The Truth About Inflatable Cold Plunges: Are They Any Good?

_{I may earn a commission if you purchase through the links I’ve provided. While that doesn’t change my editorial integrity, it helps keep this website running!}

Inflatable cold plunges are becoming quite the trend these days. But what exactly are they, and are they worth your money? An inflatable cold plunge is a cheaper alternative to a solid cold plunge that offers more versatility and is more beginner friendly.

They’re gaining popularity because they’re affordable and easy to use. I’ve personally tested three models: The Ice Pod Pro from the Pod Company, the Polar Recovery Tub, and a cheap knockoff from Amazon called Ganen. So, is an inflatable cold plunge worth the investment?

Cost Comparison: Inflatable vs. Solid Cold Plunges

Inflatable cold plunges are much more budget-friendly than solid ones. For example, the most expensive inflatable I tried, the Ice Pod Pro, was just $150. The Polar Recovery Tub cost $89, and the Ganen was only $59. On the other hand, solid cold plunge tubs start at around $1000. That’s a big difference in price!

You can save hundreds of dollars by choosing an inflatable cold plunge. But does the lower price mean you miss out on quality? Well, inflatables aren’t as durable as solid tubs. They are mostly made of nylon, which isn’t as strong. However, I’ve still had great experiences with them. They are good for people who want to try cold plunging without spending a lot of money.

One thing to keep in mind is that inflatables might not last as long as solid tubs. They can get leaks or punctures more easily. Still, if you take care of them, they can be a great, affordable option.

So, if you’re looking to save some money and still enjoy a cold plunge, inflatable tubs are worth considering. Just remember, you might be trading some durability for that lower price.

Setup and Portability

Setting up an inflatable cold plunge is a breeze. You can have it ready in less than 5 minutes, which is fantastic if you’re just starting or need something quick to set up and take down. All you have to do is inflate it, fill it with cold water, and you’re good to go. It’s that simple!

One of the best things about inflatable cold plunges is their portability. You can easily move them around, unlike solid tubs that are heavy and need a dedicated spot. If you have limited space, an inflatable cold plunge is perfect for you. You can set it up in your backyard, on your balcony, or even in your bathroom. When you’re done, just deflate it and store it away. It can fit in a car’s back seat or a large backpack easily.

Inflatables are great for people who travel or don’t want a permanent setup. You can take your cold plunge with you on trips or move it from one place to another without much hassle. Plus, if you decide cold plunging isn’t for you, it’s easy to pack it away and save space. So, if you need something flexible and easy to use, an inflatable cold plunge is a fantastic choice.

Durability and Build Quality

When it comes to durability, inflatable cold plunges have their pros and cons. They’re made mostly of nylon, which is a lightweight and flexible material. While this makes them easy to handle and set up, it’s not as tough as the materials used in solid cold tubs. This means that inflatable cold plunges are more likely to get punctures or tears if you’re not careful.

I’ve tested three different models—the Ice Pod Pro, the Polar Recovery Tub, and the Ganen—and I haven’t had any major issues with leaks so far. However, I always make sure to keep them away from sharp objects and rough surfaces. A small puncture can cause a big problem, but luckily, most of these tubs come with repair kits just in case.

The stitching and seams are areas to watch out for. Over time, with repeated inflation and deflation, these spots can wear out and might start to leak. Even though the material is durable enough for regular use, it’s definitely not as sturdy as a solid cold plunge.

On the bright side, because they’re inflatable, they’re designed to withstand some level of rough handling. You don’t have to worry too much about minor bumps and scrapes. Just remember to treat them with a bit more care compared to a solid tub to ensure they last longer.

Insulation and Water Retention

Inflatable cold plunges don’t keep water cold as well as solid ones do. The main reason is that they don’t have as much insulation. For example, the Ice Pod Pro and the Polar Recovery Tub can hold about 40 pounds of ice for a couple of days. That’s not bad, but the Ganen has very little insulation, so it needs more ice more often.

If you live in a cold climate or use a strong water chiller, these inflatable tubs can still work for you. But you might find yourself adding ice more frequently to keep the water at the right temperature. This can be a bit annoying, especially if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option.

Another thing to consider is how the weather affects your cold plunge. On hot days, you’ll need even more ice to keep the water cold. This can make your cold plunge experience less convenient and a bit more costly since you’ll be buying more ice.

However, if you just want to try cold plunging without a big investment, these inflatables can still get the job done. They might not hold the cold as long, but they can still offer a refreshing plunge, especially if you don’t mind topping up the ice every now and then.

Comfort and Size

When it comes to comfort and size, inflatable cold plunges do a pretty good job. I’m 5’10”, and I can fully submerge myself in all three models I tested: the Ice Pod Pro, the Polar Recovery Tub, and the Ganen. The tubs are roomy enough for most people to fit comfortably. However, you do have to sit while you’re in them, which might not be everyone’s favorite position.

If you’re taller or like to stretch out, you might feel a bit cramped. Solid tubs often give you more space and let you choose different positions. Inflatables are designed to be compact and portable, so they might not have the same roomy feel as a solid tub.

Still, for a quick and easy cold plunge, the size of these inflatables works just fine. You won’t be able to lie down flat, but you can still get a good soak. Plus, the soft sides of the inflatable tubs make them more comfortable than hard, solid tubs, which can feel a bit rough.

So, while they might not offer the same spaciousness as solid tubs, inflatable cold plunges still provide a comfy experience for most users.

Ease of Maintenance

Cleaning and storing inflatable cold plunges is really simple. You don’t need any special tools or equipment. To clean it, just rinse the tub with some water and mild soap. Make sure to get all the soap out, so the next time you use it, the water stays clean.

When it comes to draining, inflatable cold plunges make it easy. Most models have a drain plug at the bottom. Just open it up, and the water will flow out. You might need to tip the tub a little to get all the water out, but it’s not hard.

Once the tub is empty, you just let it dry. Make sure it’s completely dry before you fold it up. This helps prevent mold and bad smells. Folding it up is easy too. Just deflate the tub, and it will collapse into a small size. You can store it in a closet, under your bed, or even in a backpack.

Solid cold tubs are much heavier and harder to move around. But with an inflatable, you can pack it up and take it anywhere. This makes inflatable cold plunges a great choice if you need something that’s easy to maintain and store.

Longevity and Warranty

Inflatable cold plunges can last a good amount of time if you take care of them properly. From my experience, the Ice Pod Pro is the sturdiest of the three models I tried. It even comes with a warranty, which is a nice bonus. Solid cold plunges usually last longer and also come with warranties, but they cost a lot more.

With inflatable cold plunges, you need to be a bit more careful to avoid punctures and tears. They are made mostly of nylon, which is durable but not as tough as the materials used in solid tubs. If you treat them gently and follow the care instructions, they can serve you well for a good while.

Most inflatable cold plunges come with a repair kit. This is handy in case you get a small puncture. Just patch it up, and you’re good to go again. While inflatables may not last as long as solid tubs, they are still a great option if you’re on a budget and want to try cold plunging. Plus, the warranty on models like the Ice Pod Pro gives you some peace of mind.