As a certified personal trainer, former rugby player, and dedicated #gymrat, experience has taught me that prioritizing my recovery can help prevent plateaus and unlock a new level of performance. While post-workout sauna sessions are my preferred method to reduce muscle soreness, increase blood flow, and boost my mental health, diving into the chillier end of the hydrotherapy pool can also provide many health benefits.
Though not quite as relaxing as kicking back and breaking a sweat, submerging yourself in one of the best cold plunge tubs can pay big dividends for your immune system, mental clarity, muscle recovery, and overall well-being. However, figuring out which tub to invest in can be a challenge, especially if you’re not ready to shell out $5,000 (or more) on a premium model.
Luckily, there’s an all-in-one solution that allows you to enjoy the benefits of hot and cold therapy at a more affordable price point. In this Nordik Recovery Cold Tub review, I’ll break down everything from the filtration system to the temperature settings, chiller options, and more, so you can determine if this inflatable tub is the right fit for your recovery routine.
The Cold, Hard Truth: Not All Plunges Are Created Equal
The Garage Gym Reviews team includes certified personal trainers, certified nutrition coaches, CrossFit enthusiasts, and competitive athletes. As passionate health and fitness professionals, we understand and appreciate how the best muscle recovery tools can help you get back to 100% as quickly as possible. That means we endure sweaty sauna sessions and chilly cold plunge journeys to give you honest, accurate feedback about our experiences.
For this Nordik Recovery Ice Bath 2.0 review, we combined research and analysis with direct feedback from GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, to help evaluate this cold immersion tool with guidance from our cold plunge testing methodology. We use a 1-to-5 scoring system to rate key categories such as:
- Footprint and portability: A tub earns a 3 out of 5 if it’s large and sturdy but still manageable for one or two people to position while empty. We award higher scores when a model is designed with portability in mind—such as built-in handles, a lightweight or inflatable frame, or a compact footprint that fits easily through doorways.
- Delivery and setup: Cold plunges should arrive safely with clear assembly instructions that make the process as easy as possible. A 3-out-of-5 rating indicates the plunge arrives via curbside or threshold delivery and can be assembled without professional help.
- Durability and construction: We award at least a 3 out of 5 to tubs that feel mostly sturdy but may shift slightly when someone gets in or out. We give higher scores for tubs that remain completely solid under heavy weight, feature high-quality insulation, or use premium materials like marine-grade stainless steel, ripstop textiles, or reinforced fiberglass.
- Convenience and extra features: To earn at least a 3 out of 5, tubs must maintain cold temperatures well and include a thermometer or simple controls. We award higher scores to units with built-in chillers, digital temperature displays, or smartphone app controls that allow for precise adjustments and real-time monitoring.
RELATED: How to Cold Plunge
The Nordik Recovery Ice Bath is an inflatable plunge tub that can be used with ice or a Standard or Premium chiller. Either way, it can be ready to use in under 10 minutes.
A Quick Look at the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath
The Nordik Recovery Ice Bath is an inflatable cold plunge tub built for indoor and outdoor use. Constructed from high-quality, military-grade PVC, the tub can fit users up to 6-foot-7-inches tall. Available in two colors (black or a brown faux wood grain), you can opt for just the tub itself or one of the following kits:
- Standard Bundle: This includes the inflatable ice bath along with an insulated tub cover, travel backpack, high-pressure pump, and the Standard chiller with compatible hoses and hardware. The Standard chiller offers a temperature range of 37 degrees Fahrenheit to 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Premium Bundle: As the most expensive package from Nordik Recovery, this bundle includes a more versatile chiller that cools or heats water between 37 degrees Fahrenheit and 103 degrees Fahrenheit. The Premium chiller has a three-step filtration system and Wi-Fi-enabled temperature control, as well.
The tub’s portability allows users to easily deflate, pack, and transport it for use at home, the gym, or even while traveling (as long as you have space for the chiller). Overall, the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath provides a professional-grade cold plunge experience for both recovery and relaxation. Plus, if you choose the Premium chiller, you can crank up the temperature to experience the benefits of contrast therapy.
RELATED: Cold Plunge Vs Sauna
Before You Buy
- There is a substantial price difference across the three available options. The listed price for just the inflatable tub is $1,500. Meanwhile, the Standard chiller package costs $3,999 and the Premium bundle costs $5,999. However, we have seen discounted totals for each offering throughout the seasons.
- Nordik Recovery offers several accessories that can enhance your ownership experience. These include a five-pack of Premium micron filters ($80), a Nordik Recovery water heater ($149), a neoprene anti-slip floor mat ($150), and a water treatment solution ($80).
- While we appreciate the overall effectiveness of the chiller’s 1-horsepower motor, be aware that it’s quite loud in operation. We wouldn’t recommend using this indoors if you’re concerned about making noise.
- Nordik Recovery earns some bonus points for providing two years of warranty coverage for all tubs and chillers. In our experience, the average cold plunge tub only comes with a one-year warranty.
Nordik Recovery Cold Tub Video Review
Is the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath Worth It?
If you can secure the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath Premium bundle at its sale price, which was last discounted to $2,700, it offers impressive value for an inflatable setup. Its standout feature is the 1-horsepower chiller, which can deliver faster cooling than most comparable models that typically use 0.5- or 0.75-HP chiller units.
The easy-to-assemble system includes a 20-micron filtration unit, Bluetooth-connected app control for setting the water temperatures, and transport wheels—none of which you get with the Standard bundle. Plus, the Premium chiller offers heating capabilities, which can be a nice bonus that adds even more value.
RELATED: Cold Plunge Vs Hot Tub
That said, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the chiller is powerful, it’s also noticeably loud, making it less ideal for indoor use. The tub’s inflatable PVC construction can also lose shape over time and can be prone to small leaks with frequent use, contributing to its average construction and durability scores. Additionally, folks who live in colder climates will need to take extra precautions to help prevent freezing. According to the brand, the system shouldn’t be stored below 41 degrees Fahrenheit.
Overall, though, the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath can be a worthwhile investment for budget-conscious cold plunge enthusiasts who want strong cooling power and a simple, portable setup. It’s not a perfect product, but it offers an appealing combination of performance and price that makes it one of the best inflatable cold plunges on the market.
Great for:
- Active individuals who want consistently cold temperatures to help with muscle recovery1
- Users who value plug-and-play convenience
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Buyers seeking optional upgrades like filtration systems, Wi-Fi controls, and heat-capable chiller units
- Those who want portability—the inflatable design packs into a carrying case for easier transport
Not recommended for:
- Users who prefer a rigid, spa-style cold plunge over an inflatable setup
- Anyone who lives in harsh winter climates without access to a covered outdoor space
- Indoor use where noise levels may be a concern—the chiller can be quite loud
- Taller athletes who prefer a cold plunge with a vertical orientation
Nordik Recovery Ice Bath Specs
| Price | $1,500 (tub only) $3,999 (Standard bundle) $5,999 (Premium bundle) |
| Footprint | 53.1″ L x 23.6″ D x 31.5″ H |
| Water capacity | 105 gallons |
| Temperature range | 37° F to 68° F (Standard chiller) 37° F to 113° F (Premium chiller) |
| Cooling time | 4 hours (Premium chiller) 5 hours (Standard chiller) |
| Color options | Black, Brown |
| Warranty | 2-year warranty |
Using the Nordik Recovery Cold Tub
GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele is no stranger to cold exposure. In fact, she’s probably spent more time sitting through bone-chilling cold plunge sessions than most of our team to help us identify the top tubs on the market. GGRE YouTube channel subscribers may have already watched her Nordik Recovery Cold Tub review, but if you haven’t had the chance yet, this in-depth breakdown will cover everything from its easy setup to the high-end features that left a lasting impression during testing.
Construction and Durability
At first glance, the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath looks well-made for an inflatable plunge tub. Its military-grade PVC shell feels rugged enough to handle repeated use, and the Premium bundle includes nice aesthetic touches like a fitted lid and reinforced seams. It has an oval shape that accommodates tall people, as well. For reference, I’m 6-feet, 2-inches and was able to comfortably stretch my legs out during testing.
However, as Lindsay points out, looks can be deceiving. While the materials appear high-quality, she poured some cold water on that assumption. “We already have a small leak in the side of the inflatable tub that we are constantly having to refill with air,” she explains. “We do move this around a lot, but still—that happened pretty quickly.”
RELATED: DIY Cold Plunge
This leaking experience highlights one of the major drawbacks of inflatable cold tubs in that they can’t match the structural integrity of solid, traditional cold plunges. Lindsay also observed that the tub began to bow outward after about two weeks of use, which negatively impacts the appearance and functionality.
The cover still fits, but that loss of shape can leave room for leaves, dust, and debris to slip into the water more easily. Overall, we give the Nordik Recovery Tub a 3-out-of-5 rating for construction and durability, noting that it won’t deliver anywhere near the same ruggedness as its hard-shell counterparts.
Footprint and Portability
One of the Nordik Recovery Cold Tub’s major advantages is its portability. Tipping the scales at just 77 pounds (35 kilograms) dry, this inflatable model is much easier to transport and reposition than traditional tubs that can weigh triple or quadruple that amount. Lindsay also states that the included backpack-style carrying case and compact footprint make this tub an ideal choice for active individuals who need to move or store their cold tub between uses. We rate the portability at a perfect 5 out of 5.
Meanwhile, the Nordik Recovery Tub’s compact footprint can make it more suitable for a range of different environments. Whether you carve out some space in your garage, patio, or basement, you should have little trouble fitting it into your setup. Compared to bulkier cold plunge systems that require dedicated installation or permanent placement, this footprint-friendly tub is much more space-efficient. As a result, it also earns a perfect 5-out-of-5 footprint score.
Delivery and Setup
Another area where this tub shines is the delivery and setup process. Lindsay gives Nordik Recovery a perfect score and plenty of praise for its fast delivery and effortless assembly. The entire process took her roughly 20 minutes from unboxing to inflation (not including the time to fill the tub with water).
“This is incredibly easy to assemble, and everything that you need comes with your order,” Lindsay says. “Everything is included—even the pump to blow up the air-filled tub, the hoses, and the connection fittings.”
RELATED: Cold Plunge Benefits
This simple plug-and-play approach is a huge advantage for new cold plungers or those who don’t consider themselves particularly handy. You don’t need a bunch of tools or have to make your way through complicated setup steps, and the system is compatible with standard electrical outlets, too. Overall, the combination of fast shipping, clear instructions, and complete packaging makes this one of the easiest cold tubs to get up and running.
Features
Whether you go for the Standard or Premium bundle, you’ll get a powerful 1-HP chiller—a huge bonus for a tub of this type. In our experience, most inflatable systems use a 0.5- or 0.75-HP chiller, which can take significantly longer to reach the desired temperature. However, the Nordik’s chiller can cool water down to 37 degrees Fahrenheit in roughly four to five hours—a strong performance for an inflatable setup.
“For an inflatable tub to come along with a 1-horsepower chiller at this price point is actually really good,” Lindsay emphasizes.
The Premium chiller can also heat water up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit, giving you the versatility for both cold plunging and hot soaking. While Lindsay doubts it actually reaches that high, it’s a nice option to have. The chiller includes a 20-micron filtration system designed to catch sand, rust, and small debris to help keep the water clean between draining protocols. Plus, you can set the water temperature via the Smart Life app, allowing you to prepare the tub ahead of your scheduled soak.
While the chiller does well at cooling and heating the water, Lindsay has two callouts. First, the chiller only measures the temperature in Celsius, which she found frustrating since most folks know Fahrenheit ranges. She also warns that the chiller is “incredibly noisy” when running, so it’s not ideal for bedrooms or quiet indoor spaces where you want to minimize distractions. Overall, we rate the Nordik Recovery Cold Tub at 4 out of 5 for conveniences and features.
Nordik Recovery Ice Bath vs Inergize Cold Plunge Elite
The Inergize Cold and Hot Plunge Tub allows you to regulate the water temperature with the touch of your phone. You can prepare the water for hot or cold therapy modalities depending on your needs. The inflatable tank is portable and comes with a duffle bag for packing up and bringing with you. The tank has a 60- to 70-gallon water capacity and you can choose your temperature between 37 to 105 degrees.
What our tester says:
“Several of us have tested this tub, and it has held up like a champion. I had to bend my knees in order to fit, but I felt as comfortable as one can during my experience.”
If you’re looking for a high-performing portable cold plunge, the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath and the Inergize Cold and Hot Plunge Tub are attractive options. Both are inflatable, easy to set up, and built for full-body immersion wherever you’ve got the space. The key difference? While the Inergize tub is engineered to handle both ends of the temperature spectrum, you’ll need to upgrade to Nordik’s Premium chiller to unlock hot-and-cold versatility.
From a macro-level view, the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath leans more toward simplicity and value by providing a military-grade inflatable tub that can be ideal for dedicated cold plungers. If you opt for the Premium chiller, you’ll also get Wi-Fi temperature control, heating capabilities, and a three-stage filtration and ozone system for cleaner water.
The Inergize profile, on the other hand, is more of an all-in-one setup featuring built-in heating and cooling modes, app controls, and a four-stage filtration system that helps minimize maintenance requirements. It’s worth noting, too, that although the Inergize tub is about six inches wider, it holds about 25 gallons less than the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath.
Read our full review of the Inergize Hot and Cold Tub for more insight on this portable, versatile profile.
| Nordik Recovery Ice Bath | Inergize Cold And Hot Plunge Tub | |
| Price | $1,500 (tub only) $3,999 (Standard bundle) $5,999 (Premium bundle) | $4,490 |
| Footprint | 53.1″ L x 23.6″ D x 31.5″ H | 53” L x 29.5” W x 30” H |
| Temperature range | 37° F to 68° F (Standard chiller) 37° F to 113° F (Premium chiller) | 37° F to 104° F |
| Water capacity | 105 gallons | 80 gallons |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
Customer Experience
Nordik Recovery earns strong praise from customers for a straightforward, user-friendly experience. Like many manufacturers, the company offers a 30-day return policy for customers who are unsatisfied with their purchase. However, that comes with a major caveat. The product must be returned in its original packaging, including the original shipping box.
“I think that is a huge upfront callout,” Lindsay notes. “If I didn’t keep the box, I would have no ability to return it.”
That said, we do appreciate that Nordik Recovery includes a two-year warranty on both its inflatable tubs and chillers, along with a one-year warranty for accessories. The warranty protects against defects in materials and workmanship but does not cover normal wear and tear, damage from improper use, or exposure to freezing conditions. Overall, we rate the financing, warranty, and returns at a strong 4 out of 5.
Ordering the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath
You can order the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath directly on the company website. First, you’ll have to select which package you want—just the tub, the Standard chiller bundle, or the Premium chiller bundle. Next, you’ll select from two colorway options: black or a brown faux wood grain finish.
Here’s a nice perk—if you choose the Premium chiller, you also get a free portable sauna that’s valued at $600. This promotion is valid only with the Premium bundle. Before you check out, you’ll also have the chance to select from available accessories for your new cold plunge. Options include an anti-slip floor mat, replacement micron filters, and sleeves to insulate your chiller’s hoses and filter cartridge.
RELATED: Cold Plunge Maintenance
Nordik Recovery offers a multitude of payment options, including PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, American Express, and financing through a partnership between ShopPay and Affirm. So, if needed, you can set up monthly installments in order to make cold plunging part of your wellness routine.
Customer Reviews
The Nordik Recovery Ice Bath has earned an average rating of 4.7 stars based on 203 reviews on the company’s official website. Users consistently praise the easy setup, powerful chiller, and responsive customer service. Here’s some direct feedback from verified customer reviews:
Final Verdict of Our Nordik Recovery Cold Tub Review
Portable and affordable, the Nordik Recovery Ice Bath can be a great option if you’re willing to accept some of the trade-offs that inherently come with an inflatable tub. The Premium chiller package provides the most versatility, paving the way for frigid cold plunges or relaxing hot tub sessions. Earning perfect scores in three categories and at least a 4 out of 5 in all but one, this is a solid tub (figuratively speaking) that can help take your recovery to the next level.
Nordik Recovery Ice Bath
The Nordik Recovery Ice Bath is a solid choice for anyone wanting an inflatable yet durable cold plunge tub.
Product Brand: Nordik Recovery
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 599
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.3
What is the difference between the Standard and Premium chillers?
While the Standard chiller offers straightforward plug-and-play operation, it doesn’t include a filtration system—so you’ll need to change the water more frequently. The Premium chiller, however, upgrades its performance with Wi-Fi temperature control, a three-stage filtration and ozone system, and a stainless steel heat exchanger for enhanced versatility.
How often should I replace the filters in my chiller?
According to Nordik Recovery, the Premium chiller filters should be replaced every two to three weeks, depending on your usage. This helps maintain water quality by removing impurities and ensuring the system functions optimally.
What is the temperature range of the ice bath chillers?
Both the Premium and Standard chillers allow you to set the water temperature as cold as 37 degrees Fahrenheit. The Premium chiller can reach temps up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit, with the Standard going as high as 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
References
- Lateef F. (2010). Post exercise ice water immersion: Is it a form of active recovery?. Journal of emergencies, trauma, and shock, 3(3), 302. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-2700.66570
