Price point: Many ice baths that include multiple features, filtration and temperature regulation can run the average consumer a few thousand dollars. To make ice baths for recovery accessible to every budget, we included tubs that were on the lower end that require more work on the user’s end to reap similar benefits. Dimensions: Depending on your height, you’re going to want to be able to sit or lay down comfortably. We looked at models that were shaped similarly to a bathtub as well as barrel shaped options that allow a shorter person to stand or a taller person to squat comfortably in cold water. The research on cold plunging varies and many experts and athletes like Wim Hof tout the mental and physical benefits of taking the plunge “Pretty much anybody can use it,” Dr. Paulvin says. Though he recommends those with a medical condition, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, talk to their doctor before trying an ice bath.

The best portable bathtubs you can buy in 2023 1. CO-Z Inflatable Portable Bath: Best budget portable bath S pace available: Consider your current space and theoretically how long the tub can be. If you can set a designated outdoor space or room for the ice bath, a longer option would work. But for those planning on housing their tub in the garage or workout space, a thinner, vertical tub would be more ideal. Filtration: Still water can easily get filled with debris and bacteria, which is why a good filtration system is needed if you don’t want to change out the water often. If your ice bath doesn’t offer a filtration system be sure to swap out the water every other week or so or consider purchasing a water stabilizer or UV purifier to keep it cleaner.

Whether you’re looking to have a deep soak or stretch out, you can indulge in a relaxing bath at any time

Other important factors to be aware of are the weight of a portable tub and how easily it folds down. If your portable bathtub is for your home, then its weight won’t be such an important consideration. But if it’s for taking with you on trips, then you’ll want something that is easily transportable and doesn’t weigh too much. Note that the material from which the portable bathtub is made will also impact on its weight. Reduced inflammation: Similar to icing a sore knee, cold water immersion can help reduce inflammation in the body and help with muscle soreness or chronic pain. This is because your blood vessels constrict with coldness, creating less swelling. I always advise choosing the best quality bath you can, and for me, that will always be cast iron,' agrees James Lentaigne, creative director at Drummonds. 'You'll get a hotter bath, for longer, as cast iron will maintain the heat when filled up with hot water. Plus it is low maintenance, easy to clean and there is a low chance of staining or damage occurring. Wooden baths have been part of end-of-day Japanese bathing rituals for centuries. The short, steep-sided tubs are made for relaxing and warming, rather than washing, with the water clear, still and hot. You can use the bathtub with the upper cover open or zipped up; the latter is ideal for keeping the water warmer for longer in colder weather. A few users have commented that the stopper is a little stiff to put in, so make sure you’ve attached it firmly.

Enameled steel is similar in appearance to an acrylic bath, though far cooler to the touch. Despite this, it will retain heat for longer – good news if you like a very long soak in the bath. It is more rigid and has a glass-hard surface that is nearly impossible to stain. That said, you'll want to pay for quality to avoid chips, and look for a long guarantee. Looks aside, copperbathsare perfect for those who love a piping hotbath,' says Barrie Cutchie, Design Director at BC Designs. 'The copper will ensure the water stays hot for longer, while copper’s hygienic surface will help keep bacteria at bay for a clean bath.'Inspired by traditional designs, this bath by Indigenous is made of cedar wood and is designed to be enjoyed sitting upright, for a deep and relaxing soak. However, it sits on small synthetic feet, which allows ventilation underneath. Copperhas been used widely as a bathtub material since the mid-18th century, with everyone from Marie Antoinette to Napoleon Bonaparte reported to have enjoyed a soak in a copper bathtub. And while it may look glamorous, it was initially chosen for its practicality. However, for the price it commands, we would have expected a pump to be included. And the base of this bathtub isn’t as well padded as some others on the list, so you may want to consider adding some form of cushioning underneath to make it more comfortable. Nevertheless, it’s a spacious and deep bath that will travel extremely well. Durability: Cold plunges that are designed to sit both indoor and outdoor need to withstand the elements. We considered options made of durable stainless steel, durable plastic and heavy-duty PVC. If an option was inflatable, we made sure there was a repair kit included in case a tear does occur. You'll also want to consider ease of use when choosing a drain stopper. For example, some people prefer a toe-touch stopper because they can open and close it without bending over. Finally, you'll have to consider what your drain can accommodate. A flip-it stopper, for instance, cannot be plugged into drains with built-in strainers.

To choose the best ice baths for recovery, our editors tapped experts for their recommendations as well as researched a variety of models of different sizes and price points. When choosing ice baths for recovery, we considered factors such as: Being a solid stone there will be some maintenance helping to keep it looking its best,' adds Jo. For example, any cleaner used should be PH neutral to avoid damage to the surface of the stone. Aside from your budget, there are a few things you need to consider for your cold plunge. You’ll need to think about how cold you’ll want it to be, how often you’ll use it, and how much functionality you need. Here are a few things to consider when shopping for an ice bath for recovery: Some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a bathtub drain stopper include cost, ease of installation, and ease of maintenance. For instance, if you're looking for a durable stopper that you can install with basic plumbing skills, you might want to use a lift-and-turn or push-and-pull model. Celebrities and influencers alike have been seen taking a dip in the Plunge. Dr. Paulvin recommends this model to his clients because it’s self-cleaning, it fills up the water supply with a connected hose, it has a filtration system and there’s an easy temperature control system.

Nor does copper have to be exclusive to traditional bathroom designs. 'For those who want to add a pop of color, our copperbathsare available in more than 10,000 exterior colors, as well as specialist finishes including leather, hand-gilded or fabric,' Barrie explains. 'There is also an option to enamel the interior, too.' Improved muscle recovery: Many athletes agree that after an intense workout an ice bath can help speed up muscle recovery and lower your heart rate. However, Dr. Paulvin says to not cold plunge after a weight bearing workout or you may not see the benefits of muscle growth.