PolarPod Ice Bath Review: Is This Budget-Friendly Cold Plunge Right for You?
PolarPod
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Immersion in frigid waters has become widely popular among athletes and non-athletes alike; the health tradition of cold water therapy isn’t new and, in fact, dates back centuries. Today, people are plunging in cold water in the hopes of reaping some of the numerous potential health benefits. Some opt for cold exposure hoping to improve symptoms of depression or anxiety, or as a way to improve recovery and decrease muscle soreness post exercise. You may feel completely overwhelmed by the plethora of cold plunge tubs on the market. Many of these tubs tend to be bulky and pricey, making them out of reach for those who don’t have a ton of space in their homes or those on a budget.
The PolarPod Portable Insulated Ice Bath is both compact and versatile, offering a simple solution for anyone with limited space or budget yet who is interested in an ice bath. While small in size, the PolarPod can still deliver major benefits including post-workout recovery, mental clarity and a boost to your mood.
If you are considering the PolarPod but are unsure if this wallet-friendly bath is the best ice bath for your next cold plunge, we have you covered. In this in-depth PolarPod ice bath review, we will explore all there is to know about it, highlighting features, how to use it and things to consider. Let’s dive in.
Looking for a bigger cold plunge tub? Check out our review of the Redwoods Outdoors Cold Plunge Tub.
PolarPod Ice Bath Specs:
- Price: $115
- Warranty: 60 days for manufacturer defects
- Temperature: Chills down to 7 degrees Fahrenheit (with Pro CHILLR V1)
- Materials: Tear-resistant nylon
- Standout feature: Triple-insulated walls
What is the PolarPod Ice Bath?
PolarPod
The PolarPod ice bath is essentially a small pod-like tub designed for taking ice baths in. Engineered with convenience in mind, this compact and lightweight product features an insulated lid, an all-weather drawstring cover, six sturdy support poles, an easy-to-use hand pump and a drain valve for effortless maintenance. Despite its small size, this budget-friendly ice bath offers all the benefits of its larger-sized counterparts.
The PolarPod holds up to 80 gallons of water and weighs 7.7 pounds. Standing 31.5 inches high and inches diameter, this pod accommodates users as tall as 6’ 7”. Thanks to its lightweight and compact stature, the PolarPod is extremely portable, can be used with warm and cold water and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Constructed with triple-insulated walls and tear-resistant nylon material, the PolarPod offers easy setup and use. As an inflatable cold plunge tub, you simply inflate it, fill it with water and ice and hop in.
If you want to cut down on the time it takes for the water to chill, you can purchase the compatible Pro Chillr technology, which is said to cool the water twice as fast, going as low as 7 degrees Fahrenheit. And as a bonus, users also receive a free carry bag for easy transportation and storage when making this purchase.
What we like:
- Lightweight, portable ice bath
- Simple to use
- Notable water capacity
- Affordable
What to consider
- Spacious enough for one person only
- Takes time to fill and chill without the Pro Chillr
- Disappointing warranty
Warranty and return policy
PolarPod offers a 60-day warranty for any manufacturer defects. This warranty is not as robust as other ice baths on the market but PolarPod claims that all its products undergo rigorous quality control testing which ensures product integrity and durability.
PolarPod Ice Bath vs. the Ice Barrel
PolarPod
Anyone looking for a streamlined and space-efficient ice bath will likely appreciate both the PolarPod ice bath and the Ice Barrel. Both cold therapy training tools require minimal floor space, are lightweight, portable and encourage an upright seating position. And they are both very easy to use; simply fill them with ice and water and wait for the bath to reach your desired temperature. So what are the big differences between the two?
The Ice Barrel looks almost identical to a traditional wooden barrel. It’s made of low-linear density polyethylene (LLDPE) that’s non-toxic, durable and made of recycled materials. Thanks to its size and weight, the Ice Barrel can be moved from one place to another.
Similar in concept to the Ice Barrel, the PolarPod ice bath boasts a minimalistic design but is constructed very differently. Unlike the Ice Barrel’s firm walls, the PolarPod is inflatable and can be deflated, folded and stored out of the way. Constructed with triple insulated walls and tear-resistant nylon material, the PolarPod features six support poles contributing to its durability and stability but lacks the hard shell found on the Ice Barrel.
The Ice Barrel comes with a drainage system that connects to any regular garden hose, making the cleanup process a breeze. Like the PolarPod, it does not require a chiller to work but does have the optionality to connect with one making it simpler to cool the water and control the temperature.
The major contrast between these polar recovery tubs is pricing. While the Ice Barrel costs over $1,000, the PolarPod is currently available for around $115. PolarPod also regularly runs sales events. This significant price difference could certainly sway the decisions of potential buyers.
PolarPod Ice Bath FAQs
Does the PolarPod ice bath work?
According to the vast majority of reviews, the PolarPod ice bath works very well and is simple to use.
What are the benefits of PolarPod ice bath?
The PolarPod ice bath, similar to other cold plunge tubs, claims to promote muscle recovery, increase energy and boost the immune system. While there are not any controlled studies specific to this ice bath model, real users rave about its effectiveness in speeding up recovery, improving mood and decreasing soreness.
How long should you plunge in an ice bath?
The general consensus among experts is that a dip in an ice bath should last between 10 and 15 minutes, according to an article published by Hackensack Meridian Health. If you're a first-time user, it's better to keep the duration short to avoid the risk of hypothermia that comes with prolonged exposure to cold water.
Final Thoughts: Is the PolarPod Ice Bath Right for You?
Within the world of wellness and fitness, ice baths have surged in popularity, becoming a common practice for athletes, fitness devotees and non-athletes alike looking to recover and improve their overall health. Unlike larger and more costly tubs on the market today, the PolarPod offers a compact, user-friendly and functional choice for everyday use. Its portability, straightforward design and extremely affordable price tag makes it especially appealing for those in compact living spaces and/or on a budget.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
