Pros
- Unique robust Inflation design
- Adjustable settings from a mobile app
- Large enough to accommodate two individuals
Cons
- Some customers have found it a tad noisy
The Sun Home Cold Plunge isn't just another cold bath tub – it's a blend of smart technology and intuitive design. The fact that it's spacious enough to be used by two individuals makes it a cut above the rest.
While the Cold Pod is my top choice for those wanting a portable and budget-friendly entry to the world of cold water immersion, but the Sun Home is for those who want the best experience.
You can control the tub from your mobile app, and it has an advanced heating and cooling system.
The Sun Home stands out, especially for those who want an optimal ice bath recovery experience with all the tech perks. The ability to stand in the Sun Home Cold Plunge and immerse specific body parts is unique.
However, potential buyers should note the slight noise levels when in operation. I find that when it's installed in a backyard or garage, you can mitigate this issue.
When it comes to sheer performance and features, the Sun Home Cold Plunge has set a new benchmark in 2024.
2. The Cold Pod – Best For Most Lifters
Rating: 4.5/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 29.53″ x 29.53″ x 29.53″
- Weight – 7.5 lbs
- Capacity – 127 liters
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – immediate
- Warranty – N/A
Pros
- Easy to get in
- Inside or outside use
- Lightweight
- Easy to install
- Great value
- Durable exterior material
Cons
- Could be insulated better
- Not very large
“The first thing I noticed about The Cold Pod is that it's really well-made. I didn't expect the material to be this high-quality at this low price point.”
The Cold Pod is a portable ice bath that is designed to help you recover from workouts and improve your overall health. It is made of a thick, durable material that is easy to assemble and disassemble. The pod is also relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport.
One thing I like about The Cold Pod is that it's really affordable. It's priced significantly lower than other portable ice baths on the market. This makes it a great option for people who are looking to try cold water immersion without breaking the bank.
As for how it works, it's pretty simple. You just fill the pod with water, add ice, and step inside. The pod is designed to keep the water cold for a period of time, so you can enjoy your ice bath without having to worry about the water getting too warm.
I've been using The Cold Pod over the past few months and really enjoyed it. It's a great way to cool down after a workout, and I think it's been helping me recover faster.
One thing to know is that The Cold Pod is not very insulated. This means that the water will warm up relatively quickly, especially if it is hot outside. Another thing to remember is that the pod is not very large. This means that it may not be comfortable for taller or heavier people.
Overall, I think The Cold Pod is a great product. It's affordable, easy to use, and durable. However, the insulation and size could be improved.
If you're looking to see if one of the best ice bath tubs can help your routine, I would recommend The Cold Pod. Just be aware of the drawbacks before you purchase one.
3. Rubbermaid Stock Tank – Best Budget Ice Bath Tub
Rating: 3/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 53” L x 31” W x 25” H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – immediate
- Warranty – N/A
Pros
- Easy to get in
- Inside or outside use
- Oversized drain plug
- Float valve for consistent water level
Cons
- No cooling
- No circulation/filtration
The Rubbermaid Stock Tank is quite literally a tank as far as ice bath tubs go. Its generous 53” L x 31” W x 25” H build guarantees it will fit even the beefiest of bodies.
Pesky leaks are unlikely to be an issue because the durable molded polyethylene material is made without seams. This will keep your icy waters contained inside and minimize the possibility that you go to take a dip and find the tank bone-dry.
It’s worth mentioning that this tank doesn’t come with fancy-schmancy cooling or circulation systems. This means that just like the Ice Barrel, you’re on your own for replacing the water and adding ice manually to get the chilly temperature you want. But it also means that this is an affordable option if you don’t have the budget for a more premium ice tank.
However, the oversized drain plug makes emptying this stock tank easy peasy. And don’t worry if you accidentally walk away while filling this 100-gallon beast. The float valve will keep your water at a consistent level.
If you're looking for an affordable cold bath tub that can be used inside or outside, and you don’t mind the manual aspect of your cold water therapy, the Rubbermaid Stock Tank is the one for you!
4. Ice Barrel – Best for Small Spaces
Rating: 3/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 25” L x 31” W x 42“ H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – 3-5 days
- Warranty – limited lifetime
Pros
- Space-saving footprint
- Easy-to-use drainage system
- Only 55 lbs when empty
- Includes a cover, step stool, and stand
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Made in Ohio, USA
Cons
- No cooling
- No circulation/filtration
The Ice Barrel is a one of the best home ice bath tub for small spaces due to its compact design. Being only 25” L x 31” W x 42” H, it can fit in the corner of a room without taking over the space.
The “Easy-Flow” drainage system makes emptying it a breeze. A standard garden hose can connect directly to the drainage valve, so you can conveniently drain the water wherever you’d like.
The tub is only 55 lbs when empty, making it lightweight enough to move around to a different area, like if you’d prefer to have it inside during the winter and outside during the summer.
That said, its design is a double-edged sword.
The water isn’t circulated, filtered, or cooled, so it’s up to you to replace the water often and replenish it with ice for every use.
The opening of the Ice Barrel is only 31”, so it’s not a great ice bath tab for adults who might not fit through the opening. While the step stool is certainly helpful, it also takes more strength and flexibility to get into the tub from the stool.
The warranty is also quite specific. It’s for personal (non-commercial) use only and does not cover cosmetic issues. The most surprising thing to me is that “water retention” is not covered. I can only assume that this means if your cold bath tub springs a leak, it’s not covered under warranty.
Overall, the Ice Barrel is great for people with small spaces or who want to keep their cold plunge routine simple. If you don’t mind the manual labor of replacing the water every couple of weeks and manually controlling the water temperature, this is the best ice bath tub for you.
5. Polar Monkey’s The Portal – Best for Rust-Resistance
Rating: 4/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 48” L x 24” W x 24” H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – immediate
- Warranty – one year
Pros
- Great value option
- Rust-resistant stainless steel
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Optional hot/cold add-on
Cons
- Only comes with a one-year warranty
Polar Monkey's The Portal is worth looking into if you’re looking for a slim, rust-resistant ice tub that won’t have you side-eyeing your retirement fund.
Its compact size of 48” L x 24” W x 24” H is perfect for those with tighter spaces who don’t want their tub extending out with a commanding footprint. The stainless steel tank is a premium touch that offers serious rust resistance to keep that ugly oxidation at bay.
This tub can cool your water to 37° F, which makes it a solid option for any indoor or outdoor space. Even better, though, is that The Portal offers an optional hot temperature add-on for those who want more range over their bathing experience — with heat up to 110° F.
Plus, a longer five-foot option is available for those who are vertically gifted.
However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows with The Portal. Its one-year warranty may leave some feeling a little cold, but it’s better than no warranty (some tubs lack a warranty altogether).
So if you're in the market for a slim, rust-resistant, temperature-controlled, metal ice bath tub, look no further than Polar Monkey’s The Portal!
6. G Ganen Portable SPA Bathtub – Best Portable Ice Bath Tub
Rating: 3/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 29.5” W x 29.5” H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – immediate
- Warranty – N/A
Pros
- Highly affordable option
- Space-saving design
- Foldable and portable
- Indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- No air pump
If you’re tired of cramming your ice bath tub into a small corner, look no further than the G Ganen Portable SPA Bathtub.
With its compact design measuring only 29.5″ W x 29.5″ H, you can finally enjoy your cold plunge routine without sacrificing valuable square footage at home. But even with this small design, the G Ganen ice tub is suitable for larger folks who might have difficulty getting into and comfortably using slimmer ice bath tanks like the Ice Barrel.
This space-saving inflatable tub features a handy detachable drainage valve to make emptying a breeze. And with two layers of PVC material, it should hold up well to the occasional scrape. Plus, it's highly affordable, so you won't break the bank trying to pursue your cold therapy routine.
Overall, the G Ganen Portable SPA Bathtub is a solid option for anyone looking for a compact, affordable, and portable ice bath barrel, especially if they appreciate having extra room at their sides.
7. PEAKn Ice Bath – Best Inflatable Ice Bath Tub
Rating: 3/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 47.25” L x 39.4” W x 26.8” H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – immediate
- Warranty – N/A
Pros
- Highly affordable option
- Lightweight 5.4-pound weight
- Easy to inflate
- Portable design
Cons
- No air pump
- Inside only use recommended
The PEAKn Ice Bath is an inflatable ice bath tub that won’t leave you feeling deflated.
Measuring a decent 47.25” L x 39.4” W x 26.8” H, this blow-up tub is perfect for those who want a lower-cost solution for their cold water therapy.
This tub is made from polyvinyl chloride, so it’s not the sturdiest option out there. However, this does mean that with a weight of only 5.4 pounds, you can easily move it around the house like a beach ball.
Sadly, the PEAKn Ice Bath doesn’t come with an air pump, so you'll have to do the heavy breathing yourself.
And if you're hoping to take your icy plunge outside, you might want to reconsider because the material is an economical type that is only recommended for indoor use. Buuuut if you’re feeling like being a rebel, just put a tarp underneath to reduce punctures or scrapes on the bottom of the tub.
Overall, the PEAKn Ice Bath might not be the most glamorous option out there, but if you're looking for an inflatable cold bath tub, it’s hard to go wrong with this one!
8. Plunge – Best Premium Ice Bath Tub
Rating: 4.5/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 67” L x 31.5” W x 24” H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – 2-3 weeks
- Warranty – one year
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Comes with an underwater light
- Modern design
- Includes spa cover
- Indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Only has a one-year warranty
The Plunge will make your ice bath routine feel like a premium spa experience.
Its 67” L x 31.5” W x 24” H size makes it perfect for any space, whether indoors or outdoors. The Plunge is a free-standing tub made of sturdy acrylic and fiberglass, which ensures long-lasting durability.
With the Plunge's cooling system that can reach 39° F, you'll feel refreshed and invigorated after every bout of cold water therapy. Plus, the 20-micron filter guarantees clean and fresh water every time, which is a big plus if different people use it, like at a workout facility.
The modern design of the Plunge will impress anyone who lays their eyes on it. It's sleek and stylish, making it a stunning addition to any space. It includes a handy spa cover that can fasten down and keep the water protected even further from unwanted debris.
However, great luxury comes at a hefty price tag. And although it offers a one-of-a-kind experience, the warranty only covers one year, which I found a bit disappointing.
Overall, the Plunge is a great investment for those who want to elevate their ice bath game. Its excellent build quality, water hygiene features, and modern design make it a top contender.
In addition to taking ice baths, scheduling regular deload weeks can help you recover from the demands of training. Learn more in How Often Should Powerlifters Deload? (Depends on 5 Factors).
9. Plunge Pro Commercial – Best for Tall Users
Rating: 4.5/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 73” L x 32.5” W x 27” H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – 2-3 weeks
- Warranty – one year
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Comes with an underwater light
- Modern design
- Includes spa cover
- Indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- One-year warranty is shorter compared to other ice tub brands
Check Today's Price at The Cold Plunge
The Plunge Pro Commercial will upgrade the ice bath routine of anyone over six feet tall.
With dimensions of 73” L x 32.5” W x 27” H, this free-standing cold plunge tub is perfect for those who need more space to stretch their legs out. That means no more squeezing your knees up to your chest while you try to perform your deep breathing exercises.
Similar to the original Plunge, the Pro Commercial tub features a sleek and modern design with its sturdy acrylic and fiberglass construction.
This bad boy not only cools to a chilly 39°F, but it can also do hot temperatures. This way, you can switch things up and enjoy a hot plunge on those chilly winter days. And with its 20-micron filter, you can rest easy knowing that your water is clean and free of those yucky particles.
On the aesthetics side, the Plunge Pro Commercial comes with an underwater light and spa cover to give it an upscale feel.
Unfortunately, the Plunge Pro Commercial mirrors its younger sibling and only comes with a one-year warranty. But with its excellent build quality, I doubt it will be a major issue.
So if you're over six feet tall, this is the best ice bath tub for you!
10. BlueCube Mini-Me Cold Plunge – Best Ice Bath Spa
Rating: 4.5/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 80″ L x 39.5″ W x 28.5″ H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – immediate
- Warranty – five years
Pros
- Luxury build
- Easy-to-use drainage system
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Includes insulated cover
- Five-year warranty
- Made in the USA
Cons
- High price
If you’re tired of cramped legs and having to refill your cold plunge tub on every use, the BlueCube Mini-Me Cold Plunge will elevate your chilling game to the next level.
This free-standing ice bath tub is the peak of luxury. The useable tub portion measures 48″ L x 24″ W x 22″ H, so it has ample room for those under six feet tall.
Its cooling capabilities range from a frosty 36° to 60° F. However, it also boasts an impressive 20-micron filter to keep your water pristine. Because of this, you won’t have to replace the water on every use, and emptying it is a breeze with the handy drainage system.
Made in the USA, this cold plunge tub for athletes is crafted with the utmost attention to detail to make it a thing of beauty.
Even better, it comes with an insulated cover to keep the icicles in and the heat out. Backed by a five-year warranty, you can rest assured that your investment will be protected for years to come.
But not everything is sunshine and rainbows with this ice tub. Luxury like this doesn’t come cheap, as this cold plunge tub will cost you about $15,000.
It also only fits one user at a time, but for those who want exceptional craftsmanship and unbeatable features, it’s easy to see why you wouldn’t want to share this tub.
11. Odin Original Ice Bath – Best Ice Bath Tub for Home Spa
Rating: 4.5/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 51.2” L x 49.2” W x 28.0” H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – 10-12 weeks
- Warranty – three years on the working components and five years on the cosmetic parts
Pros
- Premium option
- Incredible craftsmanship
- High-quality materials
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Excellent warranty
- Made in Australia and ships internationally
Cons
- Pricey
If you’re a cold therapy enthusiast with an eye for top-tier materials, look no further than the Odin Original Ice Bath.
This baby is not for the faint of heart — it's a premium option for serious cold plungers only.
The Original Odin measures a whopping 51.2” L x 49.2” W x 28.0” H, so you better have some serious real estate space if you want this unit to fit. But hey, if you're committed to the cold, you'll find a way to make it work.
Speaking of commitment, the Odin can reach a chilly 32° F — cold enough to make its own ice! But if you're up for the challenge, the stainless steel and red cedar construction will give you some beautiful craftsmanship to admire to take your mind off your shivering fits. It also has an insulated lockable spa lid to keep the temperature consistent when it’s not in use.
Made down under in Australia, the Odin is built to last, and the warranty reflects that. It’s got a respectable three-year warranty on the working components and a five-year warranty on the cosmetic parts.
The Odin is a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for.
Overall, if you're serious about cold therapy and want a top-of-the-line bath experience, the Odin Original Ice Bath is the way to go.
12. Odin Dual Ice Bath – Best for Dual Use
Rating: 4.5/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 64” L x 40.9” W x 24” H
- Number of people it fits – two
- Shipping time – 10-12 weeks
- Warranty – three years on the working components and five years on the cosmetic parts
Pros
- Premium option
- Incredible craftsmanship
- Fits two users
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Excellent warranty
- Made in Australia but will ship internationally
Cons
- Pricey
The Odin Dual Ice Bath is the best dual option for those seeking the ultimate ice bath experience to share with someone else.
Just like Odin’s original version, this bath tub is crafted with incredible attention to detail with high-quality stainless steel and red cedar, ensuring it will age like a fine wine.
And this icy oasis isn't just for solo plunging. It's big enough to fit two users, so you can share the bone-chilling experience with a friend or loved one (how sweet). And with its indoor and outdoor versatility, you can enjoy a refreshing dip no matter the weather or location.
Don't worry about the hassle of manually controlling the temperature or constantly replenishing the ice. The Odin Dual Ice Bath can reach a frigid 32° F, allowing you to shiver in icy bliss without lifting a (frozen) finger.
And when you're ready to step out of the icy waters for good, you can simply lock the insulated spa lid to keep the chill in and the heat out.
Like the Original, the Odin Dual Ice Bath is a bit pricey, but that's to be expected with this level of quality and ability for dual use. Plus, you can rest easy knowing that your investment is protected with that three- to five-year warranty.
So, if you're seeking the ultimate icy experience for two, the Odin Dual Ice Bath is the perfect choice!
13. Cold Stoic 2.0 – Best for Customization
Rating: 4.5/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 70” L x 33” W x 35″ H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – 3-6 weeks
- Warranty – five years
Pros
- Highly customizable
- Premium materials used
- Matching step stool
- Insulated lid
- Five-year warranty
Cons
- Expensive
If customizing your tub’s aesthetics is important for your cold plunge experience, the Cold Stoic 2.0 won’t disappoint.
The tub and chiller are contained within the frame of this ice tub, where you can pick the type of wood used on the deck along with the base color to perfectly complement your space and deliver a commercial-grade atmosphere with every soak.
But let's not forget the other cool features that cold-comrades will appreciate: the programmable thermostat, cooling to 36° F, and being hand-made in the USA with premium materials to ensure quality craftsmanship.
The Cold Stoic 2.0 also comes with a matching step stool for easy access into and out of the tub and an insulated lid to keep the cold in. And as if that wasn't enough, it also boasts a five-year warranty to give you added peace of mind.
Of course, all this luxury does come at a stomach-turning price…
The Cold Stoic 2.0 ain’t exactly cheap, but for those willing to invest in their ice bath experience, it's a highly customizable and top-of-the-line option!
14. The Edge Tub – Best Temperature Range
Rating: 4/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 53.3” L x 31.5” W x 24” H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – 8 weeks
- Warranty – one year
Pros
- Convenient 15-minute setup
- Built-in filtration system
- Durable PVC material
- Highly portable
Cons
- Only has a one-year warranty
The Edge Tub is the best ice bath tub for those who want to plunge into icy (or hot) water without plunging deep into their wallet.
It measures 53.3” L x 31.5” W x 24” H, which gives you decent space to submerge yourself.
However, it’s the temperature range of 37° F to 105° F that is sure to attract buyers. With almost every other brand, adding a range for heat comes at a significant extra cost — the Edge Tub includes it automatically.
It also offers a built-in filtration system, so you don't have to worry about the cleanliness of the water.
But its biggest pro is its convenient portability. In only 15 minutes, it’s inflated, and thanks to that main feature, it can be collapsed down to fit into your backpack. This makes the Edge Tub the ultimate portable cold tub.
The warranty for the Edge Tub is limited to one year, which is disappointing, but considering its affordable price point, I don’t think it’s a dealbreaker.
Overall, the Edge Tub is a fantastic option for those who value temperature range and portability!
15. PlusLife Ice Bath – Best for Fitness Studios
Rating: 4/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 68.5” L x 31.1” W x 22.8” H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – 9-12 weeks
- Warranty – one year
Pros
- Programmable temperature
- Hygenic filtration system
- Easily step into/out
- Insulated lid to keep cold in
- Made in Australia but will ship internationally
Cons
- Only comes with a one-year warranty
- Expensive
The PlusLife Ice Bath is the new kid on the block to take your cold plunge routine to the next level from the sunny land of Australia. International shipping is available, and you can contact the company for a quote to see how much it will be.
With its impressive size of 68.5” L x 31.1” W x 22.8” H, you'll have plenty of space to stretch out and soak up the chilly goodness in this cold tub. But don’t underestimate its cooling power, as it can chill your water down to a frosty 37° F.
The PlusLife Ice Bath also offers the convenience of a programmable temperature system, so you can set it and forget it. And if you're feeling extra fancy, the hot temperature add-on can provide a unique contrast therapy experience.
Not to mention, the underwater LED lighting will make you feel like you're taking a dip in a fancy hotel pool.
The PlusLife Ice Bath also boasts a filtration system, so you don't have to worry about any unwanted bacteria hanging out in your bath. This is especially useful if many people use it throughout the day.
Along with the included cover and insulated lid, your water will stay cool longer, so you can soak up extra cost savings.
However, all this luxury does come at a price. The PlusLife Ice Bath is certainly not cheap, and its warranty only covers you for a year. But if you're willing to splurge on one of the best tubs for ice baths, then the PlusLife Ice Bath might be the way to go!
16. PlusLife Commercial Ice Bath – Best for Commercial Gyms
Rating: 4.5/5
Specifications
- Dimensions – 68.5” L x 31.1” W x 22.8” H
- Number of people it fits – one
- Shipping time – 9-12 weeks
- Warranty – one year
Pros
- Programmable temperature
- Hygenic filtration system
- Easily step into/out
- Insulated lid to keep cold in
- Made in Australia, but it ships internationally
Cons
- One-year warranty
- Expensive
If you're on the hunt for a commercial-grade ice bath that's guaranteed to make a splash, the PlusLife Ice Bath should be at the top of your list.
This cold plunge tub measures a spacious 68.5” L x 31.1” W x 22.8” H, making it great for commercial gyms.
And get this, it even has a hot temperature add-on, so you can switch things up and give your clients a relaxing heat treatment during the cold winter months. With the accompanying underwater LED lighting, you can create the ultimate ambiance for them right in your gym.
Just like its smaller sibling, the PlusLife Ice Bath uses a hygienic filtration system to keep things clean and germ-free and a programmable temperature so you can customize your chill to the perfect degree.
And don’t worry about the cold escaping. The insulated lid keeps things locked tight to keep the frost in and more dollars in your pocket.
Of course, with all this power comes a downside. The warranty is only for one year, so if you're planning on using this unit for the long haul, you might want to invest in a raised platform that allows for ventilation under the tub for extra protection from rust.
All things considered, this cold tub is a great choice for those who own a facility and are looking to bring more value (and more money) to their club!
Why You Should Trust PowerliftingTechnique
Our team here at PowerliftingTechnique has decades' worth of experience training themselves and coaching others. Combined, we understand the importance of investing in the right equipment, and our suggestions are set on our personal experience with what works.
We’ve used ice baths throughout the years and have countless round-up reviews like this, so we know what makes for the best ice bath tubs for athletes on the market today in 2024.
How We Chose the Best Ice Bath Tubs
We chose the best ice bath tubs by comparing the pros, cons, and features of dozens of options on the market. We picked the top 16 products based on our own personal experience and customer reviews.
In compiling this list, we also considered various price points and sizes to cover various budgets and environments where the bath may be used.
Benefits of Ice Baths
An ice bath tub can be a worthwhile investment for anyone who trains hard in the gym or plays sports.
Here are the six commonly touted benefits of cold plunge bath tubs:
- Speed up your recovery
- Boost your immune system
- Decrease your pain perception
- Increase your energy
- Help you de-stress
- Improve your mood
If you’re looking for more ways to boost your recovery and prevent injuries from working out, check out How To Avoid A Powerlifting Injury (Complete Guide).
Buying Guide: What To Look For in an Ice Bath Tub
As a bathtub enthusiast, I quite enjoy making a splash, and I’ve meticulously researched dozens of models to bring you the definitive list of what to look for in the best tub for ice baths.
Price
Let’s be honest, price is always a factor when you’re making a purchase.
But, it plays an even bigger role here because a quality cold plunge tub can run you anywhere from a couple of hundred bucks to multiple thousands of dollars.
Start off by determining your budget and be ruthless in sticking to it. Expanding your “must-have” list will only add more zeros to the end of your desired price tag.
Size
It might seem straightforward, but mapping out where your ice bath tub will go is essential. Do you actually want (or need) a behemoth of a bathtub? Or will a slim but tall version be a better fit?
Measuring the actual footprint you’ll need is a smart choice, as is using tape on your floor to measure out the rough footprint of your tub.
Trust me, the last thing you’ll want to do after assembling your cold plunge tub is to drain out all the water just to move it over by one foot.
Weight
Similar to size, a heavy ice bath tub is a blessing and a curse. Heavier tubs are less prone to tipping when you’re getting out, and there’s little that shows commercial quality than unshakable stability on a high-ticket item like this.
On the other hand, you don’t want to throw out your back trying to assemble and/or move it. Look into collapsible and/or inflatable models if portability is high on your list.
Accessories
Accessories are the wildcard of your ice bath tub selection.
The number of additional features on ice bath tubs can be mind-boggling, from built-in armrests to phone holders, underwater lighting to step stools.
The key here is not to get carried away with features since they’ll quickly rack up the price.
Make a list of your must-have accessories and move on from those that don’t have what you’re looking for.
Type
When referring to the “type” of an ice bath tub, I’m discussing whether it’s a vertical or horizontal tub.
This partly comes down to the amount of space you want your cold plunge tub to occupy. For example, the Ice Barrel uses a small footprint to save space but is harder to get into.
On the flip side, The Plunge Commercial is easy to get into but occupies a significant amount of floor space and costs a very pretty penny.
Material
The material of your cold plunge tub is crucial for durability and temperature control.
I encourage you to look for tubs built with quality products like stainless steel, high-density polyethylene, or ceramic.
This is especially important if you’re taking outdoor ice baths. When exposed to the elements (winter), subpar materials will quickly corrode, warp, or crack in extremely cold temperatures.
Temperature Controls
If you’re a cold fanatic, you’ll want to pay extra close attention here because the temperature range of your ice bath tub will determine its effectiveness.
Economical ice bathtubs won’t have a temperature control system at all, since the extra parts quickly drive up the price. As a result, you’ll have to use a temperature stick and manually add ice to get your desired chillyness.
The most expensive cold plunge tubs will control the water temperature automatically, with some being programmable via Bluetooth for specific temperatures at set times.
The top-tier tubs will cool their water as low as 32° F. But some of the most upscale tubs will even have a hot setting to give your tub dual use as a hot tub… talk about fancy.
Circulation System
Similar to a temperature feature, a circulation system is a major step up for cold therapy enthusiasts.
When laying motionless in water, your body heat will naturally heat up the water close to your skin, and this will diminish the effectiveness of your cold water immersion.
However, water that is circulated will not have a chance to heat up to a significant degree. This means you’ll feel the effects of the cold water much sooner.
Filtration System
In the same vein, a filtration system is a big plus over the long haul.
Filtration systems save you time because unfiltered water (especially stagnant water) quickly starts to build up microbes and other nasties that can put your health at risk.
You’ll have to replace the water WAY more often to avoid this. But a solid filtration system will consistently remove that gunk from the water, so you can go months without needing to change out the water.
User Capacity
Consider how many people will use your tub.
A tub that fits one person will be adequate if you're a solo dipper. But if you like to freeze your tail off with your spouse, you’ll want to invest in a tub that fits at least two people.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics might seem ridiculous as a factor to consider, but hear me out.
When you’re shelling out up to $10,000 or more on an ice plunge tub, there’s an expectation that the tub looks the part, too.
Some are designed like those timeless cedar barrel tubs, while others have a more sleek appearance to complement a modern space.
Warranty
I saved this one for last because a solid warranty can give you peace of mind and protect your investment over many years or decades.
Going for an economical cold plunge tub without an extensive warranty is probably fine if you care more about simplicity and are a bit of a fixer-upper.
However, if maintenance and/or repairs are not how you want to spend your future days, look for a manufacturer who stands behind their products.
There you have it. With these factors top of mind, you’ll be well on your way to picking the best ice bath tub for your needs — enjoy the dip!
Does A Cold Plunge Have Health Benefits?
“[A cold plunge] helps stop the lactic acid build-up [from working out] by making the blood vessels smaller.”
Quote from Bryanna Howard, MS, LAT, adjunct professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training
Cold plunge tubs are popular on social media, with Wim Hof leading the way. There's also hard evidence that a cold plunge is beneficial and releases anti-inflammatory markers, increasing your recovery after a strength training session.
Yet, there's also a lot of hype and some evidence to suggest it could be detrimental.
You'd want to try it for yourself as a reaction to cold varies from person to person. I love the invigorating feeling of sinking into ice-cold water after a leg day.
Some of the tubs recommended below have a return policy, so it'd be a risk-free buy.
Are Portable Ice Bath Tubs Worth It?
Portable ice bath tubs are worth the investment for lifters and athletes seeking a convenient and effective recovery solution. They offer targeted relief for muscle soreness, enhance circulation, and contribute to overall well-being.
Unlike permanent installations, these portable tubs can be easily moved to various locations—be it your backyard, garage, or training facility—making them extremely versatile.
I don't have room in my home to install a home spa-style ice bath, nor do my friends. So I like portable ice baths like The Cold Pod and G Ganen Portable SPA Bathtub.
While portable ice baths aren't as comfortable as an installed model, they are far more affordable. If you're just testing the cold plunge waters, these options are more accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Ice Should I Use in the Ice Bath?
You should use as much ice as needed to get your ice bath to the correct temperature. This will depend on the size of your tub, the starting temperature of the water, and your personal preference. As a rule of thumb, add enough ice to cover the surface of the water, then adjust accordingly.
Is an Ice Bath Tub Worth It?
An ice bath tub is worth it if you’re a dedicated cold plunger. Ice bath tubs are an effective, convenient, and efficient way to practice cold water therapy because they use a dedicated tub, space, and consistently cold water.
How Big of a Tub Do I Need for an Ice Bath?
Generally, you’ll want a tub big enough to submerge your entire body from neck to toes. This will depend mostly on your body size.
What Are the Disadvantages of Ice Baths?
The disadvantages of ice baths are that they make your skin feel like it’s freezing, take mental toughness, and can be costly if you invest in a higher-end model.
What Temperature Should You Get an Ice Bath To?
The temperature you should get an ice bath depends on your soak time. Ten to 15° Celsius (50-59° F) for five to 10 minutes is a good start. Cap your cold bath sessions at 15 minutes. Always be safe to avoid hypothermia.
Is an Ice Bath or Cold Shower Better?
An ice bath is better than a cold shower. This is because with an ice bath, almost your entire body is submerged in water, and the water temperature can be tightly controlled. This makes an cold plunge both a more effective choice for your cold water therapy.
Is the Cold Plunge or Ice Barrel Better for Ice Baths?
It depends on what you value. The Ice Barell is more affordable and saves more space, but it doesn’t have a temperature, circulation, or filtration system. The Cold Plunge is easy to get into, controls the temperature, and circulates and filters the water, but it occupies a large footprint and costs much more.
Final Verdict
If you want to check out whether one of the best ice bath tubs is for you, then your best budget option is the Rubbermaid Stock Tank. You can have it set up quickly and easily.
The Ice Barrel Bathtub is a great option to get started and will fit most homes.
Or, if you want an ice bath tub that will last for years, check out Polar Monkey's rust-resistant tub.
When choosing an ice bath tub, it is important to consider factors such as size, durability, and ease of use. By choosing one of the best ice bath tubs, you can enjoy the benefits of cold therapy and promote faster recovery after intense workouts
