BEST BARREL: ICE BARREL
- Dimensions: 31 inches wide x 42 inches tall
- Coldest Temperature: 37 degrees Fahrenheit with chiller
- Standout Features: Space-saving barrel design, works for taller athletes
- Electrical Requirements: N/A
- Water Capacity: About 105 gallons
- Price: $1,199
For taller athletes, not every cold plunge will work. After all, if you want to truly cold plunge, you need to be able to dunk your whole body into the cold water. But that’s not a problem with the Ice Barrel 400. This one works for athletes up to six feet, six inches tall, earning the footprint a 5 out of 5. Plus, the barrel design takes up less floor space. Our biggest complaint is lack of value, though insulated, this plastic bucket retails for over $1,000.
“This barrel is really easy to drain and I like that it’s made of recycled materials,” our tester said. “But I do wish there was some more insulation so the tub could actually hold the temperature for longer.” As a result, we had to give the durability and construction a 3.5 out of 5.
Without any water, this unit is actually pretty portable, as it only weighs about 55 pounds. But with even just 80 gallons of liquid, it’s about 750 pounds, according to our testers. So, make sure that you put your plunge on a surface that can withstand the weight.
For ergonomics, we gave this tub a 4 out of 5 because it’s a pretty subjective subject. Some athletes may prefer to lay down while they plunge, which isn’t a possibility here. However, some think it’s easier to breathe in the upright design. “Shorter athletes may have trouble getting in and out of the tub, which is worth noting,” our tester said. “The stool helps, though.”
For overall value, we had to give this product a 3 out of 5. Unlike other higher-priced plunges, this one does not come with a chiller. So, essentially, you have to pay $1,199 for a standard ice barrel. And while our tester does live in Florida, we wish the tub were better insulated in order to keep the water colder for longer.
That being said, we did like the durability and overall construction and footprint. So, if you’re a taller athlete looking for a full-body plunge, this is a good pick.