The big drawback to cold plunge tubs is the price, with many costing close to five-digit numbers. Inflatable ice tubs try to fix this by providing a lightweight, portable solution, but quite a few that we’ve tested lose their shape over time.

Hydragun has attempted to remedy this problem on both fronts, with a heavy-duty inflatable tub with your option of chiller, to help save you hard-earned money if you don’t need the most powerful water chiller on the market. In this Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge review, we’ll take a look at this cold tub and see if it’s actually as good of value and quality as it seems from a bird’s eye view.

Let’s Break the Ice…We Know Our Cold Plunge Tubs

Garage Gym Reviews has been testing fitness equipment with a professional hand since its beginning in 2014. We’ve recently taken the dive into recovery tools such as cold plunges and home saunas, but we’re no strangers to professionally and honestly trying out equipment. Our team of certified personal trainers, lifting coaches, and competitive athletes bring the same expertise in trying and testing out recovery tools according to our fitness equipment testing methodology.

Certified personal trainer and lead reviewer of Garage Gym Reviews Everything Lindsay Scheele tested out the Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge over several plunge sessions. During her time with the cold plunge tub, she rated several aspects of the ice bath, giving the following features a score between 1 and 5:

• Delivery and setup
• Footprint and portability
• Construction and durability
• Ergonomics
• Conveniences
• Draining and cleaning
• Overall value

Hydragun Supertub

Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge

GGR Score: 4.19

Check Price

Product Highlights

• 60-gallon cold plunge tub
• Choice of 0.6- or 0.8-horsepower chiller
• 52” L x 28” W x 24” H
• Temperature range of 37-108 degrees Fahrenheit

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Portable
• Less expensive than other cold plunge tubs
• Choice of chiller
• Can be used as cold or hot tub
• Durable military-grade vinyl

Cons

• Chiller is noisy
• $400 flat-rate shipping
• Might be too small for taller or larger people

Bottom Line

The Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge comes in two different size chillers—0.6 or 0.8 horsepower. If you’re in a more moderate climate, you won’t need the larger chiller. This inflatable cold tub is constructed of military-grade vinyl material and holds its shape well.

A Quick Look at the Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge

Based in Singapore, Hydragun began as a business to make the best massage gun possible—not too loud, not too weak or strong. Since then, Hydragun has expanded their workout recovery line to knee massagers, cold plunge tubs, and their highly popular Heatpod sauna blanket.

The Hydragun Supertub is an inflatable cold tub, weighing only 21 pounds before filling it with water. This makes for a lightweight (and more affordable) cold plunge option. You have your choice between a 0.6-horsepower chiller or 0.8-horsepower chiller. While not as easily portable, the chiller has wheels and is compact, meaning it can still move around quite a bit. 

The energy-efficient Permafrost chillers have an automated power-saving mode that can be activated overnight to allow you to save money while the tub isn’t in use.

The Hydragun Supertub is bought as a combination of the tub and whichever chiller you choose. If you’re looking for just a portable inflatable tub, you may want to consider the Tru Grit Cold Tub, which is sold separately from its chiller.

Before You Buy

• Hydragun recommends the larger chiller only if the climate in your area has more extremes—hotter summers or colder winters—and would require a little more gumption to reach the desired temperatures.
• The chillers can be set at temperatures from 37 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning the Supertub is an all-in-one ice bath and hot tub.
• Shipping is a flat fee of $400 in the contiguous United States, regardless of which size chiller you purchase. This actually lowers the value of the larger chiller, as that becomes a bit overpriced compared to other comparable inflatable cold tubs.

Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge Video Review

Is the Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge Worth It?

The smaller chiller sits at just under $3,000 on Hydragun’s website, while the larger chiller makes the price about $4,000. However, in her full video review of the Supertub, Lindsay makes mention that shipping is a flat rate of $400—regardless of the chiller you choose—meaning that the prices are closer to $3,400 and $4,400, respectively.

At this price point Lindsay suggests that the smaller chiller has some value, as you won’t find a chiller and tub combo for less money. The larger chiller’s price becomes comparable to other inflatable cold plunges, though. 

The Inergize Cold and Hot Plunge Tub is priced at just under $100 more, and it is a larger tub, making it more ideal for a taller person. The Tru Grit Cold Tub is priced at $3,900 when bundled with their Ice Box chiller. Both of these other options have a 0.8-horsepower chiller as well.

With that said, the tub is made of high-quality nylon material which keeps its form much better than most inflatable ice baths we’ve tried out. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty tub that can easily be moved around, it might be worth the price tag. Lindsay rates the value of the Supertub a 4 out of 5.

Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge Specs

Using the Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge 

GGR Lead Reviewer Lindsay Scheele, ISSA-CPT, tried out the Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge over a few sessions. The chiller is able to go as low as 37 degrees Fahrenheit, or as hot as 108 degrees. Lindsay says the hot function is a bit higher than most chillers. “Normally, we’ve seen top temperatures of 102 or 104 degrees,” she says.

While in use, the chiller is one of the noisiest chillers we’ve tried. Lindsay adds, “It’s noticeably louder than others we’ve tried out. It won’t be much of an issue outside, but if you use it indoors, just know it’ll be loud enough to echo in a small room a bit.”

Another thing she noticed while testing is that the tubing on the cold tub formed much more condensation than other cold tubs. Like, a lot. There was water dripping from the tubing. Again, this probably won’t be a big deal if you’re using it outdoors, but inside, it might cause some water damage to your floors if you’re not careful.

RELATED: Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro Review

The cold plunge performed well and the chiller was effective, but because of the callouts above, we’d recommend this a little more for outdoor use than inside.

Footprint and Portability

At 52 inches long and 28 inches wide, the Hydragun Supertub is a compact cold tub. It only weighs 21 pounds dry, making it very easy to move around from one spot to another. While the chiller is 68 or 82 pounds, depending on the size, it’s set on wheels and pretty easy to maneuver as well. If you’re not satisfied with where you have it, the amount of work to relocate is minimal, earning the Supertub a 5 out of 5 for its footprint and portability.

RELATED: Ice Barrel Review

Durability and Construction

Compared to other inflatable ice baths, the Hydragun Supertub shines in its construction and durability, earning it a 4.5 out of 5 in this category. The Supertub is constructed of an SGS-certified military-grade marine vinyl. The military-grade material means it’s meant to last, and so far, it’s held up in Lindsay’s cold plunge experience.

Lindsay explains, “A lot of inflatable tubs start to lose their shape after a few uses; I can’t sit or lean on them too much or else the tub will start to bow or cave in. The Supertub holds up way better than others I’ve tried, and we’ve moved it, drained it, and filled it multiple times. I’ve sat on the edge with my full weight and it’s held its shape, too.”

The Ergonomics

With a 60-gallon capacity, the Supertub fit Lindsay just fine. However, at 5 feet and 4 inches tall, Lindsay admits that the smaller capacity of the cold tub may not suit larger or taller people. We had other product testers who are 6 feet tall try out the tub for cold water immersion, and they feel cramped in the cold plunge. Lindsay rates the ergonomics a 2 out of 5, as the smaller size won’t be suitable for everyone.

Conveniences

While the extras and features are fairly basic, the Supertub comes with quite a few nice perks. For one, a tub cover is included, which we feel is always a misstep if a cold plunge doesn’t include it (like with a couple Polar Monkeys Cold Plunges). It also has an anti-slip mat included to place your tub on, especially if you’re using your cold plunge outside.

For its filtration system, the Supertub includes a few items to help ensure the water is clean and pure through multiple sessions. A mesh strainer is provided for larger debris, and a water-balancing kit is included to ensure the water is at the right levels. Lindsay rates the conveniences a 4 out of 5.

One of the most unique inclusions in this Supertub kit is a phone mount, or selfie stick. You’ll be able to mount the phone to the side of your tub and watch your favorite YouTube or Netflix shows, or you can post a video of you surviving your cold plunge session. “I want to share with everyone if I did a session in under 40-degree water, so I love the inclusion of this selfie stick,” Lindsay jokes.

Draining and Cleaning

Along with the added water-balancing kits, the chiller includes a commercial-grade ozone generator. The self-cleaning generator creates ozone by adding energy to oxygen molecules within the water, which is then used for water disinfection and air purification. “Basically, it means it helps keep the water really clean through multiple uses,” Lindsay says. “My water has stayed clean after a few uses, so so far, so good.”

When it is time to drain the tub, there’s a drain plug that’s easily accessible. However, because we found the tubing to cause a lot of condensation, there may be a bit more upkeep involved with this cold tub—especially if you keep it indoors. Because of that, Lindsay rates the draining and cleaning a 4 out of 5.

RELATED: Cold Plunge vs Sauna

Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge vs Inergize Cold and Hot Tub

Inergize Cold and Hot Tub

Inergize Cold And Hot Plunge Tub

GGR Score: 4.35

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Product Highlights

• Inflatable cold plunge tub
• Filtration system and chiller
• App for temperature control
• Set temperature from 37 to 105 degrees

Pros & Cons

Pros

• App control for temperature
• Portable and packable
• Replace water every 3-6 months

Cons

• Expensive
• Tub inflates with hand pump
• Over a 4-week lead time for shipment

Bottom Line

The Inergize Cold and Hot Plunge Tub allows you to regulate the water temperature with the touch of your phone. You can prepare the water for hot or cold therapy modalities depending on your needs. The inflatable tank is portable and comes with a duffle bag for packing up and bringing with you. The tank has a 60- to 70-gallon water capacity and you can choose your temperature between 37 to 105 degrees.

The Hydragun Supertub is very comparable to the Inergize Cold and Hot Tub, with a couple of impactful differences. The prices are similar with the 0.8-horsepower models, because of the $400 flat shipping cost for the Supertub. The 0.6-horsepower chiller on the Supertub is  significantly cheaper, and is more cost-effective, if you don’t need a stronger chiller where you live.

Both tubs have similar dimensions and weights. However, the Inergize tub has a higher height, able to keep taller users (up to 6 feet and 4 inches) submerged to the neck. You won’t be able to do that with the Hydragun Supertub. So for larger people, Inergize is the way to go.

Read our Inergize Cold Plunge Tub review for more information on this hot and cold tub.

Customer Experience 

The Supertub has respectable policies for cold tubs. For one, there is a 30-day return policy, a risk-free guarantee to return the tub and get a refund. Lindsay warns, however, that “returning big items like a cold plunge tub or an exercise bike can be a pain in the butt.” So, make sure you really want the tub to avoid any hassle.

Additionally, the Supertub also has a 2-year warranty, which any time a cold tub offers multiple years on their warranties, it’s a win in our books. The Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge gets a 5 out of 5 for its strong policies.

Speaking of customer service, Hydragun has a couple of ways to contact them for any issues or questions, notably email or a contact form. With a pretty substantial FAQ page, Hydragun gets a 4 out of 5 for customer service.

Ordering and Assembling the Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge

Although Hydragun sells a few of its products on Amazon, the Supertub can only be purchased from hydragun.com. Financing is available through PayPal with interest-free payments every 2 weeks, or equal monthly payments. (The options and terms will depend on the price and your credit.) The Supertub is also HSA- and FSA-eligible.

There is no lead time for the Supertub; you should get your tub within 3 to 6 business days in the contiguous United States. (Alaska and Hawaii have to wait a bit longer, with delivery times of 7 to 9 business days.)

Assembly is virtually non-existent, as the cold tub comes with an electric air pump. It takes a few minutes to charge the pump, and about 10 minutes to fill the tank with air. We’d give the delivery and setup a perfect score, but because of the $400 flat rate shipping cost, we give it a score of 4.5 out of 5.

Customer Reviews

There are currently 17 product reviews of the Hydragun Supertub on the product’s website at the time of this writing. Those reviews are overwhelmingly positive, averaging 4.9 out of 5 stars, with only one 4-star review and the rest 5 stars.

Many of the positive reviews like the portability of the tub, along with an easy setup and assembly. They like the construction of the tub and think it’s an affordable price.

The lone 4-star review also thoroughly enjoys using the tub, but they wouldn’t give full marks, because they didn’t want to set it up themselves. While a white glove installation would be nice, the amount of setup required for this is pretty minimal, as the reviewer even admits to it taking less than 30 minutes.

Final Verdict of Our Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge Review

The Hydragun Supertub is a high-quality inflatable ice bath made with heavy-duty materials. Compared to similar products, the 0.8-horsepower Supertub is comparable in price to other inflatable tubs with larger capacities, making it a less-than-ideal choice, especially for taller athletes.

However, the smaller 0.6-horsepower chiller comes in at a lower price, making it a more cost-effective option for smaller people who don’t mind the size of the tub and who won’t need a more powerful chiller for extreme weather conditions. 

While this is a well-built tub, your specific needs will definitely impact the amount of value you see in this cold tub.

Full Rating

Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge

The Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge comes in two different size chillers—0.6 or 0.8 horsepower. If you’re in a more moderate climate, you won’t need the larger chiller. This inflatable cold tub is constructed of military-grade vinyl material and holds its shape well.

Product Brand: Hydragun

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 2999

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4.19

Hydragun Supertub Cold Plunge: FAQs

As someone who’s always on the hunt for new recovery tools, I was excited to hear about the release of the new Normatec Elite air compression recovery device. These innovative leggings are designed to accelerate athletic recovery, targeting the muscles of the leg to boost blood flow and reduce soreness. With customizable settings like multiple pressure levels and advanced zone controls, this is a phenomenal recovery device for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike. 

The Elite’s standout feature is an integrated control unit located directly on the side of each leg sleeve. This cutting edge technology eliminates the need for cumbersome hoses or bulky control units, which is honestly a huge quality of life improvement over the previous Normatec-3 model. 

In this Normatec Elite review, I’ll share my firsthand experience using the Normatec Elite, discussing whether it’s worth adding this device to your recovery routine. (Spoiler alert: These things feel amazing, but there are a few things you should consider before making the financial investment.) 

Our Reviews Are Intended To Help You Perform at Your Best

Our team of dedicated testers include certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, CrossFit Level 1 trainers, and even an Olympian. Many of us are home gym owners ourselves, and we use fitness equipment, sports supplements, and recovery tools on a daily basis. Whether we’re searching for the strongest pre-workout to pump up your performance at the gym, or discovering the best running shoes to help you tackle an upcoming marathon, we always strive to provide honest, unbiased reviews.

As a certified personal trainer, active CrossFitter, and recent HYROX racer, I’ve been using the Normatec Elite on an almost daily basis to enhance my recovery and athletic performance. This extensive usage has allowed me to thoroughly evaluate the overall customer experience, including performance, ergonomics and comfort, portability, and battery life. Additionally, I’ve assessed the construction and durability, warranty, and overall value for the money.

Normatec Elite

Hyperice Normatec Elite

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• Portable air compression boots
• 7 levels of compression
• 4 hours of battery life
• Bluetooth-enabled controls
• Supposed benefits include decreasing muscle soreness, increased circulation, and improved recovery

Pros & Cons

Pros

• More portable than previous iterations
• 4-hour battery life
• Bluetooth connectivity

Cons

• Expensive piece of equipment
• Can't replace traditional hands-on massage from a professional

Bottom Line

The Normatec Elite boots are the latest iteration of air compression boots from Hyperice. These are more portable than previous versions and are controlled via the Hyperice app. You'll get a 4-hour battery life and 7 levels of compression with these boots to supposedly help recovery and muscle soreness.

A Quick Look at the Normatec Elite Review

Normatec is a prominent brand in the field of athletic recovery and rehabilitation, known primarily for its dynamic air compression technology. Originally founded in 1998 by Dr. Laura Jacobs, a physician with a Ph.D. in engineering, the goal of the technology was to treat breast cancer patients with a circulatory condition called lymphedema. After years of working with patients on the medical side of life, the brand expanded its scope to the athletic realm, developing products to enhance athletic recovery and performance. These devices, which include the Normatec boots, arm attachments, and hip attachments, are now used by some of the most elite athletes in the world, including basketball legend Lebron James, quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs Patrick Mahomes, two-time CrossFit games champion Justin Medeiros, and pro surfer Kelly Slater.

In 2020, the company teamed up with Hyperice, another leading brand in the athletic recovery space known for products such as the Hyperice Hypervolt massage gun, and the Hyperice X knee and shoulder recovery devices. This collaboration has led to the creation of innovative products like the Normatec Elite, full-leg compression boots designed to enhance blood flow, reduce muscle soreness, and expedite recovery. 

In this review, I’ll cover my firsthand experience using the Normatec Elite, detailing how it works and how it compares to other recovery tools on the market. 

Before You Buy

• Normatec can be used as both a warm-up and post-workout recovery system. Using it for 15-20 minutes at medium intensity before a workout can help increase circulation and reduce muscle stiffness. After a workout, 20-60 minutes of medium- to high-intensity treatment can aid recovery by improving circulation and lowering blood lactate levels.
• The Normatec Elite isn’t full body and primarily targets the quads, hamstrings, and calves. If you’re not going on long runs, bike rides, or squatting heavy weights, then this particular product may not be best for you.
• Normatec may also be beneficial in medical and therapeutic settings, such as helping individuals recover from certain types of injuries.
• The price of $999 is a significant investment in your athletic performance and recovery. Be sure to evaluate your recovery needs, and how often you plan on using this device to justify the purchase.

Are the Normatec Elite Boots Worth It?

The Normatec Elite compression boots are an excellent investment for elite athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enhance their recovery process using tech. This device is ideal for those who regularly engage in intense physical activity and need a reliable method to reduce muscle soreness, expedite recovery, and maintain peak performance.

However, for casual exercisers or those on a tight budget, the Normatec Elite, at $999, may not be the most cost-effective recovery option. Additionally, individuals who prefer hands-on recovery methods, like massage therapy or traditional stretching routines, may not want an automated compression device. 

Normatec Elite Specs

Experience Using the Normatec Elite 

I’ve used various compression devices over the years, and without a doubt, the Normatec Elite is the simplest to use. There’s no setup or assembly required and you can put them on and start using them straight out of the box. My Elite came fully charged, and from unboxing to massaging took less than 5 minutes.

Here are a few things to note when using the Elite for the first time. Start by identifying the right and left legs—they are labeled above the control unit on each of the legs. For reference, the integrated control unit should be on the outside of your leg, not the inside. The power button is on the right side of the control units—just hold it for a second to turn on the two devices. You can then adjust the settings with three buttons, which you’ll only need to do on one of the control units because they are synced to one another. The level button adjusts the compression pressure and has seven levels that increase in intensity. The time button sets the duration of your session from 15 minutes up to an hour in 15-minute increments. Finally, the ZoneBoost button targets specific areas of the leg.

Once you have your settings ready, hit the start button and prepare for a relaxing and enjoyable massage. For your initial use, I suggest experimenting with different compression levels to find what suits you best. Note that you can change the pressure level during your session without stopping or resetting the device. I started at level three and worked up to level five after a few sessions. Even at level five, which provided excellent compression, I found the legs to be extremely comfortable. 

One thing to note is that while the pump is working, which is about 75% of the time, it emits a low hum similar to a massage gun. It’s like white noise and I barely notice it after a few minutes. It’s also worth commenting on the battery life, which is designed to last up to 4 hours. However, I’ve used the Elite for over 6 hours at this point and still haven’t had to charge the device.

After your session is complete, be sure to let the legs deflate properly before unzipping to avoid any damage. Once deflated, unzip and remove your legs. I recommend wiping them down with a slightly damp washcloth as your legs can get a bit sweaty during use. After cleaning, rezip the legs, fold them into thirds, and store them in the convenient carrying case that comes with the device.

Materials and Size

The Hyperice website doesn’t specify the exact material used for the Normatec legs, so I reached out to their customer service team and they informed me it’s a “nylon diamond ripstop” fabric. This type of fabric has a tight weave that offers superior strength while still being very light weight, providing the Normatec legs with a premium feel.

As far as the size, the Normatec Elite is available in three options, small (for heights up to 5 feet, 3 inches), medium (for heights from 5 feet, 4 inches to 6 feet, 3 inches), and large (for heights 6 feet, 4 inches and above), ensuring a fit for everyone. In addition, each leg weighs just over 3 pounds, making them extremely light and easy to put on by yourself.

Compression

For details regarding Normatec’s advanced compression technology, I interviewed Gilad Jacobs, Chief Innovation Officer at Hyperice and Founder of Normatec Recovery. 

Jacobs says the science behind Normatec’s devices lies in its dynamic air compression technology, which uses a patented massage pattern to mimic the body’s natural physiology to enhance blood flow. 

“The first mechanism (of the Normatec Elite) is the muscle pump of the gastrocnemius soleus, a pulsing action to get blood moving,” he explains. “Next up are the one-way valves on the veins and lymphatics which creates a directionality of flow, preventing gravity from bringing it (blood flow) right back down. Then we release the compression which is like peristalsis, the way that our body moves food and other things through our gut.” 

This dynamic pulsing action, and the constant compression and subsequent release of compression works to enhance blood flow, reduce muscle soreness, and expedite the recovery process.

The Normatec Elite offers seven levels of compression, ensuring you can find the perfect setting to meet your recovery needs. Personally, the highest I’ve gone is a five, which provided a powerful pressure that felt great—and I typically prefer the intensity of a deep-tissue massage. Additionally, the Elite features ZoneBoost technology, which allows for targeted compression by providing extra time and pressure to specific areas of the leg that need some extra attention. This is perfect for when you require focused recovery on a particular muscle group in the leg. 

Battery

The company claims that the Elite boots have a battery life of up to four hours, but in my experience they far exceed this expectation. I’ve used the Elite legs for eight 45-minute sessions so far, and I still haven’t had to charge them. This impressive battery performance truly highlights how Normatec seeks to over-deliver for their consumers.  

The actual charging device is a standard wall-outlet charger that conveniently connects to both legs simultaneously. This means you can charge both boots at the same time without needing to charge them individually, a feature that I find particularly convenient and efficient. 

Tech Capabilities and Conveniences

The Normatec Elite legs offer Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless integration with the Hyperice app on your smartphone. This allows you to easily customize your compression level, session duration, and ZoneBoost technology directly from your device.

Furthermore, the legs sync effortlessly with each other. When you initiate a session by setting your preferences on one leg and pressing start, the other leg automatically synchronizes with these settings and begins operating accordingly. This streamlined synchronization enhances user convenience and ensures a hassle-free experience.  

Normatec Elite vs Normatec 3 Legs

Normatec 3 Legs

Normatec Pulse Leg Recovery System

Check Price

Product Highlights

• 7 levels of compression
• Short, standard, and long boot sizes available
• Carrying case neatly packs away all component

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 7 levels of compression
• Short, standard, and long boot sizes available
• Carrying case neatly packs away all components

Cons

• Big, bulky, and hard to travel with
• Compression measurement (in mmHg) not specified online
• Expensive ($700-900 depending on where you buy)

Bottom Line

A hands-off way to increase blood circulation and improve muscle recovery.

The key difference between the Normatec Elite and the Normatec-3 compression boots lies in the quality of life improvements. 

The Normatec Elite offers consumers a seamless experience with two leg attachments, each of which has the control unit directly integrated into its side. This eliminates the need for a separate, standalone control unit and subsequent air hoses that are necessary components of the Normatec 3s. Moreover, the Elite boasts a slightly improved battery life, which enhances the usability between charges. Beyond these improvements, both models are designed to deliver identical compression performance, as well as incorporate the ZoneBoost technology for targeted recovery. 

Customer Experience 

Normatec is known for providing excellent customer support and backing their products with a standard one-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions. Customers seem pleased with Normatec’s customer service team and claim they address concerns promptly and efficiently. 

Regarding the return policy, customers have 30 days from the time they receive the Normatec Elite to initiate the return. Note that Hyperice does not cover shipping costs for returns. 

Customer Reviews

As the Normatec Elite is a recently launched product, customer reviews are not yet available. We will continue to monitor customer feedback on both the brand’s site and third-party sites and update this article accordingly once reviews become available. 

Final Verdict of Our Normatec Elite Review

Overall, the Normatec Elite is a phenomenal compression therapy device that may help speed up recovery and improve athletic performance. With seven levels of compression, the advanced ZoneBoost technology, and substantial quality of life improvements over the Normatec-3s (no separate control unit or hoses), we highly recommend this product for those who engage in intense physical activity and can justify the high price for a recovery product like this. 

Full Rating

Normatec Elite

The Normatec Elite boots are the latest iteration of air compression boots from Hyperice. These are more portable than previous versions and are controlled via the Hyperice app. You'll get a 4-hour battery life and 7 levels of compression with these boots to supposedly help recovery and muscle soreness.

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 999

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4.3

Normatec Elite: FAQs

References

1. Haun, C. T., Roberts, M. D., Romero, M. A., Osburn, S. C., Mobley, C. B., Anderson, R. G., … & Martin, J. S. (2017). Does external pneumatic compression treatment between bouts of overreaching resistance training sessions exert differential effects on molecular signaling and performance-related variables compared to passive recovery? An exploratory study. PLoS One, 12(6), e0180429.

As a rather large weightlifter and Olympian, I’m always a little nervous about vertical cold plunges. They can often be on the smaller side, with water capacities under 100 gallons. They’ll work for most people, but probably not for me.

However, GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, ISSA-CPT, got to try out the Cold Life Plunge recently, and she’s assured me that this can fit larger athletes like me. The Cold Life also claims that this will fit people up to 6 feet 9 inches tall…that should work for me.

But is it the right pick for everyone? We’ll explore who this ice bath is right for in our Cold Life Plunge review.

Professional Reviewers in Recovery Equipment

Since taking our deep dive into recovery tools like ice baths and home saunas, the folks at Garage Gym Reviews has tested quite a few cold plunge tubs—18 and counting. With our team of certified personal trainers, lifting coaches, and competitive athletes, we also have the expertise to know what to look for in top brands in the field of recovery.

Lindsay Scheele, the face of GGR Everything, tried out the Cold Life Plunge. Along with using it for a cold water immersion session, she looked at other aspects of the ice bath, rating each one on a scale from 1 to 5:

• Footprint and portability
• Delivery and setup
• Construction and durability
• Ergonomics and conveniences
• Draining and cleaning
• Overall value

Cold Life Plunge

Cold Life Plunge

GGR Score: 4

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Vertical cold plunge tub
• Cools down to 37 degrees Fahrenheit
• WiFi temperature control
• Tub and step ladder available in black or white
• Comes with lid
• Made in the USA

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful filter removes sediment for a clean tub
• Compact
• Step stool and tub available in black or white
• WiFi-enabled temperature control
• UV light disinfection

Cons

• Expensive

Bottom Line

The Cold Life Plunge is a sleek vertical tub that immerses the user in waters as cold as 37 degrees Fahrenheit and is super simple to set up and use, according to our expert product testers.

A Quick Look at The Cold Life Plunge

The Cold Life is a relatively new company, started in 2022 in an attempt to create a vertical cold plunge tub that provided insulation and cleanliness within one tub. Using inspiration from popular tumbler mugs, they designed the Cold Life Plunge, which is manufactured in the USA—specifically in Miami, Florida.

This type of biohacking product is a vertical cylinder that you sit in. The big barrel has a 43-inch height and comes with a stepping stool to help users climb in and out of it. The Cold Life Plunge has a chiller that can regulate the water temperature to as low as 37 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, it has a double filtration system, including a 150-micron filter.

Before You Buy

• The Cold Life Plunge tub can be bought separately from the Pro Curve Chiller. However, the additional chiller is only $3,000 more, and is currently marked down further in a bundle deal. Unless you plan to use a DIY cold plunge chiller, this sale price is the better value option in my opinion, as the tub’s regular price alone is $4,000. 
• In addition to accessories like a UV lid and weatherproof mat, you can purchase a custom logo that The Cold Life will print onto the outside of your cold tub.
• If you’re not sure about cleaning or maintaining the water in your ice bath, The Cold Life offers a 6-month maintenance system—with or without chlorine—for around $200.

Is The Cold Life Plunge Worth It?

While this isn’t as pricey as high-end cold plunge tubs like the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro, this is still an expensive piece of recovery equipment, costing about $7,000 with the chiller. That cost might simply put it outside of some customers’ price ranges. A better alternative for a vertical tub could be the Ice Barrel at $1,200—but you’ll have to use bags of ice for chilling that cold plunge.

Even at the larger price point, this ice bath still brings a lot of value, leading Lindsay to rate the value a 4 out of 5. “I was surprised by the cost of the tub when I first saw its price. It looks really sharp and is the biggest vertical tub that I’ve ever tried out,” Lindsay says. Her one gripe, however, is that the chiller doesn’t have a heat function as well. “If this tub could also do a hot function I would rate it even higher,” she adds.

Still, since it’s suitable for indoor and outdoor use and a large, comfortable vertical tub, this is a fantastic choice for people who prefer being seated while doing cold therapy.

Cold Life Plunge Specs

Using the Cold Life Plunge 

GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, ISSA-CPT, tested out the Cold Life Plunge for a 4-minute session. The water temperature started at 65 degrees and it took 10 minutes to reach the desired temperature of 55 degrees. The tub held the temperature very well.

RELATED: How To Cold Plunge

At 5 feet and 4 inches tall, Lindsay felt that this was the largest vertical cold plunge she had tested. Despite it being almost oversized for her, she had no problem climbing in or out of the cold tub. However, she does mention that the size could be a hindrance to some people. “Because of its large vertical design, you may want to avoid this if you have trouble hoisting yourself up with your upper body,” Lindsay warns.

Let’s look at Lindsay’s plunge experience and how the cold plunge performed during the rest of her cold water therapy session.

Footprint and Portability

Although this cold plunge is big, the vertical design keeps the ice bath relatively compact, with a diameter of 33 inches. Like most cold plunge tubs, once you fill the tank up, the weight won’t allow it to maneuver anymore, so make sure you know where you want the ice bath first.

The Cold Life Plunge is still fairly hefty when dry, with a weight of 78 pounds. That’s heavier than some inflatable ice baths, which can weigh as little as 30 pounds when empty. Because of the Cold Life Plunge’s weight and larger size, it’ll be a challenge to maneuver even when empty, earning it a 3 out of 5. However, the tub should move easily enough with the help of a friend.

RELATED: Tru Grit Cold Tub Review

Durability and Construction

Lindsay rates the durability and construction of the Cold Life Plunge a 5 out of 5. It’s made of thick aluminum, which holds its shape extremely well while in use. “There wasn’t any budging at all,” Lindsay explains. “It was very sturdy, and I had no problem resting all of my weight on the sides while dropping down into the water.” She expects this tub to last a long time, especially compared to other tubs she has tested. 

Ergonomics and Conveniences

While a spacious cold tub, the Cold Life Plunge only gets a 4 out of 5 from Lindsay, mainly due to its lack of frills in ergonomics. “While it is spacious and should be comfy for larger people, I didn’t feel like there was a comfortable place to lean your head back or rest your arms,” Lindsay adds.

The largest convenience the cold plunge has is the chiller. The chiller can cool down the water to your desired cold temperature, and features a hose filter to help with cleaning the water. 

Along with the chiller, the tub comes with a stepping stool, which Lindsay said looked like it was straight from a child’s playhouse. To make the stool more appealing, you can select the step color (although the choice is between white and black).

RELATED: Ice Bath Vs Cold Shower

Along with the included conveniences, there are optional extras as well, such as a UV lid, a weatherproof mat, and a skimmer net. Lindsay rates the options and conveniences a 4.5 out of 5, docking a bit of the score for not having mobile access to control the temperature.  

Draining and Cleaning

The Cold Life recommends checking your cold tub’s water daily for quick cleanings or skimming out debris. It also encourages the use of testing strips every few days to guarantee your water levels are correct.

Using harsh cleaning agents can void your 1-year warranty, so the Cold Life Plunge offers chlorine and chlorine-free maintenance kits. If you’re not sure what kind of cleaners to use, I’d go ahead and purchase a maintenance kit for about $200, which will last you for 6 months.

The company also suggests draining the tub on a quarterly basis, but you may need to change the frequency depending on how often you’re cold plunging. There’s a spout at the bottom of the barrel where you can drain the tub. You can attach a hose to it and drain the water through it, although Lindsay warns you may need an adapter for certain hoses. She rates the draining and cleaning a 4 out of 5.

Cold Life Plunge vs Nordic Wave

Nordic Wave

Nordic Wave Viking Cold Plunge

GGR Score: 4.1

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Product Highlights

• Vertical cold plunge tank
• 95-gallon capacity 
• Temperatures down to 38 degrees
• Chiller and filtration system
• Includes lid and step stool

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Three color options
• Upright sitting position
• 2”-thick insulation
• Aesthetic design

Cons

• Expensive
• Requires 120-volt power

Bottom Line

The Viking Cold Plunge from Nordic Wave is a vertical cold tub option that allows you to sit in an upright position. It also comes with a chiller and filtration system. Between the 0.75 horsepower chiller and the 2-inch-thick insulated walls, you can regulate temperatures of the 95-gallon tank as low as 38 degrees Fahrenheit.

Another popular (and larger) vertical cold plunge tub is the Nordic Wave, although its size still pales in comparison to the Cold Life Plunge. The Nordic Wave has a water capacity of 95 gallons. While the Cold Life Plunge doesn’t disclose its water capacity, we estimate it to be around 110 gallons, which is a substantial difference.

Another stark difference is the level of the warranty. The Cold Life Plunge has a 1-year warranty, which isn’t ideal for such an expensive piece of equipment. On the other hand, the Nordic Wave provides a 5-year warranty on the tub, and a 2-year warranty on the chiller. 

If you want a bit more protection against manufacturing defects, the Nordic Wave is the way to go. However, for larger athletes, the Cold Life Plunge will provide a roomier experience, and may be worth the extra cost when compared to the Nordic Wave. Neither one has a chiller that also heats. If you want a cold plunge that can convert into a hot tub, you’ll need to shop around for different chillers and heaters.

You can read more about this comparable vertical tub in our in-depth Nordic Wave Cold Plunge review.

Customer Experience 

The American-made Cold Life Plunge includes a 1-year warranty; for cold plunge tubs, we usually like to see a multi-year warranty. Additionally, they offer 30-day returns, but there is an automatic 10% restocking fee—plus you’re responsible for shipping costs. Because these aren’t the strongest policies we’ve seen from other recovery companies, Lindsay rates the policies a 3 out of 5.

The Cold Life has a pretty expansive FAQ section, which includes setup videos, manuals, and frequently asked questions. There are multiple ways to contact the company on their website—phone, email, and a live chat function. Lindsay contacted the company, and in her experience, she says, “They took two days to reach back out to me, but they were incredibly helpful and knowledgeable when they did.” She rates the customer service a 3.5 out of 5.

Ordering and Assembling the Cold Life Plunge

Sorry, Amazon users; you can only purchase the Cold Life Plunge directly from their website. Fortunately, shipping is free and included in your purchase. The website does warn customers that the cold plunge tub currently has a lead time of 6 to 8 weeks, so be ready to wait a bit for your ice bath. Financing options are available through Bread Pay, and the cold plunge tub is also HSA- and FSA-eligible.

The Cold Life Plunge comes in three parts: the tub, the chiller, and the stepping stool. The only assembly is connecting those three main parts, which Lindsay says is very intuitive. “There are instructions to connect everything, but it’s so easy, most people probably don’t need the instructions,” she says. She rates the delivery and setup a perfect 5 out of 5.

Customer Reviews

At the time of this writing, there is only one solitary review for the Cold Life Plunge. The customer rated it 5 stars. The reviewer is very happy with the results, saying that it “fits great on my balcony, [is] easy to get into and looks even better than pictures.”

We prefer to have more reviews on a product to see what the community thinks of it. As more reviews come in on the cold plunge, we’ll be sure to update this section.

Final Verdict of Our Cold Life Plunge Review

The Cold Life Plunge is a sturdy, durable, vertical cold plunge tub that is spacious enough for larger athletes. While still priced lower than premium cold plunges, the ice bath has a hefty price tag, approaching $7,000 with a chiller. Some may prefer the bathtub layout of other cold tubs (like The Cold Plunge). However, if you enjoy being vertical and sitting for your cold therapy, this is an excellent, high-end choice for larger people.

Full Rating

The Cold Life Plunge

The Cold Life Plunge is a sleek vertical tub that immerses the user in waters as cold as 37 degrees Fahrenheit and is super simple to set up and use, according to our expert product testers.

Product Brand: Cold Life

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 3995.00

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4

Cold Life Plunge: FAQs

References

1. Herrera, E., Sandoval, M. C., Camargo, D. M., & Salvini, T. F. (2010). Motor and sensory nerve conduction are affected differently by ice pack, ice massage, and cold water immersion. Physical therapy, 90(4), 581–591. https://doi.org/10.2522/ptj.20090131
2. Srámek, P., Simecková, M., Janský, L., Savlíková, J., & Vybíral, S. (2000). Human physiological responses to immersion into water of different temperatures. European journal of applied physiology, 81(5), 436–442. https://doi.org/10.1007/s004210050065
3. Kox, M., van Eijk, L. T., Zwaag, J., van den Wildenberg, J., Sweep, F. C., van der Hoeven, J. G., & Pickkers, P. (2014). Voluntary activation of the sympathetic nervous system and attenuation of the innate immune response in humans. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 111(20), 7379–7384. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1322174111 

With the complete kit weighing a mere 38 pounds, this cold plunge tub is touted as lightweight, portable, and able to be collapsed and traveled with. We’ve gotten our hands on this cold plunge tub and can now answer how true that is. More importantly, we’ll go over how well the ice bath performs in this Tru Grit Cold Tub review.

Professionals in Fitness and Recovery

With a rigorous fitness equipment testing methodology to back every category of health and fitness equipment we test and review, our team of certified personal trainers, lifting coaches, and competitive athletes have the experience and knowledge to thoroughly test the best muscle recovery tools, supplements, and strength equipment—providing you with our professional and honest opinion to help you make an informed decision on your home gym equipment.

GGR performance editor Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, CNC, tested out the Tru Grit Cold Tub. During and after his cold therapy session, he looked at different aspects of the ice bath and rated them on a scale from 1 to 5, including:

• Footprint and portability
• Delivery and setup
• Durability and construction
• Ergonomics
• Conveniences
• Draining and cleaning
• Overall value

Tru Grit Cold Tub

Tru Grit Inflatable Ice Bath

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Inflatable ice bath tub with designated fill and drain ports
• Industrial-grade stitched chassis with PVC shell
• 60” L x 30” W x 24” H exterior dimensions
• Interior size of 52.5” L x 24.5” W x 23.5” H
• Dry weight of 38 lbs

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Affordable
• Holds its shape well
• Optional chiller

Cons

• No extra features or conveniences
• Can’t drain tub entirely with drain port

Bottom Line

For those looking for a lightweight, portable cold plunge tub that can be traveled with, the Tru Grit Inflatable Ice Bath is an excellent option. Weighing only 38 pounds, this tub can be deflated and rolled up into a simple backpack, allowing for easy travel. Although there aren’t too many extra features behind the tub, it’s affordable and portable, making it a great option for anyone on the move.

A Quick Look at the Tru Grit Cold Tub

As I mentioned before, Tru Grit has been around the home gym space since 2019, partnering up with major stores like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart in 2020—maybe you’ve heard of those companies?

Tru Grit has been heavily involved in strength and cardio equipment, with the Tru Grit Runner making a big splash upon its release (mostly by undercutting competitors’ prices). Now, they’ve entered the recovery space with the Tru Grit Fitness Inflatable Ice Bath and the optional chiller, the Ice Box.

The main marketing point of the cold tub is that it’s portable and lightweight, being able to deflate and roll up into a backpack. The entire kit only weighs 38 pounds, and it’s compact enough to toss in the trunk of your car while traveling—if you want to travel with a cold plunge tub.

My favorite aspect, however, is the price point. You can get the Tru Grit inflatable tub for $899, not including shipping costs, making it a pretty competitively priced ice bath tub—even compared to other budget-priced tubs.

Before You Buy

• The inflatable ice bath can be bundled with the Ice Box, a 0.8-horsepower chiller compatible with the cold plunge tub. The cold therapy chiller is much pricier, but the bundle saves you a bit of money, costing a total of $3,900.
• At 63 pounds, the Tru Grit Ice Box isn’t quite as lightweight as the ice bath, although it’s still designed to be portable with wheels and a handle.
• You can find the inflatable ice bath on other online stores with free shipping, like Amazon; however, it’s $100 over the original price to cover shipping costs.
• Tru Grit currently ships to the USA, Canada, and the UK. For other shipping destinations, the company requests you contact them.

Is the Tru Grit Cold Tub Worth It?

Although it’s priced low at $899, there aren’t a lot of extras or convenient features to the tub…basically, what you see is what you get. The ice tub is designed pretty well, having fill and drain ports and being built of an industrial-grade drop stitched chassis covered with a high grade PVC shell.

Still, we would’ve liked to have seen some extras. “I would’ve liked to have had a phone holder or something so I could practice Wim Hof breathing exercises,” says Anthony. The option to add the chiller is nice, but also quadruples the price.

There are some cheaper options than just the cold tub, too, the most notable being The Cold Pod at under $200. However, this tub has a capacity of 84.5 gallons, which may not be as suitable for a larger person.

Beyond that, you could make some DIY cold plunges out of a stock tank or chest freezer, but that’ll require a bit of elbow grease to get it set up. Overall, Anthony rates the Tru Grit Cold Tub a 4 out of 5 on its value—an affordable, albeit simple, ice bath tub.

Tru Grit Cold Tub Specs

Using the Tru Grit Cold Tub

Anthony used the Tru Grit Cold Tub for just over 5 minutes at a temperature of about 42 degrees Fahrenheit. During that session, we also had other people test and try out the cold tub, and Anthony noted others’ responses, as well as how the cold tub held up to multiple uses. Overall, he was pretty pleased with his experience with the ice bath.

Let’s break down the aspects of this ice bath a little deeper.

Construction and Durability

The major question with an inflatable ice bath is how well the tub keeps its shape while in use. Anthony rates the durability and construction of the Tru Grit Cold Tub a 4 out of 5, saying, “The tub held its shape wonderfully as I got in and out of the tub. We had multiple people use it as well, and there weren’t any deformities after so much use.”

The cold tub is made with a PVC shell, and within is an industrial grade stitched chassis to help the tub keep its shape. We’ve used inflatable tubs before with similar PVC shells, and the material holds up pretty well.

RELATED: Inergize Cold Plunge Tub Review

Footprint and Portability

This is the highlight of the inflatable ice bath, earning a 5 out of 5 for its portable and lightweight design. The Tru Grit Cold Tub can be deflated and packed into a backpack. The entire kit weighs 38 pounds while dry.

I should probably note that the cold tub while in use—as in filled with water—won’t be portable at all. However, that’s an issue with all cold tubs once they’re filled with water. With a relatively easy draining system (more on that later), the tub can easily be drained and packed away for traveling to or from the gym, or even on a flight.

The option for that much portability may not be a need for everyone, but as an athlete who has traveled for competition, I think being able to travel with your recovery tools is a major plus.

Ergonomics

Our tester Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, CNC, is a pretty big guy at about 6 feet and 3 inches tall and weighing around 220 pounds. However, he felt nice and cozy in the ice bath. He explains, “I felt very comfortable in the tub, even at my height and build. It’s rare that something like this feels comfortable for a person my size.” While there’s no special back or arm rests on the tub, Anthony still rates the ergonomics a 4 out of 5.

Conveniences

The conveniences aren’t your typical features. For example, most ice baths have a phone holder, some way to regulate temperature, and other ways to make your experience easygoing.

The Tru Grit Cold Tub, however, has none of those features. Instead, the tub is portable and easy to set up and break down. It also comes with a backpack that acts as a carrying case for the tub while traveling. While traveling with a cold tub may not be a necessity for everyone, it’s definitely useful for athletes constantly on the move.

In addition to the portability of the ice bath and carrying case, the tub comes with a basic cover, repair kit, air pump, and the Tru Grit Rubber Floor Mat—which is pretty comparable to home gym flooring—to help protect your floor and the ice tub. Due to it being a rather simple ice bath, we rate the conveniences a 3 out of 5.

Draining and Cleaning

The ice bath as it is doesn’t come with a chiller or filter, so draining and cleaning will be much more routine than higher-end ice baths. The tub has a fill and drain port on the side which is compatible with most garden hoses. Anthony warns, “This isn’t any different than filling up a kiddy pool, but it has some limitations as well.”

RELATED: Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro review

For one, the drain port is about 4 inches from the bottom of the cold plunge tub, meaning that you’ll never be able to drain the last few inches of water out of the drain port. Anthony says, “To get that last bit of water out, you’ll either need a sump pump, or you’ll need to be able to deadlift the tub to dump out the water—something we’ve had to do in the past.”

This will require a decent amount of maintenance, especially if you use it outdoors; since it does have the functionality to be used with a chiller and filter, however, this can save you a lot of hands-on time. Anthony rates the draining and cleaning a 2.5 out of 5.

Tru Grit Cold Tub vs Redwood Outdoors Yukon Tub

Redwood Outdoors Yukon Tub

Redwood Outdoors Yukon Cold Plunge XL Deluxe Kit

GGR Score: 3.8

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Product Highlights

• Inflatable cold plunge tub kit
• Pump to inflate the tub included
• Deluxe chiller and heater combo
• Packable and portable
• Backpack carrying case comes included

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Straightforward installation
• Portable design

Cons

• Pricey
• Not insulated
• Changing water frequently is recommended

Bottom Line

The Redwood Outdoors inflatable Yukon cold plunge kit is a packable solution to bringing a cold with you on-the-go. It’s easy to inflate the tub with the pump that comes with the purchase. The main drawback to the inflatable design is the brand recommends changing the water frequently due to the fact that leaving water in the tub for 48 hours at a time can lead the tub to bulge and change shape through the center of the tub.

Another cold plunge tub that claims to be lightweight and portable is the Redwood Outdoors Yukon Tub, which is another inflatable ice bath. Pricewise, the tubs are comparable by themselves, but the Yukon Tub is a bit cheaper when bundled with a chiller. Furthermore, the Yukon also has an optional heater and chiller, which can make the cold tub also operate as a hot tub.

The Tru Grit tub is able to operate the same way, but you’ll need to find a different chiller than the Tru Grit Ice Box.

The other major difference between the two tubs is the size. We tested the Yukon XL tub, which is a larger tub than the Tru Grit. Although Tru Grit’s ice bath posed no problem for Anthony, the Yukon might be a bit more spacious for taller and larger athletes and users.

You can read more in our Redwood Outdoors Yukon Tub review.

Customer Experience 

Tru Grit Fitness offers 30-day returns on products. To qualify for a return, the tub has to be unused and in its original packaging. Original shipping costs are non-refundable.

The inflatable ice bath has a 1-year limited warranty, which is a middle-of-the-road warranty length for cold plunge tubs—earning it a 3 out of 5 for warranty and return policies. However, this is an understandable warranty for the lower price and materials used.

Customer service can be contacted through a variety of methods, all listed on their website: phone, email, contact form, or live chat even. For the many ways they can be contacted, Tru Grit earns a 5 out of 5 for customer service.

Ordering and Assembling the Tru Grit Cold Tub

The Tru Grit Inflatable Ice Bath is available for purchase directly from Tru Grit on their website, or on some other sites, such as Amazon or Dick’s Sporting Goods. Note that shipping is “free” on these sites, but the price is also $100 more to cover shipping costs.

Standard shipping takes about 3 to 5 business days, and next-day shipping is available in the United States. The lead time for international orders may vary depending on the products and distance to ship. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout.

Financing options are available through Afterpay or Shop Pay. The tub is very easy to set up and use, as it comes with a double action pump. Although you’ll have to do the pumping, you can pump the ice bath up within minutes, earning it a 4.5 out of 5 for delivery and setup. (Tru Grit recommends pumping the tub to a maximum pressure of 10 pounds per square inch.)

Customer Reviews

At the time of this writing, the Tru Grit Cold Tub has 13 reviews on Google Shopping, taken from various websites. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive with all being 5-star reviews aside from one 4-star review, averaging out to 4.9 stars out of 5.

The lone 4-star review mostly has complaints on the tub cover not fitting adequately and not fitting over the top—an issue we didn’t come across. This was an older review, so this issue may have been fixed since. The logo and lettering along the drain and fill ports had also smeared off over time.

Outside of that wear and the cover, the reviewer said it’s a good design and build. Other positive reviews remark on the tub’s easy setup and insulation, and also how easily the ice bath can fold up and be carried.

Final Verdict of Our Tru Grit Cold Tub Review

The Tru Grit Inflatable Ice Bath Tub is an affordable, lightweight cold plunge which is easy to set up, inflate, and then break down and carry for traveling. Although it lacks in extras and features, it makes up for it with a competitive price and solid construction. Here are some reasons this portable ice bath might be the right fit for you:

• Affordable price
• Option to add a chiller
• Solid construction that keeps its shape while in use
• Easy setup and quick breakdown

Full Rating

Tru Grit Cold Tub

For those looking for a lightweight, portable cold plunge tub that can be traveled with, the Tru Grit Inflatable Ice Bath is an excellent option. Weighing only 38 pounds, this tub can be deflated and rolled up into a simple backpack, allowing for easy travel. Although there aren’t too many extra features behind the tub, it’s affordable and portable, making it a great option for anyone on the move.

Product Brand: Tru Grit

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 899.99

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4

Tru Grit Cold Tub: FAQs

References

1. Herrera, E., Sandoval, M. C., Camargo, D. M., & Salvini, T. F. (2010). Motor and sensory nerve conduction are affected differently by ice pack, ice massage, and cold water immersion. Physical therapy, 90(4), 581–591. https://doi.org/10.2522/ptj.20090131
2. Stanley, J., Buchheit, M., & Peake, J. M. (2012). The effect of post-exercise hydrotherapy on subsequent exercise performance and heart rate variability. European journal of applied physiology, 112(3), 951–961. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-011-2052-7
3. Peres Valgas da Silva, C., Hernández-Saavedra, D., White, J. D., & Stanford, K. I. (2019). Cold and Exercise: Therapeutic Tools to Activate Brown Adipose Tissue and Combat Obesity. Biology, 8(1), 9. https://doi.org/10.3390/biology8010009
4. Kox, M., van Eijk, L. T., Zwaag, J., van den Wildenberg, J., Sweep, F. C., van der Hoeven, J. G., & Pickkers, P. (2014). Voluntary activation of the sympathetic nervous system and attenuation of the innate immune response in humans. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 111(20), 7379–7384. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1322174111

To help those who are curious about cold plunging—or the potential health benefits of cold water therapy—but don’t want to spend thousands of dollars, we tested The Cold Pod to see if this affordable cold plunge tub is worth it. We’ll let you know who it’s best suited for and dive into the details in The Cold Pod review. 

We’re Workout Recovery Experts 

Your friends at Garage Gym Reviews are well-versed in the world of strength, conditioning, and recovery. We’re staffed with fitness professionals who hold some of the gold standard credentials in the industry, including CrossFit Level 1 Trainers, and certified personal trainers from ACE, ISSA, NASM, and NSCA. 

Needless to say, our experts know a thing or two about training and active recovery. For The Cold Pod Review, GGR tester and ISSA-CPT, Lindsay Scheele used the no-frills ice bath a handful of times. Lindsay is an avid cold plunger and sauna user and loves to pair the two recovery methods together after her workouts. 

During the testing process, Lindsay used our in-depth fitness equipment testing methodology to score several different categories on a scale of 1 to 5, which we’ll cover in more detail throughout the review. Lindsay was tasked with scoring The Cold Pod on value, ergonomics, durability, and the ordering and assembly process, to name a few. 

The Cold Pod

The Cold Pod

GGR Score: 3.4

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Product Highlights

• Affordable
• Single-person cold tub
• Portable
• Spacious

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Portable
• Easy setup
• Cover and carrying case included

Cons

• No temperature control
• Long shipping times for US customers

Bottom Line

The Cold Pod is one of the most affordable cold tubs on the market, though it lacks some tech features such as temperature control.

A Quick Look at The Cold Pod

The Cold Pod—not to be confused with The Pod Company, the manufacturer of The Ice Pod, a remarkably similar product—is based in the United Kingdom and ships worldwide. 

However, we found it easy to order The Cold Pod from Amazon. The brand manufactures several cold tub models including The Cold Pod XL, Elite Bath, and Elite Barrel. For the purposes of this review, we’ll focus on the original model: The Cold Pod. 

RELATED: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment on Amazon

Before You Buy

• There is no chiller for temperature regulation on this cold tub. 
• You’ll have to buy bags of ice if the water from your water tap isn’t cold enough for your liking. 
• The Cold Pod is collapsible for easy portability and storage, but keep in mind it’s pretty much a PVC tub and may not have long-lasting durability. 

Is The Cold Pod Worth It?

The Cold Pod earns 4 out of 5 stars when it comes to value. It’s priced around $200 on Amazon, but we’ve seen it marked down for much less. At the time of writing this review, The Cold Pod was on sale under $100. And if you have Amazon Prime, you won’t need to worry about additional shipping fees. 

However, our tester Lindsay notes it’s not the most durable cold plunge option on the market. “This tub won’t last forever,” says Lindsay. “But, if you’re on a budget and really want a cold tub, I say sure, get The Cold Pod.” 

Keep in mind most cold tubs are priced over $2,000. For example, The Cold Plunge, which we discussed in detail in The Cold Plunge review, is priced at nearly $5,000. But at this price, you’ll get temperature regulation, water filtration, and a durable (and sleek-looking) acrylic tub. 

The Cold Pod Specs

Using the The Cold Pod

GGR tester Lindsay used The Cold Pod for several 5-minute cold water immersion sessions before giving her full review. Additionally, Lindsay recruited GGR film director, Nathan Hay—who is about 10 inches taller than her at 6 feet and 2 inches tall—to use the cold plunge and gauge the ergonomics on both their heights. 

It’s a rather short cold tub at 29.5 inches tall and the same in diameter. While Lindsay thinks the portability is a nice feature, she also understands the small size is going to be a limiting factor for many home gym owners and wellness seekers. 

Lindsay also didn’t enjoy adding ice to The Cold Pod and prefers cold plunge tubs with temperature regulation from a chiller. And as we mentioned previously, those types of tubs have price tags over $2,000. The Cold Pod is ideal for anyone who just wants a step up from a DIY cold plunge.  

RELATED: DIY Cold Plunge Ideas

Footprint and Portability

Lindsay scored The Cold Pod 5 out of 5 stars when it came to footprint and portability. The tank is 29.5 inches in diameter and 29.5 inches tall. It’s not bulky and is super portable when empty. When you decide to pack it up and stow it away, all you have to do is slip the support legs out from the tub lining. The rest of the tub is pliable and collapses into a carrying bag. 

It’s 7.7 pounds (3.5 kilograms) dry. With an 84.5-gallon (320-liter) capacity, it’s about 680 pounds when filled with water. 

Durability and Construction

The Cold Pod earns a 2-star rating for durability. Lindsay wasn’t impressed with the PVC construction and even went as far to say that The Cold Pod is flimsy. 

The Cold Pod construction—which includes a PVC inner layer, a middle layer of pearl foam, and a vinyl exterior—is all pretty flexible and doesn’t hold the tank’s shape on its own. Lindsay notes the tension of the water is what prevents the PVC tub from collapsing in on itself. 

While that may not be a huge issue—because you will ultimately have your cold plunge filled with water—Lindsay says, “It’s actually hard to get out of The Cold Pod because you can’t support your body weight on the edge.”

“To get out you need enough strength and mobility to stand up with just your legs,” she adds. 

It’s also important to understand that the PVC cold plunge tub doesn’t offer heavy-duty insulation. While The Cold Pod can be used indoors or outdoors, Lindsay notes if you live in an area with cold weather, “I would be worried that water freezing inside the pod could ruin the shape or material.” 

RELATED: How to Cold Plunge

Comfort and Ergonomics

The Cold Pod earns another low score in the ergonomics department with a 2-out-of-5-star rating from our tester Lindsay. It’s worth reiterating that it’s not easy to get out of the tub because you can’t support your body weight on the edges. This means folks with mobility issues (or strength training beginners) may find getting in and out of The Cold Pod difficult. 

Plus, it’s a super short tub that stands under 2.5 feet tall, so we can assume that most people are sitting down fully in the criss-cross-apple-sauce position. It’s also only 29.5 inches wide, which won’t be suitable for larger folks. 

GGR film director Nathan Hay (who is over 6 feet tall) had to squeeze himself in when he tested The Cold Pod. His first impressions: not great. 

That said, Lindsay suggests The Cold Pod could be a fun way for kids and teens to dunk in cold water since it’s not too deep. But overall, it wasn’t an enjoyable experience for her. “It’s cramped, it wasn’t relaxing, and I wouldn’t want to use this as a part of my recovery routine,” says Lindsay. “I’d rather take a cold shower instead.” 

RELATED: Ice Bath vs Cold Shower

Lindsay thinks vertical cold plunge tubs need to be a little more spacious, like the ones we tested for our Nordic Wave Cold Plunge review and our Ice Barrel review (stay tuned for a side-by-side comparison of the Ice Barrel and Cold Pod later in this review). 

Draining and Cleaning

While The Cold Pod isn’t the most high-quality cold plunge tub we’ve tested, we appreciate that the draining and cleaning requirements are easy to follow. From our extensive cold tub testing experience, we’ve found that draining cold plunge tanks is not always easy. 

In fact, in our Redwood Outdoors Yukon Tub review, we detail the cleaning requirements of this inflatable tub, which needs to be drained every 48 hours to prevent the tub from bulging. And the drain spout isn’t situated at the bottom of the tub.

The Cold Pod earns 5 out of 5 stars in this category because the drain is situated at the very bottom of the tub. You can attach the drain port to a regular garden hose for draining into a sink or open the valve and let it drain if you’ve got it set up outdoors.  

The Cold Pod brand suggests changing the water once a week or using additives (like bromine or chlorine tablets) to keep the water sanitary for longer. 

The Cold Pod vs Ice Barrel 400

Ice Barrel

Ice Barrel

GGR Score: 2.9

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Product Highlights

• Cold therapy tub for full body immersion 
• Made from recycled plastic
• Comes with ice barrel, lid, step stool, etc. 
• Holds 105 gallons of water
• 31″ barrel opening

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Made in USA
• Available in two colors: black and desert tan
• Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

• Expensive
• Difficult to get in and out of
• Refill with 40-100 lbs of ice very 1-3 days

Bottom Line

The Ice Barrel is a way to incorporate ice baths into your workout recovery routine without having to use your bathtub. The Ice Barrel requires at least 40 pounds of ice to achieve appropriate cold plunge temps. Once filled, the barrel can maintain its temperature for one to three days depending on the surrounding environment.

For portability reasons, The Cold Pod is comparable to many of the inflatable cold plunge tubs we’ve tested (like the one featured in our Sun Home Sauna Cold Plunge review). However, based on price, shape, and bare-bones design, we think the Ice Barrel is the most comparable ice bath we’ve tested to The Cold Pod. 

Neither the Ice Barrel nor The Cold Pod come equipped with a water chiller to regulate the temperature. Both rely on you adding ice to get the water to your desired temperature. But for beginners, groundwater temperature from your tap may be enough to get acclimated to cold plunge ice bath sessions. 

The Ice Barrel has a hard, recycled plastic exterior and weighs about 55 pounds dry. You won’t have any issues with it holding its shape, and it’s more suitable for a wide range of body shapes and sizes. But, some users may still find the 31-inch wide opening too narrow. We have even more details and specs in our Ice Barrel review. 

Ordering and Assembling The Cold Pod

Since The Cold Pod company is located in the UK, we used Amazon for fast and free shipping versus ordering directly from thecoldpod.com. When you use Amazon, your purchase is eligible for 30-day returns if you’re not satisfied. All you have to do is navigate to the “returns and orders” button on the top right corner of your Amazon browser to start the process. 

Once The Cold Pod arrived at GGR HQ, unboxing was super easy. Out of the box, you’ll have to use the included PVC pipes to support the tub liner. “It’s like setting up a little tent,” says Lindsay, who scored both the setup process and customer service experience 4 out of 5 stars. 

“It took less than 10 minutes to set up the tub. It will not require any prior assembly knowledge,” she adds. Plus, Lindsay mentions that because there are no chiller or power requirements, you can set it up anywhere as long as you have a level surface. The only time-consuming process was filling the 85-gallon tank. Depending on your water pressure, the amount of time will vary.

Customer Reviews

On Amazon, The Cold Pod has a 4.3-out-of-5-star average rating based on over 200 reviews. About 68% of customers gave The Cold Pod a 5-star rating, with one happy customer noting the affordable ice bath was a game changer to their recovery routine. 

The negative ice bath reviews question the overall durability and longevity of The Cold Pod. Some customers even experienced leaking right away. 

Final Verdict of The Cold Pod Review

While The Cold Pod offers an inexpensive price tag, this is not a cold plunge tub we recommend to everyone. It’s not ideal for tall people or bigger folks. The Cold Pod is also not suitable for anyone who lacks mobility because you can’t lean into the sides to get out of it. We recommend this pop-up tub for anyone who: 

• Is under 6 feet tall 
• Can stand up from sitting on the floor without assistance
• Doesn’t want to spend much more than $200 on a cold plunge
• Won’t mind buying ice bags to make the water colder

Full Rating

The Cold Pod

The Cold Pod is one of the most affordable cold tubs on the market, though it lacks some tech features such as temperature control.

Product Brand: The Cold Pod

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 159.99

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.4

The Cold Pod: FAQs

References

1. Kox M, van Eijk LT, Zwaag J, et al. Voluntary activation of the sympathetic nervous system and attenuation of the innate immune response in humans. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2014;111(20):7379-7384. doi:10.1073/pnas.1322174111
2. Srámek P, Simecková M, Janský L, Savlíková J, Vybíral S. Human physiological responses to immersion into water of different temperatures. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2000;81(5):436-442. doi:10.1007/s004210050065

It makes sense that many home gym users try to use both methods in their recovery to reap the most health benefits they can, either through separate hot and cold sessions or through contrast therapy (alternating cold plunging with heat therapy). I myself have used both methods in my 25-year-long career in Olympic weightlifting.

Many companies that focus on cold therapy will try their hand at saunas and heat therapy, and vice versa. One of the most recent companies to take the plunge is…well, Plunge. Known for the high-quality Cold Plunge and other cold water tubs, Plunge designed their sauna with durable cedar and hemlock. The sauna is also designed to accommodate friends or a single hot yoga session.

How does this sauna stack up to other saunas? In this Plunge Sauna review, we’ll cover the highs and lows of this product, to see if it’s worth your hard-earned money.

Heating Up With Testing Recovery Products

Having tested fitness equipment since 2014, Garage Gym Reviews has a handle on honest expert reviews, giving you unbiased feedback from our talented team of certified personal trainers, weightlifting coaches, and competitive athletes. When we review products, we know what to look for, based on years in the fitness industry.

In the last year, we’ve taken a deep dive into recovery products, testing over a dozen saunas and 15 cold plunges—and the number continues to grow. (We’ve even tried our hand at some DIY cold plunge tubs.)

For the Plunge Sauna, our expert tester, both a certified personal trainer and CrossFit Level 1 trainer, tried out the sauna for multiple 10-minute sessions. Along with testing its performance in those sessions, he rated other aspects of the sauna with a score between 1 and 5, including:

• Footprint
• Construction
• Features and extras
• Delivery and setup
• Overall value

Plunge Sauna

Plunge Sauna

GGR Score: 4.13

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Available in standard and XL sizes
• Traditional steam or dry sauna
• Can seat 5 people (7 in XL)
• Slanted wall provides ergonomic backrest
• Benches can fold up to open sauna for stretching or standing
• Incense cedar exterior with pine and hemlock interior
• Waterproof roof provides outdoor protection
• Requires 240V outlet

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Slanted wall for ergonomic backrest
• Foldable benches
• Can seat multiple people
• Good for indoor or outdoor use
• High top temperature

Cons

• Expensive
• Requires 240V outlet

Bottom Line

The Plunge Sauna is a versatile take on a traditional Finnish sauna. With a slanted back wall, the Plunge Sauna provides an ergonomic backrest to add comfort to your sauna session. Additionally, the benches fold up to allow more space for standing or stretching. The electric heater is able to let the sauna reach temperatures up to 230 degrees, according to the company.

A Quick Look at the Plunge Sauna

In 2020, Plunge made a splash in recovery with its flagship tub, the Plunge, originally called the Plunge Cold Plunge. As mentioned in the Cold Plunge review, the tub is expensive, but saves users a lot of trips to grocery stores for bags of ice. It also saves time since you don’t have to refill and dump water after each session.

Since its inception, Plunge has released several new cold plunge tubs to innovate the cold plunge experience, including the Plunge All-In, the Plunge Evolve XL, and the budget-friendly Plunge Pop-Up—an inflatable tub with an optional chiller and heater that can let the tub operate as an ice bath or hot tub.

RELATED: Plunge Evolve Series Review

After a few successful years with cold plunge tubs, Plunge entered heat therapy with their sauna in 2023. The Plunge Sauna is made with aesthetics in mind, with strong, angular sides giving a modern look to a traditional dry sauna. The interior is simple, sleek, and easy to clean. The functionality of the sauna is impressive, too, as the two rows of benches can fold when not in use, allowing you to use the rubber flooring for stretching or hot yoga.

I talked to Thomas Barbeau, CSCS, SCCC, an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Carolina Panthers, about the benefits of home saunas, and he prefers traditional saunas like the Plunge Sauna. “Much of the research suggests that a 20-minute session above 176 degrees is the ideal time and minimum temperature to get the full benefits of heat therapy,” he says. 

RELATED: Best Outdoor Sauna

He adds that sessions can be shorter with 200-degree sessions or warmer, which is perfect for the Plunge Sauna, since it can max out at 230 degrees Fahrenheit.

RELATED: Dry Sauna Benefits

Before You Buy

• The price of the Plunge Sauna is comparable to a used car. Make sure you look at the financing options Plunge offers through Bread Pay, with interest as low as 0% if you qualify. It’s also FSA-eligible.
• Plunge offers white-glove delivery and assembly, so if building out this sauna seems intimidating, there’s an option where you won’t need to handle the installation at all. But it’ll also cost about $2,000 extra. Yikes.
• Although Plunge says the sauna will seat 5 people comfortably in the standard size, after testing it, we feel the number is more like 3 or 4 folks. Plunge claims the XL version seats 7, but you can expect that to be a tight fit as well.
• For $150, you can add a sauna kit to your order, including a bucket and ladle, thermometers and timers, and some sauna hats to keep your head cool.

Is the Plunge Sauna Worth It?

The Plunge Sauna performed well in our testing, so it’s definitely worth the investment…if it fits your budget. It has one of the highest price tags we’ve come across so far in trying out home saunas—about $11,990 for the standard size (though we often see it on sale for $1,000 less).

By comparison, the Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna is close to $2,000 cheaper than the Plunge Sauna and seats people a bit more comfortably (although five people is a stretch for both saunas).

The Plunge Sauna’s higher price is due to the HUUM stone heater, which can get up to 230 degrees Fahrenheit. No infrared sauna will get close to those temperatures, so if you’re looking for things to heat up, the Plunge sauna is a solid bet. I’d like to see a warranty higher than two years for this price, however.

Our expert product tester rates the value a 4 out of 5, and quotes GGR founder Coop Mitchell on the quality sauna’s high price: “Buy once and cry once, right?”

Plunge Sauna Specs

Using the Plunge Sauna

Our expert product tester (CPT, CF-L1) took the Plunge Sauna through a couple of 10-minute sessions and liked its performance. As a traditional sauna, it’ll take a long time to heat up, “But once it reaches the goal temperature, it holds it really well,” our tester says.

One of the main callouts our product tester had was the interface on the outside of the sauna. The exterior controls weren’t easy to use, and he preferred using the Plunge app to make adjustments. Still, you have to connect to the WiFi first through the exterior controls, so either way you’ll have to use the interface, and it’s not the most user-friendly tool.

Let’s take a deeper look at the Plunge sauna—its build and performance in particular.

Footprint

With a waterproof roof, the Plunge Sauna is made for both indoor and outdoor use, although it might be hard to fit in some spaces. Since it’s 95 inches high, you’ll have to consider your ceiling height if placed inside—along with another 12 inches to allow adequate space and ventilation around the sauna. With a footprint of 68 inches wide and 71 inches long, it may not fit in some compact areas, inside or outside.

Part of the reason the sauna takes up so much space is that it is built to fit five people. With two benches situated on an angled back wall, it does use the interior space well. However, our product tester says, “After spending some time in the sauna, I think it’d fit more like four people comfortably…maybe closer to three, depending on the size of the people.” The sauna earns a 3.5 out of 5 for the footprint.

Construction

The build of the Plunge Sauna is solid, and our product tester rates the construction a 5 out of 5. The exterior and benches are made from aromatic incense cedar, a wood resistant to mildew and insects, making the sauna an excellent outdoor choice. The interior is made from hemlock, which is also mildew- and stain-resistant.

RELATED: Redwood Outdoors Sauna Review

The back wall and roof of the Plunge Sauna are sloped, which gives a very modern feel to the traditional sauna and acts as an angled backrest for users. The roof is waterproof to further protect the sauna in the outdoors.

The benches can be flipped up easily, allowing space for light stretching or yoga. The flooring is rubber to provide a good surface for your session, too.

Most importantly, there were no leaks of air in the sauna during testing, allowing it to heat up well and retain its heat. Speaking of which…

Performance

The Plunge Sauna holds up exceptionally well, earning a 4 out of 5 for its performance. It holds its temperature very well. As our product tester says, “It took 30 minutes for the sauna to cool back down after I had turned it off.” However, getting to the temperature was the challenge, as it took a while—like, a while.

“I set the heat for my sauna session to 185 degrees and timed the sauna. Starting from 70 degrees, it took 56 minutes and 43 seconds to get to 185 degrees,” our product tester says. While this length of time isn’t too long for a large dry sauna, it’s much longer than the warm-up time of the best infrared saunas—which are increasing in popularity. Infrared saunas are usually half the time, or even faster in some cases (The Sun Home Luminar Sauna took under 10 minutes to reach its temperature of 160 degrees).

Once the sauna reached its set temperature, it retained the heat well, varying slightly within five degrees. If you’re patient enough for the wait, this sauna will get hot and stay hot.

Features and Extras

The included features of the Plunge Sauna are fairly basic: ventilation, a phone holder, LED lighting with a remote, and a HUUM stone heater with stones. The shining feature according to our product tester was the Plunge app. Being able to control the temperature of the sauna through the app was effortless, especially considering the exterior controls were clunky at best, using a dial knob to connect to WiFi. “For its price, I was expecting a better interface,” our tester explains.

One thing to note as well is that the heater will require a 220-volt outlet, which isn’t common in too many households. You’ll most likely have to have an electrician install the new outlet, which will add to an already substantial price tag.

Our product tester rates the features and extras a 4 out of 5.

Plunge Sauna vs Sun Home Luminar Infrared Sauna

Sun Home Luminar

Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• Outdoor full-spectrum infrared sauna
• Only need a screwdriver and included Allen wrench for assembly
• Grade-A carbonized all-season wood exterior to prevent warping and cracking
• Cedar interior
• Panoramic glass windows for view of outside
• Requires 240V outlet

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Sleek design
• Minimal tools for assembly
• Outdoor infrared sauna
• Full-spectrum infrared
• Grade-A carbonized wood

Cons

• Heavy
• Expensive
• More of a 4-person sauna
• Requires 240V outlet

Bottom Line

The Sun Home Luminar Outdoor Infrared Sauna has a sleek aesthetic to its design, while also being functional. One of the only infrared saunas that are able to be set up outdoors, this sauna has an exterior built from Grade-A carbonized wood to prevent warping, cracking, and shrinkage of the exterior. This sauna is a full-spectrum infrared sauna, providing near, mid, and far infrared heat in the sauna.

The Sun Home Luminar Infrared Sauna is another large sauna specifically made for outdoors, unlike the versatile Plunge Sauna’s indoor or outdoor design. Also the Sun Home sauna is an infrared sauna. One of the main benefits of an infrared sauna compared to a traditional sauna is the quicker heating time—under 10 minutes compared to the Plunge Sauna’s 56 minutes.

Still, the outdoor infrared sauna won’t get up to as high of a temperature as the Plunge Sauna, topping out at 165 degrees. Although it may take a bit of time, the Plunge Sauna can reach 230 degrees.

Another point to compare is the warranty. Plunge offers a 2-year warranty, which is a bit less than what Sun Home offers on the Luminar. The Luminar’s controls are covered for 3 years; meanwhile the cabinetry and heaters are covered for 7 years. This is a huge factor if you’re wanting your sauna to last, and we’d like to see Plunge include longer warranties, especially with its high cost.

With the added functionality of modular benches and a higher temperature, the Plunge Sauna’s expensive price may be worth it. But if you think an infrared sauna will better suit your needs, check out our Sun Home Sauna review for more information.

Customer Experience 

Plunge has pretty good policies for their products, including a 30-day return policy and financing options for their tubs and sauna. Returns must be in the original packaging and you’ll be charged a 15% restocking fee. Financing is available through Bread Pay; the sauna is also FSA-eligible. 

Multi-year warranties on saunas are ideal, and the Plunge sauna has a 2-year warranty. While that’s good, we’d love to see a longer warranty on such an expensive item. Our product tester rated the policies a 4.5 out of 5 for that reason.

Here’s a quick disclaimer though: You can extend your warranty another 3 years, but it’ll cost an extra few hundred dollars. Customer service can be contacted by phone or through a contact form on the Plunge website. 

Ordering and Assembling the Plunge Sauna

The Plunge Sauna can be ordered directly from Plunge’s website. Both our product tester and customer reviews agree: The Plunge Sauna assembly process is pretty well-thought out. The pieces are laid out nicely in its packaging and the instructions are simple and precise.

That said, this is still a beast of an assembly. Our product tester says, “We suggest at least four people to build this sauna, although six might be good, too. While the pieces are marked out and the instructions are easy to follow, you need a lot of hands to hold large pieces together until you get all four outer walls assembled.”

Due to the number of people needed to put this sauna together, we rated the delivery and assembly a 3.5 out of 5. If the setup is worrisome to you, though, Plunge does offer white-glove delivery and assembly—instead of curbside delivery—although it’ll cost another $2,000.

Customer Reviews

At the time of this writing, there are only nine reviews on Plunge’s website for the Plunge Sauna. Reviews are positive, however, with the sauna earning 4.7 out of 5 stars from only 4- and 5-star reviews.

Some reviews had minor complaints; one review would’ve liked to have seen the screws used covered up to add to the clean look of the sauna. Another review had a couple more reservations, noting that the glass seems thin on the sauna. Additionally, the change in temperature from the floor to the ceiling is significant.

This reviewer also had issues with connecting the app to the sauna, which is surprising, as we had no issues with the app. However, keep that in mind and contact customer service if you have any issues yourself.

Final Verdict of Our Plunge Sauna Review

There are a lot of ways to address your recovery: sleep, supplements, or even biohacking. If you have the budget to add a sauna into your wellness routine, the Plunge Sauna is a solid option, although it will simply be outside some people’s price range.

Still, if you can afford it, the Plunge Sauna is a high-end dry sauna that performs well, reaches a top temperature of 230 degrees, and has added functionality through its modular benches.

Full Rating

Plunge Sauna

The Plunge Sauna is a versatile take on a traditional Finnish sauna. With a slanted back wall, the Plunge Sauna provides an ergonomic backrest to add comfort to your sauna session. Additionally, the benches fold up to allow more space for standing or stretching. The electric heater is able to let the sauna reach temperatures up to 230 degrees, according to the company.

Product Brand: Plunge

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 11990

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4.13

Plunge Sauna: FAQs

References

1. Ahokas EK, Ihalainen JK, Hanstock HG, Savolainen E, Kyröläinen H. A post-exercise infrared sauna session improves recovery of neuromuscular performance and muscle soreness after resistance exercise training. Biol Sport. 2023 Jul;40(3):681-689. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2023.119289. Epub 2022 Sep 15. PMID: 37398966; PMCID: PMC10286597.
2. Peake JM, Roberts LA, Figueiredo VC, Egner I, Krog S, Aas SN, Suzuki K, Markworth JF, Coombes JS, Cameron-Smith D, Raastad T. The effects of cold water immersion and active recovery on inflammation and cell stress responses in human skeletal muscle after resistance exercise. J Physiol. 2017 Feb 1;595(3):695-711. doi: 10.1113/JP272881. Epub 2016 Nov 13. PMID: 27704555; PMCID: PMC5285720.

We’ve tested many full-sized saunas but wanted to test the Sunlighten Solo System Portable Infrared Sauna to see if it’s worth the investment. While it’s portable and fairly easy to use at home, it’s a costly investment and will not suit every body type. In this Sunlighten Solo Sauna review, we’re going to share our insights on our sauna bathing experience, what we liked, and what we’d like to see improved.

Recovery and Mobility Pros at Your Service

Our team of experts at Garage Gym Reviews are fitness industry professionals who hold some of the industry’s top credentials and certifications. We’re well versed on strength, conditioning, and the top active recovery methods to recuperate from strenuous exercise. 

For this Sunlighten Solo Sauna review, expert tester and ISSA-CPT Lindsay Scheele used the portable infrared sauna for several sessions before giving her full review. She’s a cold plunge and sauna enthusiast and our lead reviewer at Garage Gym Reviews Everything YouTube channel. 

During her testing process, she was tasked with scoring the overall value, heat performance, and ergonomics (among other things) on a scale of 1 to 5 using our in-depth equipment testing methodology. 

Sunlighten Solo Sauna

Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna

GGR Score: 3.8

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Infrared sauna
• Zone-based heating
• Sliding double-dome system
• Lightweight design, easy to store

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Designed for small spaces and movability
• 5 zone-based digital heaters
• 4 color-changing modes
• Infrared heater
• Increases core body temperature

Cons

• Pricing isn't easily to find on website
• Size may not be a suitable for all users

Bottom Line

The Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna is designed for movability and compact storage. It has multiple zone-based digital heaters and built-in chromotherapy features.

A Quick Look at the Sunlighten Solo Sauna

The Sunlighten Solo System sauna is not a full-sized sauna nor is it a sauna blanket. Essentially, it’s a retractable half-dome made from bamboo carbon and sized for one person with a heated pad underneath. The Solo System is two separate pieces (dome and pad) and each part gets plugged in and has its own heat control. 

The brand also manufactures full-sized saunas (like the Sunlighten mPulse Smart Sauna and the Amplify Full Spectrum Sauna) but for the purposes of this Sunlighten review, we’re going to focus on the one-person full-spectrum infrared light portable sauna. 

RELATED: Best Home Saunas

Before You Buy

• The upper and lower portions of the Solo System can be set to different temperatures. 
• Our tester Lindsay found it took about 30 minutes to reach the maximum heat settings. 
• The sauna features ultra low EMF (electromagnetic field) infrared wavelength currents. 

Is the Sunlighten Solo Sauna Worth It?

Based on our experience with the Sunlighten Solo Sauna, it can provide numerous health benefits, but it may not be the best biohacking product to accommodate different body sizes or budgets. At the time of writing this review, the brand was running a sale for $700 off MSRP which brought the price down to $2,499. 

When you explore home sauna costs, you’ll notice this type of recovery tool isn’t cheap. We’ve tested several full-sized infrared saunas, pop-up saunas, and sauna blankets. We found that the Sunlighten Solo Sauna offers the quality of a traditional far infrared sauna with a lower price point.

While sauna blankets are more affordable, the heat technology is not exactly the same. Sauna blankets conduct heat through electric coils while infrared saunas (including the Sunlighten Solo Sauna) use radiant heat to warm the body. 

Most research around infrared saunas is done with radiant infrared heat and has been shown to reduce blood pressure², reduce symptoms of chronic fatigue³, and potentially improve heart health ⁴. Sweating in a sauna may also help with detoxification from heavy metals⁵.

Additionally, as mentioned earlier in this review, infrared heat penetrates the muscles deeper¹ than traditional saunas, which helps with muscle recovery from exercise. 

All this to say, if you’re looking to reap the benefits of infrared heat, the Sunlighten Solo Sauna offers a portable and less expensive option compared to full-size cabins.

Sunlighten Solo Sauna Specs

Using the Sunlighten Solo Sauna

The Sunlighten Solo Sauna dome design offers a way to heat the body and core temperature without touching the skin. In the Sunlighten sauna, infrared technology heats objects with peak infrared heat waves, which is called emissivity. The brand uses this infrared technology—also referred to as its SoloCarbon heater—in the dome only, not the separate sauna pad. However, both are heated and have separate controls. 

Our tester, Lindsay Scheele, used the Solo Sauna for several 20-minute sauna therapy sessions and mostly enjoyed her experience. Lindsay enjoyed the comfortable, 4-inch padding and the adjustable LED light strip for a nice-to-have chromotherapy vibe (aka light therapy). 

The downside to her testing experience was the dome shape and size. “The telescoping dome design is a cool concept, but in reality it’s not executed to accommodate folks of all shapes and sizes,” says Lindsay who admitted to feeling a bit claustrophobic sweating inside the solo dome. However, that is her personal experience and she notes that some folks may enjoy the Sunlighten Solo Sauna.

RELATED: Sun Home Sauna Review

Footprint and Portability

The Solo System is under 6 feet long and less than 3 feet wide. While it’s not the largest sauna we’ve tested, it’s not nearly as portable as some of the sauna blankets we’ve used. 

The website suggests it can easily be stowed upright, but Lindsay thinks it’s going to be a bit cumbersome to store it upright or stow it away after every use. The two remote control panels, sauna dome, and sauna pad are all connected with power cords and could easily end up in a tangled bird’s nest. For this reason, she docks a point and rates the footprint and portability of this Sunlighten infrared sauna at 4 out 5 stars. 

RELATED: Serene Life Portable Sauna Review

Temperature and Controls  

The Sunlighten Solo Sauna earns a 4 out of 5 stars for temperature performance and controls. The dome-like sauna can reach 150 degrees Fahrenheit (and takes about 30 minutes to heat up) and holds the temperature as well as many of the traditional saunas our experts have tested. Plus, Lindsay appreciated the fact the Sunlighten’s exterior wasn’t hot to the touch nor did it make the surrounding floor area hot.

Lindsay notes you can use the fabric curtain around your chest area to prevent heat loss out of the top of the dome. However, the one area for potential heat loss is where the sauna dome telescopes, which she says is a fairly easy place to create a gap if you’re not careful. 

During her first sauna session, Lindsay didn’t think the temperature controls were intuitive compared to the other saunas she’s tested. However, with a quick look into the owner’s manual of the controls she found detailed instructions on how to use the timer control, level control, and how the levels correspond to both Fahrenheit and Celsius.

The sauna dome and the sauna pad each have their own control panel that are hard-wired to each. The dome has a coconut-shaped control box with the ability to control the upper and lower section of the telescoping dome, each with a selection of 1 to 9. The sauna pad has a traditional-looking remote control and can be set from level 1 to 12. 

RELATED: How Long Should You Stay in a Sauna?

Durability and Construction 

Lindsay found both the bamboo carbon exterior and non-flammable memory foam and cotton sauna pad were high-quality and durable. She rates the Solo System at 4 out of 5 stars in this category because while it’s a durable product, it won’t be as durable as a stand-alone wooden sauna. 

During her sauna sessions, Lindsay used the CELLIANT sauna pad cover (which is sold separately) to protect the pad from her sweat. CELLIANT is a type of fabric that uses your body heat to emit full-spectrum infrared energy. 

Other than washing the optional sauna pad cover, to keep the sauna clean and long-lasting Sunlighten recommends keeping the sauna on for 10 to 15 minutes after a regular sauna session to help kill germs. The site notes the SoloCarbon far infrared heaters are antibacterial and have anti-mold and anti-germ properties. 

Aesthetics and Ergonomics

We’re not going to lie about the ergonomics of this one-person sauna: It’s not going to work for everyone. Lindsay was able to fit inside the dome with arms and legs snug as a bug—but she’s about 5 feet and 4 inches tall and quite lean.

“I don’t think heavy or larger people were considered for this sauna,” says Lindsay. “If you can fit, you’ll be fine, but it’s not the most inclusive sauna design.” 

We had another expert tester at GGR HQ hop into the Solo dome who is 6 feet tall and 200 pounds. The telescoping dome covered most of his body but the height and width of the dome made his upper body feel a bit cramped, so he shifted the dome further down and kept his arms outside.

Lindsay and our other GGR expert testers agree that people on the heavier side may not find this sauna as comfortable. We plan to perform more testing for larger body sizes and will update this review when we have more information on this front. That said, if you’re looking for an alternative, the brand manufactures a traditional sauna with a spacious cabin for two people, which we’ll touch on below in the comparison section.

And lastly, we’re a bit disappointed in the aesthetics of the Solo System. The high-end price tag leaves a bit to be desired. “The design is rather cool-looking, but the rats nest of cables sort of ruins the sleek look,” says Lindsay, who scored this category a 3 out of 5 stars. 

RELATED: HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Review

Sunlighten Solo Sauna vs Sunlighten Amplify II 

Sunlighten Amplify II

Sunlighten Amplify II Infrared Sauna

GGR Score: 4.2

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Product Highlights

• Infrared sauna
• Durable eucalyptus or aesthetic hypoallergenic exterior
• Plugs into standard 120V outlets
• Built-in sound system

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Two wood choices
• Built-in stereo
• Uses 120V outlets
• Full spectrum, infrared heating

Cons

• Must call to get pricing

Bottom Line

The Sunlighten Amplify II is a full-spectrum infrared sauna with a built-in sound system and color therapy features

Sunlighten not only manufactures the Solo Sauna System, the brand has a line of full-size cabin infrared saunas, too. The Sunlighten Amplify II is a two-person sauna worth considering if you have the space indoors. It’s worth noting that neither are designed for outdoor use. 

The Sunlighten Solo System offers all of the same benefits with a portable design and smaller price tag. If you’re a bigger person and want room to stretch out (or sauna bathe with a friend) the Amplify II offers more space with a two-person capacity. 

Sunlighten Solo Sauna vs Dynamic Infrared Sauna 

Dynamic Andora Infrared Sauna

Dynamic Sauna Dynamic Andora Infrared Sauna

GGR Score: 4.2

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Product Highlights

• 2 person in home sauna
• Low EMF FAR infrared carbon heating system
• Includes Chromotherapy lighting system
• Increases blood circulation
• May help soothe sore muscles

Pros & Cons

Pros

• LED display and control panel
• Features reforested hemlock wood
• Includes MP3 auxiliary connection and two speakers
• Customers reviewed the sauna positively
• In home use

Cons

• Recommended consult a certified electrician before use
• Dedicated circuit recommended (110V/15 AMP)
• Difficult installation process according to reviews
• Vague warranty information
• Customers note poor customer service

Bottom Line

The Dynamic Andora in home sauna fits two people and reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The sauna also features MP3 auxiliary connection with two speakers and Chromotherapy lighting system which uses colored light and their vibrations to help improve physical health. The sauna has a large number of positive reviews but many customers had difficulty reaching customer service when issues arose.

Sunlighten Solo Sauna is also comparable to the sauna we tested for our Dynamic Infrared Sauna review when it comes to price range. It’s a two-person cabin with a max temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which is 10 degrees shy of the Solo Sauna System max temperature. The Dynamic sauna is even larger and requires more space than the Sunlighten Amplify II, making this a cumbersome choice for folks looking for a portable option. 

Customer Experience 

If you run into a problem, you can start with the extensive Sunlighten FAQ webpage. You can also fill out a general inquiry form, email, call, or use the live chat function. We like that Sunlighten lists business hours (9 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday) so you know what to expect on response times. 

If you need to return your Solo Sauna System, you’ll have a 30-day window to request a return and you’ll have to send it back in the original packaging. You’ll be on the hook for return shipping fees and be subject to a 3% administrative fee. 

You may like knowing the Solo Sauna System comes with a fairly lengthy warranty policy. The website states limited lifetime warranty on heaters but in parenthesis it clearly states 7 years. That said, you can expect a 7-year warranty on the heaters, 3-year warranty on controllers, and 1-year warranty on fabrics. Keep in mind this is for at-home use. If you intended to use this sauna as part of your business, the commercial warranty is a bit different (and shorter). 

RELATED: Sauna Etiquette 101

Ordering and Assembling the Sunlighten Solo Sauna

Ordering from Sunlighten is pretty easy and Lindsay scored her experience 5 out of 5 stars. Our team got a little turned upside down on the website for a hot minute because the navigation takes you through an instant quote process, but doesn’t automatically take you to the product page where you can click “check out.”

That said, we made sure to provide you links that won’t get you turned around like we did. But, once we navigated to the correct place, ordering was straightforward. You’ll be able to make a one-time payment with your credit card or take advantage of payment plans. 

Shipping costs are estimated based on your location and we noticed at time of writing this review that Sunlighten was running an exclusive offer on shipping. Once it arrives, it’s a breeze to get it set up and ready for your first solo sauna experience. Our tester Lindsay notes it only takes about 5 minutes to set up, since there are only three main parts to the Solo System. 

“Everything comes in one box and is easy to unpack,” says Lindsay. “All three parts of this sauna are connected with power cords, so I suggest setting it up where you think you want it so it’s less to drag around.” 

RELATED: SweatTent Outdoor Sauna Review

Customer Reviews

At the time of writing this review, there are very few customer reviews on the Solo System featured on the website. Of the few featured customer reviews we read, there is one 4-star review and five 5-star reviews. Most reviews note the ease of use and deep relaxation. 

Final Verdict of Our Sunlighten Solo Sauna Review

The Sunlighten Solo Sauna System offers the same benefits of a stand-alone infrared sauna in a smaller package. Our testers enjoyed the comfortable cushioning, fun chromotherapy lighting, and portability. However, its size is not suited for a wide range of people. We think it’s a great option if you: 

• Want a semi-portable sauna option
• Are under 6 feet tall 
• Prefer to sauna bathe alone
• Are not concerned with the cost of recovery and mobility tools

Full Rating

Sunlighten Solo Sauna

The Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna is designed for movability and compact storage. It has multiple zone-based digital heaters and built-in chromotherapy features.

Product Brand: Sunlighten

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 3199.00

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4.3

Sunlighten Solo Sauna: FAQs

References

1. Mero A, Tornberg J, Mäntykoski M, Puurtinen R. Effects of far-infrared sauna bathing on recovery from strength and endurance training sessions in men. Springerplus. 2015;4:321. Published 2015 Jul 7. doi:10.1186/s40064-015-1093-5
2. Umehara M, Yamaguchi A, Itakura S, et al. Repeated waon therapy improves pulmonary hypertension during exercise in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. J Cardiol. 2008;51(2):106-113. doi:10.1016/j.jjcc.2008.01.004
3. Soejima Y, Munemoto T, Masuda A, Uwatoko Y, Miyata M, Tei C. Effects of Waon therapy on chronic fatigue syndrome: a pilot study. Intern Med. 2015;54(3):333-8. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.54.3042. PMID: 25748743.
4. Kihara T, Miyata M, Fukudome T, et al. Waon therapy improves the prognosis of patients with chronic heart failure. J Cardiol. 2009;53(2):214-218. doi:10.1016/j.jjcc.2008.11.005
5. Sears ME, Kerr KJ, Bray RI. Arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in sweat: a systematic review. J Environ Public Health. 2012;2012:184745. doi:10.1155/2012/184745
6. Podstawski R, Boraczyński T, Boraczyński M, Choszcz D, Mańkowski S, Markowski P. Sauna-induced body mass loss in young sedentary women and men. ScientificWorldJournal. 2014;2014:307421. doi:10.1155/2014/307421 

Fitness Pros Get Real on Recovery 

We’ve tested more than 30 of the best biohacking products on the market including cold plunges, saunas, massage guns, and wearable trackers. And our testers aren’t just fitness geeks, we’re a group of fitness professionals with over two decades of collective fitness industry experience. 

For this HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna review, ISSA-certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele put the sauna to the test. She’s not only a CPT, she’s an expert on all things fitness and recovery and is our lead reviewer on the Garage Gym Reviews Everything YouTube channel. 

Lindsay used her previous sauna testing knowledge in addition to our in-depth fitness equipment testing methodology to rate and review eight different categories including heat performance, durability and construction, delivery and setup, and overall value. She rated all categories on a scale of 1 to 5, which we will cover throughout this review. 

HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna

HigherDOSE Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna

GGR Score: 3.8

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Full-size infrared sauna
• Engineered wood and mahogany
• Full spectrum infrared lights
• Low EMF carbon heaters

Pros & Cons

Pros

• FSA/HSA eligible
• 2- or 3-person options
• May help reduce muscle soreness
• Can aid blood flow and circulation

Cons

• Hefty price tag
• Additional $849 for curbside delivery
• 3-person sauna requires 240 volt power
• Not recommended for folks with heart issues

Bottom Line

The HigherDOSE Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna promotes blood circulation and muscle relaxation and can be purchased for 2- or 3-person use. You’ll have Bluetooth connectivity and a media shelf to stream entertainment during sauna bathing sessions.

A Quick Look at the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Review

HigherDOSE is a wellness and recovery brand that’s taking a deep dive into the biohacking buzz. The brand not only manufactures the infrared sauna we’re featuring in this review, but also offers a sauna blanket, red light face mask, infrared PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic field) mat, and tools for dry brushing. 

RELATED: What Is Biohacking?

The HigherDOSE Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna is the only full-size sauna the brand offers. It can be purchased in either a two- or three-person capacity. For the purposes of this review, we’re going to focus on the three-person sauna which is priced at $8,999 and does not include shipping, delivery, or assembly fees. Although white glove delivery prices are not listed, the curbside delivery costs alone are lofty. 

Before You Buy

• The HigherDOSE sauna goes in and out of stock, and at the time of writing this review, has a multi-month lead time for shipping. 
• If you purchase a HigherDOSE sauna, it may be FSA/HSA eligible through Truemed. 
• Expect your purchase to have additional shipping and delivery fees ranging from $849 to $999 depending on the sauna size. 
• Save 15% off sitewide with coupon code GarageGymReviews15 (excludes bundles, subscriptions, full-size saunas)

Is the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Worth It?

Based on our experience, the HigherDOSE Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna will likely not be worth the $9,000 investment and the additional $1,000 fee for shipping and curbside delivery. We’ve tested and reviewed many of the best infrared saunas, and this one just doesn’t stack up, which we’ll get into in more detail later on in this review. 

We also think it’s worth mentioning that many recovery brands make big health benefit claims about detoxification, inflammation reduction, or glowing skin. There is rather limited research on infrared heat therapy in general and not much evidence to suggest it offers a detoxing effect, however. You can expect sauna sessions to increase your heart rate, blood flow, and offer a sense of deep relaxation. 

RELATED: Are Saunas Good for Your Skin?

HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Review Specs

Using the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna 

Overall, GGR tester Lindsay Scheele mostly enjoyed her time testing the HigherDOSE Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna, but the experience wasn’t without its troubles. 

The sauna was delivered via freight to GGR HQ and assembled through the white glove service offered by HigherDOSE. However, when the team went to test the sauna, two of the full-spectrum, carbon low-EMF heaters didn’t work. After a pretty solid phone call with customer support, two new heaters were sent to HQ the following day. 

“Once the new heaters arrived, it was a very simple swapping which took no more than five minutes and two people,” says Lindsay. But she does note the sauna never reached the maximum temperature. We’ll cover more details about setup in our ordering and assembling section toward the end of this review. 

RELATED: How to Use a Sauna

Footprint and Portability

The HigherDOSE full-size sauna will not be nearly as portable and easy to move as the brand’s sauna blanket. Instead, this sauna will need a permanent location to be assembled and live. 

The three-person sauna measures just shy of 6 feet long, 4 feet wide, and about 6.5 feet tall. The walls have some thickness to them, so you can expect the interior dimensions to be a bit smaller. Our tester Lindsay gives the HigherDOSE sauna a 4-out-of-5-star rating saying that it’s roomy enough for two or three people and could be situated in someone’s garage or home gym without taking over the whole space.  

RELATED: Sun Home Sauna Blanket Review

Performance and Durability

As mentioned earlier, the heat system wasn’t fully cooperating during Lindsay’s initial testing experience. Plus, once the full spectrum heaters on the front wall were swapped for fully functional heaters, Lindsay still found the sauna couldn’t quite reach the max temp of 150 degrees. She found that interesting because the sauna has far infrared heaters on the floor, back walls, and side walls. 

For this reason, she rates the HigherDOSE sauna a 3.5 out of 5 stars for performance. She says the sauna took about 20 minutes to preheat from 67 degrees to 107 degrees. “If this were to be outside or in a garage, the outdoor temperature will affect how long it takes to get warm inside the sauna,” she says. 

Lindsay notes that the HigherDOSE sauna has not once reached maximum heat setting during testing, but notes it can retain heat well and doesn’t leak during a 30 or 45 minute session. 

When it comes to durability, Lindsay scores the sauna a 4 out of 5 stars with no concern about the materials used, wooden frame, or glass doors. Her main concern is another failed heater in the future. 

RELATED: How Long Should You Stay in a Sauna?

Features and Extras

When it comes to extra nice-to-have features, Lindsay gives the HigherDOSE sauna 4 out of 5 stars because it has Bluetooth connectivity and a swivel iPad shelf for entertainment purposes. 

The three-person sauna offers a removable bench for more options on lying, sitting, or stretching during your sweat session. Plus, the sauna comes with LED chromotherapy color lights, which is a nice touch and may add to the overall relaxation experience. 

Lastly, the brand boasts about the full spectrum of infrared heat which includes near-, mid-, and far-infrared light. The website claims each range on the spectrum offers different benefits, but from our research into dry sauna benefits, research-backed benefits are mostly related to the elevated core temperature, increased heart rate, and improved blood flow. 

RELATED: Does the Sauna Burn Calories?

HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna vs Sun Home Equinox 

Sun Home Equinox

Sun Home Saunas Equinox 2-Person Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• Full-spectrum infrared sauna
• 500W infrared heaters
• Kiln dried eucalyptus wood
• Requires 120v outlet
• Includes medical-grade chromotherapy LED lights
• Includes Bluetooth surround sound

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No power tools required for assembly
• Full-spectrum infrared
• Kiln dried eucalyptus wood
• Only requires 120v outlet
• Limited lifetime warranty (7 years) on cabinetry and heaters

Cons

• Expensive
• 2-person capacity might be a tight fit
• Heavy

Bottom Line

The Sun Home Equinox Sauna is a full-spectrum infrared sauna, providing near, mid, and far infrared rays during a sauna session. With a controlled temperature adjustment, the sauna also features medical-grade chromotherapy LED lights and Bluetooth or auxiliary enabled surround sound.

The HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna is comparable to the Equinox full spectrum infrared sauna from the reputable brand, Sun Home Saunas. Both saunas offer the same self-care benefits of full-spectrum infrared light therapy, medical-grade chromotherapy LED lights, and Bluetooth capabilities. 

The Sun Home Saunas option offers a two-person capacity, while the HigherDOSE sauna can be purchased in two- or three-person sizes (but for the purposes of this review, we’ve been exploring the three-person option from HigherDOSE). That said, the price tag is a bit different but the HigherDOSE sauna is slightly bigger and can accommodate one more person. 

Additionally, Sun Home Saunas also offers free curbside shipping and doesn’t charge several hundred dollars for delivery. You will also receive a limited lifetime warranty on the cabinetry and heaters with the Sun Home Saunas purchase. 

HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna vs HigherDOSE Sauna Blanket

Higher DOSE Sauna Blanket

HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• Portable sauna blanket
• Sleeping bag-style design
• Powered with far infrared rays
• Additional blanket inserts available

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Promotes circulation
• May aid muscle recovery
• Portable design

Cons

• Takes 10 minutes to preheat
• Costs extra for blanket inserts
• Designed for one person at a time

Bottom Line

The HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket offers a portable and affordable alternative to installing a sauna in your home. The sauna blanket uses far infrared technology to provide heat stimulation to your entire body while you’re inside the sauna blanket.

While the HigherDOSE full-size sauna is not quite as comparable to the HigherDOSE sauna blanket, we still wanted to show the comparison because Lindsay really enjoyed her testing process with the same brand’s sauna blanket. 

With the sauna blanket, instead of sitting in a stand-alone sauna, you’ll open the sauna blanket like a sleeping bag, lie down, and zip yourself in like you’re about to take a nap. You’ll need to situate your sauna session on a heat-resistant surface—like a yoga mat or carpeting—but other than that you can have a sauna session pretty much anywhere you go. 

In our HigherDOSE infrared sauna blanket review, we outline some of the added benefits the brand included in the sauna blanket like a magnetic layer composed of charcoal and clay (for potential negative ion emission) and a crystal therapy layer made up of amethyst and tourmaline. 

Customer Experience 

HigherDOSE earns a 4-out-5-star rating for overall customer experience. You’ll have a few methods to contact HigherDOSE, including a live chat function on higherdose.com, email, and a general inquiry form where you can fill out a written message or submit a video or audio recording. 

Although the HigherDOSE sauna didn’t heat up to the expected temperatures, Lindsay still thought customer service with the brand was helpful (mostly because customer service sent new heaters the next day!). 

The brand offers a 30-day return policy and a money-back guarantee on saunas and wellness technology. Keep in mind you’ll have to get authorization before returning any items to HigherDOSE. 

When it comes to the warranty, the product page indicates there is a five-year limited warranty policy, but the warranty-specific webpage doesn’t detail the full-size, just the sauna blanket. 

Ordering and Assembling the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna 

Before you buy the HigherDOSE infrared sauna, you may like to know you’ll have the option to finance through Affirm (with loan terms between 12 and 36 months) or use your HSA or FSA (health savings account or flexible savings account) with Truemed. 

Once you add the full-size sauna to your cart, you’ll notice shipping is a hefty fee—$849 for the two-person sauna and $999 for the three-person sauna. And these fees don’t include professional assembly, this is the cost of curbside delivery via freight. 

The sauna arrived at GGR HQ in three massive boxes that needed a pallet jack to move to the set-up and assembly location. Prior to receiving the delivery, our team made the executive decision to opt for premium delivery (aka white glove assembly) which you have to call the brand and ask for. 

Overall, Lindsay gives the experience a 3.5 out of 5 stars because the white glove setup and delivery didn’t go as seamlessly as she’d expected. “I was disappointed to find out that the white glove installers put in two broken heaters and did not check to see if they were damaged,” says Lindsay. 

However, she notes it seemed like a lofty ordeal to get the sauna assembled, saying that the installers took around 7 hours to put the sauna together. “It seemed like the instructions were unclear, which led to the long setup time,” she adds. 

Customer Reviews

At the time of writing this review, there is only one review featured on higherdose.com, which is (of course) a 5-star review. There are no other reviews or testimonials on Amazon either. We plan to update when new customer reviews are featured on the HigherDOSE website. 

Final Verdict of Our HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Review

Based on our experience, the HigherDOSE full spectrum infrared sauna doesn’t offer a ton of additional benefits to warrant such a high price tag and expensive shipping fees compared to some of the other saunas we’ve tested. Additionally, based on the fact we haven’t experienced the sauna reaching max temperature, we think it’s better to go with one of our top picks from the best infrared sauna roundup or choose an affordable sauna blanket. 

Full Rating

HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna

The HigherDOSE Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna promotes blood circulation and muscle relaxation and can be purchased for 2- or 3-person use. You’ll have Bluetooth connectivity and a media shelf to stream entertainment during sauna bathing sessions.

Product Brand: HigherDOSE

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 8999.00

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.8

HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna: FAQs

References 

1. Soejima Y, Munemoto T, Masuda A, Uwatoko Y, Miyata M, Tei C. Effects of Waon therapy on chronic fatigue syndrome: a pilot study. Intern Med. 2015;54(3):333-338. doi:10.2169/internalmedicine.54.3042
2. Umehara M, Yamaguchi A, Itakura S, et al. Repeated waon therapy improves pulmonary hypertension during exercise in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. J Cardiol. 2008;51(2):106-113. doi:10.1016/j.jjcc.2008.01.004
3. Kihara T, Miyata M, Fukudome T, et al. Waon therapy improves the prognosis of patients with chronic heart failure. J Cardiol. 2009;53(2):214-218. doi:10.1016/j.jjcc.2008.11.005
4. Mero A, Tornberg J, Mäntykoski M, Puurtinen R. Effects of far-infrared sauna bathing on recovery from strength and endurance training sessions in men. Springerplus. 2015;4:321. Published 2015 Jul 7. doi:10.1186/s40064-015-1093-5 
5. Chuwa T, Teruhiko I, Koichiro Ki, et al. WAON-CHF Study Investigators. Waon Therapy for Managing Chronic Heart Failure– Results From a Multicenter Prospective Randomized WAON-CHF Study. Circulation Journal, 2016, Volume 80, Issue 4, Pages 827-834, Released on J-STAGE March 25, 2016. 

RELATED: Ice Bath Benefits

Cold plunge tubs cover a broad range of needs and prices, from DIY cold plunge tubs costing under $100 to high-end ice baths worth thousands of dollars, like the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro. Priced at just over $9,000, this cold plunge tub has a filtration system and can reach and maintain freezing temperatures.

With such cold temperatures, this is a tub worth looking at for athletes or those who have the budget. In this Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro review, we’ll take a look at what this tub has to offer and who might be best suited for this high-end ice bath.

A Deep Dive Into Cold Plunge Tubs

We’ve taken the plunge, so to speak, into recovery tools for training—namely with cold plunge tubs and the best home saunas. Having tested around a dozen of each, we continue to bring honest and expert reviews on these tools according to our equipment testing methodology. With the expert perspectives of certified personal trainers, lifting coaches, and lifelong athletes, we can provide the information to help you with your next purchase.

For the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro, GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, ISSA-CPT, tried the cold plunge over a couple of sessions, one of which was at near-freezing temperatures. While testing out this premium product, she observed the features of the cold plunge tub, rating aspects of the tub on a scale of 1 to 5, such as:

• Footprint and portability
• Durability and construction
• Draining and cleaning
• Ergonomics
• Conveniences
• Overall value

Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro

Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro

GGR Score: 4.2

Check Price

Product Highlights

• High-end cold plunge tub
• Temperatures down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit 
• Powerful chiller
• Chiller integrated into tub design

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Indoor or outdoor use
• Quiet chiller motor
• Built-in circulation and sanitation systems
• LED for nighttime use

Cons

• Heavy
• Expensive

Bottom Line

The Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is a sleek, high-end cold plunge option that can be used indoors or outdoors. It has a powerful chiller that can cool water down to 32 degrees in a matter of minutes. While it has a modern look with the chiller integrated into the design, the price point is about $9,000.

A Quick Look at the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro

Sun Home Saunas is most known for just that: saunas. However, they also have a couple of options for cold plunges, the inflatable Sun Home Cold Plunge and the Cold Plunge Pro, made with a durable exterior suitable for outdoor use. The inflatable tub is made durable with a military-grade PVC material, but the high-quality Cold Plunge Pro is about twice the price of the inflatable tub and comes with quite a few added perks.

For one, the ice bath is self-cleaning, with a filtration system, an ozone sanitization system, and a UV sanitation chamber. The chiller is able to take the cold plunge tub to far lower temperatures than most competitors—all the way to a freezing 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

With its self-cleaning properties and extremely low temperatures, this tub is great for athletes who want minimal hassle in caring for and maintaining their ice baths. Actually, this cold plunge tub is used by professional football, basketball, and baseball teams, as well as by UFC fighters. And with a 150-gallon capacity, there’s enough space to fit some larger athletes, as well.

Before You Buy

• The tub is heavy at 345 pounds empty. Fortunately, the preassembled Cold Plunge Pro comes with caster wheels, making maneuvering the tub to the exact spot you want it much easier—once you get it off the delivery pallet.
• Although it comes assembled, delivery might be the biggest hassle, as delivery is only to the curb. You’ll have to find a creative way to lug the package and ice bath to your ideal location.
• Make sure to have space around your Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro, as there are two vents that must have clearance for filtration and accessibility.

Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro Video Review

Is the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro Worth It?

There’s no way around it; the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is very expensive. At just over $9,000, it’s one of the pricier options available. By comparison, the Ice Barrel is priced at $1,200, and the Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge is just under $2,000—although both of these options have no means of temperature control.

The Sun Home Inflatable Cold Plunge tub and chiller is priced at $4,400, and Polar Monkeys cold plunges range from $3,000 to $6,000, with some filtration system and temperature regulation included. These are great mid-range options, but the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro has a bit more to offer.

RELATED: The Cold Plunge Review

With its sanitation system, 20-micron filter, and circulation pump, you’re ensured the water stays fresh for each use. This is also the most powerful motor we’ve tested, allowing it to reach the coldest temperatures and maintain those temperatures like few other ice bath tubs can. The tub with the most comparable price point would be the Cold Stoic by Renu Therapy, although it is a few hundred dollars more, plus it doesn’t get as cold and doesn’t have as much water capacity.

With all of that said, it’s pricey, but it’s worth it, especially for larger athletes wanting the ability to get to freezing temperatures. Lindsay rates the value a 4.5 out of 5, saying, “The cost is justified on this, just from all the added conveniences of filtration and sanitation. Plus, it has the highest horsepower we’ve seen from a cold plunge tub.”

Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro Specs

Experience Using the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro

“I tried the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro twice so far and I already want to use it again,” GGR Everything lead reviewer and ISSA-certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele remarks on the Cold Plunge Pro. She used it for one session at the ice bath’s warmest temperature—a chilly 46 degrees—and at near freezing, 33 degrees.

“There was ice forming in the tub; it was literally freezing,” Lindsay recalls. “I didn’t quite make it 2 minutes then, but I’m for sure going to try again and reach that 2-minute mark.”

When it comes to cold immersion, how long you’ll want to remain in the water will depend a lot on your tolerance to cold water exposure. If you’re newer to cold water therapy, you may not want the freezing temperatures that the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro can reach. You can probably enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of cold plunging at a warmer temperature in the 50s.

RELATED: How To Cold Plunge

When asked about her cold plunge experience, Lindsay said she enjoyed the Cold Plunge Pro. She says, “I’d take it home if I could. The mental challenge is great to stay in such cold water, and the water quality stays clean and fresh in between uses.”

Footprint

Like most cold plunge tubs, the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is big and heavy, with a weight of 345 pounds before adding water. With an exterior that’s over 6 feet long and nearly 3 feet wide, you’ll need decent space for it, whether you use it indoors or outdoors. Additionally, there are two vents that need clearance, meaning you should have a decent amount of space around the ice bath.

Fortunately, the Cold Plunge Pro has wheels on the bottom, so you can move around the tub some before adding water. With that in mind, it’s still over 300 pounds, so it’ll be a tall order regardless. The Cold Plunge Pro earns a rating of 2 out of 5 for its footprint and portability. Keep in mind that once you add 150 gallons of water to it, the ice bath will be over 1,000 pounds and too heavy to budge, so have it where you want it to avoid unnecessary draining and refilling of the tub.

RELATED: Cold Plunge Before or After Workout?

Construction

The Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is built to last, with a durable exterior coating that’s UV and weather resistant, making it great for indoor or outdoor use. Additionally, the chiller is integrated inside the plunge tub’s coating, keeping it from being open to harsh weather conditions. With industrial stainless steel coating the interior, the ice bath is built solidly.

Lindsay rates the construction and durability of the ice bath a 5 out of 5. She adds, “It’s a solid tub and will hold its shape easily. It even supported people sitting on the edges of the tub without a problem. I don’t foresee any problems with the tub’s longevity, either.”

The chiller’s motor has one horsepower, which may not sound like a lot, but it’s the most powerful chiller we’ve tested. That’s how the plunge pool can get to such a cold temperature.

Ergonomics

The Cold Plunge Pro has some nice features that keep the user comfortable while in use—despite sitting in freezing water temperatures. At a height of about 33 inches, the tub is simple to climb in and out of. Plus, the interior of the tub measures 47 inches long, which is long enough for even taller athletes to stretch out a bit. Lindsay estimates that two people could probably fit comfortably in the 150-gallon ice bath.

RELATED: Nordic Wave Cold Plunge Review

One nice feature of the tub is a headrest, which helps you lean back and relax…as you’re freezing in 32-degree water. Jokes aside, the headrest is a nice touch that lets you really extend yourself, instead of having to lean forward while in the tub. Along with this, there is LED lighting within the tub, in case you want to ice bath post-workout in the evening.

The cold plunge also comes with an insulated cover, which helps maintain the temperature while not in use, although the powerful chiller will be able to regulate the temperature easily enough.

Conveniences

The biggest convenience to the Cold Plunge Pro is its low maintenance, earning it a 4 out of 5 for convenience. “Draining and cleaning is a breeze, as the cold plunge tank comes with a filtration and purification system already,” Lindsay adds. 

The filtration system picks particles that are 20 microns wide. I had to look it up—20 microns is a couple hundredths of a millimeter. That’s some powerful filtration. The water also remains clean through a UV and ozone purification system. That and a pump help keep the water flowing and never stagnating.

When it does come time to replace the water, there’s a simple release valve at the bottom of the tub. Sun Home Saunas doesn’t provide guidance on how often to drain and clean the tub, but every couple of months should be fine as long as the filters are cleaned or replaced routinely.

The Cold Plunge Pro can be programmed for temperatures between 32 and 46 degrees, although setting it proved more difficult than you might think. “It’s not just a set button; there are a few buttons to press to be able to adjust and set the temperature,” Lindsay recalls. “We figured it out on our own, but the instructions also go over setting the temperature.”

Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro vs Renu Therapy Cold Stoic 2.0

Renu Cold Stoic 2.0

Renu Therapy Cold Stoic 2.0

GGR Score: 3.8

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Product Highlights

• Sleek cold therapy tub
• Superior insulation
• Integrated water chiller
• Built-in filtration system

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Insulation Indoor or outdoor use
• Made in the USA
• Standard 110 volt power

Cons

• Heavy
• Super expensive
• 6-10 week lead time

Bottom Line

The Renu Cold Stoic 2.0 is a high-end cold therapy unit that can be installed indoors or outdoors. It not only features superior insulation to keep water cold, the 1/4 horsepower chiller lets you regulate the temperature of your choice, all the way down to 36 degrees Fahrenheit (brrr!). Plus, the insulation works well enough that Renu Therapy’s tests indicated that water stays below 60 degrees even 24 hours after being unplugged.

One of the most similar cold plunge tubs to the Cold Plunge Pro we’ve tested and reviewed is the Renu Therapy Cold Stoic 2.0, which has similar filtration and purification systems. Both are built for indoor or outdoor use, but the Cold Stoic is several hundred dollars more in cost. Also, the interior is less spacious, with a water capacity of only 95 gallons, and the temperatures don’t drop as low.

The main pro for the Stoic is its included 5-year warranty. The Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro only has a 1-year limited warranty. You can extend the protection, but it’ll cost extra. The Cold Plunge Pro is probably the better choice for larger athletes, but the 5-year warranty may be enough to sway people to the Cold Stoic.

You can read more about this premium ice bath in our Renu Therapy Cold Stoic review.

Customer Experience 

In our experience, Sun Home Saunas is always helpful and quick to respond to customer inquiries. “I’ve had multiple interactions with them over the past year, and they always get back to me within 24 hours,” Lindsay adds, rating the customer service experience a 4 out of 5. There are multiple ways to contact the company listed on the website: email, phone, and through a contact form.

The Cold Plunge Pro has a one-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects, but not typical wear and tear or misuse of the product. There are options for 3 or 5 years of protection (at an additional cost, though). 

Returns are allowed up to 30 days after receiving your ice bath. The product has to be unused in new condition and in its original packaging. However, Sun Home Saunas will take a 25% restocking fee, plus any shipping costs, from your refund.

Ordering and Assembling the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro

The Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro can be ordered directly from the website. You can go all-in and pay for the tub up front, or you can finance the cold tub through Affirm. There are 0% interest options, although you’ll need to qualify for those payments.

The Cold Plunge Pro comes fully assembled, so you won’t have any hassle to build out the tub. However, the cold plunge is delivered curbside, so you’ll have to find a creative way to get the 345-pound tub from the street to your desired location. The website recommends a dolly or similar transport tool, as well as a crowbar to help open the pallet crate.

Customer Reviews

At the time of this writing, the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro has 103 reviews on the Sun Home Saunas website. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, averaging 5 out of 5 stars. There are only two 4-star reviews and they’re still very positive; the rest are 5-star reviews. The website may only be showing top reviews, but the reviews shown are extremely positive.

Most reviews appreciate the convenience of the Cold Plunge Pro, since it requires minimal maintenance. Some also applaud the customer service; overall, everyone seems very satisfied with their purchase.

Final Verdict of Our Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro Review

For athletes looking for health and wellness products to help alleviate muscle soreness and reduce inflammation, the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is a great tool. With minimal maintenance and a high-powered motor, it can reach freezing temperatures and maintain those temperatures with ease.

Its main drawback is the price, as it’ll simply be outside some home gym users’ budgets. However, if the price point makes sense for you, this can be a great investment for maximizing your recovery.

Full Rating

Sun Home Cold Plunge

The Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is a sleek, high-end cold plunge option that can be used indoors or outdoors. It has a powerful chiller that can cool water down to 37.5 degrees in a matter of minutes. While it has a modern look with the chiller integrated into the design, the price point is over $8,000.

Product Brand: Sun Home

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 9500

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4.2

Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro: FAQs

RELATED: Ice Bath vs Cold Shower

What was once used exclusively by elite athletes is now accessible to fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike. That said, the barrier to entry is often the considerable investment required to purchase one of the best cold plunge tubs. Recognizing this gap, Plunge has unveiled its lineup of new products.  

In this Plunge Evolve Series review, we’ll take a look at the range of options tailored to diverse needs and budgets: the compact and portable Plunge Pop-Up, the inflatable Plunge Air, and the premium Plunge Evolve XL. In addition, for the first time ever, Plunge is selling its innovative chiller and filtration system as a standalone product. 

Cold Tub Pros, At Your Service 

Drawing from my experience as a former collegiate athlete, now certified nutrition coach and personal trainer, I can attest to the powerful benefits of using a recovery protocol to help maximize your performance. 

At GGR, we’re fitness equipment experts, relying on our highly skilled team of CPTs, DPTs, and more to help you decide on the best purchase for you. We’ve thoroughly reviewed the original Plunge, and while we wait to receive the Evolve series, we’re going to give you our first impressions of it, evaluating the specs and overall quality and design.   

Plunge Evolve Pop-Up

Plunge Pop-Up

GGR Score: 3.5

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Product Highlights

• Entry-level, portable, and affordable cold plunge
• Circular, stand-up tub design
• Safe for both indoor and outdoor use
• Purchase includes a tub cover, manual air pump, and manifold plugs
• Compatible with Evolve Pro Chiller
• 1-year warranty

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable
• Portable
• Lightweight
• Compatible with chiller
• Good for small spaces

Cons

• Larger individuals won't be very comfortable in this
• Stand-up design is limiting for some

Bottom Line

The Plunge Pop-Up is an inflatable, stand-up cold tub at a very affordable price, making it a great entry product into cold plunging for a beginner.

Plunge Evolve Air

Plunge Air

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• Lightweight, portable cold plunge
• Indoor and outdoor use
• Horizontal, inflatable design
• Purchase includes inflatable all-weather cover, matching ground cover, repair kit, manual air pump and custom backpack
• Compatible with Evolve Pro Chiller
• 1-year warranty

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Portable
• Lightweight
• Compatible with chiller
• Great for small spaces

Cons

• 1-year warranty
• May be small for larger individuals

Bottom Line

The Plunge Air is part of Plunge's new Evolve series and it aims to make cold plunging more accessible. This plunge is inflatable and portable, and compatible with a chiller.

Plunge Evolve XL

Plunge Evolve XL

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• Premium, stationary cold plunge
• Indoor and outdoor use
• Suitable for taller individuals
• Purchase includes insulated spa cover, skimmer net, cell phone holder and hose filter
• Compatible with Evolve Pro Chiller
• 1-year warranty

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Suitable for taller individuals
• Maintains water at 37 degrees
• Chiller is app-operated

Cons

• 1-year warranty
• Heavy and hard to move

Bottom Line

The Evolve XL cold tub from Plunge is the latest in the company's offerings. It's longer than the original Plunge, allowing taller individuals a more comfortable experience.

A Quick Look at the Plunge Evolve Series

The Plunge Evolve Series includes a range of new cold plunge products, including two budget-friendly and portable tubs, a luxury model designed for taller individuals and an innovative, standalone chiller and filtration system. 

Plunge claims that the Evolve Series will help make ice bath benefits accessible to everyone. I think this is a great move from Plunge, and these products definitely complement Plunge’s range of wellness modalities including their sauna, 1st-gen Plunge and Plunge All-In. 

Plunge Pop-Up

• Entry-level, portable and affordable cold plunge
• Circular, stand-up tub design that’s safe for both indoor and outdoor use
• Purchase includes a tub cover, manual air pump and manifold plugs
• Compatible with Evolve Pro Chiller
• 1-year warranty

Plunge Air

• Lightweight, portable cold plunge
• Horizontal, inflatable tub design that’s safe for both indoor and outdoor use
• Purchase includes inflatable all-weather cover, matching ground cover, repair kit, manual air pump and custom backpack
• Compatible with Evolve Pro Chiller
• 1-year warranty

Plunge Evolve XL

• Premium, stationary cold plunge that’s safe for both indoor and outdoor home use
• Horizontal tub designed to accommodate taller individuals
• Purchase includes insulated spa cover, skimmer net, cell phone holder and hose filter
• Compatible with Evolve Pro Chiller
• 1-year warranty

Evolve Pro Chiller

• One-horsepower cooling system that can cool water down to 37 degrees Fahrenheit
• Includes filtration and ozone sanitation 
• 30% quieter than the original plunge chiller
• Safe for both indoor and outdoor use
• 1-year warranty

Before You Buy 

Before diving into any of the offerings in the Evolve Series, it’s important to consider how to cold plunge efficiently, and evaluate how you intend on integrating a cold plunge into your regular routine.  

• If you start with the Plunge Pop-Up and decide to upgrade to a larger tub, the cost of your Pop-Up will be credited towards your new purchase.
• The Evolve Pro Chiller allows you to upgrade the Plunge Pop-Up or the Plunge Air at any point in time.
• The Evolve XL is suitable for taller individuals. 

Is the Plunge Evolve Series Worth It?

The OG Plunge starts at $4,990—no small chunk of change. The Evolve series has two more affordable options, with the Plunge Pop-Up starting at $120 and the Plunge Air starting at $4,290. Additionally, the Pop-Up and Air are portable, which means that those who are limited on space now have a cold tub option from the brand. 

Additionally, while the Evolve XL is even more expensive than the original Plunge, starting at $6,690, it’s more suitable for bigger individuals and provides ultimate comfort for those wanting to recline fully while doing cold water therapy. 

Plunge Evolve Series Specs

Using the Plunge Evolve Series 

While we haven’t used the Evolve Series tubs just yet, we’ve taken the “plunge” with the original Plunge model multiple times and expect a very similar experience. The operation of the chiller system is a breeze—once you’ve set your desired temperature, you’re good to go unless you decide to tweak the temperature or perform routine maintenance like swapping out the filter (something Plunge recommends doing on a monthly basis). 

That said, the new Evolve PlungePure Pro Chiller system brings some exciting enhancements. With a 50% larger filter, you can enjoy extended intervals between filter changes, making maintenance even more convenient. In addition, it now has smartphone connectivity, allowing you to adjust the temperature setting remotely. Not stopping there, this new chiller packs even more power, cooling your water more quickly and even down to 37 degrees Fahrenheit, all while operating 30% quieter than the original chiller. 

In terms of comfort, Plunge has one of the best designs on the market. The original model, which is very similar to the Evolve XL, has an appropriate height that’s extremely easy to step in and out of without the need for a step stool. Moreover, the slanted tub back ensures added comfort during your plunge and effortless shoulder submersion. 

RELATED: DIY Cold Plunge: Tuff Stuff Stock Tank Review

Transitioning to the Evolve XL model, it maintains the same stylish design as the original Plunge but offers slightly more space, making it suitable even for someone of my height at 6’1 to fully stretch out in the tub. Another notable aspect I appreciate about the Plunge is the non-slip nature of its acrylic exterior, even when wet. This allows you to fully support yourself using the sides of the tub when entering or exiting the tub, without any fear of your hands slipping. All in all, we’re extremely excited to test out the new models and will update further when we’ve had the chance. 

Footprint and Portability

The cold plunge tubs in the Evolve Series offer a spectrum of sizes and portability. The compact Plunge Pop-Up features a circular, stand-up design, requiring a mere four square feet of space.

The Pop-Up is definitely the smallest option in the lineup, however, it’s both portable and ideal for maximizing space in tight quarters. 

RELATED: Ice Barrel Review

Conversely, the Plunge Air and Plunge Evolve XL feature horizontal designs, spanning approximately five and six feet respectively. These tubs are better suited for larger spaces, with the benefit of the Plunge Air being its portability and the Evolve XL its quality and durability.

Durability and Construction

All of the products in the Evolve Series are constructed using durable materials that are safe for both indoor and outdoor use. In addition, purchase of any of these products comes with a 12-month warranty in case anything goes awry. 

The Plunge Pop-Up features a durable three-layer design, in which the inner layer consists of leak-proof PVC, the middle layer is insulation, and the external layer consists of a weatherproof UV-resistant nylon fabric. While the Pop-Up may not be as sturdy as the Evolve XL, the fabric is high-quality and should be resilient and reliable for many uses.  

RELATED: Sun Home Cold Plunge Review

The Plunge Air is constructed using drop-stitch technology and ultra-durable UV-resistant nylon and PVC fabric. If you’re unfamiliar with what drop-stitch technology means, you’re not alone. According to the Plunge website, drop-stitching is a method that’s used in the construction of inflatable products such as paddleboards and inflatable cold plunges. 

It involves connecting the top and bottom layers of the inflatable using thousands of threads, which allow the inflatable to maintain its shape and rigidity when fully inflated. This technology enables inflatable products to achieve a high level of stability and durability, while still remaining lightweight and portable when deflated. 

Last but not least, the Plunge Evolve XL is crafted using fiberglass-reinforced acrylic. This material is resistant to scratching, fading and staining, ensuring the tub will maintain its integrity and appearance over time. A secondary benefit is that acrylic has excellent insulation properties, helping to retain cold temperatures for an extended period of time. 

Setup and Assembly 

The Plunge Evolve Series offers an intuitive and simple setup process for both the Plunge Pop-Up and Plunge Air. The Pop-Up can be fully assembled in minutes, using plastic poles to support the tub’s structure. The only thing you need to do is inflate the top ring, fill with water and ice, or connect to a chiller system and you’re good to go. The Plunge Air is just as simple and it can be inflated in minutes using the manual hand pump. Once it’s full of air, you can begin adding water and chill using ice or the Evolve Pro Chiller system.

The Plunge Evolve XL doesn’t require any setup and the purchase includes free in home delivery. The only thing you’ll need to do is connect the chiller system and plug it into a dedicated outlet (standard 120V 15 amp circuit).    

RELATED: Inergize Cold Plunge Tub Review

Opting for the Evolve Pro Chiller will require regular maintenance to keep your cold plunge clean and running smoothly. That said, this new chiller’s standout feature lies in its easy-access design, allowing you to change the filter in a matter of seconds. With a 50% larger filter compared to Plunge’s original chiller, this upgrade also allows for longer periods between filter changes and superior water quality. 

Plunge Evolve Series vs Plunge Standard 

The Plunge

Plunge

GGR Score: 4

Check Price 15% off sitewide for Black Friday

Product Highlights

• Indoor or outdoor ice bath
• Chiller system for regulated temperatures
• Filtration and sanitation systems
• No plumbing required

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Eliminates the hassle of traditional ice baths 
• No cleanup or setup to do after initial assembly 
• Allows you to fine-tune temperature 
• Provides full-body immersion for most body sizes and heights
• Less time-consuming than traditional ice bath
• Decently aesthetic; would look nice in a backyard or dedicated gym space
• Indoor or outdoor use
• Free shipping and in-home delivery for lower 48
• 0% APR financing available through Affirm and Klarna
• Insulated cover, cell phone holder, hose filter, and skimmer net included
• 30 days to return for full refund 

Cons

• Very expensive
• Requires electricity
• No heating capabilities on base model 
• Only a 1-year warranty
• Extended warranty/product protection costs extra
• Shipping is costly for Hawaii and Alaska, and in-home delivery isn’t available 
• Currently has an 8-week lead time
• Consumer must pay shipping fees if returning the tub

Bottom Line

Plunge is a user-friendly cold-immersion therapy tool that’s easy to clean and maintain. The $5,000 price tag may just be too much for many people.

The Cold Plunge is Plunge’s original model, sporting its iconic all-white acrylic exterior and first generation chiller unit. In terms of similarities, the original Plunge is most similar to the Evolve XL, as they both have a horizontal and fixed design. 

Aside from some small differences in terms of the tub size, the primary distinctions lie in the upgraded chiller technology. The Evolve Pro Chiller has enhanced cooling capabilities, allowing users to drop the water temperature an additional two degrees down to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, the updated chiller uses a variable speed fan and pump that reduces noise by up to 30% compared to its predecessor. 

Moreover, the Evolve Series shines in its diverse product offerings, catering to different needs with options like the portable Plunge Pop-Up and Plunge Air, ideal for those who wish to take their cold plunge tub with them when on-the-go. 

Read more about the original Plunge in our Cold Plunge Review. 

Customer Reviews

Because the Evolve Series just launched at the beginning of April, there are no customer reviews available yet. We’ll update this review once people have gotten their hands on these products. 

Final Verdict of Our Plunge Evolve Series Review

I think the Evolve Series is a fantastic move by Plunge, providing consumers with three, high-quality cold plunge tubs that cater to a range of different budgets and personal preferences. 

In my opinion, Plunge has earned a reputation as a trusted brand in the industry, renowned for their premium products and exceptional customer service. The introduction of the Evolve Pro Chiller system is also a notable addition, giving consumers the flexibility to upgrade from using ice to a more efficient cooling system as their budget allows. 

Plunge Evolve Series FAQs

References

1. Bresnahan, R., Cold water immersion and anti-inflammatory response: a systematic review. Exercise and Sports Nutrition Reviews. 2019
2. Janský, L., et al. Immune system of cold-exposed and cold-adapted humans. European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology. 1996;72(5-6):445-50. PMID: 8925815.
3. Shevchuk, N., Adapted cold shower as a potential treatment for depression. Med Hypotheses. 2008;70(5):995-1001. PMID: 17993252.
4. Szymusiak, R., Body temperature and sleep. Handbook of Clinical Neurology. 2018;156:341-351. PMID: 30454599.