Ice Barrel Review: What Our Tester Loved & Didn't Love About This Cold Plunge Tub

We’ve researched a lot of options and named the Ice Barrel one of the best cold plunge tubs. Our tester was so wowed by the results, he’s now implemented cold plunging into his daily routine. Today, we’re sharing his firsthand account.

The Ice Barrel has an easy-to-use drainage system that connects to a standard garden hose. To empty the barrel, simply connect it to the hose and drain the water. There are no intricate filters or complicated cooling systems to worry about.

Setting up the Ice Barrel couldn’t be simpler. The tub weighs about 55 pounds when empty, meaning you should be able to lift it and arrange it in your space upon arrival.

*Since the Ice Barrel does not come with a thermometer or temperature regulator, you’ll have to buy your own. Ice Barrel does sell one individually or as part of their cold plunge maintenance kit for an additional $130.

The Ice Barrel does not come with a built-in filtration system. The brand says water can be left in the tub, where it typically stays cold for a few days (depending on the weather). As we mentioned, the Ice Barrel features a front-facing drain and hose hook-up that allows for easy drainage. To empty the barrel, connect it to a standard garden hose and drain the water.

As for cons, Andreas says the Ice Barrel requires a lot of ice to keep the water cold. “In the summer, at least three large bags of ice are required to keep the water cold,” he explains.

Style: The Ice Barrel is available as a barrel that requires you to sit upright.

Every Ice Barrel purchase includes:

As mentioned, getting the Ice Barrel cold requires dumping ice into the water. To ensure the water has reached your desired temperature, you’ll need to purchase a thermometer, either on its own or as part of the brand’s Maintenance Kit, which includes everything you’ll need to keep the Ice Barrel in tip-top shape.

Ice Barrel makes all its barrels in Ohio and ships in three to five business days. The tub ships through UPS or FedEx via the LTL freight division. If you live in a residential home or commercial area, the package will be dropped on the property. If you live in an apartment or private residence, your package will be left in the shipping room, the front desk, or with security.

Note: The warranty does not cover cosmetic issues like fading or scratches from typical wear and tear, or environmental conditions like storms, tornados, sleet, ice, and more. If the product does meet the specifications needed to qualify for a warranty, the brand will repair or replace your product with a new one free of charge (excluding shipping and handling). If your product has been discontinued, you’ll receive a replacement of equal or lesser value.

Athletes have been using ice baths for decades as a recovery tool post-game or workout—and with brands like Ice Barrel, cold therapy is now available to the masses. Studies show that a post-exercise ice water immersion can actually impact performance in addition to aiding in muscle recovery.

If you’re pregnant, you should avoid cold plunging. “A temperature drop in the body can provoke fetal growth restrictions, a preterm birth, and other complications,” Bonney previously mentioned.

The Ice Barrel is an easy and affordable (compared to other cold plunge tubs) way to experience the benefits of cold therapy. The tub is well-made and durable, and the insulated design helps to keep the water cold for several days. However, it does require a lot of ice to keep the water cold (at least 3 big bags in warmer weather), and there is no filter, so the water needs to be drained and cleaned periodically. For more models we love, check out the best cold plunges, according to our testers.