Having tested hundreds of recovery tools including the best massage guns, foam rollers, and more, I believe the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots are some of the best picks for lower body recovery. The travel-friendly design and sleek functionality have quickly made them staples in my post-workout regimen, and I feel they can be vital tools for elite athletes seeking convenient, effective relief. In this Normatec Elite review, we’ll highlight key features, add some comparisons, and get to the bottom of the brand’s latest go at compression therapy. For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology page.

Normatec Elite Recovery Boots

Normatec Elite Recovery Boots

The Normatec Elite Recovery Boots feature on-boot control modules that allow you to select your session’s timing and intensity, eliminating the need for lengthy hoses or external control units. Plus, these recovery boots can be synced with the Hyperice app for more convenient control throughout your post-workout regimens.

Shop Hyperice

Main Takeaways

• ZoneBoost technology allows you to target specific areas (zones) of your lower body for extra compression and attention during recovery sessions.
• These Normatec boots feature two on-boot control units that eliminate the need for hoses, making them far more convenient and portable than previous iterations.
• At the time of this writing, Hyperice and Normatec do not offer hip and arm profiles in the Elite series — just leg attachments.

Normatec Elite Specs

The Normatec Elite Recovery Boots are an air compression system designed to help improve circulation and blood flow across your legs for muscle relief and activation before or after your training sessions. According to Alex Polish, our expert reviewer, “Recovery boots provide intermittent pneumatic compression, which is a fancy way of describing a deep pressure around your lower limbs caused by the sleeves of the boot ‘squeezing’ you. Think kind of like a blood pressure cuff, but over a longer period of time and a bigger surface area.”

These boots can be used as a warm-up modality prior to your workouts or operate as a soothing massage tool to ease pain and aches for better muscle recovery. There are seven levels of compression intensity controllable either through the on-boot units or via Bluetooth on the convenient Hyperice app.

While Hyperice and Normatec have been offering recovery boots for years, the Elite series is the most streamlined to date given there are no heavy external control units or hoses to worry about. Everything is on the individual leg attachment which greatly improves the portability of this recovery tool. Speaking of, you also receive a drawstring bag and carrying case for the leg attachments and 12-volt wall charger meaning you can easily take these boots with you during travel (the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots are also TSA-approved for carry-on).

Controlling your recovery session is easy on each unit as each metric has its own dedicated button. You have seven different intensities to choose from as well as Time allotments of 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes. You can also control the ZoneBoost tech across the on-boot unit which places extra time and pressure across one of the five air chambers during your session. For example, I’ve been dealing with a nagging groin injury, so I’ve used the ZoneBoost at Zone 5 which covers the upper thigh.

You also have the power to control your Normatec Elite Recovery Boots through your smartphone and the Hyperice app. I highly recommend downloading this service — it’s one of the best fitness apps for Hyperice product users — as it gives you access to all controls without the need to look at the boot itself. Plus, there are different modules like post-run recovery, leg activation, and more with preset intensities and times. At the time of this publication, Hyperice has yet to offer these programs, but given my experience with the previous Normatec 3 Legs, I don’t doubt that they’re coming soon.

Each Normatec Elite boot weighs 3.2 pounds with a battery life of up to 4 hours. I’m a stickler for keeping my recovery devices well-charged, so I’ve yet to run into issues with the battery life. That said, other colleagues who’ve tested these recovery boots say that they’ve gone multiple sessions without ever worrying about their power stores.

Finally, the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots are available in three sizes. According to the brand, the “Short” sizing is for athletes 5’3” and under, the “Standard” sizing is for those between 5’4” and 6’2”, and the “Tall” cut is for those 6’3” and above.

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use Normatec Elite Recovery Boots

While I have had positive results with the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots, I understand that experience can be subjective. While some may enjoy the hands-off approach to recovery, others may prefer a more controllable modality like what you’d get with the best foam rollers. Here are some suggestions as to whom these recovery boots are most ideal for.

Recommended for:

• Athletes looking for compression technology without the need for lengthy hoses or heavy vacuum units.
• Those wanting to focus recovery methods across their lower body.
• Anyone looking for a less involved post-workout regimen where the tools do the work for you.

Not Recommended for:

• Athletes needing a recovery tool for upper body areas — the Normatec Elite series does not feature arm attachments at this time.
• People with circulatory issues.
• Budget-minded athletes not willing to spend nearly $1,000 on a singular recovery device.

Our Experience Training Using the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots

I tested the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots for multiple weeks, utilizing the compression technology for both pre- and post-workout needs. I conducted 15-, 30-, 45-, and 60-minute sessions to get a feel for the experience across different intensity levels and used the ZoneBoost feature at different areas when necessary. Below are some of the key findings that resulted from my experience with these boots as well as comparisons to my prior experience with other Normatec products including the Normatec 3 Legs setup.

On-Boot Control Units

One of the biggest benefits of this new Normatec design from Hyperice is the on-boot control units that eliminates the need for hoses and heavier modules. I’ve previously utilized the Normatec Go system which had similar control units, but was packaged as more of a travel-friendly profile that wrapped around your calves. Having this tech in a full boot silhouette definitely takes the strain out of post-workout recovery sessions — you can quickly zip up the boots, hit a few toggles, and be minutes away from muscle relief.

With previous Normatec iterations — namely, the Normatec 3 Legs — you would need to hoist the control unit to your side, aggressively snap the hose connectors to each leg, and remain in a stagnant position for your allotted session. Now, I’m not saying that you should be walking around with the Normatec Elites, but the contained hardware does give you more room to stretch out and get comfortable across your bed or couch. As such, I rated the convenience at 5 out of 5.

[Related: Post-Workout Recovery Tips From Don Saladino]

Travel-Friendly Conveniences

Given the on-boot controls, the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots are far more portable than previous versions of Normatec boots. I say “boots,” here, as the Normatec Go is more of a calf sleeve than a full lower body recovery tool.

I feel Hyperice acknowledged this by including a convenient drawstring bag within the packaging that features pockets for the boots themselves along with the 12-volt charger. Plus, as with other Hyperice products, the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots are TSA-approved as a carry-on.

With this sleek, upgraded design, I believe I’ll be more inclined to keep these boots with me during travels, especially to day-long or weekend-long competitions where I’m looking to stay as fresh and rejuvenated as possible. Overall, I rated the portability at 4 out of 5 — a significant improvement over previous iterations.

Hyperice App Compatibility

While the on-boot controls are far more convenient than previous Normatec products I’ve owned, I particularly enjoy the Bluetooth connectivity showcased through the Hyperice app. Rather than bending over to change settings or toggle through adjustments, you can seamlessly control your recovery sessions through your smartphone. There have been plenty of afternoons and evenings where I zip in for a session, set my preferred time and ZoneBoost through my smartphone, and pass out as the boots do their thing.

[Related: Improve Recovery and Adapt from Hard Training]

I rated the tech features at 4 out of 5 because of this app compatibility. The score would have been a perfect 5 out of 5, though, if Hyperice had activity-based modules available for the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots. With other Hyperice products controllable through the app, the brand offers specific modules with certain goals in mind such as post-run recovery, pre-training activation, and more. Given that the Normatec Elite boots are a newer product, I suspect the brand will offer these modules in the future. For the time being, though, an athlete can dream.

Lower-Body Recovery Only (For the Time Being)

It takes one look at the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots to understand their targeted muscle groups. That said, previous Normatec iterations have also included arm and hip attachments that offered compression therapy for different areas of the body. As a competitive softball player, I’ve definitely used the arm attachments to relieve post-game soreness.

At the time of this publication, Hyperice has yet to unveil additional silhouettes for the Normatec Elite lineup. If you’re someone looking to target different muscle groups beyond your legs, I’d suggest looking at a different modality for the time being. Hopefully, the brand will offer these hip and upper body profiles in the future.

What to Consider Before Buying Normatec Elite Recovery Boots

When looking to purchase any recovery product — from the best recovery shoes to the best massage guns, foam rollers, cold plunge tubs, and more — you want the best product for your specific needs. Below are a few factors worth considering before adding the Normatec Elite recovery Boots to your cart.

• Targeted Area: These Normatec recovery boots are only available in a leg-based profile, so if you want some relief across your upper body, you may want to consider a different tool.
• Recovery Preferences: According to Alex Polish, our expert reviewer, “If someone doesn’t like the feeling of compression, then a recovery boot might induce claustrophobia or other discomforts.”
• Circulatory Issues: According to Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and our expert reviewer, “Especially if you’ve got high or low blood pressure, or any known conditions with your blood flow — even if, for example, your hands or feet tend to run very cold — you’ll likely want to check in with a qualified healthcare professional before diving into recovery boots.”
• Noise: There is a slight hum to the on-boot control units, and while the audible experience is less than that of a massage gun, you still may want to think about this notion before wearing Normatec Elite Recovery Boots during a Zoom call or other happenings.
• Price: At nearly $1,000, these boots are not cheap — take a look at your finances to ensure you can comfortably afford these soothing recovery tools.

Normatec Elite Vs. Competitors

The Normatec Elite series are a unique silhouette, indeed, but that doesn’t mean they’re without competition in their category. Below are some comparisons to two other popular recovery boot profiles — the aforementioned Normatec 3 Legs and the RecoveryAir JetBoots from Therabody.

Comparing the Normatec Elites to their previous iteration, the Normatec 3 Legs, is fairly simple. Both boots feature seven compression levels and five ZoneBoost chambers across the silhouette. The major differences lie in the control units. The Normatec Elites are controlled via on-boot modules, while the Normatec 3 Legs utilize an external control unit that connects to the boots through long, cumbersome hoses. The battery life of the Elites has improved, too, from 3 hours to 4 hours.

I’ve used both and highly recommend either silhouette, but the convenience and travel-ready design of the Elites wins me over. If you’re not worried about traveling with your boots — and want to save $200 — the Normatec 3 Legs can still be a high-quality pick.

Moving on, Therabody and Hyperice have long been neck and neck with one another in terms of recovery gear. Both brands offer similar products (the Theragun vs. Hypervolt massage gun is basically to the level of a timeless sports rivalry) and that includes recovery boots. The RecoveryAir JetBoots also boast a hose-less design with all controls built right onto the boots themselves. However, the Normatec Elites offer more versatility with seven compression levels as opposed to Therabody’s four. Each RecoveryAir JetBoot is also heavier at 4.12 pounds.

Ordering and Assembling Normatec Elite Recovery Boots

There’s no setup required with these recovery boots — simply unbox the Normatec Elites and get into a session. I do appreciate that Hyperice ships these compression boots with a partial charge if you’re interested in immediately getting into a module, too.

As far as upkeep, the only things you need to worry about are keeping the control units charged and keeping the boot interiors clean. I’ve had instances where I’ve developed some sweat, so I’d recommend taking a disinfecting wipe and cleaning the boot sleeve every few weeks. Personally, I try to keep my cleaning regimen to weekly, but I’m using my Normatec Elite Recovery Boots at least three times per week.

Places to Buy Normatec Elite Recovery Boots

The Normatec Elite Recovery Boots are available online through the brand’s dedicated retail site. Additionally, you can find this recovery system at third-party retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, DICK’s Sporting Goods, REI, and others.

Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews

Hyperice offers a suite of products rooted in post-workout recovery. The brand’s lineup of massage guns, compression therapy devices, vibration therapy tools, and temperature-related gear can be excellent for keeping your body primed for whatever task you throw at it. To contact the brand with any inquiries, Hyperice has a Live Chat feature on its main retail site and can be reached via email at customersupport@hyperice.com or by phone at +1 (949) 565-4994.

[Related: Hyperice Hypervolt Go 2 Review]

In terms of customer reviews, the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots is fairly new so there are limited insights online across the brand’s site and other third-party retailers. That said, we’ll be sure to examine and monitor customer reviews as they begin to roll in.

Warranties

Hyperice offers a standard one-year warranty for the Normatec Elite Recovery Boots against manufacturer defects in material and workmanship. According to the brand, “In the event of any such defect occurring during the warranty period, Hyperice will, at its option, (a) correct the defect by repair or by replacement of the applicable part or component that fails as a result of such defect, without charge for parts and labor; or (b) replace the control unit with one of the same or then current design.”

Final Thoughts on Normatec Elite Recovery Boots

After testing and using the Normatec Elites extensively, I believe they’re some of the best recovery boots out there. The on-boot control units work seamlessly with one another, and the travel-ready design can be excellent for jet-setting athletes looking to take their relief on the road. Plus, the ZoneBoost technology allows you to target specific pain points with a little extra attention throughout your recovery protocols.

Are these recovery boots for everyone? No. The price does make these more of a luxury buy, and compression therapy may not be everyone’s cup of tea. That said, if you’re looking to invest in your lower body recovery, these pumped-up kicks can surely be worth your time.

Normatec Elite FAQs

The post Normatec Elite Review (2024): Pumped-Up Relief from One of the Best Recovery Devices Out There appeared first on BarBend.

If you’ve spent some time in the fitness space, you’re probably no stranger to the benefits of cold water immersion, like reduced inflammation and decreased stress levels. (1) While you can enjoy those effects by dropping 20 pounds of ice into a bathtub, you may prefer the convenience and style that only the best cold plunges can offer. Enter the Renu Stoic 2.0 Cold Tub.

The Renu Stoic 2.0 is a high-end cold plunge tub with a 70” by 33” footprint, heavily insulated customizable walls, and a quiet, integrated chiller that contributes to the clean, modern design. If you’re looking for a cold tub with a sleek look that you can adjust to fit your decor, an effective filtration system, and a quiet chiller, the Stoic might be the one for you. Let’s see how it fared in our testing. 

Renu Cold Stoic 2.0

Renu Cold Stoic 2.0

This upscale cold plunge can be customized with six different colors and four stunning species of wood. Its chiller can cool your water all the way down to 36 degrees Fahrenheit while keeping it clean with the integrated advanced filtration and ozone purification system.

Shop Renu

Main Takeaways

Renu Stoic 2.0 Cold Tub Highlights

• Price: Starts at $9,699
• Seating Capacity: 1
• Lowest Temperature: 36 degrees F 
• Included Accessories: Insulated lid, matching step stool, chiller/filtration system

Even in the high-end world of premium cold plunges, the Renu Stoic 2.0 at-home cold plunge sits on the pricier side. While many comparable tubs can be in the $3,000 to $5,000 price range, this one starts at a whopping $9,599. But for that price, you’re getting a cold plunge tub with excellent insulation that keeps the water cold well after the chiller is shut off and a quiet chiller integrated within the tub to reduce its footprint. 

You also get a rock-solid three-stage filtration system and a clean, classy exterior with plenty of customization options. These customization options include the walls, which come in six different color options, and the wooden deck, which comes with four different stains to choose from. The purchase also includes an insulated lid and a step stool that will match whatever customizations you choose for your design. 

The 2.0 offers a few upgrades over the original Stoic without raising the price point. At 70” inches long by 33” wide, the 2.0 has a bigger footprint than the original’s  64” x 33” as well as a 95-gallon capacity versus the original’s 80 gallons. According to the company, this allows the 2.0 to fit users up to 6’7” tall and 275 pounds versus the Classic’s 6’6” and 250-pound capacity. Renu also states that they’ve upgraded the insulation, and the walls are contoured like you’d find inside a Yeti cooler. 

It’s not all champagne wishes and caviar dreams with this tub, however. There’s also an optional spa light for an extra $350, but with a starting price of nearly ten grand, you’d think it would be included. And during testing, we noticed that the chiller, while very quiet, is slow to cool — it takes about an hour to drop the water’s temperature by one degree. And unless you’ve got $9,599 dollars burning a hole in your pocket, there are other tubs like The Plunge or the Polar Monkeys plunges that have similar features at half the price.

Pros

• The chiller can drop the temperature to 36 degrees.
• A two-stage filtration system and ozone generator keep the tub clean with minimal work.
• There’s a dedicated outlet that makes it easy to fill and drain. 
• The thick insulation keeps the tub cold for hours after the chiller is turned off. 

Cons

• Starting at nearly $10,000, it may be out of most price ranges. 
• It weighs 345 pounds empty and over half a ton filled, so don’t plan on moving it around. 
• Our testers noted that it takes a long time to chill the water in the tub.

Using the Renu Stoic 2.0 Cold Tub

Despite the astronomical price, there is a lot about the Stoic 2.0 that makes the cost seem more palatable. One of the biggest standouts for our testers was the three-stage cleaning system. The first of the two components of the system consists of a two-stage filtration process. 

The large grate catches bigger debris, while the 50-micron filter captures smaller particles. For hard metals, viruses, and bacteria, there is an ultraviolet ozone generator that pumps ozone into the water to keep it clean and safe. Our testers are more than impressed with the system. “I’ve had it running in our facility for a while now,” our tester says. “And it’s by far the cleanest tub here.”

The 95-gallon tub felt roomy enough for our 6-foot-tall tester to sit with their legs straight during cold-water immersion, and the walls and deck were sturdy enough for our testers to sit up on when they needed to warm up. After frustrating experiences with cold tubs that didn’t have dedicated draining ports, our testers appreciated that the Stoic included this perk. The port can connect to a hose so you can drain the water into a sink or a tub, which is essential for using it inside the house.

While the tub feels extremely well-thought-out, our testers weren’t impressed with how long it took the chiller to cool the water. “It took about 40 to 60 minutes to cool the water by one degree,” our tester said.

Also, there is only a manual control option on the tub. Remote WiFi operation doesn’t seem like too much to ask when you’re spending this much on a hot tub. Plus, it would be useful for cooling the tub in advance, considering how long it takes to lower the temperature. Keep in mind that these are nitpicky details on an excellent tub. But for how much this tub costs, it’s fair to expect a lot. 

Materials

All of the Stoic 2.0 Cold Tubs come with thick, insulated, powder-coated walls and elegant wood trim and lids. Plus, the stool is built to match. The walls come in six color options, including Adriatic Grey, Estonian Sandstone, Sira Grey Granite, Basalt Grey, Bianco Romano Granite, and Meterous Black. The available colors for the trim/deck are California Redwood, Pacific Cedar, Shou Sugi Ban – Dark Burn, and Shou Sugi Ban – Tiger Stripe.

Assembly

One of the great things about the Stoic 2.0 is that it requires minimal assembly, and delivery is included in the $9,699 price (frankly, it better be). It arrives on your doorstep fully assembled, but it’s up to you to put it where you want it. 

With a smaller or inflatable tub, that wouldn’t be worth mentioning, but this bad boy weighs in at 345 pounds empty, so you’re probably going to need some friends to help you move it. When you have it where you want it, you can follow Renu’s video instructions and set it up, which took us about 30 minutes. 

Temperature Settings

The Stoic 2.0 has a thermometer that can be set to chill the tub’s water down to anywhere from 36 to 60 degrees. But don’t plan on hopping in the tub right away — our testers found that it took anywhere from 12 to 24 hours to get the water to the desired temperature.

The good news is that once it’s there, it’ll stay there. Thanks to the Stoic 2.0’s thick insulated walls, the tub can keep the water temperature under 60 degrees even 24 hours after turning the chiller off. Plus, our testers noted that the chiller runs quietly, so you won’t be jolted out of your deep breathing and relaxation by a loud hum. 

Filtering/Cleaning

One of the features that make the Stoic 2.0 worth the high price is the excellent filtration system. The system, which is integrated within the body of the tub, consists of two-stage filtration bolstered by an ultraviolet ozone generator that releases one gas into the water to eliminate viruses, heavy metals, and bacteria.

Our tester reported that at no point in time did there seem to be unfiltered water in the tub, even after it sat unused for a time. “I had this tub shut off and covered for over a week and a half,” they said. “And there were no signs of buildup at all.” Based on their experience, we have the Stoic 2.0 an enthusiastic 5 out of 5 stars. 

Draining

One gripe that our tester had during our review of the inflatable Redwood Outdoors Yukon Tub was that there were no dedicated drain ports. You can imagine how much we appreciate the Stoic 2.0’s out port, which not only lets you drain the water but allows for a hose attachment, so you can drain it into a sink or bathtub. This is essential for anyone who wants to keep this tub indoors. 

Dimensions

At 70” long by 33” wide and 35” tall, the Stoic 2.0 will take up a chunk of space in your home or backyard. On the plus side, unlike other tubs with external chillers, the chiller/filtration system is integrated into the tub’s body. This saves a bit of space (and makes the whole setup look sharp).

The interior was roomy enough for our 5’4” tester, but our 6’ tester found himself wishing he could stretch his legs out. If you’re taller and legroom is essential, you could go with Renu’s larger model, the Siberian, for $4,000 more. Nonetheless, our testers gave it 4 out of 5 stars for comfort. 

What to Consider Before Buying the Renu Stoic 2.0 Cold Tub

The Stoic 2.0 is a pricey tub, but it does come with some interesting features. If you’re thinking about dropping your hard-earned cash on this tub, there are a few factors to consider.

Price

At $9,599, this is one of the most expensive cold tubs that we’ve tested. This is $3,000-$4,000 more than comparable tubs. There are several features that make this tub stand out, including the customizable aesthetic, excellent filtration system, and the quiet chiller. Nevertheless, it’s hard to justify shelling out almost $10,000 for a cold plunge tub, so our testers gave it 2.5 out of 5 stars for value. 

Chiller

The 0.25hp chiller is quiet enough to use indoors and can be set to cool water down to anywhere from 60 to 27 degrees. Plus, it’s integrated into the tub body, so your plunge room or deck won’t feel cluttered. There are no remote or Wi-Fi options, however, so if you want to get your tub cooling while you’re away, you may want to choose another product. 

Filters/Cleaning

The filtration system is one of the coolest things about the Stoic 2.0. The dual filtration system is capable of pumping 20 gallons of water per minute through its large grate for catching bigger debris and its 50-micron filter for capturing smaller particles. On top of that, there is an ultraviolet ozone generator that releases ozone gas into the water to help eliminate viruses, bacteria, and heavy metal buildup. 

Electrical Requirements

The chiller/filter requires a 110-volt plug, which is standard in most homes.

Dimensions

The interior of the Stoic 2.0 is 40” long by 25” wide and 31” tall, which was plenty of room for our 5’4” tester. Our 6’ tall, however, wasn’t able to fully extend his legs. Our taller tester was surprised, however, by how much vertical space there was. “I didn’t think that my upper body would fit in the tub, but it’s a lot taller than I thought it was.”

Externally, the tub is 70” long by 33” wide and 35” tall, which is comparable to some of the larger tubs on the market. Unlike other larger tubs on the market, you don’t need to save space for the chiller and filtration system since they’re built into the body of the tub.

Portability

If you need a tub that you can travel with or move around the backyard frequently, this isn’t the one. At 345 pounds dry and 1,125 pounds when filled to capacity, this will be a semi-permanent fixture wherever you put it, so we’re giving it 1 out of 5 stars for portability. 

Renu Stoic 2.0 Cold Tub Vs. The Competition

Like the best treadmills and home saunas, old plunges can be a significant investment, and the Stoic 2.0 is definitely not an exception. Before you take the…plunge, make sure you shop around to make sure that money is going to the best tub for your needs. Here’s how the Stoic 2.0 stacks up against the competition. 

If you’re working with a tight budget, The Cold Pod is the obvious choice at $184.99. That said, it’s pretty sparse when it comes to features. All told, you’re buying a large bucket. If you’re willing to spend a few grand, the Plunge Pro XL is the closest premium tub at $6,900 without the optional heater, but it is a fully loaded tub. Taller folks may want to give the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro a look. Since it’s over 6’6” in length, most plungers will be able to submerge fully with their legs extended. 

If you have a ton of money to spend, Renu Stoic 2.0 Cold Tub is arguably the best-looking and most streamlined tub and chiller combo. It’s not as big as the Cold Plunge Pro, but the integrated chiller and customizable, heavily insulated walls are a huge plus. 

As the table shows, there are options for a range of needs and price ranges, whether you need a bigger tub or one that matches your decor. Just make sure to figure out your priorities and do your research, and you’ll be able to find the best one. 

Places to Buy

You can buy the Renu Stoic 2.0 Cold Tub directly from the Renu website. 

Company Information

Renu offers an extensive line of cold plunges, saunas, and hot tubs. They offer a five-year warranty on plastic tubs and a one-year warranty on wood tubs as well as financing through Affirm. To speak to a team member, you can contact them at (714) 617-2007, or head over to their Contact page, fill out a form, and someone will email you.

In Conclusion

If you’re looking for a top-tier cold plunge tub, the Renu Stoic 2.0 Cold Tub is worth a look. It has a classy and customizable appearance, the cleaning system is top-tier, and it’s designed to work both indoors and outdoors, thanks to the tough powder-coated exterior and hose-compatible draining system. 

Our testers had some issues with the tub, namely that the chiller takes a while to cool the water, the spa light costs extra, and there aren’t any remote operation options. These are minor complaints for an overall excellent tub, but for the high cost of admission, it’s fair to expect more. But if you’ve got a stack of cash burning a hole in your pocket and you want a top-tier cold tub, the Stoic 2.0 is a solid option. 

FAQs

Resources

1. Esperland D, de Weerd L, Mercer JB. Health effects of voluntary exposure to cold water – a continuing subject of debate. Int J Circumpolar Health. 2022 Dec;81(1):2111789. doi: 10.1080/22423982.2022.2111789. PMID: 36137565; PMCID: PMC9518606.

The post Renu Stoic 2.0 Cold Tub Review appeared first on BarBend.

The Panorama Sauna is basically Redwood Outdoors’ Barrel Sauna but with one big twist: The entire back wall is made of clear glass, which lets in a ton of natural light and provides unobstructed views of the surrounding terrain. It has seating for four to six people, a footprint of roughly six feet by six feet, and three heater options that can reach temps of up to 220 degrees. Thanks to its high-end heaters, barrel-style exterior, and panoramic glass back wall, the Redwood Outdoors Panoramic Sauna is built to deliver a spa retreat-level sauna experience.

Redwood Thermowood Panorama Sauna

Redwood Thermowood Panorama Sauna

The panoramic panels of this sauna allow you to take in the views while you relax in the Thermowood-constructed sauna capable of heating up to 190 degrees Fahrenheit. You can select between three high-end heater options, even a wood-burning heater that offer different benefits.

Shop Redwood Outdoors

About Our Tester

Billy Brown is one of BarBend’s reviews editors. He’s a certified trainer and competitive athlete who has spent countless hours in saunas for both recovery and relaxation. He put together this review using a combination of his own personal experience, product testing notes from other BarBend testers, and reports from user reviews. 

Main Takeaways

Redwood Thermowood Panorama Sauna Highlights

• Price: Starts at $6,599
• Seating Capacity: 6
• Max Temperature: 220 degrees Fahrenheit
• Wood Type: Scandinavian Thermowood

A good home sauna can turn your backyard into a day spa, and the Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Panorama Sauna is an excellent example. Made from Scandinavian Thermowood, which is treated to resist rot and fungi, this barrel-shaped sauna stands out with its all-glass back wall. This wall lets in plenty of natural light, and if you happen to have a yard with a view, the Panorama will let you soak it in while you unwind. 

The price starts at $6,599, but the price depends on which heater option you choose. All of the heaters use traditional (or steam) heat, but users can select from three options: two electric heaters that put out temperatures of up to 220 degrees F, with varying amounts of humidity depending on the heater. There’s also a wood-burning option that comes with or without a chimney kit for those who want to keep things old-school. 

The Panorama seats up to six people within its 6’ x 6’ footprint, but if you’re not the cuddling type, four might be more comfortable. At 900 pounds, this is not a portable sauna at all, so be ready to commit when it comes to placement. Also, at that weight, you’re going to want a stable foundation like a concrete slab or deck for it to sit on. We’ve had testers report similar saunas actually sinking into their backyard lawns. And while the $6,599 starting price is nothing to sneeze at, the price hops up quickly if you go with a higher-end heater or any of the accessories. If you go top-tier with the heater and get all the add-ons, you’re looking at almost double the initial cost. 

Using the Redwood Thermowood Panorama Sauna 

We’ve tested several Redwood Outdoor Saunas, including the similar Extra-Wide Thermowood Barrel Sauna. Our testers have had positive things to say about everything we’ve tested from Redwood Outdoors, and the Panorama should prove to be of similar quality. The heaters range in top temperature from 165 to 220 degrees, and the WiFi versions can get the heat going remotely, so the sauna’s ready to rock when you get home. 

The sauna seats four to six, although six people may be a tighter squeeze. The glass back wall is the Panorama’s standout feature — it allows plenty of natural light in, and if your backyard has a view, you’ll be able to enjoy it from inside the sauna. It’s worth noting that assembling the Panorama will require at least one friend and some carpentry skills, so if you’re not sure what a spirit level is, you may want to hire out the work.

Assembly

Unless you hire a contractor, you’ll be putting the Panorama Sauna together yourself. Plan on recruiting a few pals, though — this beast has a 6’ x 6’ footprint and weighs in at 900 pounds. Our tester reported that setup was “a grind” and recommends either hiring a contractor or coercing some buddies to help you out. 

It’s also worth noting that both of the electric heaters will require a 220v outlet. If there isn’t one where you plan to park your sauna, you’ll need to hire an electrician to install one for you.

Temperature Settings

According to Redwood Outdoors, Harvia sauna heaters are among the highest-quality sauna heaters in the world, which is why Redwood Outdoors uses them in its saunas. And we’re inclined to agree: Harvia heaters are ETL-certified for safety and quality, and the electric heaters come in manual or Wi-Fi versions. Manual operation on those two comes in the form of two dials, one that sets the temperature and one that acts as a timer. The timer has up to an eight-hour delay, so you can start it while you’re out and have it ready when you get home. 

The Wi-Fi options let you control the sauna’s temperature and time from a smart device, which can be convenient. But you’ll have to make the choice when you buy the sauna. Redwood says that the manual and Wi-Fi heaters are so different that you can’t buy a manual one initially and update it later. Our tester also appreciated the automatic shut-off feature, which turned off the Kip when it reached 220 degrees, as well as the built-in timers, which prevent you from steaming for too long.

Both of the electric heaters will come to full heat (165 degrees for the Cilindro and 220 degrees for the Kip) in about an hour. If a high-temperature dry heat is your preference, the Kip offers a higher max temperature of 220 degrees and a drier heat. For steamers, the Cilindro heats up to a more moderate 165 degrees, which Redwood says is ideal for allowing more steam to accumulate.

Materials

The sauna is made up of Scandinavian Thermowood, which is heat-treated in temperatures between 180 and 230 degrees. This treatment takes place over the course of 96 hours, drying the wood to its core to remove all of its internal moisture and resin.

The Panorama is made up of Scandinavian Thermowood, which is treated to resist fungi and wood rot. The wood is heated in temperatures between 180 and 230 degrees for 96 hours — a process that dries the wood to its core, removing all internal moisture and resin. 

This heat treatment is a toxin-free way to make the wood more resilient, but it doesn’t stain the wood. It will eventually turn gray from sun exposure, so we recommend brushing the wood with a non-toxic stain to keep it looking fresh.

What makes the Panorama really stand out (and where its name comes from) is the back wall, which is made entirely of glass. This lets in an abundance of natural light and provides a clever view of your surroundings while (the company claims) still retaining heat. 

Dimensions

The Panorama Sauna is 6’ long by 6’ wide, which will comfortably fit four to six, but it will consume a solid chunk of space in your backyard. And at 900 pounds, you’re not going to want to move it around, so make sure you’ve got the perfect place for it before you buy. 

It’s 6.38’ tall, so most people should be able to stand up in it. It’s not as big as Redwood Outdoor’s 8-person Garden Sauna, but the rounded walls of this barrel sauna and the glass back wall will make it feel more spacious than it is. 

What to Consider Before Buying the Redwood Thermowood Panorama Sauna 

A backyard sauna is a big commitment, so make sure you’re considering some important factors before taking the plunge on the Panorama. Here are some of the things you’ll want to consider if you’re thinking about picking one up.

Price

The Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Panorama Sauna starts at $6,599 before adding on shipping fees and paying for an electrician to add a 220-volt outlet to your backyard (if you don’t already have one). 

If you choose to upgrade your heater and tack on accessories like protective roof shingles (which also look really cool), a flat floor kit, an outdoor shower, and even a cold plunge. If you go big and get the priciest heater and all the upgrades, the Panorama will set you back $11,974 before shipping and electrician costs. 

The starting price is fairly low as far as similar models go, with the Redwood Outdoors Garden Sauna and the Higher Dose Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna starting at $7,500 and $8,300. But, as we said, the price only goes up as you start to tack on the accessories. 

If you can’t swing that price, Redwood Outdoors offers less expensive models, and there are also ways to mimic the benefits of a sauna without actually having to buy one.

Dimensions

At 6’ long by 6’ wide and 6.38’ tall, the Thermowood Panorama Sauna isn’t the biggest sauna in Redwood Outdoors’ lineup, but it’s up there. Make sure that you have enough room on your property to house this sauna. 

Also, the Panorama weighs 900 pounds, so you’ll need a deck or a concrete pad on which to house it. When testing another Redwood Outdoors sauna with a similar weight, our testers noted that the sauna’s weight actually caused it to sink into the lawn a bit. 

Heater Options

When you buy the Thermowood Panorama Sauna, you’ll have to choose from one of three heaters — two electrical and one wood-burning. All of them use traditional (or steam) heat, but the electric heaters differ in maximum temperature and humidity. Plus, there’s a wood stove option if you want to go off-grid with your sauna, but installation will require some extra carpentry.

Harvia Kip Electric Heater

The Harvia Kip Electric Heater is the default heater and offers the highest temp and lowest humidity between the two electric heaters. The Kip can reach 220 degrees and offers a relatively low humidity at 15 to 25 percent. It’s available with either manual or Wi-Fi controls and either 6kW or 8kW options. 

Harvia Cilindro Electric Heater

Want a steamier experience? The Harvia Cilindro Electric Heater tops out at a relatively low 165 degrees with a higher humidity of about 30 percent. It is available with either manual or Wi-Fi controls. 

Harvia M3 Wood Stove

If you want a more off-grid experience, the Harvia M3 Wood Stove is your huckleberry. It’s worth noting that it’s larger than the electric heaters, so it’ll reduce the Panorama’s seating capacity to four. Also, it will require a chimney setup to keep you from getting smoked out. Fortunately, Redwood Outdoors offers an optional chimney kit with this stove.

Electrical Requirements

The heaters require 220-volt outlets. If you don’t have a 220 outlet, you’ll have to hire an electrician to install one wherever you plan to use your sauna.

Redwood Thermowood Panorama Sauna Vs. The Competition

A sauna can be a sizable investment, so it’s worthwhile to shop around, and make sure you’re buying the right one for your needs. Here’s how the Thermowood Panorama Sauna compares to other saunas on the market. 

If you’re tight on space and/or money and you plan on flying solo, the SereneLife Portable Full Size Infrared Home Spa is the most apparent choice. The SereneLife sauna also offers infrared heat, which runs at lower temperatures than steam heat. In the case of this SereneLife sauna, the heat maxes out at 140 degrees.  

Using infrared therapy from saunas like the Sunlighten mPulse or Higher Dose Full Spectrum saunas can be ideal for people who prefer infrared saunas, but they do have a higher price point than the options from Redwood Outdoors. If you’re a fan of traditional steam heating and you plan to steam with friends, the Thermowood Garden Sauna is the best choice — it can seat eight and has several traditional heater options to allow you to customize your experience.

The Thermowood Panorama is another great choice for steam fans, especially if they live somewhere with a view. The six-person barrel sauna’s glass back wall provides plenty of natural light and an unobstructed view of the surrounding area. 

Places to Buy

You can buy the Thermowood Panorama Sauna directly through the Redwood Outdoors website. 

Company Information

Redwood Outdoors offers an extensive line of saunas, cold plunges, and hot tubs. In addition to their one-year warranty, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on all of their products and financing options through Affirm. To speak to a team member, you can contact them at 1-800-567-8036, or head over to their Contact page, fill out a form, and someone will email you.

In Conclusion

Redwood Outdoors has a well-earned reputation for making great saunas, and the Thermowood Panorama Sauna meets the company’s high standards. It has room for up to six people, the Scandinavian Thermowood is rot- and fungus-resistant; different heater options allow for a customizable experience, and the glass back wall lets in plenty of natural light and offers a panoramic (ahem) view of the surrounding area.

All that luxury isn’t cheap — if you go with all the available accessories and the highest-priced heater, you’ll be shelling out just under $12,000. But if you want a sauna that can fit some pals and give you a great view, the Redwood Thermowood Panorama Sauna might be the way to go. 

FAQs

Resources

1. Hussain J, Cohen M. Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2018 Apr 24;2018:1857413. doi: 10.1155/2018/1857413. PMID: 29849692; PMCID: PMC5941775.
2. Sutkowy P, Woźniak A, Boraczyński T, Mila-Kierzenkowska C, Boraczyński M. The effect of a single Finnish sauna bath after aerobic exercise on the oxidative status in healthy men. Scand J Clin Lab Invest. 2014 Mar;74(2):89-94. doi: 10.3109/00365513.2013.860616. Epub 2013 Dec 5. PMID: 24304490.

The post Redwood Thermowood Panorama Sauna Review appeared first on BarBend.

The Yukon Cold Plunge Tub is an inflatable PVC tub with a 59” by 31.5” footprint, double-walled construction for insulation, and two chilling and heating options that raise the price significantly. Plus, at just 35 pounds, it’s easy to travel with or stow away when you’re not using it. If you’re looking for a roomy, portable cold plunge tub that can work with or without an added chiller or heater, the Redwood Outdoors Yukon Cold Plunge Tub might be just what you’re looking for. Now, let’s plunge into the review. 

Redwood Yukon Cold Plunge Tub

Redwood Yukon Cold Plunge Tub

If you want a cold plunge on a budget, then this is the way to go. You receive an insulated tub, air pump, and cover to keep the cool water cold. All you have to do is provide the ice. You can alternatively purchase the chiller for a portable true cold plunge experience for a fraction of the cost of some other plunges.

Shop Redwood Outdoors

About Our Tester

Billy Brown is one of BarBend’s reviews editors. He’s a certified trainer and competitive athlete who has spent countless hours in hot tubs and cold plunges for both recovery and relaxation. He put together this review using a combination of his own personal experience, product testing notes from other BarBend testers, and reports from user reviews. 

Main Takeaways

Redwood Outdoors Yukon Cold Plunge Tub Highlights

• Price: Starts at $899
• Seating Capacity: 1
• Temperature Range: 37 to 104 degrees F with optional chiller/heater
• Included Accessories: Carrying bag, air pump, tub cover

As far as cold plunges go, the Redwood Outdoors Yukon Plunge Tup starts out on the more affordable side, especially compared to tubs like the Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge. Many tubs can cost in the $3,000 to $5,000 range, but the base model of the Yukon (which consists only of the tub) will only set you back $899. It may sound like a lot for a grown-up inflatable pool, but this is no plastic toy — the Yukon is built with PVC material similar to what you’d find in inflatable stand-up paddleboards. It also has double-walled insulation to help keep the water cold. 

If you don’t want to have to add your own ice every time you plunge, however, things get pricey. Redwood Outdoors offers two chiller options: The Cold Plunge Chiller, which bumps the price up to $3,598, and the Deluxe Chiller + Heater, which will increase the price of the tub to $4,598. Both options can chill the water down to 37 degrees, but the Deluxe Chiller + Heater can also heat the water up to 104 degrees, turning the Yukon into a hot tub. Both chillers can be controlled through a touchscreen on the chiller or remotely via smartphone or tablet. 

What really makes this plunge tub stand out is its portability. When empty, the tub only weighs 35 pounds, and when it’s deflated, it stows away in the included backpack. This can be useful not only for travel but also if you want to open up some more space when you’re not using the tub. If you choose to buy the Chiller and Deluxe Chiller + Heater, however, you’ll want to leave those at home — the Chiller weighs 50 pounds and the Deluxe Chiller + Heater weighs in at 75 pounds.

That portability comes at a cost, however. Our testers noticed that if you leave water in the tub for days on end, the tub will start to sag and lose its shape. Also, even though the company recommends draining the tub at least every 48 hours, there are no specific drain ports, so we had to tip over the tub to empty it completely during testing. But if you’re looking for a full-size plunge tub that can fit into a closet when you’re not using it, you might not mind the extra bit of work.

Using the Redwood Outdoors Yukon Cold Plunge Tub

While our testers were initially skeptical of an inflatable plunge tub, the Yukon Cold Plunge Tub quickly became one of our favorite cold plunges, especially among the inflatable variety. The setup only took about 20 minutes, the chiller was intuitive and easy to use, and the PVC walls were surprisingly sturdy. 

The 155-gallon tub felt roomy and comfortable for testers ranging in height from 5’4” to 6’, both of whom had enough room to sit with their legs straight. Also, the tub’s walls are 23.75 inches high, so shorter people won’t have trouble stepping over them into the tub. One unexpected perk to the inflatable tub was that the walls have just enough give to provide a comfortable place to rest your arms or neck — our testers appreciated that there was no need for a neck pillow to lay back and unwind. 

Even though the inflatable nature of the tub makes it stand out, it requires some extra maintenance to keep it in shape…literally. When our testers left water in the tub for extended periods, the longer walls of the tub started to bulge outward. Redwood Outdoors recommends draining the tub every 48 hours to prevent this. But if you’re storing the tub when it’s not in use (one of the cooler perks of an inflatable tub), you’ll be draining it often anyway. 

Assembly

One of the standout aspects of the Yukon Cold Plunge is its portability. Unlike Redwood Outdoors’ Alaskan Cold Plunge, which has a plastic interior with Thermowood siding, the Yukon is made up of inflatable double-walled PVC. To set it up, just use the included air pump and inflate the tub. After that, fill it with roughly 150 gallons of water and a few bags of ice, and you’re good to go. Our tester reported that inflating the tub only took about 20 minutes. 

If you buy either of the optional chillers, you’ll have to connect the hoses to the tub. This is probably the most complicated part of the process, but our testers noted that Redwood Outdoors’ video guide was helpful and easy to follow. 

Temperature Settings

There are several options for cooling (or heating) the Yukon Cold Plunge. The simplest and most cost-effective is just buying the base model, which costs $899 and consists of the tub, an air pump, a tub cover, and a travel bag. It’s the cheapest option, but you’ll have to provide your own ice to chill the water. 

If you’re willing to lay down a few more dollars, you can buy the tub with the Cold Plunge Chiller. The Chiller raises the price to $3,598, but you won’t need to buy ice every time you want to plunge since it can drop the water’s temperature down to 37 degrees.

Looking for a tub that can do double duty as both a cold plunge and a hot tub? Then you’ll have to throw down $4,598 for the Deluxe Chiller + Heater, which, in addition to dropping the water temp to 34 degrees, can also heat the water up to 104 degrees. 

Both options have touchscreen controls on the units that our tester said were intuitive and easy to use. You can also control them remotely through your smartphone or tablet. 

Materials/Durability

The inflatable nature of this cold plunge can lead to images of those kiddie pools that you had in your front yard as a kid. Luckily, the Yukon Cold Plunge is a bit more substantial than your old Thundercats play pool. Instead of thin plastic, it’s made with a high-density PVC material similar to what you’d find in an inflatable paddleboard. 

This material is very durable, and when inflated, it is moderately stiff. During testing, we had no qualms about the walls staying upright as we climbed over them into the tub. Our tester does note that she wouldn’t trust it enough to actually sit on the sides of the tub. 

Also, Redwood Outdoors recommends emptying the tub every 48 hours. The company warns that leaving water in the tub for more than two days can lead to the tub bulging out in the middle, which is an issue that our testers did report seeing.

While there is a bit more upkeep involved with an inflatable tub, the extra maintenance may be worth it if portability is something that you’re looking for in a cold plunge.

Draining

One gripe that our tester had involved draining the plunge tub. You can drain most of the 155 gallons of water through the hose ports, but since those attachments are a few inches above the bottom of the tub, you’ll have to tip over the tub to dump out the remaining few gallons.

Our tester reported that it wasn’t a huge pain, but considering that regularly emptying the tub is part of the required maintenance, you’d think that there would be a dedicated drain port to make it simpler. 

Dimensions

At 59” long by 31.5” wide and 23.75” tall, the Yukon Cold Plunge had plenty of room for our 5’4” tester, who reported that she could sit with her legs straight out with no problems. It was also wide enough for her to sit cross-legged without bumping up the sides. Another tester, who is six feet tall, reported that they can sit upright and fully extend their legs, although they’d have to bend their legs to dunk their head underwater. 

What to Consider Before Buying the Redwood Outdoors Yukon Cold Plunge Tub

Like a squat rack or cardio machine, cold plunges can be a sizable investment, but the Yukon Cold Plunge is unique in that it offers a wide range of prices. If you’re thinking about picking up this cold plunge tub, you’ll have to consider how much you’re willing to pay, what kind of chiller you want (if any), and just how important portability is to you. 

Price/Chiller Options

As far as cold plunges go, the Yukon Cold Plunge starts out fairly affordable. But the prices rise considerably from there. When buying the Yukon Cold Plunge, you’ll have to choose between three ways to chill the tub. Here are the pros and cons of each. 

No Chiller

The base model is by far the most affordable. It includes the tub, an air pump, a travel bag, and a tub cover, and costs $899 before shipping and taxes. But you don’t get any way to cool the water, so you’ll be stuck having to buy ice for it every time you want to plunge. 

Cold Plunge Chiller

The next step up is to buy the plunge tub with the Cold Plunge Chiller. The chiller bumps the price up significantly to $3,598, but it does chill the water down to 37 degrees, so you won’t need to get ice for your plunges. The Chiller can be controlled through a touchpad or remotely through a smartphone or tablet. 

Deluxe Chiller + Heater

If you’re willing to spend another thousand bucks, you can buy a Deluxe Chiller + Heater. Sold with the Yukon Cold Plunge Tub for $4,598, the Deluxe Chiller + Heater can not only chill the plunge tub’s water down to 37 degrees, but it can also heat the water up to 104 degrees when you’re in the mood for a hot tub. 

Dimensions

At 59” long by 31.5” wide, the Yukon Cold Plunge won’t take up a lot of floor space. Plus, it was able to comfortably fit our testers, who ranged in height from 5’4” to 6’ tall. What makes this plunge tub stand out from much of its competition, though, is that it can be deflated and stored in a bin or closet when not in use. So, if you want a cold plunge tub but are tight on floor space, this might be a good solution.

Portability

Our testers found the main perk of this tub is the easy portability. At 35 pounds without any water in it, it’s easy to carry around in the included backpack, and thanks to the efficient air pump, setup can be done in just a few minutes. 

However, we did find some drawbacks that result from this portability. If water is left in the tub for an extended period, the walls start to bulge out and lose shape. Redwood Outdoors recommends emptying the tub every 48 hours to prevent this, but it’s still something that you wouldn’t have to address in a more stationary tub like The Plunge. 

Also, the chillers range in size from 17.75″ L x 11.75″ W x 16.5″ H for the Chiller to 19.25″ L x 12.75″ W x 18″ H for the Deluxe Chiller + Heater and weigh 50 pounds (for the Chiller) and 75 pounds (for the Deluxe Chiller + Heater), so you won’t be taking those with you. The chillers have wheels on them, so you can roll them out of the way when not in use, but don’t plan to take them on vacation.

But if portability or the option to break down and stow the tub is a must-have option, this is worth a good, hard look. Our testers found this to be one of the best portable tubs they’ve used, thanks to its roominess, quick setup, and thoughtful design. 

Redwood Outdoors Yukon Cold Plunge Tub Vs. The Competition

Buying a cold plunge is a commitment of both money and floor space. So before you pull the trigger on one, it’s worth shopping around. Here’s how the Yukon Cold Plunge Tub stacks up against some similar products. 

If price is your main consideration, The Cold Pod wins out at $184.99. Plus, it’s available on Amazon, so with Prime, you should be able to get it within a few days. However, it’s bare bones: You’re basically paying for a large bucket. The Yukon Cold Plunge Tub is the next cheapest option, starting at $899 for just the tub. But when you add the Deluxe Chiller + Heater, you’re spending $4,598 for this portable tub, which is only $400 dollars less than the next closest option. 

For those who don’t mind spending a bit more on a more permanent fixture, The Plunge will cost $4,990 without the optional heater, but it is far more durable than the Yukon and The Cold Pod. If you want as much space as possible, the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is the way to go. At over 6’6” in length, all but the tallest people can fully submerge themselves without having to bend their legs. 

As you can see, there are options for whatever your priorities are, whether you’re looking for spaciousness, portability, or affordability. Just be sure to do your homework, and you’ll find the right cold plunge for you. 

Places to Buy

You can buy the Thermowood Yukon Cold Plunge directly from the Redwood Outdoors website. 

Company Information

Redwood Outdoors offers an extensive line of cold plunges, saunas, and hot tubs. In addition to their one-year warranty, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on all of their products and financing options through Affirm. To speak to a team member, you can contact them at 1-800-567-8036, or head over to their Contact page, fill out a form, and someone will email you.

In Conclusion

As far as portable cold plunge tubs go, The Redwood Outdoors Yukon Cold Plunge Tub is one of the most impressive we’ve seen. It’s easy to set up, surprisingly roomy, and can pack down into a backpack that makes it easy to stow or transport. The optional chillers provide an impressive temperature range, and you can operate them remotely via smartphone or tablet.

There are some minor qualms we had, mostly due to the inflatable build. The company recommends draining the tub completely every few days to prevent sidewall bulges, which our testers did experience after a few days without draining the tub. And, despite the fact that you need to drain it regularly, draining the tub can be awkward since there are no dedicated drain ports. Minor quibbles aside, if you’re looking for a tub (minus the chiller) to take on vacation or to a friend’s house, the Yukon is definitely worth a look. 

FAQs

Resources

1. Esperland D, de Weerd L, Mercer JB. Health effects of voluntary exposure to cold water – a continuing subject of debate. Int J Circumpolar Health. 2022 Dec;81(1):2111789. doi: 10.1080/22423982.2022.2111789. PMID: 36137565; PMCID: PMC9518606.

The post Redwood Outdoors Yukon Cold Plunge Tub Review appeared first on BarBend.

The Thermowood Garden Sauna is a full-size outdoor sauna with an 8.5’ x 7.42’ footprint, a specially treated Scandinavian Thermowood build, interior lighting, and seating for up to eight people. This sauna also has visual appeal, looking like something you’d find next to a hot spring in Norway instead of your backyard. Thanks to the roomy interior, the high-quality building materials, and classical styling, the Redwood Outdoors Garden Sauna could be an excellent recovery tool.

Redwood Thermowood Garden Sauna

Redwood Thermowood Garden Sauna

This sauna is great for relaxing with friends since it can host up to eight people. The bi-level bench design produces dual heating zones so you won't need to adjust the heater to keep everyone comfortable and happy.

Shop Redwood Outdoors

About Our Tester

Billy Brown is one of BarBend’s reviews editors. He’s a certified trainer and competitive athlete who has spent countless hours in saunas for both recovery and relaxation. He put together this review using a combination of his own personal experience, product testing notes from other BarBend testers, and reports from user reviews. 

Main Takeaways

Redwood OutdoorsThermowood Garden Sauna Highlights

• Price: Starts at $7,999
• Seating Capacity: 8
• Max Temperature: About 220 degrees Fahrenheit
• Wood Type: Scandinavian Thermowood

Saunas, in general, can be expensive tools for boosting performance, and this sauna is no exception. It starts at $7,999, and the price quickly rises when you start adding options and accessories — not to mention shipping and any fees associated with assembly (more on that later). But what you’re getting for that price is a backyard sauna that can rival the ones that you see in your local gyms or spas. 

Made of rot- and fungi-resistant Scandinavian Thermowood, which is treated without the use of harsh or dangerous chemicals, the Thermowood Garden Sauna resembles a tiny cabin and is the most stylish offering we’ve seen from Redwood Outdoors. The windows and glass slider allow plenty of natural light, and the stadium seats fit up to eight (depending on how cozy you’re willing to get. 

Buyers can choose between three electric heaters that kick out temperatures of up to 195 degrees F, with varying amounts of humidity depending on the heater. Two of those electric heaters come with a Wi-Fi version for remote operation, but if you’re looking for a more classic method, there is a wood-burning heater option as well. 

Keep in mind, though, that this is a huge sauna. It’s got an 8.5’ x 7.42’ footprint, so you’ll need plenty of space to accommodate it. Also, the Thermowood Garden Sauna weighs 1,500 pounds, so you’ll need a deck or a concrete slab for it to sit on. Users who put it on their backyard lawns reported it sinking into the dirt. Also, if you’re looking for an infrared sauna, you’ll have to look elsewhere, however. Every one of the heater options uses traditional steam heat. 

Using the Redwood Thermowood Garden Sauna

We have been thoroughly impressed during our test periods with Redwood Outdoor Saunas, and there’s no reason that the Thermowood Garden Sauna would be an exception. The heaters can hit temps of 195 degrees in under an hour (with a safety switch to turn them off when they hit 220 degrees), and the Thermowood’s insulation keeps the saunas toasty even hours after shutting the heat off. 

The bleacher-style seating lets you choose between the hotter upper seats (hot air rises, after all) or the relatively cooler lower bench. One thing to consider is that assembling the Garden Sauna requires at least one friend and some modicum of carpentry skill, so if you’re not sure you’re up to it, don’t hesitate to hire out the work.

Assembly

The Garden Sauna comes completely disassembled, and it is a beast. You’re going to need at least one friend to help you put it together, and by all accounts from user reviews, it’ll take you the better part of a day. Also, the heater requires a 220v outlet, so if you don’t have one handy, you’ll need to hire an electrician to set that up for you. 

Our tester concurs based on his experience testing for Redwood Outdoor’s Thermowood Barrel. “Set-up was definitely a grind,” he said. “I would absolutely recommend hiring some help unless you’re a true DIY junky. You also have to hire a licensed electrician to ground the heater to its own breaker.”

Temperature Settings

Redwood’s saunas all use Harvia sauna heaters, which Redwood claims are some of the highest-quality heaters available. Each heater is ETL-certified for safety and quality, and the electric heaters can be controlled manually or remotely via Wi-Fi. The manual operation is through two dials, one that controls the heating and one that acts as a timer. The timer has up to an eight-hour delay, so you can set it, head off to work, and then have it ready for you when you get home. 

The Wi-Fi heaters allow you to control the temperature and time from a phone or a tablet, but you’ll need to choose that option before you buy your sauna. According to Redwood, the manual and Wi-Fi heaters are so different that you can’t upgrade to Wi-Fi at a later point. 

All of the electric heaters will come to full heat (between 165 degrees and 220 degrees, depending on the heater), and they can do it in around an hour. If you’re looking for more humidity, the Harvia Cilindro will be the way to go — it tops out at 165 degrees, which is the right temp to achieve 30 percent humidity. If you’re looking for a drier sauna sit, the Harvia Kip heater cranks up to 195 degrees with a humidity between 15 and 25 percent. 

“We have the Harvia Kip heater, and it gets to 195 in under an hour,” our tester says. “I also enjoy the automatic shut-off if it reaches over 220 degrees, and the timer is a nice safety feature.”

Materials

The sauna is made up of Scandinavian Thermowood, which is heat-treated in temperatures between 180 and 230 degrees. This treatment takes place over the course of 96 hours, drying the wood to its core to remove all of its internal moisture and resin. 

According to Redwood Outdoor, this treatment makes the wood less reactive to changes in humidity and eliminates the nutrients that make it susceptible to fungi and wood rot. Plus, the treatment doesn’t require the use of toxins and harsh chemicals. 

For all its benefits, the treatment does not stain the wood, so it will eventually turn grey from exposure. To prevent this, we recommend treating the wood with a non-toxic stain. 

Dimensions

At 8.5’ long by 7.42’ wide, this beast will take up a good amount of space in your backyard. But that huge footprint provides enough room for a spacious interior, one that can fit six to eight people. At 8.25’ high, anyone can stand upright in it, so you never have to worry about feeling cramped. 

What to Consider Before Buying the Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Garden Sauna

Saunas are a hefty investment, so be sure to consider some key factors before pulling the trigger on the Thermowood Garden Sauna. Price is definitely a consideration, since this sauna is on the expensive side. So is space, as this is one of the larger saunas you’ll find. Finally, you’ll need to decide which heater you want and which accessories (if any) you’ll need. 

Price

The Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Garden Sauna starts at $7,999; plus, you’ll have to tack on a few hundred more for shipping and whatever an electrician will charge for adding a 220-volt outlet to your home. 

You can also upgrade your heater (which can bump up the price a few thousand dollars) and opt for add-ons like protective roof shingling, a lounge chair for inside the sauna, and even an Alaskan Cold Plunge Tub. If you add all the upgrades, you’ll pay $13,374 before shipping and electrical work. 

If that’s out of your price range, there are other options in the Redwood Outdoors lineup that are easier on the wallet, as well as ways to mimic the effects of a sauna without spending a couple grand. But if you’re looking for the roomiest sauna that Redwood Outdoors makes, this might be worth the investment. 

Dimensions

At 8.5’ long by 7.42’ wide and 8.25’ tall, the Thermowood Garden Sauna may feel more like an addition to your house than a backyard accessory. That said, you’ll need to make sure you have the square footage in your backyard to make it fit comfortably. You’ll need even more room if you add the cold plunge accessory to the mix.

The sauna weighs 1,500 pounds, so make sure that you have a stable area, like a concrete pad, for it to sit on. If you put it on dirt or grass, it will likely sink into your yard over time. 

Heater Options

When buying the Thermowood Garden Sauna, you must choose one of four heater options. All four use traditional steam heat, but they offer different heating and humidity levels, and all of the electric ones have safety timers so you don’t end up steaming for too long. Plus, there’s a wood stove option if you want to go off-grid with your sauna. 

Harvia Kip Electric Heater

The Harvia Kip Electric Heater is the default heater. It can reach temperatures of up to 195 degrees and offers a relatively low humidity at 15 to 25 percent. It’s available with either manual or Wi-Fi controls. 

Harvia Cilindro Electric Heater

If you prefer more humidity, the Harvia Cilindro Electric Heater tops out at 165 degrees with a higher humidity at about 30 percent and is available with either manual or Wi-Fi controls. 

HUUM Drop Electric Heater

The HUUM Drop Electric Heater is the premium option with a modern tear-drop design and Wi-Fi controller. It holds up to 120 pounds of rocks for steaming and reaches temperatures up to 195 degrees in an hour or less. The HUUM Drop Electric heater provides a more balanced experience, heating up to 195 degrees with a humidity of about 20 percent. 

Harvia M3 Wood Stove

For those who want a more old-school approach to heating, the Harvia M3 Wood Stove will provide that classic sauna experience. It’s larger than the other heaters, so the sauna’s capacity will be reduced to six. Also, you’ll need to add a chimney to accommodate this heater, so be ready to hire a contractor to add that bad boy. 

Electrical Requirements

If you’re not especially handy, you may have to hire an electrician for a few aspects of installation. You’ll need someone with some expertise to install the internal overhead light, which requires 110 volts. The heaters will require 220 volts, so if you don’t have a 220 outlet, you’ll need to have that installed as well. 

Redwood Outdoors Thermowood Garden Sauna Vs. The Competition

You’ll be spending a pretty penny when you buy a sauna, so it’s worthwhile to make sure you’re buying the right one for you. Here’s how the Thermowood Garden Sauna stacks up against other saunas on the market. 

If you aren’t planning on sharing your sauna (or you want to save a few bucks) the SereneLife Portable Full Size Infrared Home Spa will be the most appealing choice. Also, The SereneLife sauna offers infrared heat, which is designed to operate at lower temperatures than traditional steam heat. In this case, the heat tops out at 140 degrees.

If you want to incorporate red light therapy into their recovery programming, the Sunlighten mPulse or Higher Dose Full Spectrum saunas will deliver, but they do have a higher starting price than the Redwood Outdoors. If you’d prefer to use traditional steam heating, the Thermowood Garden Sauna is the best choice — it’s extremely roomy, has a few heater options that customize your experience, and its starting price is lower than the higher-end saunas above. 

Places to Buy

You can buy the Thermowood Garden Sauna directly from the Redwood Outdoors website. 

Company Information

Redwood Outdoors offers an extensive line of saunas, cold plunges, and hot tubs. In addition to their one-year warranty, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on all of their products and financing options through Affirm. To speak to a team member, you can contact them at 1-800-567-8036, or head over to their Contact page, fill out a form, and someone will email you.

In Conclusion

Redwood Outdoors makes some of our favorite saunas, and the Thermowood Garden Sauna might be the best for people who prefer to steam it up with friends. It can seat up to eight people, the Scandinavian Thermowood is rot- and fungus-resistant; the heaters reach nearly 200 degrees in less than an hour, and this sauna offers a variety of heaters and optional elements to customize your sauna.

Plus, with stadium seating and room for up to eight people, the Garden Sauna is the biggest sauna the company makes. Fully loaded, it can cost you upwards of $13,000, but if you’re looking for a sauna that can fit the whole crew, The Thermowood Garden Sauna might be the perfect choice. 

FAQs

Resources

1. Hussain J, Cohen M. Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2018 Apr 24;2018:1857413. doi: 10.1155/2018/1857413. PMID: 29849692; PMCID: PMC5941775.
2. Sutkowy P, Woźniak A, Boraczyński T, Mila-Kierzenkowska C, Boraczyński M. The effect of a single Finnish sauna bath after aerobic exercise on the oxidative status in healthy men. Scand J Clin Lab Invest. 2014 Mar;74(2):89-94. doi: 10.3109/00365513.2013.860616. Epub 2013 Dec 5. PMID: 24304490.

The post Redwood Outdoor Thermowood Garden Sauna Review appeared first on BarBend.

While the $2,000 price tag may be steep for some, this is about average for this type of cold plunge. Plus, there isn’t any installation involved. Just unbox it, fill it with water and ice, and you’re all set. If you’re looking for a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing, and easy-to-use cold plunge to add to your recovery routine, you may have found your match. Now, let’s hop into this review. 

Redwood Alaskan Cold Plunge

Redwood Alaskan Cold Plunge

This cold plunge is a great option for people who want a kit that has everything you need to start plunging. The chiller can drop the water to 37 degrees Fahrenheit and uses a standard outlet plug so you don't need special wiring. You can even control the settings from your phone and pre-cool your water.

Shop Redwood Outdoors

Main Takeaways

Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge Video Review

Our Reviews Writer, Jake, hops in the Alaskan Cold Plunge during his detailed video review. Follow along as he breaks down everything there is to know about this icy plunge, from the price to his pros and cons.

Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge Highlights

• Price: $2,000
• Temperature Control: Water and Ice
• Materials: Scandinavian Thermowood exterior, plastic interior
• Dimensions: 40” H, 37” W 

The $2,000 price tag may not be in everyone’s wheelhouse. You could argue that you can get the same effect with a trash can or a basic trough, but those won’t be insulated like the Alaskan Cold Plunge is. While this is the average price for a dedicated cold plunge of this stature, it still may not be the best option money-wise for those who aren’t going to use it more than once a week. And remember, you’ll have to purchase multiple bags of ice for each individual plunge session, so you’ll want to up your recycling game with the plastic bags the ice comes in — unless you’re willing to shell out an extra $2,700 or so for a chiller to manage that for you.

However, during the winter months, you likely won’t need to put too much effort into controlling the temperature due to it being cold outside — unless you live in a tropical region where the weather stays warm. So, if you live in an area that gets really cold during the winter, this cold plunge may be perfect for you.

The Scandinavian Thermowood exterior is free from harsh chemicals and adds a sleek aesthetic that makes you feel like you’re in the good old outdoors. However, unless you stain the wood, it will turn gray from sitting outside. The plastic interior provides insulation, and it’s easy to clean — all you need to do is scrub it with soap and water. It may not save you as much space as a plunge that can deflate, but as far as stationary cold plunges go, this is a pretty compact option (it’s shaped like a barrel, but a bit bigger), making it a solid choice for those cramped on available space. 

Pros

• The lack of electrical requirements is ideal for those worried about spiking their electrical bills.
• There isn’t any installation required; just unbox the plunge, and you’re all set.
• The built-in seat allows you to sit comfortably and relax while plunging.

Cons

• Water temperature is affected by the outdoor temperature, and during the summer, it requires more ice than it will during the colder months. 
• $2,000 may be too expensive for some folks.
• Having to buy ice every time you plunge could get real old, real fast.

Using The Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge

There has been plenty to like about the Alaskan Cold Plunge during our time with it. First, no installation is required — simply remove it from the wooden box, toss in a hose to fill it with water, add your ice, and plunge away. 

Since you must manually control the temperature, be prepared for a challenge during the summer months. For example, when it’s blistering hot outside, you can expect to purchase at least 60 to 70 pounds of ice to get the water temperature under 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The Thermowood exterior is durable and will look pretty sweet on your back patio, and the compact design means you shouldn’t have to make special accommodations to house it.

Installation

Let’s be honest: not everyone wants to take the time to assemble a product — especially a cold plunge — so Redwood Outdoors takes care of that for you. When you receive your Alaskan Cold Plunge, just pull it out of the box, and you’re ready to fill it with water and ice. 

Temperature Control

Remember, you are directly responsible for controlling the temperature of each individual cold plunge session by adding ice to your water. While this will likely be pretty easy during winter, this can be extremely difficult during summer.

During one test day, we had to purchase 100 pounds of ice to replace the ice that melted. Another thing here is that the tub cover is not included in your purchase. While it’s an additional $100, it’s a good investment in keeping your tub cool.

Water Sanitation

The base version doesn’t include a filtration system, but you do have the option of purchasing one of two water maintenance kits.

The SpaGuard Water Balancing Kit comes with an 18oz SpaGuard® pH Decreaser, a two-pound bottle of SpaGuard® Total Alkalinity Increaser, a 12oz bottle of SpaGuard® Calcium Hardness Increaser, and some AquaChek Test Strips. This $100 bundle consists of the three most important and commonly used water balancers, and it’s recommended for those who purchase the optional chilling unit (especially the heating option) to avoid surface corrosion and damage to your equipment.

The SpaGuard Bromine Cleaning Kit consists of a 4.5-pound SpaGuard® Brominating Tablets, a six-pound bottle of SpaGuard® Enhanced Shock, some AquaChek Bromine Test Strips, and a five-inch floating bromine tab dispenser. This $250 bundle is also great for those with the deluxe chilling and heating unit, and bromine is a gentler alternative to chlorine. Simply add the bromine tablets to the floating dispenser (one tablet per 100 gallons of water), and use the shock once a week to remove any unwanted odors from your water. 

While these kits can prevent you from having to drain your water after each use, we still recommend you change your water at least once a month to avoid bacterial buildup.

Materials

Once again, the Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge features a plastic interior and a Thermowood exterior. While the wood offers a top-notch aesthetic, you’ll want to stain it to prevent it from turning gray. That said, it’s not going to impact your plunging negatively.

Dimensions

This plunge is pretty compact, measuring 40 inches tall and 37 inches wide, but you’ll have to take the 21-inch wide steps into account when finding the sweet spot for it to go. Regardless, this is a solid option for anyone tight on space. The interior dimensions are spacious enough for one person, but since the opening is only 31.5 inches wide, it’s too tight for two people to fit. 

What to Consider Before Buying The Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge

Similar to looking for some new dumbbells or a power rack, there are some factors you need to consider before you buy this cold plunge. Some things may not apply to you, but we always suggest working within your budget, as this is still an expensive purchase. You also need to consider if you’re willing to put in the necessary effort to control the water temperature and whether or not the dimensions work for your current situation.

Price

Including shipping, the Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge has a base price tag of about $2,400. However, there are some variables that determine the final price tag increase. First are the $100 lid — which we suggest adding on to increase the chances of keeping the water temperature down — and the floating thermometer, which is about $30. 

While it’ll increase the price tag by about $2,700, the chiller might be worth it for those who want their water to always be icy for them. Plus, it might save you some cash in the long run compared to buying ice multiple times weekly. Now, if you want to take it up a notch, you can purchase the deluxe chiller and heater for about $3,700 to get your hot tubbin’ on. So, while you could spend over $6,000 by going all in, the $2,400 price tag for the basic version is a pretty solid deal compared to similar plunges. 

Temperature Control

Controlling the temperature for each single plunge session can be a bit of a chore without the chiller on the side of the tub. Plus, buying bags of ice a few times a week costs a lot of money. So, if you don’t want to spend all that time, you might be better off snagging the chiller or chiller/heater combo to take care of that. 

Dimensions

There might not be anything worse than buying a new product and realizing it won’t fit in your available space.

While the Alaskan Cold Plunge is our favorite for small spaces, that doesn’t guarantee it’ll fit everywhere. So be sure to map out where you want to house it and double-check that you can accommodate the footprint. While the height won’t make a difference, the width, including the steps, is just under five feet — so keep that in mind. 

Alaskan Cold Plunge Vs. Competitor Cold Plunges

We love pitting home gym essentials head to head, so why not do the same with a cold plunge? Below is a chart comparing the Alaskan Cold Plunge to some other popular plunges on the market. 

As you can see, these cold plunges are pretty different across the board. If you’re strapped for

As you can see, these cold plunges are pretty different across the board. If you’re strapped for cash and want the best possible deal, you might want to go after the Ice Barrel since it’s only $1,200.

However, the thin plastic might not be the best in terms of insulation, which is where the Alaskan Cold Plunge comes into effect. It has a thicker lining, and the wood helps with insulation, so it’s almost double-insulated, and the base price isn’t much more expensive.

Now if you’re really tight on space, then the inflatable Inergize Cold Plunge Tub might be calling your name. While it’s about $5,000, the ability to deflate it and stash it in the included duffle bag may be a game-changer for those who need it. Plus, it means you can take it on a road trip if you want. One of the most popular cold plunges on the market is The Plunge Cold Plunge. It features a durable acrylic build, and the price tag is cheaper than the Alaskan Cold Plunge if you opt for the chiller. So, it’s your best bet if you’re looking for the most luxurious plunge on this list. 

You can’t go wrong with any of the plunges on this chart. Just do your homework and align your wants with your budget, and we’re confident you’ll land on the best fit for you specifically.

Warranties

Redwood Outdoors includes a one-year limited warranty on the Alaskan Cold Plunge.

Places to Buy

You can purchase the Alaskan Cold Plunge directly through the Redwood Outdoors website.

Company Information

Redwood Outdoors offers various saunas, cold plunges, and hot tubs. In addition to their one-year warranty, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on all of their products and financing options through Affirm. To speak to a team member, you can call them at 1-800-567-8036 or fill out a form on their Contact page, and someone will email you. 

In Conclusion

The Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge made our short list of the best cold plunges for many reasons, its compact size being a standout. While you need to accommodate the steps’ width, the actual tub itself is only a little over three feet wide. The Thermowood exterior is free from harsh chemicals and provides a rugged look, but it also reinforces the insulation that the plastic interior provides. We also love the built-in seat, which allows us to sit comfortably while we plunge. Controlling the temperature may be a bit difficult at times, and it will still cost you at least $2,000, but we think this is a great option for those looking for a dedicated cold plunge but are limited in space. 

FAQs

The post Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge Review appeared first on BarBend.

The price tag is around $5,000, which is significantly more expensive than a plunge that doesn’t feature water temperature regulation, but you won’t have to buy multiple bags of ice every time you want to plunge. Plus, the filtration system sanitizes your water, preventing you from constantly draining it after your plunge sessions. If you’re searching for a high-quality cold plunge that works well in tight spaces, the Inergize Cold Plunge may be the one for you. Now, let’s dig into why this is one of our favorite cold plunges on the market.

Inergize Cold Plunge Tub

Inergize Cold Plunge Tub

This cold plunge works just as well as a portable plunge as it does an at-home one. It comes with a high-quality chiller and only takes 15 minutes to inflate with the included hand pump. When you're finished, pack it up in the duffle bag and go.

Shop Inergize

Main Takeaways

Inergize Cold Plunge Video Review

Our Reviews Writer, Jake, tested the Inergize Cold Plunge firsthand during his detailed video review. Follow along as he highlights his pros and cons, and breaks down all the features this portable plunge offers. 

Inergize Cold Plunge Highlights

• Price: $4,990
• Temperature Control: The included chiller will keep your water as cold as 37 degrees and as hot as 107 degrees
• Materials: The same drop-stitch polyester fabric used for inflatable paddle boards
• Dimensions: (Outside) 51” L x 28” W x 30” H — (Inside) 43” L x 20” W x 30” H

While a $5,000 price tag may be steep for some people, the luxury of not having to purchase ice or drain your water after one or two uses is often what sells people on plunges like this. This is still a product best suited for dedicated cold plungers, so if you’re a beginner or not sold on the potential benefits, you might be better off with a cheaper alternative. 

The 1,800-watt chiller on the side of the tub is about as straightforward as it gets. Just plug it into your standard 120v outlet, select your desired temperature, and it’ll take care of the rest for you. While we haven’t tested this out yet, it’s worth mentioning that the chiller also offers water as hot as 107 degrees. So, if you want your plunge to double as a hot tub, this may be your best bet since other companies charge about $500 more for hot water. Also, you can download the Tuya Smart app to control the chiller from your phone.

Since this is, in fact, an inflatable cold plunge, it’s understandable why someone would initially be concerned about durability — especially when some acrylic tubs cost the same price. However, we don’t think you should worry about any tears since the drop-stitch polyester fabric feels as tough as a two-dollar steak. Granted, we wouldn’t use it near barbed wire, but it’s durable enough to withstand the outdoor elements and strong enough to rest your arms on it to support your body when plunging. 

The overall footprint is similar to acrylic and fiberglass cold plunges, but the ability to deflate it and stash it in the included duffle bag could be the perfect solution for anyone tight on space. And since the inside is 3.5 feet long, most people can fully submerge their body during their plunging sessions.

Pros

• The option to deflate this plunge and put it into storage is clutch for those tight on space, and you can easily take it on a trip with you.
• The chiller on the side of the tub will regulate your water temperature anywhere from 37 to 107 degrees.
• The filtration system will remove impurities from your water, drastically reducing the frequency of draining the tub.

Cons

• You will have to check the air pressure every couple of days if you intend on this being a stationary plunge. 
• With a $5,000 price tag, this tub may be too expensive for some people.
• While this tub seems pretty durable, it’s still not as durable as an acrylic or fiberglass plunge.

Using the Inergize Cold Plunge

When testing it out, one of our favorite things about the Inergize Cold Plunge was the ease of use and how fast it was to set up. We timed ourselves, and it only took 20 minutes to inflate the tub and cover, connect the hoses from the chiller to the tub, and fill it with water. So this tub almost acts like a true plug-and-plunge cold plunge. You’ll just have to wait for the water to drop (or rise) to your desired temperature — you can expect it to take about four hours to go from 65 to 37 degrees.

The chiller itself is really easy to use; just use the arrows to select the temperature, and you’re all set. While we didn’t use the WiFi feature, we think the option to control it from your phone could be the selling point for those who want to get the chiller started remotely so it’s ready when they get home from work. The drop-stitch polyester build is durable enough to be placed outside and strong enough to support your body as you get in and out of it. The filtration system also adds to the luxurious nature of this plunge and reduces the frequency in which you need to drain your water, but the coolest thing about the Inergize plunge is that you can deflate it, stash it in the duffle bag, and take it anywhere you want. 

Installation

The 20-minute installation process for this cold plunge is about as straightforward as it gets, plus their guided videos are extremely helpful. Just bust out the included bike pump, fill the tub and cover with air, connect the hoses, plug in the chiller, toss in your hose to fill it up, and you’re all set. 

The pump has a pressure gauge on the top, which is handy cause you’re not supposed to fill it with more than 10 PSI of air, or else you could pop it. Their website claims it will only release one or two PSI per month, but we had to add more air after a few days because it had already deflated a bit. 

Temperature Settings

The ability to control the water temperature is one of the best things about luxury cold plunges like this, with temps ranging from 37 to 107 degrees. Not only do you skip out on purchasing anywhere from 70 to 100 pounds of ice during the dog days of summer, but you can also utilize hot water here for some relaxation time.

Filtration System and Water Sanitation

Another major selling point of the Inergize Cold Plunge is the filtration system. The micron filter removes impurities from the water, so you don’t have to drain it as frequently. You’ll also receive a four-month water maintenance kit with your purchase to properly sanitize it.

It’s recommended you test the water with the included testing strips once a week, and based on what the strips read, either add the oxidizer or sanitizer (or both) to ensure you aren’t plunging in harsh water.

Materials

Some people may be skeptical about the durability of an inflatable cold plunge, but the drop-stitch polyester build is built for the long haul. While we don’t recommend sitting on top of it with the cover attached, it’s still strong enough to support your body as you get in and out.

Dimensions

Even though this plunge is smaller than competitor cold plunges like The Plunge Cold Plunge, it still requires a decent amount of space. For reference, the exterior of the actual plunge measures a little over four feet long, just over two feet wide, and 2.5 feet tall. 

Plus, you need to account for the chiller, which measures one foot long and one foot wide. So, if these dimensions don’t work for you, you might want to consider a smaller option — a barrel-shaped one like the Ice Barrel or the Redwood Outdoors Alaskan Cold Plunge might be a better option. 

Regarding the interior dimensions, you’re working with 43 inches in length, 20 inches in width, and 30 inches in depth. This is still pretty spacious, and even those around six feet four inches tall can likely fully submerge their body by bending their knees before dunking their head.

What to Consider Before Buying The Inergize Cold Plunge

This is no doubt an investment, so there are a few crucial factors to consider before you bite the bullet and purchase this cold plunge. We always want people to consider the price tag, but you also need to consider the size and whether or not you want a plunge with a chiller.

Price

Cold plunges are not cheap, and this one will run you around $5,000. While we think the chiller, portability, and the option of deflating it whenever you want makes it worth the money — that’s still a chunk of change. If you want a dedicated cold plunge but want to save a couple thousand dollars, you could always target a model that doesn’t feature a chiller. 

That said, you’ll find yourself being pretty wasteful since you must purchase loads of ice and constantly drain your water. And if you have oodles of available space at home and don’t want to deal with adding air every few days, you can find an acrylic or fiberglass model like The Plunge or the Polar Monkeys Brain Pod for about the same price. 

Temperature Control

While some folks don’t mind tossing in bags of ice for their plunge sessions, this can get pretty pricey since the outdoor temperature pretty much determines the amount you have to buy. For example, for one single session, we had to purchase 100 pounds of ice when plunging in a barrel-shaped plunge one day during the summer. That will certainly add up over time, so if you want to avoid that hassle, a plunge with a chiller is the way to go. 

While the low setting of 37 degrees is pretty standard across the market, most companies will make you pay an extra $500 or so for hot water. Since that’s not the case with the Inergize tub, we think you’re getting a bit of a steal. 

Dimensions

Similar to adding a power rack to a home gym, you need to map out your available space before adding this cold plunge to your personal space. Now, it’s still smaller than some other options, and you can always deflate it, but it will still require a dedicated space. So, long story short, just be sure you can make it fit at home before spending your hard-earned money.

Portability

For those who find themselves traveling a lot, this is our pick for the best portable cold plunge on the market. It’s really easy to deflate, fold, and stash it in the included duffle bag. Plus, it only weighs 25 pounds, so it’s pretty easy to lug around. 

Keep in mind that you still have to lug around the 60-pound chiller with you. Fortunately, it has a set of wheels to slide it around, and Inergize recommends you keep the wooden box it comes in during transit to protect it while traveling.

Inergize Cold Plunge Vs. Competitor Cold Plunges

It’s always a good idea to compare products like a barbell or some dumbbells to other options on the market to decide which one is best for you, so why not do the same thing with a cold plunge? Below is a table comparing the Inergize Plunge to various options. 

We chose these specific plunges because not everyone wants the same things. If money is ultimately your biggest concern, then the Ice Barrel 400 is undoubtedly the way to go; just remember you’ll have to spend a decent amount of money in the long run on bags of ice. The same goes for the Alaskan Cold Plunge Tub unless you spend an extra $2,500 on the chiller. We included this one because the thermowood is beefier than the plastic build of the Ice Barrel, and it’s better insulated. 

If you want a cold plunge that allows you to lie down and stay in one specific spot, then The Plunge might be the way to go. It’s essentially the same price as the Inergize tub, and the acrylic build is the most durable. However, one thing the Inergize tub has that none of the others do is the portability. Plus, it offers hot water without paying extra money, like you’ll have to do with The Plunge and the Alaskan Cold Plunge Tub.

This is hands down our favorite portable plunge on the market and is ideal for those who travel a lot or for anyone who wants to tuck their plunge out of sight from time to time. Just remember, if you do decide to travel with it, you’ll still have to lug around the chiller. You can’t go wrong with any of these plunges, but the right one may differ from person to person. So do your homework and align your budget with your needs, and you’ll land on the right product. 

Warranties

Inergize offers a six-month commercial and one-year residential warranty covering any manufacturing defects with the tub and chiller. However, this does not cover normal wear and tear or negligent usage.

Places to Buy

You can purchase your cold plunge tub directly through the Inergize website.

Company Information

Inergize’s mission is to help high performers incorporate healthier habits. They offer a 30-day return policy, but there is a 30 percent restocking and handling fee. To reach their support team, you can email them at contact@inergizehealth.com.

Final Word

There are many potential benefits to hopping into an icy plunge, but not everyone has the proper space that most require, and they can be a pain to move around. But that’s not the case with the Inergize Cold Plunge. While you still need a dedicated space for it at home, you can easily deflate it, stash it in the included duffle bag and store it in a closet, or toss it in the back of the car as you’re headed out for a road trip. 

The drop-stitch polyester build is durable enough to handle being outside, the chiller offers temperatures ranging from 37 to 107 degrees, and the filtration system will remove impurities from your water. While it still costs around $5,000, we think this is the best bet for anyone looking for a portable cold plunge, and it stacks up well against the rest of the competition regarding stationary plunges. 

FAQs

The post Inergize Cold Plunge Review appeared first on BarBend.

As a certified nutrition coach and personal trainer (CPT), I mainly recommend electrolytes to my endurance clients or those who sweat heavily since not everyone needs them. Still, many enjoy the sweet, refreshing taste of Liquid I.V. regardless of need. With input from our expert registered dietitian and CPT tester, here’s my Liquid I.V. review — let’s see how it compares to the other best electrolyte supplements. 

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.

Liquid IV

Liquid IV

Liquid IV's hydration multiplier is ideal for athletes who like to take their workouts on-the-go, thanks to the convenient single-serving packets. These also contain additional vitamins and nutrients.

Shop Liquid IV

Main Takeaways

• Each serving of Liquid I.V. hydration multiplier has about 500 milligrams of sodium and 380 milligrams of potassium, plus your recommended daily value of B vitamins and vitamin C.
• It comes in convenient packets and 16 flavors; our tester and online reviewers enjoy the taste.
• Liquid I.V. has a significant amount of added sugar and artificial sweeteners, is not third-party tested, and is a bit pricey per serving.

Liquid I.V. Specs

Do you drink enough water but still don’t feel quite right? Your overall wellness can be impacted by drinking water alone — especially if you sweat a lot. An electrolyte drink mix might be a good bet for you. Dehydration, cramping, weakness, and muscle twitching are a few potential signs of not getting enough electrolytes. Electrolytes are a group of essential minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and chloride) that help maintain fluid balance and contribute to optimal muscular function. (1)

Of the electrolytes, Liquid I.V. contains sodium and potassium. Each serving also has vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and vitamin C. The blend is what the company calls Cellular Transport Technology (CTT)®️, a proprietary ratio of sodium, glucose, and potassium that helps your body absorb water better and faster.

Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D. adds: “With 3 times more electrolytes than the average sports drink, it can help sweaty athletes replenish lost electrolytes much faster than just water alone. Plus, the smart hydration technology provides a list of essential vitamins.” Compared to Gatorade, you’ll get 140 milligrams more sodium and 300 milligrams more potassium, with 23 grams less sugar, 5 grams less carbohydrates, and 95 fewer calories.

Bourgeois likes that formula, as well as what Liquid IV does with some of their profits: “Each serving of Liquid IV provides hefty doses of vitamins B3, B5, B6, B12, and C, helping you reach your daily recommendations for each in a convenient portable package. And Liquid IV makes a global impact by donating millions of their product, as well as working with community-based organizations to increase water security.”

Liquid I.V. hydration multiplier comes in 16 flavors (and a variety pack). However, it contains about 11 grams of added sugar and artificial sweeteners through cane sugar, dextrose, and Stevia leaf extract. They also classify these as a drink rather than a supplement, so they don’t do third-party testing. For people who want to skip the extra sugar, you could make your own rehydration solution with a simple homemade electrolyte drink.

Don’t mind the sugar and are willing to pay for a convenient on-the-go packet? Can’t blame you for that — it’s $1.56 per serving. They also make a sugar-free option. 

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use Liquid I.V. 

The average gymgoer likely doesn’t need an electrolyte supplement (but may want one). Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D. notes, “Liquid IV is an appropriate option for endurance athletes who lose a lot of sweat, especially those spending a lot of time outside in the hot weather.” 

However, Bourgeois also adds, “Each serving provides more than 500 milligrams of sodium and 10 grams of added sugar, meaning it’s not an appropriate hydration solution for everyone. Those that don’t sweat excessively during their workout may not need that much sodium, and those monitoring their blood sugar levels may prefer to avoid added sugars.”

Recommended for:

• Endurance athletes who lose a lot of sweat
• People exercising for more than two hours
• People exercising or spending time outdoors in hot weather

Not Recommended for:

• People limiting sodium intake
• People monitoring blood sugar levels
• People hydrating for general fitness or working out indoors 

Our Experience Using Liquid I.V.

If you’re an endurance athlete, love working out in the sun, or are generally thirsty, popping Liquid I.V. into your water can help you rehydrate quicker. 

Our expert testers — a team of nutrition coaches, personal trainers, competitive athletes, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts — take the guesswork out of trying a new product for you. We have our certified personal trainer tester (who happens to be pregnant and having pregnancy-related hydration needs) and our registered dietitian weigh in on some of these specs — how the ingredients and formulation feel, what it tastes like, and how it mixes with water, plus cost and safety.

Ingredients and Formulation

We asked our CPT tester about the immediate effects of the ingredients. They say: “I’m pregnant and ALWAYS thirsty. I am constantly drinking water, but water alone doesn’t typically quench my thirst. If I throw one of these in my water though, I’m good to go. I’ll definitely be buying more.” They rate the ingredients a 5 out of 5.

For a formulation rating, we went to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., who gives it a 4 out of 5. Bourgeois explains: “Liquid I.V. contains essential vitamins and electrolytes that can support your best workout and recovery. However, deductions stem from its high sodium content and added sugars.” The sodium and sugar in one serving make up 22% of your recommended daily value.

As a post-workout rehydration, the 11 grams of carbs can also help replenish glycogen stores.

[Related: Best Sports Drinks]

Taste

So there are 16 flavors, but are they any good? Our tester says yes. “I really like the flavor here. It’s not too sweet, and it’s even a little bit salty.” Salty sounds about right, considering the sodium content. Our tester rates the taste a perfect 5 out of 5.

Solubility

If you’re a supplement aficionado, mixing powder with water is nothing new, but you know that solubility can make or break a drink. Our tester comments: “It’s good if you stick to the recommended 16 ounces of water. If you go for 12 ounces or below, it can come out grainy. A good lesson on following instructions.”

As long as you stick with the 16 ounces of water, our tester gives solubility another perfect score — 5 out of 5.

Price Per Serving

The stuff isn’t super cheap. A box of 16 servings costs $24.99, making it $1.56 per serving. If you go with a subscription, it comes down to $17.49 for 16, so it’s $1.09 per serving. The variety pack is even pricier — $27.99 for 16, totaling $1.75 per serving.

It’s not much cheaper on Amazon or in stores. If you know you love it, a subscription is the best way to go. Despite the price, you can find this and other Liquid I.V. products in most major drug stores or grocery stores, so it is convenient if you’re in a pinch.

Third-Party Testing

Dietary supplements are a bit of a gamble regarding formulation. The U.S. Federal Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate them, meaning they don’t need to be proven safe or effective to be sold. They could contain additives or ingredients not listed on the label. (2)

Unfortunately, as Bourgeois notes: “Though Liquid IV heavily relies on scicene, there is no mention of third-party testing.” Since this is classified as a drink, not a supplement, it’s not eligible for typical third-party testing. That said, Transarent Labs HYDRATE does classify their product as a supp, and it gets third-party tested.

A lack of third-party testing doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not safe, but it’s good to know if it’s important to you.

[Related: How Much Water to Drink a Day]

What to Consider Before Buying Liquid I.V.

Whether you’re a sweaty athlete or a thirsty person in the summer (or both), you’ve decided to buy an electrolyte powder. You’ll want to consider the following details: which electrolytes it has and how many, what type of sweetener it uses, the flavors, cost, and safety. We tested over two dozen products; here’s what to know about Liquid I.V.

• Electrolytes: Most flavors have 370 or 380 milligrams of potassium, and Acai Berry has 390 milligrams. Sodium content ranges from 490 milligrams in the Golden Cherry flavor to 630 milligrams  in the Pear flavor, though most have around 500 milligrams.
• Sugar/Sweetener: Liquid I.V. contains 11 grams of added sugar, which comes from cane sugar, the artificial sweetener dextrose, and the natural sweetener Stevia leaf extract.
• Flavors: Liquid I.V. comes in 16 fruity flavors and a variety pack with four flavors (Strawberry, Lemon Lime, Passion Fruit, and Tropical Punch).
• Price: A box of 16 sticks costs $24.99, so it’s $1.56 per serving. You can also do a subscription for $17.49 per box of 16, coming to $1.09 per serving.
• Third-party testing: There is no third-party testing on Liquid I.V. products.

Liquid I.V. Vs. Competitors

We know there are plenty of contenders for the best electrolyte drinks, so we’re putting Liquid I.V. up to bat against three other popular electrolyte supplements. We like Transparent Labs HYDRATE for their clear labels and clean ingredients, and BUBS Naturals is similar since all its goods come from real food sources. LMNT, Transparent Labs, and BUBS all leave out the added sugar and artificial sweeteners, though they all contain Stevia and natural flavors.

Transparent Labs is significantly cheaper, BUBS Naturals is the most expensive, and LMNT is the closest in price. One of the most significant differences is the other three contain a key electrolyte that Liquid I.V. lacks: magnesium. However, Liquid I.V. is the only one that offers B vitamins and vitamin C. Though they aren’t electrolytes, they could help increase electrolyte absorption.

Places to Buy Liquid I.V.

Liquid I.V. is available at most drug stores and grocery stores. Here’s a quick list.

• Liquid-IV.com
• Amazon
• Target
• Walmart
• CVS
• Walgreens
• GNC

Customer Experience and Brand Reputation

Here’s what to expect if you purchase Liquid I.V. regarding when you’ll get it, what to do if it’s not up to your standards, and how other customers feel about the brand.

• Shipping:
  • Time: After placing your order, processing takes one to two business days. Liquid I.V. offers standing shipping (three to six business days) or three-day shipping through UPS.
  • Price: Standard shipping costs $5.99, or free for orders over $30. For three-day shipping through UPS, it’s $20.
• Trial Period: Liquid I.V. offers free returns if you are not 100% satisfied within 60 days of receiving your product. You can email the company and they ask for feedback and input. Returns are only valid for products purchased through their website, not other sellers.
• Customer Reviews:
  • Liquid I.V. Site: On their website, customers rate Liquid I.V. hydration multiplier 4.91 out of 5 out of 60,429 reviews.
  • Amazon Reviews: On Amazon, the product has 146,361 reviews and a rating of 4.6 out of 5.
  • Customer Thoughts: Customers generally like the taste, which feels refreshing and hydrating (and our testers agree). They also appreciate the energy and immune system boost from the other products (energy multiplier, and hydration multiplier + immune support). While some love that it tastes like a sweet treat, others say it is too high in sugar. Many also find it too expensive and not worth the cost.

Our Final Verdict on Liquid I.V.

If you’re in need of quick rehydration from an electrolyte supplement, Liquid I.V. is a convenient option. It comes in 16 well-regarded flavors and mixes well in 16 ounces of water. Although sodium is essential for hydration, the content is significant, and the added sugar is much higher than its competitors. However, the brand states that glucose is part of the absorption process.

Always be careful with claims made by companies, especially when third-party testing is not available. Still, Liquid I.V. is a popular option with many good reviews — including from our testers — mentioning its refreshing and hydrating feeling. Since they offer a trial period, tasting it for yourself is risk-free.

Liquid I.V. FAQs

We’ll finish with what you want to know most about Liquid I.V.

References

1. Shrimanker I, Bhattarai S. Electrolytes. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541123/ 
2. Ronis MJJ, Pedersen KB, Watt J. Adverse Effects of Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol. 2018 Jan 6;58:583-601.

The post Liquid I.V. Review appeared first on BarBend.