The best cold plunge tubs aren't strictly for athletes. While temporarily immersing your body in water temperatures of 59 degrees Fahrenheit or lower can be highly beneficial for muscle recovery and inflammation, it's also said to help with stress management, and even symptoms of depression and anxiety—though more research is needed to confirm these claims.
“Teaching the body how to handle extremes, especially within our ice baths starts to teach the body and mind that you are in control," Jonathan Leary, sports medicine expert, founder and CEO of wellness club Remedy Place, previously told BAZAAR.com. "Not only is there pure satisfaction in accomplishing something difficult, but the more you incorporate ice baths into your routine you will find that there are simple practical practices that put you back in control and inevitably teach you how to handle any stress better."
According to experts, cold water immersions—also known as CWIs—have been popular for years, with a number of options available for taking the plunge: jumping in an ocean, taking a cold shower, and of course, an ice bath. No matter which method you choose, spending mere minutes in icy water from the neck down can not only provide an adrenaline rush, but also boost your overall well-being. Whether you're new to the experience, or have been a fan for years, we've rounded up some of the best cold plunge tubs to shop now that make it easy to enhance your self-care routine at home.
This stylish tub keeps water as cold as 39 degrees Fahrenheit for ultimate chill. It also includes features like a built-in underwater light for nightly use, as well as a handy cell phone holder, so you never have to worry about accidentally dropping yours in. Since the tub also contains a professional-level filtration system and insulated spa cover, your water can stay clean for up to six months at a time.
Dimensions:
Tub dimensions: 67-inches L x 24-inches H x 31½-inches W
Tub with cooling/heating unit dimensions: 67-inches L x 24-inches H x 43-inches W
Here's a tub that may look small to some, but actually is large enough for a person up to 6'7 to sit in with their legs crossed. It also features an inflatable ring for added stability when entering and exiting, as well as a protective lid to keep debris out.
One satisfied customer writes:
"I recently purchased this polar ice tub and I am absolutely thrilled with it! It has become an indispensable part of my post-workout routine. The tub is made of high-quality, durable materials that have held up well to repeated use. One of the things I love about this ice tub is its large size. It's huge, allowing me to fully submerge my muscles in the ice-cold water. The tub is also deep enough to allow me to add a substantial amount of ice, keeping the water at the perfect temperature for an extended period of time." —Jackie F.
Tru Grit's roomy cold plunge tub fully inflates in under five minutes, and also rolls up seamlessly like a sleeping bag for easy transport. And if you're planning to use it outdoors, the tub is nicely designed to be compatible with most garden hoses.
Dimensions:
60-inches L x 30-inches W X 37-inches H
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Best Upright Tub
Ice Barrel Cold Therapy Training Tool in Desert Tan
Best Upright Tub
Ice Barrel Cold Therapy Training Tool in Desert Tan
This compact tub holds up to 105 pounds of water and ice, and contains a built-in drainage system that makes clean up a breeze after you're finished plunging. And to help you get in, the tub also comes with a two-step ladder, in addition to a lid and protective cover.
One satisfied customer writes:
"I am loving the Ice Barrel. I usually use it after a workout and it is amazing how quick it kicks you into recovery. It is really well made and easy to empty and clean. I am working up to be able to stay in longer and longer each time, but what a great tool to have to help with both mind and body recovery. Thank you so much and making such a great product!!!" —Janine W.
You don't need tons of space to reap the benefits of a cold plunge: This ergonomic tub is easy to store under the bed or in a closet, since it's totally collapsible, and still likely deeper than what's already in your bathroom.
One satisfied customer writes:
"I’m soooooo satisfied! This was a practical solution that solves my cravings for baths versus showers, and cost effective. It’s comfortable, roomy and sturdy. It fit perfectly into my shower space and the only assembly was putting the drainage hose, soap dish and head rest on. Definitely a win-win for me!" —Jennifer A.
If you like to change up your cold plunge location from time to time, this featherweight tub is a breeze to breakdown and set up. The tub is made with six pillars to help keep its shape, and contains two drain holes to empty water once you're all done.
One satisfied customer writes:
"It was simple to put together and so, so worth it!!! Having only a handicap accessible shower in the home I purchased was a major bummer for me (I’m a bath girl) but this has changed the game! I was able to soak past my chest and draining is so easy as you can set the pace so your shower doesn’t flood. Love this purchase. Even as a plus size gal this was so worth it. Buy it!!!" —haleyyviolett
This upright option rolls away when it's not in use, and is made with a waterproof canvas and six millimeters of installation to keep water as cold as possible.
One satisfied customer writes:
"I am in love with my new tub. I've lived in apartments for the past three years without a tub and I've been dying to take a nice relaxing bath. I somehow came across this and I'm so glad I did. It fits perfectly in my single shower stall, but its still nice and roomy. Super comfortable bottom and I love that the water can go all the way up to your neck if you want! I recommend it 100000 percent, just make sure you put something under the tub so it can drain." —Sean
Features weatherproof design for outdoor or indoor use
Cons
Pricey
You can handpick just about every detail of this elevated tub's design—from the base color to its wooden accents—which features a matching step stool and insulated lid. Plus, the tub has a built-in filtration and purification system to keep plunge water clean, along with a chiller to keep its temperature at 36 degrees Fahrenheit.
One satisfied customer writes:
"We plunge almost everyday! It is so beautiful also and adds to our 'spa' room! Not only do we use it but we basically have a line out our door of our friends who also love it!" —Samantha P.
Exterior dimensions
70-inches L x 33-inches W x 35-inches H
Tank dimensions
40-inches L x 25-inches W x 31-inches H
What are the benefits of a cold plunge?
While additional research is needed to confirm its full mental health claims, frequent cold water immersions can help decrease inflammation and swelling by restricting blood vessels, boost dopamine and endorphin levels, and improve injury recovery.
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How long should you cold plunge?
Professionals note that cold plunging is an experience that should be eased into, with a suggested time frame of up to two minutes at a time for beginners, and typically no more than five or six minutes for those who are more experienced. You should also try to remember to take slow, deep breaths while immersed, and immediately exit the water if you start to feel uncomfortable. Cold plunging isn't recommended for those who are pregnant or have heart-related health issues.
“At Remedy Place, we cap each plunge at six minutes in water at 38 degrees Fahrenheit, but it depends on how cold the water is," Leary added. "At warmer temperatures, you can stay in for longer but really it all depends on your physical response at the moment.”
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Tiffany Dodson is currently the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she specializes in trend forecasting, building relationships with major and emerging brands, and crafting shopping stories—from holiday gift guides to product road tests. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in outlets like SELF, Bustle, and Teen Vogue, and she's been quoted as a commerce and beauty expert in publications and platforms like The Business of Fashion and NPR’s Life Kit podcast.