Cold plunges and ice baths can improve cardiovascular health, aid muscle recovery, boost mood, improve focus, and encourage fat loss among an array of other benefits. The more research that is done into cold water exposure or cold water therapy, the more benefits are discovered. You’re looking to invest in cold plunge – but which are the best to buy in 2024 depending on your budget?
In this article we’ll look at our recommended cold plunges and ice baths based on quality, durability, performance, ergonomics, and aesthetics. We’ve brought together our top 5 cold plunges based on this criteria. We’ve got you covered whatever your budget. Let’s get into it, starting with higher end budget options:
Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro: Full RRP $9,299 USD
Topping the list at the higher end of the budget is the masterfully engineered Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro. This is the pinnacle of cold water immersion technology, being named the best cold plunge in the world by Rolling Stone Magazine, Men's Journal, and New York Post.
You can programme this beast to go as low as 32 Degrees F / 0 C – the freezing point of water, which is unheard of for the majority of cold plunges. Don’t just trust us to vouch for the Cold Plunge Pro – it’s the trusted recovery tool for NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, UFC, and Olympic athletes.
In addition, the exterior is built with military-grade materials and precision meaning it can be used outside and can storm all weathers. It’s one of the only cold plunges rated for outdoor use.
Pros
- Cools to lower temperatures than most cold plunges (32 Degrees F / 0 C)
- Whisper-Chill™ technology ensures quiet operation
- Built-in advanced ozone injection sanitization system
- Built using military-grade materials
- Designed for both indoor and outdoor use
- Can be stored outside in all weathers
- UV resistant exterior coating
- LED lighting for evening use
- Built-in wheels to allow for portability
- Extra large size (6.5 feet in length)
Cons
- High price point
Find out more about the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro >>
Cold Life Plunge: Full RRP $4,995.00 USD
The Cold Life Plunge is at the mid-higher budget range. The circular tub is designed to fit in smaller spaces at only 33” in diameter and 43” in height providing the only compact, premium plunge experience on the market.
This sleek cold plunge was invented, engineered and made in America. The simple yet sophisticated design is available in black or white and brings minimalistic chic to any room. It can also be used and kept outdoors with a lid included to keep out any contaminants.
Not only is this cold plunge one of the most stylish on the market, but it’s incredibly durable due to it being made from aerospace grade aluminium before being exquisitely powder coated.
Pros
- One of the most stylish looking cold plunges on the market
- Doesn’t take up much room (33” diameter)
- Vertical design is deep enough to immerse up to the neck
- Made from aerospace grade aluminum
- High quality, durable build
- Portable – weighing just 80lbs
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- Available in black or white
- Comes with a lid and step stool
Cons
- Chiller costs extra
Find out more about the Cold Life Plunge >>
Ice Barrel 500: Full RRP $1,499.99 USD
Ice Barrel are known for their strong and durable upright cold plunges and they’ve taken it up a notch with the brand new Ice Barrel 500. The new model has built-in steps and a texturized seat. Plus, it’s aesthetically beautiful.
The 500 model is the most insulated cold therapy product on the market according to Ice Barrel. Whether you’re using ice or a chiller, the thick polyurethane foam insulation throughout the barrel and lid helps keep your water colder for longer, especially in warm weather. This cold plunge is great if you live in a region with a warm climate.
The Ice Barrel 500 allows you to enjoy a comfortable, upright seated position with an integrated seat and generous interior space. You can easily submerge up to your neck for maximum full-body benefit. It will fit most body types including people up to 7 feet tall.
Pros
- Superior insulation to most cold plunges
- Insulation makes it perfect for warm climates
- Built-in steps
- Texturized seat
- Eye-catching design
- UV and water-resistant
- Upright design large enough for people up to 7 feet tall
- Comes with a lid to keep out debris
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Good price point
Cons
- Chiller not included
Read more about the Ice Barrel 500 >>
Ice Barrel 400: Full RRP $1,199.99 USD
The Ice Barrel 400 is the company’s hero product that’s famously shaped like a wooden barrel. It creates a unique feature in any room or garden without taking up too much room at just 31” in diameter.
This cold plunge is one of the most popular on the market, with 1000’s of happy customers. Ice Barrel place extreme importance on durability. The 400 model is made from recycled, non-toxic, medical-grade material that’s extremely durable yet lightweight and easy to clean. Plus, it’s covered by a lifetime warranty.
The Ice Barrel 400 allows you to enjoy a comfortable, natural upright position and is suitable for people as tall as 6 feet 6 inches. It allows you to easily submerge up to your neck for maximum full-body benefit. This cold plunge also comes with a step stool included that makes it easy to enter and exit.
Pros
- Unique barrel shape adds character to any room, garden, or patio
- Ideal for areas with less space due to small diameter
- Incredibly durable yet lightweight
- One of the most popular cold plunges on the market
- 1000’s of happy customers
- Suitable for people up to 6’6”
- Comes with a step stool
- UV and water-resistant cover included
- Includes lid to keep out debris
- Comes with a stand to keep your barrel level and steady
- Covered by a lifetime warranty
- Good price point
Cons
- Chiller not included
Read more about the Ice Barrel 400 >>
NordicWay Ice Bath: Full RRP $215.95 USD
NordicWay’s Ice Bath is a great introduction to cold water therapy. This portable model has a budget-friendly price point and is trusted by over 10,000 customers worldwide.
These ice baths can be left outside with each pod being meticulously weatherproofed, ensuring your ice tub remains cold and in top shape regardless of the conditions.
The inflatable design is quick and easy to assemble and means these ice baths are easily portable. A storage box is included with each unit. The resilient triple-layered outer shell is engineered for all weather conditions and offers great insulation to keep water cold.
Pros
- Budget-friendly option
- Easy to assemble
- Portable
- Meticulously weatherproofed & can be kept outside
- Highly insulated triple-layer outer shell
- Popular product with 10,000+ customers worldwide
- Suitable for heights up to 6’8’’
- Comes with thermal ice lid to keep water cool and keep out debris
- Moneyback guarantee on all orders within 30-days of purchase
Cons
- Not as durable as other options
- Inflatable design risks damage
- Chiller not included
