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Intense workouts, sports, and even a day on the golf course all take a toll on your body. That's why one of the most consequential parts of the workout process is recovery. As many athletes know, submerging yourself in an ice bath (or cold plunge tub) can be an especially great way to recuperate following a long run, a strenuous bike ride, or some other form of vigorous cardio.
The Best Ice Baths - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Ice Bath: Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0
- Best Portable Ice Bath: Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub
- Best Inflatable Ice Bath: Polar Monkeys Inflatable
- Most Durable Ice Bath: Plunge Cold Plunge
- Best Basic Ice Bath: Nordic Wave The Viking
- Best Budget Ice Bath: Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub
- Best Ice Bath Design: Polar Monkeys The Portal 2.0
- Best Ice Bath for Small Spaces: Ice Barrel Bathtub
- Best High-End Ice Bath: Redwood Saunas Pacific Cold Plunge Kit
- Best Splurge Ice Bath: Polar Monkeys Star Treatment
- Best Foldable Ice Bath: Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub XL
Indeed, he best ice baths can help to promote muscle recovery, soothe aches, and even help you sleep better at night. The first step is ensuring you have a good tub for your ice bath. The ACTIVE Reviews Team has put together a list of the best ice baths on the market today to help you get started with your post-workout recovery.
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated. More importantly, each member of our team is a fitness enthusiast. Fitness may be our job, but it is also our passion. Therefore, we strive to bring you products that we trust and would personally use.
Best Overall Ice Bath - Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0
SPECS
- Dimensions: 67"L x 31.5"W x 22. 5"D
- Shipping: Ships in 4-6 weeks
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
- Indoor or outdoor: Both
- Drain: Yes, valve
Why We Picked It
Our top pick for the overall best ice bath is the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0. This sleek and stylish cold plunge can be set up indoors or outdoors because of its inlet/outlet connections. You can also choose between a 0.6HP and a 0.8HP chiller—the tub's water refrigeration and circulation system—that can cool your water down to roughly 37°F, or if you'd like a heated bath, this tub can top out at around 108°F. If you intend on placing your tub outdoors, it is recommended that you upgrade to the 0.8HP chiller for faster cooling, especially in warmer climates. You also have the ability to adjust the settings using your phone.
"I love my morning plunge after my run. I think everyone should have this. It's so good for the body and soul." - Seth S. (Verified Buyer)
We may have already mentioned how stylish this tub is available in three designs: white, black, and "Monkeyverse," which is limited edition artwork and is, therefore, more expensive than the solid colors. Your purchase of the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 also includes hoses and a drain valve with the connections. Additionally, Polar Monkeys has videos on their product pages that demonstrate how to change and clean your filter as well as how to use their sanitation kit, should you choose to add on that accessory.
What We Like
- Cooling and heating options
- Available in 3 styles
- Filtration system
- Financing available
- 100% money-back guarantee
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Somewhat heavy/large footprint
BUY: Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0
Best Portable Ice Bath - Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub
SPECS
- Dimensions: 59"L x 31.5"W x 23.75"D
- Shipping: Ready to ship
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor
- Drain: Yes
Why We Picked It
The Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub is inflatable and allows you to experience the Finnish tradition of taking an ice-cold dip after a sauna session. Foldable and incredibly lightweight, this is an outstanding pick for traveling athletes (it comes with a complimentary backpack) or those who want to add a little cold plunge therapy to their training routine. The Yukon is also incredibly easy to assemble with its air pump and then filled with cold water. Once your ice bath is complete, you can deflate it and store it away for the next time.
Want a little more functionality out of your ice bath? Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub does have accessories and add-ons, like a deluxe chiller and heater, that can take your system to the next level.
What We Like
- Foldable and lightweight
- Easy to transport
- Easy to set-up
- Options for chiller add-ons
What We Don't Like
- Not as convenient for indoor use
- Basic tub is still pricey
BUY: Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub
Best Inflatable Ice Bath - Polar Monkeys Inflatable
SPECS
- Dimensions: 53.3"L x 31.5"W x 24"H
- Shipping: Ships in 6-8 weeks
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
- Indoor or outdoor: Both
- Drain: Yes, valve
Why We Picked It
For an inflatable ice bath to best suit your cold plunge needs, we think you'd be hard-pressed to find one better than Polar Monkeys Inflatable. More than just an inflatable tub, this model is equipped with a 0.6HP water chiller that has a temperature range of 37 to 108°F as well as included hoses, a filter, Ozono sanitation, and a cover. One extra perk of choosing this tub is Polar Monkeys' commitment to excellent customer service and providing resources to help users with maintenance, making this a worthwhile investment.
What We Like
- Inflatable and easy to move
- Cooling and heating options
- Includes hoses, filter, and sanitation
- Easy to drain
What We Don't Like
- Size may not work for taller users
- Expensive
Most Durable Ice Bath - Plunge Cold Plunge
SPECS
- Dimensions: 67"L x 31.5"W (43" with plumbing/chiller) x 24"H
- Shipping: 6-8 weeks
- Warranty: 1-year warranty; extended warranty options
- Indoor or outdoor: Both
- Drain: Yes
Why We Picked It
Our choice for the most durable ice bath is the Cold Plunge, an extravagant, spa-style model that's built to last and loaded with bells and whistles. Want super-chilly temperatures? This one cools down to 39 degrees F. Advanced filtration options? The Cold Plunge has several. It can also drain via the hose, comes with an insulated cover, and even has a handy cell phone holder.
While it's not exactly cheap, the Cold Plunge does come with a 1-year factory warranty (or extended warranty options) and is built with solid materials that should hold up for plunge after plunge. And because it's made with insulation and energy efficiency in mind, this ice bath can keep your water nice and cold for as little as $1 per day. Last but not least, each Plunge tub comes with your very own rubber ducky.
What We Like
- Made of durable materials
- Insulated and energy efficient
- Cools to as low as 39 degrees F
- Drains via hose
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Large footprint
Best Basic Ice Bath - Nordic Wave The Viking
SPECS
- Dimensions: 36"W x 30"D x 41"H (tub), 16"W x 14"D x 22"H (chiller)
- Shipping: Delivery in 2-3 weeks
- Warranty: 5-years tub, 2-years chiller
- Indoor or outdoor: Both
- Drain: Yes
Why We Picked It
The meaning may have changed over the years, but "basic" isn't always negative. What we like about the Nordic Wave Viking is that its design is not only basic; it's a complete system with an integrated chiller that cools down to 38°F and sanitizes, a smaller footprint, and ergonomic construction for added comfort. The Viking is also fully insulated and durable, like a standard cooler, and easy to drain when needed.
"For optimizing space and keeping to a cleaner aesthetic, the Viking is the way to go." - Zach H. (Verified Buyer)
What we find even more impressive is The Viking's warranty which is 5 years on the tub and 2 years on the chiller. This ice bath bucket can be used indoors or outdoors and comes with everything you need for the chiller system, a lid, a step stool, and a 10-inch power cord. Lastly, you have three color choices to select the best fit for your backyard or home gym.
What We Like
- Complete vertical plunge system
- 3 color to choose from
- Excellent warranty
- Comes with step stool
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Must purchase the entire system
Best Budget Ice Bath - Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub
SPECS
- Dimensions: 59"L x 31.5"W x 23.75"D
- Shipping: Ready to ship
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor
- Drain: Yes
Why We Picked It
It's no secret that ice baths can get very expensive due to their durability, quality, and features, so you should expect to pay more than if you were to fill a kiddie pool with ice water. If you're looking for a premium ice bath but want to keep the overall cost under $1,000, Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub could be the one for you. When you purchase the tub on its own—sans the chiller system—you're getting a high-quality, easy-to-assemble cold plunge tub for $899 that will last you more seasons than the average inflatable pool. Then you'll have the option to add on the chiller filtration system at a more convenient time. Redwood Saunas also offers financing in the form of monthly payments.
What We Like
- Foldable and lightweight
- Easy to transport
- Easy to set-up
- Options for chiller add-ons
What We Don't Like
- Not as convenient for indoor use
- Basic tub is still pricey
BUY: Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub
Best Ice Bath Design - Polar Monkeys The Portal 2.0
SPECS
- Dimensions: 48"L x 24"W x 24"H (4' tub), 60"L x 24"W x 24"H (5' tub)
- Shipping: Ships in 4-6 weeks
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
- Indoor or outdoor: Both
- Drain: Yes, valve
Why We Picked It
Looking like the old-school tubs your ancestors may have used, Polar Monkeys The Portal 2.0 is a galvanized steel tank with an attachable chiller system with a temperature range of 37°F to 108°F. Depending on your height, you can choose between two size options or upgrade the chiller to 0.8HP. This tub can be set up with ease either indoors or outdoors. Keep in mind that galvanized steel can accumulate condensation, so if installing indoors, you'll want to choose an area with waterproof floors that allows you to drain the tub when needed. The Portal 2.0 is also powder-coated to prevent wear from heat, cold, and water damage.
What We Like
- Options for sizes, chillers, and colors
- Weather-resistant
- Heating and cooling
- Video tutorials for set-up and cleaning
What We Don't Like
- Condensation-prone, so must be installed in waterproof area
- Heavy
BUY: Polar Monkeys The Portal 2.0
Best Ice Bath for Small Spaces - Ice Barrel
SPECS
- Dimensions: 42" x 31" x 25"
- Shipping: Ships in 3-5 days
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
- Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor
- Drain: Yes
Why We Picked It
We love the slim and sleek design and small footprint of the Ice Barrel, which is exactly what its name suggests: A barrel that's large enough for most adults and that offers an easy point of entry or egress. An easy-flow drainage system keeps this ice bath very low maintenance, while the use of high-quality plastics promotes durability. This is a great option for athletes who want full-body immersion following a rigorous workout session.
What We Like
- Smaller footprint
- Made with durable, non-toxic plastic
- Easy drainage system for low maintenance
- Holds up to 105 gallons
What We Don't Like
- You'll need to change the water fairly often
- Not suited for indoor use
Best High-End Ice Bath - Redwood Saunas Pacific Cold Plunge Kit
SPECS
- Dimensions: 70"L x 33.25"W x 25.5"H (tub), 47.25"L x 22"W x 23.5"H (chiller)
- Shipping: 10-12 weeks delivery
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor
- Drain: Yes
Why We Picked It
With its brushed stainless steel liner and Scandinavian spruce thermowood finish, Redwood Saunas Pacific Cold Plunge looks like a tub you'd expect to see at a high-end resort or spa but in the privacy of your backyard. The deluxe heater/chiller is encased in wood and conveniently connects to the side of the tub for clean filtration and can easily switch between hot and cold water. The chiller also has remote capability, so you can turn on your tub and have it ready before arriving home.
What We Like
- Comes fully assembled
- Modern design
- Can be controlled remotely
- Financing options
What We Don't Like
- Large footprint
- Must purchase cover separately
BUY: Redwood Saunas Pacific Cold Plunge
Best Splurge Ice Bath - Polar Monkeys Star Treatment
SPECS
- Dimensions: 28 "x 27" x 86"
- Shipping: Ships in 6-8 weeks
- Warranty: 1-year
- Indoor or outdoor: Both
- Drain: Yes
Why We Picked It
If you're looking to treat yourself to a splurge-worthy ice bath for your home, Polar Monkeys Star Treatment could be the luxury tub for your estate. This cedar tub is equipped with a 1HP chiller and can be programmed from your phone for clean, cold water whenever you need to take a plunge. It also includes a filter, pump, and Ozone generator.
What We Like
- Can be cleaned and controlled remotely
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Sleek and stylish
- 1HP chiller
What We Don't Like
- No heating option
- Very expensive
- Large footprint
BUY: Polar Monkeys Star Treatment
Best Foldable Ice Bath - Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge Tub XL
SPECS
- Dimensions: 72.75"L x 31.5"W x 23.75"H
- Shipping: 14-16 weeks delivery time
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor
- Drain: Yes
Why We Picked It
For a truly premium ice bath experience, the Yukon Cold Plunge XL from Redwood Saunas represents foldable and portable convenience with its ability to deflate when needed for storage. Generously portioned for a comfortable, immersive experience, this is one of the biggest ice baths you'll likely find, allowing you to fully submerge yourself in the frigid waters. It comes complete with an air pump, carrying case, and cover.
The Yukon Cold Plunge XL isn't exactly a cheap ice bath, especially if you choose to add the chiller upgrade, but there's no question that it's made with quality and durability in mind.
What We Like
- Foldable and packable
- Easy to set-up
- Large size
- Compatible with chiller add-ons
What We Don't Like
- Long delivery time
- Expensive
BUY: Redwood Saunas Yukon Cold Plunge XL
Benefits of Ice Baths
There are several scientifically-studied benefits to using an ice bath. Ice baths may help lead to:
- Reduced muscle soreness and recovery: Cold shock may help reduce inflammation in the muscles after high-intensity activities and training. Cold-water immersion was shown in a study to help boost recovery and reduce delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in MMA athletes after an intense training session.(1) Triathletes were also shown to benefit from cold immersion after cardio training.(2)
- Boosted immune system: Scientists believe that there is a link between repeated cold exposure and the building-up of the immune system.(3)
- Better sleep: Cold water immersion has also been studied when looking at the sleep and recovery patterns of endurance athletes.(4) Similarly, those who take a cold shower before bed tend to sleep better as the body regulates its temperature.
- Reduced stress levels: Cold immersion has been shown to reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase dopamine (the happy hormone) levels in your body.(5)
Benefits aside, an ice bath can still shock your system, so if you have or are at risk for cardiac conditions, consult your doctor before cold plunging.
What to Look for When Shopping for an Ice Bath
When shopping for an ice bath, there are three basic types of products to be aware of:
- Inflatable tubs tend to be more affordable and can also be great for travel/portability. The downside is that inflatable tubs may not hold up over time, as their materials simply aren't as durable.
- Solid tubs, typically made with heavy-duty plastic, may be a little more expensive and a little more difficult to transport, but they also offer greater longevity.
- Spa tubs come with filters and a number of other high-end features. These tubs can be quite expensive and are really only recommended for those who take ice baths avidly.
FAQs About Ice Baths
Are ice baths good for me?
When done safely, ice bathing has been shown to help athletes recover from exercise more quickly, as well as promote general wellness, by reducing inflammation, soothing muscle soreness, and improving circulation, among other things.
How long should I sit in an ice bath?
You should not sit in an ice bath for longer than 10-15 minutes.
How often should I take an ice bath?
Ice baths are most effective when done regularly. We recommend ice baths anywhere from once daily to once or twice monthly.
Is cryotherapy the same as an ice bath?
While both cryotherapy and ice baths rely on the power of cooling temperatures, the former is focused on surface-level injuries and usually applied only to affected areas while the latter is meant to be more immersive and involves submerging your whole body in water. There are full-body cryotherapy treatments, but these differ from ice baths in that they utilize a "cold chamber" where the air is cooled to much colder temperatures for a shorter amount of time than an ice bath.
Our Experts
- Alexandra Ginos, MBA, RD, CSP, nutritionist and fitness expert
- Roger Lockridge, 20 year fitness industry expert
- Ali Nolan, marathon runner
- David J. Sautter, NASM CPT, FNS, PES; ACE SES, personal trainer and fitness expert
- Cory Kessler, CPT, FNC, health and wellness writer
- Daniel Preiato, RD, CSCS, sports nutrition expert
- Erin Chancer, CNC, expert health and wellness writer
- Katie Simpson, CPT, health and wellness writer
- Dr. Jacob Wilson, PhD, CSCS*D, training expert
- Lindsay Boyers, functional nutritionist
- Elspeth Huyett, cycling expert
- Gaby McPherson, nutrition expert
- Krisitne Golden, triathlete
- Lindsey Cooke, CNT, nutrition therapist
- Karla Tafra, nutritionist and yoga instructor
- Rachael Gonzalez, health and wellness writer
- Sosha Lewis, certified sleep coach, health and wellness writer, CrossFit veteran
- Frieda Johnson, expert health and wellness editor
References
- Lindsay A, Carr S, Cross S, Petersen C, Lewis JG, Gieseg SP. The physiological response to cold-water immersion following a mixed martial arts training session. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2017 May;42(5):529-536. doi: 10.1139/apnm-2016-0582. Epub 2017 Jan 17. PMID: 28177718.
- Rowsell GJ, Reaburn P, Toone R, Smith M, Coutts AJ. Effect of run training and cold-water immersion on subsequent cycle training quality in high-performance triathletes. J Strength Cond Res. 2014 Jun;28(6):1664-72. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000000455. PMID: 24626137.
- Janský L, Pospísilová D, Honzová S, Ulicný B, Srámek P, Zeman V, Kamínková J. Immune system of cold-exposed and cold-adapted humans. Eur J Appl Physiol Occup Physiol. 1996;72(5-6):445-50. doi: 10.1007/BF00242274. PMID: 8925815.
- Chauvineau M, Pasquier F, Guyot V, Aloulou A, Nedelec M. Effect of the Depth of Cold Water Immersion on Sleep Architecture and Recovery Among Well-Trained Male Endurance Runners. Front Sports Act Living. 2021 Mar 31;3:659990. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2021.659990. PMID: 33870188; PMCID: PMC8044518.
- Srámek P, Simecková M, Janský L, Savlíková J, Vybíral S. Human physiological responses to immersion into water of different temperatures. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2000 Mar;81(5):436-42. doi: 10.1007/s004210050065. PMID: 10751106.
About the Author
For the past 13 years, Erin Chancer has worked in digital publishing in the fitness and sports nutrition field. Erin has experience writing and editing workout-based, human interest, and advertorial stories within the fitness industry.
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