Unless you're a cold shower person, you probably don't subject yourself to freezing water in the name or rejuvenation. But aside from being a shock to the system on a hot summer day, experts say the best cold plunge tubs can actually provide a range of mental and physical benefits—and the science of cold water only continues to grow. 

Looking to buy a cold tub for yourself? We rounded up our top picks, as well as the most compelling evidence that soaking in cold water may actually be beneficial to your overall health.

The Plunge: If you plan to regularly take ice baths, we'd recommend this top-of-the-line pick. The self-automated design keeps water at the optimal temperature for cold water therapy—and the versatile, minimalist design doesn't hurt. Our tester who reviewed the tub struggled to find a flaw beyond the price and limited colorways.

Polar Monkeys Inflatable: For those who simply don't have the space (or desire) to have a cold plunge tub in their home, this inflatable option is a great low-maintenance choice. Once inflated, its built-in chiller cools water to just 36°F. When water is properly maintained, it lasts up to three months like the Plunge.

Pros: Safe for indoor & outdoor, Circular filtration, Cools to 39° Fahrenheit

Cons: Must be near an outlet, Multiple components that will require maintenance

First seen on Shark Tank, the Plunge tub is a top-of-the-line option for those who want to upgrade their recovery routine. The sleek tub can be safely used both indoors and outdoors, reaching temperatures as low as 39° Fahrenheit. Designed to keep water cool without the addition of ice, it has built-in filtration and sanitation features to help keep your water fresh between baths.

Available in both a standard size and XL size, we love that it has horizontal format that allows you to lay flat for easy submersion. The water also circulates constantly to prevent it from heating up during your 3-minute plunge.

Our tester loved the attention to detail put into each bath; it comes with a protective cover for the outdoors, a skimmer net for debris, and a small branded rubber ducky.

If you want an even more luxurious pick, you can upgrade your tub to an XL for extra space, add hot & cold functioning for versatility, or a pro cooling speed to chill water up to three times faster. (Note: All XL tubs automatically come with a Pro cooling speed).

Regardless of any changes in internal functions, you'll still be limited to the all-white design—which wasn't a favorite of our tester who felt the tub was a start contrast to the greenery outside their home.

Altogether, we're big fans of the Plunge at mindbodygreen, and you can even check our our video review of the Plunge to see the tub in action or read a full breakdown of the Plunge here. We even have a code to save $150 off your first order with code MBG150.

Pros: Portable, Cools down to 36°F, Also available with a heating option

Cons: Expensive for an inflatable option, Extra maintenance to keep water clean

This tub may be inflatable, but it doesn't skimp on features or quality. It comes with a 0.8 HP water chiller, which drops temperatures as low as 36°F. Just remember you will need electricity to power up the cooling attachment.

We consider the Polar Monkeys design the perfect pick for someone who wants all the benefits of a cold plunge tub, but doesn't want to leave one out in the open 24/7. The sleek design doesn't look like a cheap kiddie pool—so you still get the luxury feel—but it's far more affordable than many top-of-the-line picks.

The pool can be set up either indoors or outdoors. Each tub of water can be safely treated and reused for up to three months following the brand's in-depth instructions on a regular maintenance routine. Luckily, there's also a built-in filter to keep the water clean between uses and a pool ozonator to help prevent mold, spores, or bacteria in the water.

Once your tub arrives, you can use the included pump to inflate it. The worst part of the set-up is filling the tub, but the chiller quickly gets into action.

It brings the water from room temperature to below 50°F in about three hours (where the water should stay). Drain the water or use the included cover to store the water for later; it uses about the same amount of power as a refrigerator to keep the water at your ideal temperature.

We love the versatility of the inflatable design—and that it doesn't force you to sacrifice features for something more flexible. Of course, you can also check out the brand's more stationary designs, like the Polar Monkeys Star Treatment, which allows you to control water temperature from your phone.

If you're interested in the perks of heat therapy, you can also upgrade your inflatable chiller to a dual heating system for an additional $200 (an upgrade we recommend). Don't forget to use code MBG100 to save $100 on your order.

Still deciding between the Plunge and Polar Monkeys? Check out this full brand comparison of Plunge vs Polar Monkeys.

Pros: Fits into duffle bag for portability, 15-minute inflatable set-up, Water stays fresh up to 6 months

Cons: Must be on a flat surface, Cannot be used in countries where 120V/60 HZ is not support

Another inflatable design, this cold plunge tub from Ingergize is great for those who want to do cold therapy on the go. When deflated, the tub fits into an oversized duffle that you can take on the trail for a quick refresh on matter your environment (though you'll still have to supply your own water).

The tub is 30 inches deep to accommodate taller bodies with a modular design developed for portability. Each tub comes with quick connect hoses, a hand debris net, a micron filter, and two covers (a fabric and inflatable one). Safe for indoor and outdoor use, the tub comes with free shipping and a one-year warranty.

While it is pricier than some competitors, the tub weighs less than 25 pounds, cools to 37 degrees Fahrenheit, and comes with smart app control technology. Plus, it has a more powerful cooling power (HP) than the Plunge—which explains the higher price point.

Pros: Portable, Affordable, Insulated bottom

Cons: No cover included, May be difficult to get into

For soaking on a budget, this lightweight option from WEY&FLY is the best option for less than $65. The super compact pick is just over 2 feet tall and 2.5 feet wide, offering just enough space for an adult to sit cross-legged.

The tiny pool doesn't require any inflation; instead you construct the foundation of the tub using included poles, similar to a tent. Once set-up, you can fill with ice and water to create the ultimate relaxing ice bath.

The tub has six layers of material—including a 6mm layer of insulation—to maintain the water temperature during use. When you're ready to replace the water or remove the tub altogether, simply drain and fold up for easy storage.

At only 26 inches high, taller people may find this one more difficult to use, as they'll need to bend their legs or sit cross-legged in order to submerge their body. Also, several reviewers mention a leak near the water release valve, so you'll definitely want to try this tub either outside or in your shower. Still, if you're new to ice baths, testing the waters (literally) in this lower-priced pick might be worth it.

Pros: Programmable thermostat, Indoor or outdoor use, Multiple color and wood options

Cons: Expensive, Doesn't come with a cover

Cold therapy is going bespoke thanks to Renu's lineup of stylish cold plunge tubs. Available in a range of minimalist base and deck colors, the sleek tub is the all-inclusive luxury design for those who want an aesthetically pleasing addition to their home.

Constructed in California, the weatherproof tub can be used both indoors and outdoors. Powerful enough to cool water to 36°F, the Cold Stoic® Standard is fitted with a thermostat to easily control the temperature of your water—which experts say is between 50 to 60°F.

Features like the filtration system and ozone water purification system ensure the water stays fresh between uses (and keeps water maintenance relatively lowkey).

Our favorite part of the Renu is the energy efficient design; the insulated walls can keep water below 60°F for up to 24 hours once the tub is turned off.

Of course, not feature is left forgotten with this tub. It comes with an insulated lid and a handmade matching step stool. You can also choose whether you want a spa light installed for an additional $320.. And, because this is an investment that's intended to last, the Stoic tub comes with a 5-year warranty.

Pros: Lightweight for portability, Surprisingly sturdy for the cost, Easy to get in and out

Cons: Some issues with detachable hose

While this foldable tub is pretty similar to the other affordable option on our list, there are a few key differences that may this design unique enough to call out.

First off, this design is partially inflatable. Instead of putting together rings to create a circle, you simply inflate with air or a pump. This makes the set-up less complex for those who prefer a simpler set-up.

The tub is made from three layers of waterproof and resistant materials: two layers of protective, durable PVC to help maintain the temperature, and one mesh layer. There's also an inflatable armrest and neck support to keep you comfortable. 

You can use this tub indoors or outdoors but, as with the other budget-friendly pick on this list, there are definitely some comments from reviewers about durability and leaking over time. If you do use it indoors, the brand suggests doing so in a shower or anywhere with drainage.

Pros: Sleek cedar design, As cold as 32°F, Automated filtration and sanitization

Cons: Must be near an outlet

The Odin Ice Bath gets as cold as 32°F—so get ready to freeze. In fact, the Odin can even product ice when left on at the lowest temps, which is one unique feat that competitors can't claim.

We'll admit: It's a more expensive option. But you get what you pay for, as this tub as all the bells and whistles. It's not only constructed with beautiful cedar wood, but the tub comes with a fully automated filtration and sanitation system that requires minimal upkeep. (You can even add a UV sanitizer for $500 for even less maintenance.)

We love how little electricity is required to keep this tub running; it uses about the same amount of power as a large freezer. Even better? It's no louder than a standard household refrigerator. However, you will need a refrigeration specialist to come help you set it up before your first use.

Every tub comes with a lockable spa lid, and you'll have the choice to upgrade to the XL size for an extra $2,000. Those purchasing for a commercial space—like a spa or gym—can also invest in the pro model for another $1,500, which increases the power of the chiller to ensure it's up to the strain of consistent use throughout the day.

Pros: Pump included to keep water flow, Comes with floating thermometer, Insulated lid keeps cool

Cons: Must fill with ice

The Ice Pod Pro is a newer launch—and the affordable design fills a gap in the market for those who still want a high quality product but don't want to spend a fortune on a luxurious tub.

The portable pod is similar to many budget options, with a plastic legs around the tub and an inflated rim. However the actual materials differ from many affordable options thanks to a focus on quality. The inner lining is made from a BPA-free waterproof lining, the insulation layer has sub-zero cooling technology, and the durable exterior is UV resistant.

Other differentiators for the Ice Pod Pro include a water flow pump—which circulates water to prevent your body heat from warming the water or the ice from freezing solid—and a floating thermometer to monitor the temperature to reach the perfect 50 to 59 degree Fahrenheit range. (Both accessories come with the Pro Bundle.)

We also love that the Ice Pod Pro has an insulated lid that keeps water cold for a few days; the standard version only promises to keep the water cool for up to 24 hours. If you don't plan to use your ice bath often—or don't want to set it up outdoors—we recommend that you opt for the standard option, which only costs $150.

Although you could create a makeshift cold tub in your bathroom with a bath full of ice, a proper cold plunge tub is exactly as it sounds: specifically designed to support colder temperatures of water that will shock the system and offer your body a range of benefits. 

"Used as a recovery method, the water should probably be under 10°C," suggests cold therapy expert Mark Harper, M.D., Ph.D. "But just to get the cold buzz without quite so much discomfort, temperatures of over 10°C (and even up to 20°C) will have most of the effect with much less pain," he adds. Note: 10°C is 50°F.

The process of how a cold plunge tub cools the water (and keeps it cool) depends on the design of that particular tub. Some higher-value cold plunge tubs, such as The Plunge, have a pumping chiller attached, which keeps the water circulating, pumping it out to chill it and then pumping it back in. The Plunge brand says this method also helps users feel colder sooner, as the heat is being pulled away from your body by the moving water.

Other cold plunge tubs, such as the portable, foldable, and affordable options on our list, do not offer this water circulation and pumping, but are made from durable materials that help trap in the heat. While every cold plunge tubs works in a slightly different way, the general idea is the same. These tubs are designed to support cooler temperatures that put your body into a temporary state of stress.

If you're skeptical about subjecting your body to freezing temperatures in the name of wellness, know there's actually some compelling evidence in its favor. "In simple terms, regular use will reduce inflammation and the body's reaction to stress. Putting your face—it doesn't even have to be the whole head—in will have an almost immediate effect," explains Harper. 

On the topic of stress, intentional cold exposure (as in a plunge pool) is a form of hormetic stressor. In layman's terms, this is the good kind of stress that actually helps your body to adapt and stay fit and healthy.

When you spend a short burst of time each day with an acute stressor like cold water, your body is taken out of homeostasis and your cells are activated to promote stress resilience, repair cellular damage (through processes like autophagy), repair DNA, reduce inflammation, and more.

In fact, some experts believe that missing out on hormetic stressors can actually hold you back. "Biologically, the lack of acute stressors prevents the intermittent episodes of cellular 'housecleaning' activities that slow aging," Elissa Epel, Ph.D., director of the University of California–San Francisco Aging, Metabolism and Emotion Center wrote in a 2020 research review1.

Additionally, shocking your body with a switch between hot and cold extremes can also improve your health, as longevity expert and Harvard geneticist David Sinclair, Ph.D., explains on the mbg podcast. "Sauna protects you against heart disease if you do it regularly, and cold plunges are increasingly thought to be helpful. What [they do] is activate the production of brown fat, which exists mostly in your back. Brown fat puts out signals that increase your metabolism," he explains. 

As for the mental benefits, Jono James, cold-water immersion expert and CEO of Odin Ice Baths shared that voluntarily placing yourself in uncomfortably cold temperatures can help build fortitude.

"You're purposely putting yourself in quite a bit of pain because the ice bath is not a pleasant experience, but because you're choosing to do it, it gives you a sense of empowerment. Since it's a choice, it also means you're more resilient to things that are out of your control because you're choosing to put yourself in this uncomfortable position," he shares.

The are many proven benefits of an ice bath—and a few potential benefits of taking a cold plunge that still need to be explored further. Weight loss falls into the latter category.

A study published in Scientific Reports found stem cells subjected to cold temperatures formed brown fat that can increase calorie burn2. Research on mice shows similar results of brown fat activating in cold temperatures3. Data also suggests that ongoing cold exposure can help convert white fat into metabolically healthy beige or brown fa4t.

As functional medicine expert, Laura DeCesaris previously told mindbodygreen, "More data needs to be seen as to possible long-term metabolic impacts of cold immersion over time." She says sporadic sessions are unlikely to improve results—and it's important to remember that an increased metabolism won't lead to weight loss if appetite and calorie consumption also increases.

Sure, putting your body through stress may sound counterintuitive—but this is actually a good kind of stress. Whether you're investing in a cold plunge tub for your home, or you're making your own ice bath, you're not going to solve every health problem you've ever had. That said, when performed regularly and correctly, the practice has a slew of health benefits, explained in-depth below. If you're not sure if ice baths are a good idea for you, check with your doctor before adding the practice to your routine.

Experts previously told mindbodygreen that people with high blood pressure should skip cryotherapy. Cold water causes your blood vessels to constrict, which increases heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. Typically the body can compensate for this constriction, per longevity expert Seema Bonney, M.D., but it may be harder for those with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.

For metabolic, energy, and mental health benefits, regularly soaking in a cold plunge tub can be an excellent way to invigorate the system and support overall well-being. A cold plunge can help with inflammation and act as a great start to the day or help you recover from a particularly strenuous workout. If you're in the market to invest in your health, consider taking home the Plunge for a top-of-the-line pick or try the slightly more affordable Polar Monkeys Inflatable.

Want other ways to invest in your health? Explore the benefits of hot and cold therapy, and check out or picks for the best infrared saunas and infrared sauna blankets.

3/1/23: We added additional FAQ, including who should not cold plunge and is a cold plunge worth it. We also included more information about the benefits of hot and cold therapy, along with resources to explore the best infrared saunas and sauna blankets.

3/6/23: After continued research on the best cold plunge tubs, our team added another affordable, foldable option to the list.

3/8/23: We added more information on how cold plunge tubs work and answered the common question, are ice baths good for you?

4/19/23: We checked the availability of each of these tubs, added the dimensions, and specified whether they were fit for indoor or outdoor use.

5/5/23: Our team added a new option to the buy guide that offers the best value for small spaces.

5/8/23: We added original photos and tester commentary for a handful of plunge tubs used by testers.