12 Best Cold Plunge Tubs, Tested by Experts (2024): Which Brand Provides The Ultimate Chill?

Although cold water immersion therapy dates all the way back to Ancient Greece¹, it’s been a recent trend in the health and wellness industry. And for good reason, too. Ice bath benefits include reduced inflammation, immune system support, stress management, and even the potential for reducing body fat and weight loss. 

However, researchers admit that there are still many unknowns about cold water therapy, and there is more research needed around many of the potential health benefits. 

That said, our team of expert product testers (including the founder of Garage Gym Reviews, Coop Mitchell) wanted to hop on the cold plunge train. We personally tested more than six cold tubs and researched dozens more to see which one delivers the best cold plunge tub experience. We also consulted with Dr. Mike Masi, a doctor of physical therapy (DPT), to assess the merit of this recovery method and examine each tub based on these factors:

• Footprint and Portability: How much space does it take up? Is it easy to move when not filled with water?
• Durability and Construction: Does it feel stable when getting in and out of the water? Does the material retain temperature well?
• Draining and Cleaning: How easy is it to dump the water and ensure cleanliness?
• Conveniences: Is there a way to monitor or regulate the temperature? Are there added features such as a phone holder or lights? These can help enhance your cold plunge experience.

Best Cold Plunge Tubs of 2024

• Best Cold Plunge Tub Overall: Cold Plunge
• Best Cold Plunge for Athletes: Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro
• Best Vertical Cold Plunge: Nordic Wave Viking Tub
• Best Hot and Cold Plunge: Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0
• Best Budget Cold Plunge: The Cold Pod
• Best Outdoor Cold Plunge: Sun Home Cold Plunge
• Best Portable Cold Plunge: Cold Life Plunge
• Best Cold Plunge For Small Spaces: Redwood Alaskan Cold Plunge Tub
• Best Cold Plunge For Tall People: Ice Barrel 400
• Best Inflatable Cold Plunge: Redwood Outdoors Yukon Tub
• Best Customizable Cold Plunge: Inergize Cold And Hot Plunge Tub
• Best DIY Cold Plunge: Tuff Stuff Stock Tank

Benefits of a Cold Plunge Tub

If you’re wondering about the reasons why folks invest in a cold plunge for their home, the main benefits are reduced inflammation, improved immunity, and stress management.  

Potential to Reduce Inflammation

For most folks, muscle soreness after a workout is inevitable. But for athletes being sore can hinder performance especially if an athlete has back-to-back events (like a double header baseball game or a multi-day bike race). 

Dr. Michael Masi, doctor of physical therapy (DPT) and strength coach, notes that ice baths make the most sense for athletes. 

“Cold water immersion can help with muscle recovery because it reduces the inflammation from working out and provides less perceived soreness,” says Mike. “In reality, inflammation is a natural response to aid muscle growth.”

In other words, for most folks, full-body cold water immersion can help reduce perceived soreness³ but it doesn’t necessarily help with muscle recovery or muscle growth. 

RELATED: Best Muscle Recovery Tools

Immune System Benefits

While more research on immersion therapy and the immune system is still needed, at the moment there is research to support⁴ that the combination of cold exposure, breathing exercises, and mediation can activate the sympathetic nervous system. Doing that provides an epinephrine release (which is basically adrenaline) that can help regulate your natural immune response to fight infections. 

The key here is not cold water exposure alone, it’s the combination of breathwork and meditation that activates the sympathetic nervous system and provides immunity benefits. This method is typically referred to as the Wim Hof Method. 

Boosts Metabolism

Studies have shown that going into a cold plunge before or after a workout may increase metabolism. “In addition to the production of body heat by normal basal metabolic processes, the body is, in addition to physical exercise, able to generate extra heat through the process of shivering and nonshivering thermogenesis,” a September 2022 study in the International Journal of Circumpolar Health says.

Mental Health and Stress Management 

Mental health is another area that still has many unknowns about the potential benefits of ice baths. However, related to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, this activation can also be helpful to the way you feel and your overall perception. One study⁵ found that participants of a four week trial found a reduction in stress, anxiety, and depression after regular cold water exposure every week for four weeks. 

RELATED: Exercise and Mental Health

Best Cold Plunge Tub Overall: The Cold Plunge

Good for: Anyone who wants to submerge in cold water as part of a weekly routine 

Best Cold Plunge Overall

The Cold Plunge

GGR Score: 4.4

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Product Highlights

• Indoor or outdoor ice bath
• Chiller system for regulated temperatures
• Filtration and sanitation systems
• No plumbing required

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Eliminates the hassle of traditional ice baths 
• No cleanup or setup to do after initial assembly 
• Allows you to fine-tune temperature 
• Provides full-body immersion for most body sizes and heights
• Less time-consuming than traditional ice bath
• Decently aesthetic; would look nice in a backyard or dedicated gym space
• Indoor or outdoor use
• Free shipping and in-home delivery for lower 48
• 0% APR financing available through Affirm and Klarna
• Insulated cover, cell phone holder, hose filter, and skimmer net included
• 30 days to return for full refund 

Cons

• Very expensive
• Requires electricity
• No heating capabilities on base model 
• Only a 1-year warranty
• Extended warranty/product protection costs extra
• Shipping is costly for Hawaii and Alaska, and in-home delivery isn’t available 
• Currently has an 8-week lead time
• Consumer must pay shipping fees if returning the tub

Bottom Line

The Cold Plunge is a user-friendly cold-immersion therapy tool that’s easy to clean and maintain. The $5,000 price tag may just be too much for many people.

The Plunge, sometimes called The Cold Plunge, is our top pick for the best cold plunge tub on the market right now because it’s spacious, does not require plumbing, uses standard 110-volt power, and can be used indoors or outdoors. 

Coop Mitchell, GGR founder and home gym equipment expert, enjoyed his testing experience and notes, “Honestly, if you plan on taking consistent ice baths, this is by far the ideal option, even though it has a costly price point.” 

Coop thinks this is the ideal option because the chiller can cool water down to 39 degrees. There is no need to go out for ice every time you want to take an ice bath. 

The other things you can expect include: 

• A cell phone holder so you can practice your Wim Hof Method breathwork 
• No plumbing required: It’s designed to be self contained once you fill it from a garden hose or other water source 
• Circular filtration to keep water quality top notch since you don’t need to have new water coming in 
• An ozone sanitation system which is an oxidizer² that breaks down common water contaminants 
• A 20 micron filter pulls out hair, skin cells, and other debris out of the water 
• An insulated cover and fully insulated tub to keep water cool and regulate energy usage 

While the OG Cold Plunge model is designed to just cool, if you’re interested in a tank that can both heat and cool, the brand has you covered with three different models with the dual action temperatures: Cold Plunge Pro, The Hot & Cold Plunge, and the The Hot & Cold Plunge Pro XL. 

You can read more about our hands-on experience with the original model in the Cold Plunge review. 

It’s about 150 pounds dry and 1,000 pounds when filled with water. Although it’s not the heaviest we’ve tested, we still like the fact Cold Plunge provides you with free in-home delivery. 

Best Cold Plunge for Athletes: Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro

Good for: Folks seeking a sleek tub with a chiller integrated into the design 

Best For Athletes

Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro

GGR Score: 4.1

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Product Highlights

• High-end cold plunge tub
• Temperatures down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit 
• Powerful chiller
• Chiller integrated into tub design

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Indoor or outdoor use
• Quiet chiller motor
• Built-in circulation and sanitation systems
• LED for nighttime use

Cons

• Heavy
• Expensive

Bottom Line

The Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is a sleek, high-end cold plunge option that can be used indoors or outdoors. It has a powerful chiller that can cool water down to 32 degrees in a matter of minutes. While it has a modern look with the chiller integrated into the design, the price point is about $9,000.

Athletes tend to be more vertically gifted than the average person, which is why we recommend the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro for any baller or shot caller who’s looking to prep for game day.

The “solid” tub is also most likely to last your entire athletic career and beyond thanks to its mostly metal construction, earning it a 5 out of 5 for durability. “This will never lose its shape,” certified personal trainer and lead reviewer of Garage Gym Reviews Everything Lindsay Scheele says. “It is very strong.”

A built-in chiller provides a fast cooldown process that the brand claims can bring water down to 32 degrees in just a matter of minutes. Having an integrated chiller saves on space, and generally is more efficient than external chillers, as Lindsay can personally attest. “There was literal ice everywhere in the tub and hot damn that water is cold,” she says.

While the design looks sleek, the all-in-one integration will be heavier—345 pounds, to be exact.

“It took three of us to move this out of the crate into the position we wanted it for testing,” Lindsay says. “Unless you have a freight elevator that can take you to the second floor, I would not recommend that this goes anywhere else besides ground level.”

One cool bonus feature we like is the underwater light for a true spa-like feel or for use at night. We have more details in Lindsay’s Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro review.

Best Vertical Cold Plunge: Nordic Wave Viking Tub

Good for: People who would prefer to sit upright versus recline in a cold tub 

Best Vertical

Nordic Wave Viking Cold Plunge

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Vertical cold plunge tank
• 95-gallon capacity 
• Temperatures down to 38 degrees
• Chiller and filtration system
• Includes lid and step stool

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Three color options
• Upright sitting position
• 2”-thick insulation
• Aesthetic design

Cons

• Expensive
• Requires 120-volt power

Bottom Line

The Viking Cold Plunge from Nordic Wave is a vertical cold tub option that allows you to sit in an upright position. It also comes with a chiller and filtration system. Between the 0.75 horsepower chiller and the 2-inch-thick insulated walls, you can regulate temperatures of the 95-gallon tank as low as 38 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Nordic Wave Viking ice bath tub features a vertical design, which is different from the many bathtub-like plunges we’ve tested and researched. The vertical design allows you to sit in an upright position versus reclining or lying down. Some folks prefer the sitting position during a cold plunge because you’re not exactly relaxing in chilling waters. Ultimately, it’s a personal preference.  

It comes standard with the tub, lid, chiller, and a step stool for dropping into the vertical tub. 

But, certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele says you’re more upright in this tub than in other vertical cold plunges. She gave it a 4.5 out of 5 for durability, saying in our Nordic Wave Cold Plunge review, “It feels very high-end.”

The Viking has a 95-gallon water capacity and can accommodate folks over 6 feet tall. The vertical tub has 2-inch insulation and a heavy, insulated lid to keep the temperature regulated while not in use. 

It’s worth noting that specs below list the overall footprint, which includes the chiller and step stool. The tub alone is 36 inches long, 30 inches wide, and 41 inches tall. It weighs 60 pounds, the tub cover weighs 16 pounds, and the chiller weighs an additional 55 pounds. 

Plus, it comes in three different colors: Charcoal Gray, Arctic White, Slate Blue to fit with your style. 

Best Hot and Cold Plunge: Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0

Good for: Anyone who plans to take advantage of both hot and cold water therapy 

Best Hot and Cold

Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Cold therapy tub and chiller 
• Temperatures as low as 39 degrees Fahrenheit 
• 0.6 horsepower chiller and filtration system

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides filtered water
• Three color options
• Upgrade available to have hot and cold water

Cons

• Heavy
• Small footprint and water capacity
• Expensive

Bottom Line

The Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 is a fairly small cold plunge tub option. While the website doesn’t indicate how many gallons of water it takes to fill the tank, the website does provide the weight with and without water, so we estimate it has a 55-gallon capacity.

The Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 can heat and cool, if you want it to. It has the ability to heat and cool a temperature range that goes from 39 degrees to 102 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’d rather stick with just cooling, the price drops from $4,380 to $3,990 which is a $390 difference. 

Certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele says one of her favorite features is the slightly angled back, which allowed her to fully stretch and enjoy her cold plunge. “It feels more comfortable to lean back and relax into,” she says, rating the tub’s ergonomics a 4 out of 5. She deducted one point because she believes taller people might struggle being able to lay down (the website states it can fit people up to 6 feet, 2 inches tall). “But I think most people will fit this just fine.”

Lindsay also points out the tub feels sturdy despite its lightweight nature—it’s only 110 pounds when not filled. “For being as light weight as it was I think this was a sturdy tub,” she says, rating the durability a 5 out of 5. “There wasn’t any sort of wobble or give to the tub and it felt solid when it was on the ground.”

One thing expert product tester Jake Herod points out about his experience with the Polar Monkeys is the fact the 0.8 horsepower motor is going to take up a decent amount of space in addition to the tub. However, he did like the fact the drain port has two options: You can either drain the tub by unscrewing that cap or you can attach your garden hose to the drain outlet and drain away from the tub and chiller. 

We tested all three cold plunge models offered by this company in our full Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge review.

Best Budget Cold Plunge: The Cold Pod

Good for: Those who are looking for the best affordable cold plunge tub

Best Inflatable

The Cold Pod

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Product Highlights

• Affordable
• Single-person cold tub
• Portable
• Spacious

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Portable
• Easy setup
• Cover and carrying case included

Cons

• No temperature control
• Long shipping times for US customers

Bottom Line

The Cold Pod is one of the most affordable cold tubs on the market, though it lacks some tech features such as temperature control.

The Cold Pod costs under $150, depending on the exchange rate between the American dollar and British pound (it’s a UK product), making it a great option for people who are looking to get into cold water exposure therapy without breaking the bank.

This is more of an old-school plunge in that there’s no temperature control. How much ice you put into it depends on where you are—someone in northern Montana, for example, will need less ice than someone in the southwest.

Certified personal trainer and expert product tester Lindsay Scheele used it at out Springfield, MO headquarters and agrees it’s good for beginners. “If you are on a budget and half to have a cold tub, get this one,” she says, rating the value a 4 out of 5.

When dry, it weighs under 10 pounds and can be easily transported to a friend’s house so they too can fall in love with it. The company claims it can comfortably support people up to 6 feet, 7 inches tall and some customer reviews support that claim—though our personal experience says otherwise.

“We had Nathan, who’s 6-foot, 2-inches, get into the tub when it wasn’t filled and he took up the entire space and had a hard time getting out of the tub because it was so small,” Lindsay says.

She also warns it might not hold its shape as well as more expensive cold tubs.

Best Outdoor Cold Plunge: Sun Home Cold Plunge

Good for: Those who want to take a dip in their backyard

Best For Outdoors

Sun Home Cold Plunge

GGR Score: 4.24

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Product Highlights

• Inflatable tub
• Can be used as a cold or hot tub
• Easy setup process
• Durable construction

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Goes from 37.5 to 104 degrees
• Inflatable tub is lightweight and portable
• Feels durable
• Controllable with an app

Cons

• Expensive
• Only fits one person
• External chiller is heavy
• Requires power outlet

Bottom Line

The Sun Home Cold Plunge was described by our expert product testers as "the most durable inflatable tub" they've seen. It can be used with hot or cold water and sets up easily.

Yes, we’re recommending an inflatable cold plunge tub for outdoor use because, in the words of Garage Gym Reviews Everything Lead Reviewer Lindsay Scheele, the Sun Home Cold Plunge “is one of the most durable” inflatable tubs we’ve tested.

“So far we have had multiple people in and out of the tub, kept water in it for over two weeks and have had no issues with the tub keepings it shape,” Lindsay says, rating the durability a 4 out of 5. “When I compare the outer shell of this inflatable tub to others we have received, I’d place money on this one lasting the longest.”

The tub is made of military-grade drop stitch, which is an ultra-durable material used in inflatable objects to add puncture resistance and help it keep its shape. Though its mighty, the inflatable tub is lightweight and can be brought to anywhere you’re looking to take a dip. The chiller is a bit heftier at 88 pounds, but Lindsay says it’s easy enough for most people to move on their own.

We’ve had testers of all heights try out this tub and everyone has been able to lay down in it comfortably, which is enough to earn it a 5 out of 5 on ergonomics. “It says it can fit people up to 6 feet, 8 inches, and I believe it,” Lindsay says. “I think that two shorter people or one tall person could easily use this tub.”

Lindsay’s one criticism is the draining process because the valve sits a few inches above the bottom of the tub. “There will still be water at the bottom of it and you will need to tip up the tub and dump the rest,” she says. “This is fine for outdoors, but if you have the tub inside it does make things a little more complicated.”

You can get her full thoughts in our Sun Home Cold Plunge review.

Best Portable Cold Plunge: Cold Life Plunge

Good for: Anyone who wants to bring their cold plunge with them

Best Portable

Cold Life Plunge

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Product Highlights

• Vertical cold plunge tub
• Cools down to 37 degrees Fahrenheit
• WiFi temperature control
• Tub and step ladder available in black or white
• Comes with lid
• Made in the USA

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful filter removes sediment for a clean tub
• Compact
• Step stool and tub available in black or white
• WiFi-enabled temperature control
• UV light disinfection

Cons

• Expensive

Bottom Line

The Cold Life Plunge is a sleek vertical tub that immerses the user in waters as cold as 37 degrees Fahrenheit and is super simple to set up and use, according to our expert product testers.

The Cold Life Plunge may look too heavy to bring on the road, but at 80 pounds and only 43 inches tall (and 33 inches in diameter) it’s easy enough for most people to hoist into a truck or SUV and bring on the road — it might fit in some sedans, depending on your trunk space. Furthermore, as long as you’re not using a chiller it can be used without electricity.

We picked this over an inflatable model because this is more durable — the exterior is made of aerospace-grade aluminum. “There are no weird seams or pieces that felt compromised,” says expert product tester and certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele. “It looks like one big unit that wont break on you, even when someone lays all their weight onto the sides of the tub as they get into the tub.” She rates the overall durability a 4 out of 5.

Lindsay adds that this is an intuitive cold plunge that can be set up without an instruction booklet. “The tub is already one piece, the stool is one piece and the chiller is one piece,” she says. “You just need to attach the hose to the chiller and the unit, but it was really easy to do.”

Although it’s less than four feet tall, Lindsay notes that it feels very spacious once submerged. “I think people who are larger and taller will be really comfortable using this tub,” she says, rating the ergonomics a 4 out of 5. “You can’t fully extend your legs, but it does feel really spacious and big. You need to sit upright and will be in more of a crunched up position, but I like that. Some people might want more of a horizontal position.”

Unfortunately, what you see is what you pretty much get with Cold Life. There are no extra conveniences like a phone holder or seat, and it’s pretty expensive when compared to other vertical tubs.

Best Cold Plunge For Small Spaces: Redwood Outdoors Alaskan

Good for: People seeking a solid wooden barrel for outdoor cold therapy sessions 

Best For Small Spaces

Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge Tub

GGR Score: 3.2

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Product Highlights

• Vertical cold plunge tank
• Classic looking wood exterior
• Indoor or outdoor use

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy draining
• Does not require power or plumbing
• Built-in seat

Cons

• Base price doesn’t include chiller
• Cover is additional $99
• Some assembly required

Bottom Line

Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge Tub offers a vertical option for folks who’d rather sit upright versus lay down and pretend to relax while submerged in cold water. The Scandinavian spruce wood exterior gives The Alaskan a classic spa look and feel for your cold plunge sessions. It’s worth noting the base price does not include a chiller but it can be added for an additional cost.

The Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge Tub is an aesthetically pleasing vertical tank that will fit snugly in a small place. While it could certainly be used indoors, it’s ideal for outdoor use because it does not require power and doesn’t take up a whole lot of room in your yard or on your deck. 

The interior is a plastic liner fitted to the spruce wood exterior. You’ll have to assemble the exterior spruce barrel portion, but the liner comes fully assembled. Additionally, our tester Jake, who has used the Outdoor Alaskan, says, “It has a built-in seat, which is an added perk.” 

The dry weight of the Alaskan is 250 pounds with a 130-gallon capacity. That means with the tank filled, this vertical tub weighs over 1,300 pounds. It also has an easy-to-use drainage system with a relief valve near the bottom of the tank. 

It’s also worth noting that the base price reflects the cost of the tub only, which means you’ll have to bring your own ice to drastically drop the water temperature. The cover is an additional $99, and the cold plunge chiller unit will cost you an additional $2,699. 

You can read about our hands-on experience in our Redwood Outdoor Alaskan Cold Plunge review.

Best Cold Plunge For Tall People: Ice Barrel 400

Good for: Tall folks who want a vertical ice bath experience 

Best For Tall People

Ice Barrel

GGR Score: 2.9

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Product Highlights

• Cold therapy tub for full body immersion 
• Includes: Ice barrel, lid, barrel stand, protective UV cover, and step stool 
• Holds 105 gallons of water

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Made in USA
• Available in two colors: black and desert tan
• Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

• Expensive
• Difficult to get in and out of
• Refill with 40-100 lbs of ice very 1-3 days

Bottom Line

The Ice Barrel is a way to incorporate ice baths into your workout recovery routine without having to use your bathtub.

Although the Ice Barrel 400 has a smaller footprint than other cold plunge tubs we’ve tested, it’s still a viable option for tall folks up to 6 feet and 6 inches and has a 300-pound weight capacity. 

It does not require electricity and can be used indoors or outdoors. It’s also made from recycled low density polyethylene materials and it’s non-toxic, BPA-free, and non-porous. 

It’s much lighter than other ice baths on the market, weighing in at 55 pounds when empty and 930 pounds when full with the 105-gallon capacity. The downside to the smaller and lighter design is the fact it still needs ice to achieve really cold temperatures. 

Because it’s not equipped with electricity and a chiller, Coop Mitchell, the founder of Garage Gym Reviews who has personally used the Ice Barrel, says “It’s practical for someone who wants to take ice baths and doesn’t mind using actual ice. Plus, it’s not double walled for insulation.”

That said, Coop does like the fact that the Ice Barrel can be stored outside and puts you in a great position during use. For anyone who prefers the seated position versus the reclined position, the barrel shape will be in your favor. 

RELATED: Best AC For Garage Gyms

Read more about Coop’s thoughts in the Ice Barrel review, or you can check out the video review done by Garage Gym Reviews Everything lead reviewer and certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele.

Best Inflatable Cold Plunge: Redwood Outdoors Yukon Tub

Good for: People who want a lighter, portable ice bath option 

Best Inflatable

Redwood Outdoors Yukon Cold Plunge XL Deluxe Kit

GGR Score: 3.8

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Product Highlights

• Inflatable cold plunge tub kit
• Pump to inflate the tub included
• Deluxe chiller and heater combo
• Packable and portable
• Backpack carrying case comes included

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Straightforward installation
• Portable design

Cons

• Pricey
• Not insulated
• Changing water frequently is recommended

Bottom Line

The Redwood Outdoors inflatable Yukon cold plunge kit is a packable solution to bringing a cold with you on-the-go. It’s easy to inflate the tub with the pump that comes with the purchase. The main drawback to the inflatable design is the brand recommends changing the water frequently due to the fact that leaving water in the tub for 48 hours at a time can lead the tub to bulge and change shape through the center of the tub.

The Redwood Outdoors Yukon Tub is an inflatable option if you’re thinking about carting your cold plunge around from your house to the gym or from a friend’s house to the lake house. 

It can be inflated in 10 minutes with the complementary hand pump that comes with the tub. It’s also fairly easy to drain, deflate, and pack up in the backpack that comes with the tub, too. The dry weight is 30 pounds and it has a 120-gallon water capacity. 

GGR expert product tester and leader reviewer at Garage Gym Reviews Everything, Lindsay Scheele, says, “The inflatable tub actually made for a comfortable neck support as I leaned back into a reclined position. That said, I wouldn’t trust it to sit on the side by any means.”

The base price of $899 reflects the tub and soft cover and doesn’t include the chiller system. If you’re interested in regulating the temperature with a more sophisticated system than just adding ice, you’ll have the ability to purchase the brand’s chiller system for an additional $2,599. 

Overall, Lindsay enjoyed her experience with Yukon cold plunge tub and gave it a 3.8-out-of-5-star rating. While she appreciates that the tub is roomy and she could fully stretch out her legs, the inflatable design has one major disadvantage: It requires frequent draining.

The brand recommends changing the water frequently (or draining completely) because the inflatable design can lose its shape and bulge through the middle if water stays in the tub for more than 48 hours. While the tub is meant to be packable, we still think this is a lot of water changing and upkeep.

For more, check out our Redwood Outdoors Yukon Tub review.

Best Customizable Cold Plunge: Inergize Cold And Hot Plunge Tub

Good for: Anyone looking for portability as well as both hot and cold therapy 

Best Customizable

Inergize Cold And Hot Plunge Tub

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• Inflatable cold plunge tub
• Filtration system and chiller
• App for temperature control
• Set temperature from 37 to 105 degrees

Pros & Cons

Pros

• App control for temperature
• Portable and packable
• Replace water every 3-6 months

Cons

• Expensive
• Tub inflates with hand pump
• Over a 4-week lead time for shipment

Bottom Line

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.

The Inergize Cold and Hot Plunge Tub is pretty much as customizable as it gets: It’s both foldable for on-the-go use and sturdy for staying at home. Plus you can heat, cool, and even use the app to control the temperature remotely with the powerful cooling unit.

Lindsay Scheele, lead product reviewer for Garage Gym Reviews Everything, used the Inergize and timed the process of inflating and deflating. With the air pump that comes with the Inergize tub, it took her team about 10 minutes to inflate and fill the tub (about 60 to 70 gallons).

The temperature regulation system can bring water down to 37 degrees or up to 107 degrees. For reference, the average setting for a traditional hot tub is 104 degrees. Lindsay notes that condensation may appear when changing water temperatures. “We have seen a lot of condensation forming around under the chiller, the tub itself, and coming off the hoses,” she says.

Although it’s inflatable, the tub still feels sturdy. “This tub holds its shape very well,” Lindsay says, rating the durability and construction a 4 out of 5. “Several of us have tested this tub, and it has held up like a champion.”

Its materials are made to support people up to 200 pounds, though there are attachments for people who weigh a little more. The company claims it can support people up to 6 feet, 4 inches tall but one of our taller testers says that might not be entirely accurate.

“I had to bend my knees in order to fit, but I felt as comfortable as one can during my experience,” says certified personal trainer and expert product tester Lindsay Scheele.

Want to learn more? Read our full Inergize Cold Plunge Tub review to see how it stacks up to the competition.

Best DIY Cold Plunge: Tuff Stuff Stock Tank

Good for: Folks on a budget or anyone who just want to give cold therapy a try

Best DIY

Tuff Stuff Super-Duty Oval Stock Tank

GGR Score: 3.6

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Product Highlights

• Utility stock tank
• Can be used as a cold plunge tub
• 110 gallons
• Made from sturdy low-density polyethylene

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable cold tub
• UV, heat, cold, and crack resistant
• Plug for easy draining
• No BPA

Cons

• No temperature regulation
• No insulation

Bottom Line

While a utility stock tank is most often used for gardening or farming, we see no problem using it as a cold plunge tub. The tank has a 110-gallon capacity, it’s made from sturdy low-density polyethylene (which is UV, heat, cold, and crack resistant), and it has a plug for easy draining. It might not offer temperature regulation or a ton of insulation, but it could be a great cold therapy hack for budget-conscious folks.

If you’re someone who wants to experience an ice bath, but you’d rather not spend thousands of dollars on fancy cooling systems or use your own bath tub, you may just need a good-old-fashion DIY option. 

RELATED: DIY Gym Equipment 

If that’s the case, why not pick up a Tuff Stuff oversized stock tank from Tractor Supply? (As you might know from Coop’s infamous suggestions, some of the best home gym flooring options also come from Tractor Supply.)

GGR head of content and USA Weightlifting L-1 coach, Kate Meier has personally used the stock tank method, keeping the Tuff Stuff tank outside her large home gym where her entire weightlifting team trains. The tub can fit two grown adults, as long as they don’t mind being in close quarters with each other.

While a stock tank does not offer temperature control, it has similar functionality as The Ice Barrel just without a protective cover. 

“We fill the tub with hose water and throw in bags of ice or a collection of frozen water bottles we keep in the gym freezer,” Kate says in our Tuff Stock Tank review. “To keep the tub sanitary between uses, we put epsom salt in the water and cover it with a tarp. However, we still drain it after just a few plunges.”

The Tuff Stuff tank is made from sturdy low-density polyethylene (which holds up to UV rays, heat, and cold) and has a plug for easy drainage. All for just over $100. 

Other Cold Plunge Tubs We Researched

While we’ve tested nearly every tub featured on this list, we’ve researched a dozen more. Here are some other brands that didn’t quite make the cut: 

• Odin Ice Bath: We love the look of this cedar cold plunge pool, but we haven’t been able to test it and give you our honest take. The lead time for these is currently 10-12 weeks. 
• Wey & Fly Tub: While we’ve seen these as a budget option for cold plunges, it’s currently unavailable on Amazon so we couldn’t personally test it out. 
• Blue Cube Bath: The main reason we didn’t test or recommend this brand is because there are no tubs priced under $10,000, which doesn’t make it affordable for the average home gym owner. 
• Edge Theory Tub Elite: This tub is pretty similar to both inflatable options we tested but didn’t have any additional stand-out features for the over $5,000 price tag. 

How We Picked and Tested The Best Cold Plunge Tub

For any equipment our product testers use or research, we have a strict testing methodology in place so each of our experts makes the same considerations. Here are the factors we had in mind when testing cold plunges specifically: 

• Footprint and volume: We not only considered how much space this is going to take up (in your home, garage, porch, or backyard) we also wanted to know how much water each cold plunge tub holds relative to the footprint. 
• Delivery and setup: While researching and testing our experts noted if it was an easy set up process (like just unboxing or inflating) or if it was difficult and required full assembly. 
• Durability and construction: When something is designed to hold water, we expect it not only to do just that but resist rust, mold, and general wear and tear. 
• Ergonomics: Although seated or reclined is a personal preference, we wanted to be sure there is wiggle room and a design that allows you to put your arms out of the tub if desired. 
• Additional conveniences: These are things that go beyond just providing a place to hold cold water like chillers, filtration, or temperature regulation apps. 
• Price and value: While cold plunge tubs are often expensive additions to your home gym, we wanted to consider what you’re getting for the price (which often includes chillers, pumps, and filtrations systems). 

What To Look For in the Best Cold Plunge Tub

Here are some things to consider before you order a cold plunge tub for your home gym:

Size and Capacity

Like any large piece of equipment, measure your space! You’ll also need to consider how you’ll fill up the tank and how close your proposed area is to a water source. If the tub you’re considering has a chiller, you’ll also need a power source nearby, too. 

It’s also worth noting that cold plunge tubs come in various sizes and capacities. If you’re adding a cold tub to your deck, be sure that the total weight of the tub (when full with water) can be supported. Some of the tanks featured on this review are several hundred pounds when full.

Insulation and Material

The material of the tub is crucial for maintaining the desired water temperature. Look for tubs made from high-quality, durable materials that offer good insulation. High-quality insulation will help retain the cold water temperature and minimize heat exchange with the surrounding environment. Stainless steel or high-grade acrylic are popular choices for cold plunge tubs due to their durability and insulation properties.

RELATED: How to Insulate A Garage Gym

Filtration and Maintenance

Proper water filtration and maintenance are essential to keep the water clean and safe for regular use. Look for a cold plunge tub that comes with a reliable filtration system. Additionally, consider the ease of maintenance and cleaning. A well-designed tub with easy-to-access filters and simple cleaning procedures will save you time and effort in the long run.

Warranty Policy

Compared to other large and costly purchases you’ll make for your home gym the warranty policies on most cold plunge tubs pale in comparison to big investments like the best squat racks and treadmills. Most of the tubs we included offer a one-year warranty while only a few have a five-year policy. While this may not be a dealbreaker, we think it’s worth thinning about. 

Best Cold Plunge Tub FAQs

References

1. Allan R, Malone J, Alexander J, et al. Cold for centuries: a brief history of cryotherapies to improve health, injury and post-exercise recovery. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2022;122(5):1153-1162. doi:10.1007/s00421-022-04915-5
2. Epelle EI, Macfarlane A, Cusack M, et al. Ozone application in different industries: A review of recent developments. Chem Eng J. 2023;454:140188. doi:10.1016/j.cej.2022.140188
3. Peake JM, Roberts LA, Figueiredo VC, et al. The effects of cold water immersion and active recovery on inflammation and cell stress responses in human skeletal muscle after resistance exercise. J Physiol. 2017;595(3):695-711. doi:10.1113/JP272881
4. Kox M, van Eijk LT, Zwaag J, et al. Voluntary activation of the sympathetic nervous system and attenuation of the innate immune response in humans. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2014;111(20):7379-7384. doi:10.1073/pnas.1322174111
5. Kurniasari MD, Monsen KA, Weng SF, Yang CY, Tsai HT. Cold Water Immersion Directly and Mediated by Alleviated Pain to Promote Quality of Life in Indonesian with Gout Arthritis: A Community-based Randomized Controlled Trial. Biol Res Nurs. 2022;24(2):245-258. doi:10.1177/10998004211063547

Lauren Strong, CPT

Lauren is an NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer working with clients of all ages and skill levels. She specializes in coaching the squat, bench, and deadlift and enjoys introducing beginners to barbell training. Before becoming certified, she worked in marketing roles after graduating from the University of Maine with a BA in Journalism. Writing for Garage Gym Reviews blends her two passions: writing and lifting. Lauren spends her leisure time in the kitchen, reading fiction, and taking nature walks. She's also an avid downhill skier, learning how to ski when she was just two years old. She lives in Maine with her husband and two cats.

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