A cold plunge tub can be one of the most rewarding purchases you make. Not only will it improve your recovery, but it’ll change how you feel every day: Improved focus. Less soreness. Better sleep. More energy.
And now you’re ready to take the plunge.
Whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior, or just want to take advantage of the health benefits of cold water immersion, this guide will help you choose the best plunge tub for your goals and lifestyle.
What is a cold plunge tub?
A cold plunge tub is a purpose-built system designed to hold and maintain cold water, usually between 40 and 59 degrees. It’s used for cold water immersion, also known as cold plunging. The practice helps reduce inflammation, support muscle recovery, and activate the nervous system.
Unlike a DIY ice bath, a cold plunge tub offers precise temperature control with a built-in or external chiller. You don’t have to deal with bags of ice or guessing how cold the water is. Many models include filtration systems to keep the water clean, too.
Cold plunge vs. ice bath: What’s the difference?
Thinking about filling a stock tank or your bathtub with ice? We’ve been there. It feels like a low-commitment way to try cold therapy. But here’s why a true cold plunge tub makes a big difference.
Temperature control: Cold plunge tubs use chillers to keep the water at a consistent temperature. No more melting ice or lukewarm water.
Cleanliness: Built-in filtration systems keep the water clean and safe to use over and over.
Convenience: No ice runs, no draining tubs, no waiting for the right water temp.
Longevity: Cold plunge tubs are made with durable materials designed for long-term, regular use.
For serious results, you want consistency, and that’s hard to get with a DIY setup.
How cold should a cold plunge tub be?
Most people plunge between 40 and 55 degrees. However, the right temperature for you depends on your experience, physiology, and goals.
If you're new to cold water immersion, start slow. A good starting point could be 50 to 55 degrees for just a minute or two. That’s cold enough to trigger the key recovery and wellness benefits without completely shocking your system.
If you’re more experienced or focused on performance and recovery, dropping the temp to 40 to 45 degrees can help you get deeper results in less time. But keep in mind: colder doesn’t always mean better.
Science shows that the benefits of cold water therapy begin around 59 degrees. Going colder may increase the intensity, but it doesn’t always increase the benefits. In fact, plunging into freezing temps like 34 degrees — the kind you might see on social media — can actually have diminishing returns for most people.
Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs let you choose your ideal temperature, whether you’re easing in or turning it all the way down. It's cold water therapy that works with you, not against you.
Choosing the right Chilly GOAT cold plunge tub
Chilly GOAT offers a lineup of cold tubs built for different needs, budgets, and spaces. Whether you want something portable, mid-range, or premium, there’s a GOAT for you.
GO! Inflatable Cold Tub
Our most affordable and portable option. Pair it with a cold tub chiller and you have a legit plunge system that fits your space and your budget. Great for beginners, renters, or anyone short on space.
Matterhorn Cold Tub
Mid-range and mighty. Designed with a hard tub and external chiller, the Matterhorn cold tub balances performance and portability. Perfect for garage gyms or patios.
Alpine Cold Tub
The OG Chilly GOAT Cold Tub features a built-in chiller and clean, modern design. No external plumbing or equipment; just plug it in and get cold. Ideal for patios, home gyms, or recovery rooms.
Valaris Hot Tub + Cold Tub
Want both hot and cold in one? The Valaris is a hot tub and a cold tub — all in one sleek unit. With dual-zone controls, you can enjoy contrast therapy without needing two separate products.
All Chilly GOAT tubs are designed for year-round use, indoors or out.
Is a cold plunge tub worth it?
For people who prioritize performance, recovery, and resilience: absolutely. A cold plunge tub is an investment in how you feel, train, and recover. It becomes part of your daily routine and something you actually look forward to, not just tolerate.
Environment matters. As Dr. Jaime Seeman says, it’s one of the pillars of long-term health. And when your cold tub is just steps away, it’s easier to stay consistent and make recovery a daily habit. No driving to a studio. No wondering if the water's clean. No falling out of routine when life gets busy.
Sure, that contrast therapy studio membership might’ve made sense at first. But if it’s become harder to get there or you’re just not going as often, a cold tub at home makes it easy to keep showing up for yourself.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a cold plunge tub?
Prices vary by model. The GO! inflatable tub is the most budget-friendly. With a chiller, it’s $2,990. Premium models with built-in chillers cost more but offer greater convenience and design.
How cold is a cold plunge tub?
Chilly GOAT tubs reach 40 degrees cold, making them ideal for athletes, pros, and biohackers.
Couldn’t I just make a cold plunge tub?
You can DIY a plunge with a stock tank or ice in a bathtub, but it won’t be as consistent or clean as a real cold plunge tub with a chiller.
Will I fit in a cold plunge tub?
Yes! Our tubs are designed to fit most adults comfortably — even tall athletes. Read our full guide for tall users here.
Is there a hot tub that can also be a cold plunge tub?
Yes! The Valaris by Chilly GOAT is a dual-zone system designed specifically for both hot and cold therapy. With separate temperature controls, you can soak in hot water on one side and plunge into cold on the other. It's ideal for contrast therapy, recovery, biohacking, and everyday wellness.
And if you're not ready for a dual-zone setup, all Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs are capable of heating to traditional hot tub temperatures. That means you can go hot or cold, based on how you feel or what your body needs.
Ready to chill out?
If you’re ready to bring the benefits of cold therapy home, explore the full lineup of Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs. Whether you want the GO!, the Matterhorn, or the Alpine, there’s a tub that fits your space, routine, and goals.
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