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Cold plunging has become a very trendy way to speed up the recovery of sore muscles, while some avid cold plungers can attest to the mental benefits, as well. If you aren’t familiar with what cold plunging entails, it’s exactly as it sounds — submerging your body into water that is under 59 degrees for around three minutes.
While you can certainly hop into a frigid body of water in the winter months or even fill up your bathtub or a trash can with water and ice, companies like The Plunge and Polar Monkeys are offering a more luxurious way to go about your plunging. Many people have chosen to ditch the traditional ice bath as it can be a hassle to dump a bunch of ice and water into a tub or trash can, and find the right temperature. Not to mention the waste that ensues from the two — which is something you don’t have to worry about from these two companies.
Simply set up your tub and select your desired temperature with the chiller located on the side of each of these. Plus, with each product, you also have a filter that, as you may assume, filters out any impurities from your water. While both The Plunge and Polar Monkeys offer a product that is similar in nature, there are a few distinct differences between the two — such as the materials used, the price, and the overall size of the tubs. Follow along to see just how similar, and how different these cold plunges really are.
The Plunge Cold Plunge Highlights
The Plunge Cold Plunge is no doubt an investment, as the base model is priced right around $4,500. If you want a larger model, or perhaps one that features hot water, you’ll be spending up to $2,000 more. All of the models are made from acrylic, but for the purpose of this article, we will be focusing on the base model.
While $4,500 might seem like a lot of money, by the time you factor in all the bags of ice and water usage, it might wind up saving you some money in the long run if you plunge daily. Plus, it’s extremely easy to use, and you’ll always have a designated area to plunge. The set-up process is really simple — just attach your hoses and the pump, then fill it up with your garden hose.
The chiller on the side of the tub allows you to set your temperature as cold as 39 degrees, and will keep the water at your desired temperature with the help of the insulated cover. The filters clean the water every 10 minutes to keep your tub free of any possible bacteria, and since the drain has a hose hookup, you can safely drain your water away from your electrical components. The tub also has a light built into it, so if you like to plunge when it’s dark outside, you can add some ambiance to your experience.
Main Takeaways
The chiller on the side of the Plunge Cold Plunge can get as cold as 39 degrees, and the upgraded models can reach up to 103 degrees.
The hose hookup allows you to easily drain the tub away from all your electrical accessories.
The filters will filter out any bacteria and small debris from your water every ten minutes to keep your tub clean.
The Cold Plunge
This ergonomic tub design sits at 24 inches tall, 67 inches long, and 43 inches wide giving users ample room to lie down and relax in a soak. The Plug-and-Plunge design makes setting up and filling up simple — its water hookup works with a standard garden hose.
Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge Highlights
Similar to The Plunge, Polar Monkeys offers a cold plunge that is extremely similar in nature. The chiller on the side of their tubs will also keep your water at your desired temperature, the filter will keep your water clean, and the drain also has a hose hookup to easily drain your water when necessary. However, their tubs are available at a lower price tag than the ones from The Plunge.
We tested the Brainpod, which is made from fiberglass (the Portal, which is their base model, and Portal LE are made from steel, and the Star Treatment model is made from wood). The Brainpod is listed right around $3,500, which is a really solid deal in our opinion since it can be transformed into a hot tub, as well. In fact, on top of the chilling 36 degrees, all of their models can serve as a hot tub with temperatures reaching 103 degrees.
The optional ozone generator can assist in keeping your water clean, but they do recommend using chlorine or bromine to potentially reduce the chances of bacteria even more. They also recommend you should change your water every couple of weeks. While there is no light built into their tubs, you do receive a submersible light with your purchase — and you can even add on the smart plug to set a schedule for your tub to turn on or off with your phone.
Main Takeaways
All of the cold plunge models from Polar Monkeys feature a chiller that is able to adjust the temperature anywhere from 36 to 103 degrees.
Changing your water is made easy thanks to the hose hookup.
Polar Monkeys uses a filter in their tubs that is big enough for a pool, ensuring that your tub stays clean with minimal maintenance.
Polar Monkeys Brainpod
This luxury cold plunge is 5.5 feet long, just under two feet tall, and a little over four feet wide with the plumbing and chiller attached. Polar Monkeys designed the Brainpod out of fiberglass, plus it features water as cold as 36 degrees, and as hot as 103 degrees.
What Are The Big Differences Between The Plunge Cold Plunge And Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge?
While both of these companies offer a product that is similar in nature, it’s no secret that there are some distinct differences. The main ones include the money you will need to spend on one of these plunges, the materials used, and the sizes that are available.
Materials Used
The Plunge uses an acrylic build for all of their cold plunges, while Polar Monkeys has three different builds for you to choose from. The Portal and Portal LE are both made from steel, the Brainpod is made from fiberglass, and the Star Treatment is made from wood. While acrylic may be the most durable, the fiberglass may also be durable enough to stay outside. The chiller featured with the Polar Monkeys tubs is able to be three degrees colder, but we also felt that the steel tub felt colder than the fiberglass overall.
There’s a Price Difference
Aside from the different materials used, the price you have to pay for these products may be the biggest difference between these two companies. While The Plunge may offer a more durable product made from acrylic, you will be saving over $2,000 with the Portal (their base model) opposed to the base model from The Plunge.
The Plunge Cold Plunge
Both of these products are without a doubt investments, but the base model from The Plunge is more expensive than the base model from Polar Monkeys (the Portal), and is listed right around $4,500. It does not feature hot water though — if that’s something you’re interested in, you will need to upgrade to another version of the Plunge.
The Hot & Cold Plunge will run you around $5,500, the Cold Plunge Pro is around $5,600, and the Hot & Cold Plunge Pro is listed right around $6,500. The Pro model features a chiller that is three times the strength of the base model, so you can expect the temperature to drop around eight to 10 degrees per hour, as opposed to 2.5 degrees per hour.
If you want a bigger model, the XL version may be the one for you. The dimensions of the Pro are 5.5 feet long, two feet tall, and 3.5 feet wide (including the plumbing and chiller), while the XL is 11.5 feet long, five feet tall, and five feet wide. The cold water only version of the Cold Plunge Pro XL is nearly $6,700, and the Hot & Cold XL is going to cost you around $7,500.
The models just mentioned are all for home usage, but there are also two commercial models available for purchase. The Commercial Plunge Pro is around $6,500 while the Commercial Plunge Pro XL is listed right at $7,500 — it’s worth noting that neither of the Commercial models feature hot water.
When making your purchase, you can also add on a maintenance package that includes supplies to help keep your water clean. This is an additional $200 or so, and includes six filters, a 16 ounce Baqua Spa Sanitizer, a 32 ounce Baqua Spa Oxidizer, a 16 ounce Alkalinity Up, a 16 ounce pH Down, and 25 testing strips.
Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge
As we noted, Polar Monkeys offers their tubs at a more reasonable price tag than The Plunge. All of their models are still luxurious though, and we wouldn’t consider them “cheap.” Their base model is the Portal, it comes in two different sizes, and you have the choice of your tub being regular steel, or painted black. The 2’ x 4’ x 2’ regular steel model is priced around $2,200, and the black one is about $2,400.
The 2’ x 6’ x 2’ regular steel model will cost you nearly $2,700 while the black one is almost $3,000. The Portal LE features the same steel build and dimensions as the Portal, but only comes painted black with a monkey graphic on it. The 2’ x 4’ x 2’ is around $2,800 and the 2’ x 6’ x 2’ tub will cost you around $3,200.
The Star Treatment model is the most expensive one available, but is also the most luxurious. It’s made from wood, all of the components are built into the framework, and the dimensions are 2’ x 2’ x 7’. This model is priced right around $8,000, but installation may be easier, and you don’t need to add anything on to control it with your phone.
One thing worth mentioning is that unlike The Plunge, all of the models from Polar Monkeys feature the exact same chiller. So there isn’t a need to spend more money on a model in hopes of it cooling or heating your water at a faster rate.
You can purchase any necessary extra parts through their website for the following prices: a new hose used to connect the pump and chiller is around $50, a new chiller will cost you about $2,000, with a new pump being about $100, and an insulated cover being right around $500. The smart plug is used to pair your phone to the more “basic” models and is available for right at $55, a GFCI cord is about $35 (and is recommended for your safety from electric shock), and the ozone generator is nearly $400.
So if money is your main concern when choosing between these two companies, Polar Monkeys is going to be your best bet — specifically the Portal since it can still act as a hot tub, and if you were to add on all of the accessories, you would still be spending less money than you would on the base model from The Plunge.
Commercial vs. Home Usage
Polar Monkeys only offers a warranty for at-home usage with their products, while The Plunge has a model that is specifically made for commercial usage. So if you plan on adding one to a commercial facility, it will make the most sense to go for the commercial model from the Plunge. That’s not to say you couldn’t still use one from Polar Monkeys, but their warranty just won’t cover that type of usage.
Size Options
Both of these companies offer a cold plunge that is able to fit the majority of people, even those who are over six feet tall. However, if you are looking for the biggest option available, The Plunge may be the way to go. Their XL model is four feet longer than the biggest model that Polar Monkeys has to offer, and is also three feet taller and wider. The XL models are 11.5 feet long, five feet tall, and five feet wide. The biggest model from Polar Monkeys is the Star Treatment model which is seven feet long, and only two feet tall and wide.
Hot Water
A great feature that both of these companies offer with their tubs is hot water. The temperatures reach 103 degrees, but with Polar Monkeys, the hot water is featured in all of their tubs. This isn’t the case with The Plunge, and you will need to pay around $500 for a Hot & Cold option from them.
Which Cold Plunge is the Better Option?
In terms of which one is “better,” that entirely depends on your specific needs and your budget. If you’re looking for a luxury plunge product but still want to save a couple thousand dollars by not buying the most expensive option on the market, then you will definitely want to go with The Portal from Polar Monkeys, especially since it can double as a hot tub.
However, if you want the biggest option possible, then the XL model from The Plunge is going to be the one for you. It’s four feet longer than the biggest model that Polar Monkeys has available, and is more than twice as wide and tall.
At the end of the day, you need to think about which is the better fit for your current situation. If you have a large budget and want a tub that is acrylic, then The Plunge may be “best” for you. But if you have a tighter budget, and don’t necessarily care about the material used then a model from Polar Monkeys is a solid choice. Either way, you can’t necessarily go wrong with either company — just make sure you weigh your needs, and the pros and cons of each brand.
Is There Anything That One of These Cold Plunges Can Do That the Other One Can’t?
Both of these companies have designed a cold plunge that operates in a nearly identical fashion, so they both can do the exact same thing. However, if you want to have your tub also act as a hot tub at a good price point, then you’ll likely want to go with the base model (Portal) from Polar Monkeys since you will save nearly $2,000 compared to the cheapest model from The Plunge that features hot water (which is an upgrade from their base model).
Final Word
These two companies are revolutionizing the cold plunge experience with their ease of use, the chiller eliminates the need for bags of ice, and the filters make it to where you don’t need to drain your water after each use (which can be pretty wasteful). Before deciding on which brand to go with, you want to be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each model available. If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a designated cold plunge, the Portal from Polar Monkeys is likely your best choice since it’s by far the cheapest model available.
If you’re working with a pretty large budget, well then like Tony Montana would say, “The world is yours”, and you can choose one of the more expensive options for a more luxurious experience — such as the Star Treatment model from Polar Monkeys, or one of the Pro models from The Plunge. The Star Treatment model can be controlled by your phone, while the Pro models from The Plunge feature a more powerful chiller, so your temperature can change at a faster rate.
At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with either one of these companies since they make cold plunging as easy as possible. Their products are very comparable, so on top of your budget, you might want to factor in what material you want your plunge to be made from and go from there.
The acrylic tubs from The Plunge might last you a bit longer, but you’re getting the same features from Polar Monkeys at a discounted price (aside from the Star Treatment model). If you do in fact want the option of hot water, Polar Monkeys might be your best bet since you don’t have to pay anything extra like you do with The Plunge. So in our opinion, Polar Monkeys is going to be the best choice for anyone who’s on a tight budget, while The Plunge will likely be the go-to for anyone wanting a longer lasting build.
FAQs
What benefits will I experience from plunging with The Plunge and Polar Monkeys?Aside from not needing to mess with adding the perfect amount of water and ice to your bathtub or maybe a trash can, cold baths are proven to increase the recovery of sore muscles. Cold plunges may also be extremely beneficial for mental health and could assist you in combating anxiety. Since both companies offer hot water with their models (except for the commercial models from The Plunge), you can also loosen up any stiff muscles or joints before your training sessions, or before bed, since it could lead to improved sleep.
Why is there such a price gap between the Plunge and Polar Monkeys?We think the gap in pricing with the base models from both companies is likely due to the materials that are used. The acrylic from the Plunge is going to be more durable than the fiberglass and steel from Polar Monkeys — plus, it costs more to manufacture.
Are there any temperature limitations with The Plunge or Polar Monkeys?Technically no, both companies offer water that is colder than 40 degrees, and up to 103 degrees. Polar Monkeys offers water at 36 degrees compared to the 39 degrees with The Plunge, but that three degree difference might not be that big of a deal for the majority of people. However, Polar Monkeys offers hot water with all of their models of plunges, without paying extra — you’ll need to upgrade to a Hot & Cold model from the Plunge if you want the heated feature.
Cold plunging has become a very trendy way to speed up the recovery of sore muscles, while some avid cold plungers can attest to the mental benefits, as well. If you aren’t familiar with what cold plunging entails, it’s exactly as it sounds — submerging your body into water that is under 59 degrees for around three minutes.
While you can certainly hop into a frigid body of water in the winter months or even fill up your bathtub or a trash can with water and ice, companies like The Plunge and Polar Monkeys are offering a more luxurious way to go about your plunging. Many people have chosen to ditch the traditional ice bath as it can be a hassle to dump a bunch of ice and water into a tub or trash can, and find the right temperature. Not to mention the waste that ensues from the two — which is something you don’t have to worry about from these two companies.
Simply set up your tub and select your desired temperature with the chiller located on the side of each of these. Plus, with each product, you also have a filter that, as you may assume, filters out any impurities from your water. While both The Plunge and Polar Monkeys offer a product that is similar in nature, there are a few distinct differences between the two — such as the materials used, the price, and the overall size of the tubs. Follow along to see just how similar, and how different these cold plunges really are.
The Plunge Cold Plunge Highlights
The Plunge Cold Plunge is no doubt an investment, as the base model is priced right around $4,500. If you want a larger model, or perhaps one that features hot water, you’ll be spending up to $2,000 more. All of the models are made from acrylic, but for the purpose of this article, we will be focusing on the base model.
While $4,500 might seem like a lot of money, by the time you factor in all the bags of ice and water usage, it might wind up saving you some money in the long run if you plunge daily. Plus, it’s extremely easy to use, and you’ll always have a designated area to plunge. The set-up process is really simple — just attach your hoses and the pump, then fill it up with your garden hose.
The chiller on the side of the tub allows you to set your temperature as cold as 39 degrees, and will keep the water at your desired temperature with the help of the insulated cover. The filters clean the water every 10 minutes to keep your tub free of any possible bacteria, and since the drain has a hose hookup, you can safely drain your water away from your electrical components. The tub also has a light built into it, so if you like to plunge when it’s dark outside, you can add some ambiance to your experience.
Main Takeaways
The Cold Plunge
This ergonomic tub design sits at 24 inches tall, 67 inches long, and 43 inches wide giving users ample room to lie down and relax in a soak. The Plug-and-Plunge design makes setting up and filling up simple — its water hookup works with a standard garden hose.
Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge Highlights
Similar to The Plunge, Polar Monkeys offers a cold plunge that is extremely similar in nature. The chiller on the side of their tubs will also keep your water at your desired temperature, the filter will keep your water clean, and the drain also has a hose hookup to easily drain your water when necessary. However, their tubs are available at a lower price tag than the ones from The Plunge.
We tested the Brainpod, which is made from fiberglass (the Portal, which is their base model, and Portal LE are made from steel, and the Star Treatment model is made from wood). The Brainpod is listed right around $3,500, which is a really solid deal in our opinion since it can be transformed into a hot tub, as well. In fact, on top of the chilling 36 degrees, all of their models can serve as a hot tub with temperatures reaching 103 degrees.
The optional ozone generator can assist in keeping your water clean, but they do recommend using chlorine or bromine to potentially reduce the chances of bacteria even more. They also recommend you should change your water every couple of weeks. While there is no light built into their tubs, you do receive a submersible light with your purchase — and you can even add on the smart plug to set a schedule for your tub to turn on or off with your phone.
Main Takeaways
Polar Monkeys Brainpod
This luxury cold plunge is 5.5 feet long, just under two feet tall, and a little over four feet wide with the plumbing and chiller attached. Polar Monkeys designed the Brainpod out of fiberglass, plus it features water as cold as 36 degrees, and as hot as 103 degrees.
What Are The Big Differences Between The Plunge Cold Plunge And Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge?
While both of these companies offer a product that is similar in nature, it’s no secret that there are some distinct differences. The main ones include the money you will need to spend on one of these plunges, the materials used, and the sizes that are available.
Materials Used
The Plunge uses an acrylic build for all of their cold plunges, while Polar Monkeys has three different builds for you to choose from. The Portal and Portal LE are both made from steel, the Brainpod is made from fiberglass, and the Star Treatment is made from wood. While acrylic may be the most durable, the fiberglass may also be durable enough to stay outside. The chiller featured with the Polar Monkeys tubs is able to be three degrees colder, but we also felt that the steel tub felt colder than the fiberglass overall.
There’s a Price Difference
Aside from the different materials used, the price you have to pay for these products may be the biggest difference between these two companies. While The Plunge may offer a more durable product made from acrylic, you will be saving over $2,000 with the Portal (their base model) opposed to the base model from The Plunge.
The Plunge Cold Plunge
Both of these products are without a doubt investments, but the base model from The Plunge is more expensive than the base model from Polar Monkeys (the Portal), and is listed right around $4,500. It does not feature hot water though — if that’s something you’re interested in, you will need to upgrade to another version of the Plunge.
The Hot & Cold Plunge will run you around $5,500, the Cold Plunge Pro is around $5,600, and the Hot & Cold Plunge Pro is listed right around $6,500. The Pro model features a chiller that is three times the strength of the base model, so you can expect the temperature to drop around eight to 10 degrees per hour, as opposed to 2.5 degrees per hour.
If you want a bigger model, the XL version may be the one for you. The dimensions of the Pro are 5.5 feet long, two feet tall, and 3.5 feet wide (including the plumbing and chiller), while the XL is 11.5 feet long, five feet tall, and five feet wide. The cold water only version of the Cold Plunge Pro XL is nearly $6,700, and the Hot & Cold XL is going to cost you around $7,500.
The models just mentioned are all for home usage, but there are also two commercial models available for purchase. The Commercial Plunge Pro is around $6,500 while the Commercial Plunge Pro XL is listed right at $7,500 — it’s worth noting that neither of the Commercial models feature hot water.
When making your purchase, you can also add on a maintenance package that includes supplies to help keep your water clean. This is an additional $200 or so, and includes six filters, a 16 ounce Baqua Spa Sanitizer, a 32 ounce Baqua Spa Oxidizer, a 16 ounce Alkalinity Up, a 16 ounce pH Down, and 25 testing strips.
Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge
As we noted, Polar Monkeys offers their tubs at a more reasonable price tag than The Plunge. All of their models are still luxurious though, and we wouldn’t consider them “cheap.” Their base model is the Portal, it comes in two different sizes, and you have the choice of your tub being regular steel, or painted black. The 2’ x 4’ x 2’ regular steel model is priced around $2,200, and the black one is about $2,400.
The 2’ x 6’ x 2’ regular steel model will cost you nearly $2,700 while the black one is almost $3,000. The Portal LE features the same steel build and dimensions as the Portal, but only comes painted black with a monkey graphic on it. The 2’ x 4’ x 2’ is around $2,800 and the 2’ x 6’ x 2’ tub will cost you around $3,200.
The Star Treatment model is the most expensive one available, but is also the most luxurious. It’s made from wood, all of the components are built into the framework, and the dimensions are 2’ x 2’ x 7’. This model is priced right around $8,000, but installation may be easier, and you don’t need to add anything on to control it with your phone.
One thing worth mentioning is that unlike The Plunge, all of the models from Polar Monkeys feature the exact same chiller. So there isn’t a need to spend more money on a model in hopes of it cooling or heating your water at a faster rate.
You can purchase any necessary extra parts through their website for the following prices: a new hose used to connect the pump and chiller is around $50, a new chiller will cost you about $2,000, with a new pump being about $100, and an insulated cover being right around $500. The smart plug is used to pair your phone to the more “basic” models and is available for right at $55, a GFCI cord is about $35 (and is recommended for your safety from electric shock), and the ozone generator is nearly $400.
So if money is your main concern when choosing between these two companies, Polar Monkeys is going to be your best bet — specifically the Portal since it can still act as a hot tub, and if you were to add on all of the accessories, you would still be spending less money than you would on the base model from The Plunge.
Commercial vs. Home Usage
Polar Monkeys only offers a warranty for at-home usage with their products, while The Plunge has a model that is specifically made for commercial usage. So if you plan on adding one to a commercial facility, it will make the most sense to go for the commercial model from the Plunge. That’s not to say you couldn’t still use one from Polar Monkeys, but their warranty just won’t cover that type of usage.
Size Options
Both of these companies offer a cold plunge that is able to fit the majority of people, even those who are over six feet tall. However, if you are looking for the biggest option available, The Plunge may be the way to go. Their XL model is four feet longer than the biggest model that Polar Monkeys has to offer, and is also three feet taller and wider. The XL models are 11.5 feet long, five feet tall, and five feet wide. The biggest model from Polar Monkeys is the Star Treatment model which is seven feet long, and only two feet tall and wide.
Hot Water
A great feature that both of these companies offer with their tubs is hot water. The temperatures reach 103 degrees, but with Polar Monkeys, the hot water is featured in all of their tubs. This isn’t the case with The Plunge, and you will need to pay around $500 for a Hot & Cold option from them.
Which Cold Plunge is the Better Option?
In terms of which one is “better,” that entirely depends on your specific needs and your budget. If you’re looking for a luxury plunge product but still want to save a couple thousand dollars by not buying the most expensive option on the market, then you will definitely want to go with The Portal from Polar Monkeys, especially since it can double as a hot tub.
However, if you want the biggest option possible, then the XL model from The Plunge is going to be the one for you. It’s four feet longer than the biggest model that Polar Monkeys has available, and is more than twice as wide and tall.
At the end of the day, you need to think about which is the better fit for your current situation. If you have a large budget and want a tub that is acrylic, then The Plunge may be “best” for you. But if you have a tighter budget, and don’t necessarily care about the material used then a model from Polar Monkeys is a solid choice. Either way, you can’t necessarily go wrong with either company — just make sure you weigh your needs, and the pros and cons of each brand.
Is There Anything That One of These Cold Plunges Can Do That the Other One Can’t?
Both of these companies have designed a cold plunge that operates in a nearly identical fashion, so they both can do the exact same thing. However, if you want to have your tub also act as a hot tub at a good price point, then you’ll likely want to go with the base model (Portal) from Polar Monkeys since you will save nearly $2,000 compared to the cheapest model from The Plunge that features hot water (which is an upgrade from their base model).
Final Word
These two companies are revolutionizing the cold plunge experience with their ease of use, the chiller eliminates the need for bags of ice, and the filters make it to where you don’t need to drain your water after each use (which can be pretty wasteful). Before deciding on which brand to go with, you want to be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each model available. If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a designated cold plunge, the Portal from Polar Monkeys is likely your best choice since it’s by far the cheapest model available.
If you’re working with a pretty large budget, well then like Tony Montana would say, “The world is yours”, and you can choose one of the more expensive options for a more luxurious experience — such as the Star Treatment model from Polar Monkeys, or one of the Pro models from The Plunge. The Star Treatment model can be controlled by your phone, while the Pro models from The Plunge feature a more powerful chiller, so your temperature can change at a faster rate.
At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with either one of these companies since they make cold plunging as easy as possible. Their products are very comparable, so on top of your budget, you might want to factor in what material you want your plunge to be made from and go from there.
The acrylic tubs from The Plunge might last you a bit longer, but you’re getting the same features from Polar Monkeys at a discounted price (aside from the Star Treatment model). If you do in fact want the option of hot water, Polar Monkeys might be your best bet since you don’t have to pay anything extra like you do with The Plunge. So in our opinion, Polar Monkeys is going to be the best choice for anyone who’s on a tight budget, while The Plunge will likely be the go-to for anyone wanting a longer lasting build.
FAQs
What benefits will I experience from plunging with The Plunge and Polar Monkeys?Aside from not needing to mess with adding the perfect amount of water and ice to your bathtub or maybe a trash can, cold baths are proven to increase the recovery of sore muscles. Cold plunges may also be extremely beneficial for mental health and could assist you in combating anxiety. Since both companies offer hot water with their models (except for the commercial models from The Plunge), you can also loosen up any stiff muscles or joints before your training sessions, or before bed, since it could lead to improved sleep.
Why is there such a price gap between the Plunge and Polar Monkeys?We think the gap in pricing with the base models from both companies is likely due to the materials that are used. The acrylic from the Plunge is going to be more durable than the fiberglass and steel from Polar Monkeys — plus, it costs more to manufacture.
Are there any temperature limitations with The Plunge or Polar Monkeys?Technically no, both companies offer water that is colder than 40 degrees, and up to 103 degrees. Polar Monkeys offers water at 36 degrees compared to the 39 degrees with The Plunge, but that three degree difference might not be that big of a deal for the majority of people. However, Polar Monkeys offers hot water with all of their models of plunges, without paying extra — you’ll need to upgrade to a Hot & Cold model from the Plunge if you want the heated feature.
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While you can certainly hop into a frigid body of water in the winter months or even fill up your bathtub or a trash can with water and ice, companies like The Plunge and Polar Monkeys are offering a more luxurious way to go about your plunging. Many people have chosen to ditch the traditional ice bath as it can be a hassle to dump a bunch of ice and water into a tub or trash can, and find the right temperature. Not to mention the waste that ensues from the two — which is something you don’t have to worry about from these two companies.
Simply set up your tub and select your desired temperature with the chiller located on the side of each of these. Plus, with each product, you also have a filter that, as you may assume, filters out any impurities from your water. While both The Plunge and Polar Monkeys offer a product that is similar in nature, there are a few distinct differences between the two — such as the materials used, the price, and the overall size of the tubs. Follow along to see just how similar, and how different these cold plunges really are.
The Plunge Cold Plunge Highlights
The Plunge Cold Plunge is no doubt an investment, as the base model is priced right around $4,500. If you want a larger model, or perhaps one that features hot water, you’ll be spending up to $2,000 more. All of the models are made from acrylic, but for the purpose of this article, we will be focusing on the base model.
While $4,500 might seem like a lot of money, by the time you factor in all the bags of ice and water usage, it might wind up saving you some money in the long run if you plunge daily. Plus, it’s extremely easy to use, and you’ll always have a designated area to plunge. The set-up process is really simple — just attach your hoses and the pump, then fill it up with your garden hose.
The chiller on the side of the tub allows you to set your temperature as cold as 39 degrees, and will keep the water at your desired temperature with the help of the insulated cover. The filters clean the water every 10 minutes to keep your tub free of any possible bacteria, and since the drain has a hose hookup, you can safely drain your water away from your electrical components. The tub also has a light built into it, so if you like to plunge when it’s dark outside, you can add some ambiance to your experience.
Main Takeaways
The chiller on the side of the Plunge Cold Plunge can get as cold as 39 degrees, and the upgraded models can reach up to 103 degrees.
The hose hookup allows you to easily drain the tub away from all your electrical accessories.
The filters will filter out any bacteria and small debris from your water every ten minutes to keep your tub clean.
The Cold Plunge
This ergonomic tub design sits at 24 inches tall, 67 inches long, and 43 inches wide giving users ample room to lie down and relax in a soak. The Plug-and-Plunge design makes setting up and filling up simple — its water hookup works with a standard garden hose.
Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge Highlights
Similar to The Plunge, Polar Monkeys offers a cold plunge that is extremely similar in nature. The chiller on the side of their tubs will also keep your water at your desired temperature, the filter will keep your water clean, and the drain also has a hose hookup to easily drain your water when necessary. However, their tubs are available at a lower price tag than the ones from The Plunge.
We tested the Brainpod, which is made from fiberglass (the Portal, which is their base model, and Portal LE are made from steel, and the Star Treatment model is made from wood). The Brainpod is listed right around $3,500, which is a really solid deal in our opinion since it can be transformed into a hot tub, as well. In fact, on top of the chilling 36 degrees, all of their models can serve as a hot tub with temperatures reaching 103 degrees.
The optional ozone generator can assist in keeping your water clean, but they do recommend using chlorine or bromine to potentially reduce the chances of bacteria even more. They also recommend you should change your water every couple of weeks. While there is no light built into their tubs, you do receive a submersible light with your purchase — and you can even add on the smart plug to set a schedule for your tub to turn on or off with your phone.
Main Takeaways
All of the cold plunge models from Polar Monkeys feature a chiller that is able to adjust the temperature anywhere from 36 to 103 degrees.
Changing your water is made easy thanks to the hose hookup.
Polar Monkeys uses a filter in their tubs that is big enough for a pool, ensuring that your tub stays clean with minimal maintenance.
Polar Monkeys Brainpod
This luxury cold plunge is 5.5 feet long, just under two feet tall, and a little over four feet wide with the plumbing and chiller attached. Polar Monkeys designed the Brainpod out of fiberglass, plus it features water as cold as 36 degrees, and as hot as 103 degrees.
What Are The Big Differences Between The Plunge Cold Plunge And Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge?
While both of these companies offer a product that is similar in nature, it’s no secret that there are some distinct differences. The main ones include the money you will need to spend on one of these plunges, the materials used, and the sizes that are available.
Materials Used
The Plunge uses an acrylic build for all of their cold plunges, while Polar Monkeys has three different builds for you to choose from. The Portal and Portal LE are both made from steel, the Brainpod is made from fiberglass, and the Star Treatment is made from wood. While acrylic may be the most durable, the fiberglass may also be durable enough to stay outside. The chiller featured with the Polar Monkeys tubs is able to be three degrees colder, but we also felt that the steel tub felt colder than the fiberglass overall.
There’s a Price Difference
Aside from the different materials used, the price you have to pay for these products may be the biggest difference between these two companies. While The Plunge may offer a more durable product made from acrylic, you will be saving over $2,000 with the Portal (their base model) opposed to the base model from The Plunge.
The Plunge Cold Plunge
Both of these products are without a doubt investments, but the base model from The Plunge is more expensive than the base model from Polar Monkeys (the Portal), and is listed right around $4,500. It does not feature hot water though — if that’s something you’re interested in, you will need to upgrade to another version of the Plunge.
The Hot & Cold Plunge will run you around $5,500, the Cold Plunge Pro is around $5,600, and the Hot & Cold Plunge Pro is listed right around $6,500. The Pro model features a chiller that is three times the strength of the base model, so you can expect the temperature to drop around eight to 10 degrees per hour, as opposed to 2.5 degrees per hour.
If you want a bigger model, the XL version may be the one for you. The dimensions of the Pro are 5.5 feet long, two feet tall, and 3.5 feet wide (including the plumbing and chiller), while the XL is 11.5 feet long, five feet tall, and five feet wide. The cold water only version of the Cold Plunge Pro XL is nearly $6,700, and the Hot & Cold XL is going to cost you around $7,500.
The models just mentioned are all for home usage, but there are also two commercial models available for purchase. The Commercial Plunge Pro is around $6,500 while the Commercial Plunge Pro XL is listed right at $7,500 — it’s worth noting that neither of the Commercial models feature hot water.
When making your purchase, you can also add on a maintenance package that includes supplies to help keep your water clean. This is an additional $200 or so, and includes six filters, a 16 ounce Baqua Spa Sanitizer, a 32 ounce Baqua Spa Oxidizer, a 16 ounce Alkalinity Up, a 16 ounce pH Down, and 25 testing strips.
Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge
As we noted, Polar Monkeys offers their tubs at a more reasonable price tag than The Plunge. All of their models are still luxurious though, and we wouldn’t consider them “cheap.” Their base model is the Portal, it comes in two different sizes, and you have the choice of your tub being regular steel, or painted black. The 2’ x 4’ x 2’ regular steel model is priced around $2,200, and the black one is about $2,400.
The 2’ x 6’ x 2’ regular steel model will cost you nearly $2,700 while the black one is almost $3,000. The Portal LE features the same steel build and dimensions as the Portal, but only comes painted black with a monkey graphic on it. The 2’ x 4’ x 2’ is around $2,800 and the 2’ x 6’ x 2’ tub will cost you around $3,200.
The Star Treatment model is the most expensive one available, but is also the most luxurious. It’s made from wood, all of the components are built into the framework, and the dimensions are 2’ x 2’ x 7’. This model is priced right around $8,000, but installation may be easier, and you don’t need to add anything on to control it with your phone.
One thing worth mentioning is that unlike The Plunge, all of the models from Polar Monkeys feature the exact same chiller. So there isn’t a need to spend more money on a model in hopes of it cooling or heating your water at a faster rate.
You can purchase any necessary extra parts through their website for the following prices: a new hose used to connect the pump and chiller is around $50, a new chiller will cost you about $2,000, with a new pump being about $100, and an insulated cover being right around $500. The smart plug is used to pair your phone to the more “basic” models and is available for right at $55, a GFCI cord is about $35 (and is recommended for your safety from electric shock), and the ozone generator is nearly $400.
So if money is your main concern when choosing between these two companies, Polar Monkeys is going to be your best bet — specifically the Portal since it can still act as a hot tub, and if you were to add on all of the accessories, you would still be spending less money than you would on the base model from The Plunge.
Commercial vs. Home Usage
Polar Monkeys only offers a warranty for at-home usage with their products, while The Plunge has a model that is specifically made for commercial usage. So if you plan on adding one to a commercial facility, it will make the most sense to go for the commercial model from the Plunge. That’s not to say you couldn’t still use one from Polar Monkeys, but their warranty just won’t cover that type of usage.
Size Options
Both of these companies offer a cold plunge that is able to fit the majority of people, even those who are over six feet tall. However, if you are looking for the biggest option available, The Plunge may be the way to go. Their XL model is four feet longer than the biggest model that Polar Monkeys has to offer, and is also three feet taller and wider. The XL models are 11.5 feet long, five feet tall, and five feet wide. The biggest model from Polar Monkeys is the Star Treatment model which is seven feet long, and only two feet tall and wide.
Hot Water
A great feature that both of these companies offer with their tubs is hot water. The temperatures reach 103 degrees, but with Polar Monkeys, the hot water is featured in all of their tubs. This isn’t the case with The Plunge, and you will need to pay around $500 for a Hot & Cold option from them.
Which Cold Plunge is the Better Option?
In terms of which one is “better,” that entirely depends on your specific needs and your budget. If you’re looking for a luxury plunge product but still want to save a couple thousand dollars by not buying the most expensive option on the market, then you will definitely want to go with The Portal from Polar Monkeys, especially since it can double as a hot tub.
However, if you want the biggest option possible, then the XL model from The Plunge is going to be the one for you. It’s four feet longer than the biggest model that Polar Monkeys has available, and is more than twice as wide and tall.
At the end of the day, you need to think about which is the better fit for your current situation. If you have a large budget and want a tub that is acrylic, then The Plunge may be “best” for you. But if you have a tighter budget, and don’t necessarily care about the material used then a model from Polar Monkeys is a solid choice. Either way, you can’t necessarily go wrong with either company — just make sure you weigh your needs, and the pros and cons of each brand.
Is There Anything That One of These Cold Plunges Can Do That the Other One Can’t?
Both of these companies have designed a cold plunge that operates in a nearly identical fashion, so they both can do the exact same thing. However, if you want to have your tub also act as a hot tub at a good price point, then you’ll likely want to go with the base model (Portal) from Polar Monkeys since you will save nearly $2,000 compared to the cheapest model from The Plunge that features hot water (which is an upgrade from their base model).
Final Word
These two companies are revolutionizing the cold plunge experience with their ease of use, the chiller eliminates the need for bags of ice, and the filters make it to where you don’t need to drain your water after each use (which can be pretty wasteful). Before deciding on which brand to go with, you want to be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each model available. If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a designated cold plunge, the Portal from Polar Monkeys is likely your best choice since it’s by far the cheapest model available.
If you’re working with a pretty large budget, well then like Tony Montana would say, “The world is yours”, and you can choose one of the more expensive options for a more luxurious experience — such as the Star Treatment model from Polar Monkeys, or one of the Pro models from The Plunge. The Star Treatment model can be controlled by your phone, while the Pro models from The Plunge feature a more powerful chiller, so your temperature can change at a faster rate.
At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with either one of these companies since they make cold plunging as easy as possible. Their products are very comparable, so on top of your budget, you might want to factor in what material you want your plunge to be made from and go from there.
The acrylic tubs from The Plunge might last you a bit longer, but you’re getting the same features from Polar Monkeys at a discounted price (aside from the Star Treatment model). If you do in fact want the option of hot water, Polar Monkeys might be your best bet since you don’t have to pay anything extra like you do with The Plunge. So in our opinion, Polar Monkeys is going to be the best choice for anyone who’s on a tight budget, while The Plunge will likely be the go-to for anyone wanting a longer lasting build.
FAQs
What benefits will I experience from plunging with The Plunge and Polar Monkeys?Aside from not needing to mess with adding the perfect amount of water and ice to your bathtub or maybe a trash can, cold baths are proven to increase the recovery of sore muscles. Cold plunges may also be extremely beneficial for mental health and could assist you in combating anxiety. Since both companies offer hot water with their models (except for the commercial models from The Plunge), you can also loosen up any stiff muscles or joints before your training sessions, or before bed, since it could lead to improved sleep.
Why is there such a price gap between the Plunge and Polar Monkeys?We think the gap in pricing with the base models from both companies is likely due to the materials that are used. The acrylic from the Plunge is going to be more durable than the fiberglass and steel from Polar Monkeys — plus, it costs more to manufacture.
Are there any temperature limitations with The Plunge or Polar Monkeys?Technically no, both companies offer water that is colder than 40 degrees, and up to 103 degrees. Polar Monkeys offers water at 36 degrees compared to the 39 degrees with The Plunge, but that three degree difference might not be that big of a deal for the majority of people. However, Polar Monkeys offers hot water with all of their models of plunges, without paying extra — you’ll need to upgrade to a Hot & Cold model from the Plunge if you want the heated feature.
Cold plunging has become a very trendy way to speed up the recovery of sore muscles, while some avid cold plungers can attest to the mental benefits, as well. If you aren’t familiar with what cold plunging entails, it’s exactly as it sounds — submerging your body into water that is under 59 degrees for around three minutes.
While you can certainly hop into a frigid body of water in the winter months or even fill up your bathtub or a trash can with water and ice, companies like The Plunge and Polar Monkeys are offering a more luxurious way to go about your plunging. Many people have chosen to ditch the traditional ice bath as it can be a hassle to dump a bunch of ice and water into a tub or trash can, and find the right temperature. Not to mention the waste that ensues from the two — which is something you don’t have to worry about from these two companies.
Simply set up your tub and select your desired temperature with the chiller located on the side of each of these. Plus, with each product, you also have a filter that, as you may assume, filters out any impurities from your water. While both The Plunge and Polar Monkeys offer a product that is similar in nature, there are a few distinct differences between the two — such as the materials used, the price, and the overall size of the tubs. Follow along to see just how similar, and how different these cold plunges really are.
The Plunge Cold Plunge Highlights
The Plunge Cold Plunge is no doubt an investment, as the base model is priced right around $4,500. If you want a larger model, or perhaps one that features hot water, you’ll be spending up to $2,000 more. All of the models are made from acrylic, but for the purpose of this article, we will be focusing on the base model.
While $4,500 might seem like a lot of money, by the time you factor in all the bags of ice and water usage, it might wind up saving you some money in the long run if you plunge daily. Plus, it’s extremely easy to use, and you’ll always have a designated area to plunge. The set-up process is really simple — just attach your hoses and the pump, then fill it up with your garden hose.
The chiller on the side of the tub allows you to set your temperature as cold as 39 degrees, and will keep the water at your desired temperature with the help of the insulated cover. The filters clean the water every 10 minutes to keep your tub free of any possible bacteria, and since the drain has a hose hookup, you can safely drain your water away from your electrical components. The tub also has a light built into it, so if you like to plunge when it’s dark outside, you can add some ambiance to your experience.
Main Takeaways
- The chiller on the side of the Plunge Cold Plunge can get as cold as 39 degrees, and the upgraded models can reach up to 103 degrees.
- The hose hookup allows you to easily drain the tub away from all your electrical accessories.
- The filters will filter out any bacteria and small debris from your water every ten minutes to keep your tub clean.
The Cold Plunge
This ergonomic tub design sits at 24 inches tall, 67 inches long, and 43 inches wide giving users ample room to lie down and relax in a soak. The Plug-and-Plunge design makes setting up and filling up simple — its water hookup works with a standard garden hose.
Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge Highlights
Similar to The Plunge, Polar Monkeys offers a cold plunge that is extremely similar in nature. The chiller on the side of their tubs will also keep your water at your desired temperature, the filter will keep your water clean, and the drain also has a hose hookup to easily drain your water when necessary. However, their tubs are available at a lower price tag than the ones from The Plunge.
We tested the Brainpod, which is made from fiberglass (the Portal, which is their base model, and Portal LE are made from steel, and the Star Treatment model is made from wood). The Brainpod is listed right around $3,500, which is a really solid deal in our opinion since it can be transformed into a hot tub, as well. In fact, on top of the chilling 36 degrees, all of their models can serve as a hot tub with temperatures reaching 103 degrees.
The optional ozone generator can assist in keeping your water clean, but they do recommend using chlorine or bromine to potentially reduce the chances of bacteria even more. They also recommend you should change your water every couple of weeks. While there is no light built into their tubs, you do receive a submersible light with your purchase — and you can even add on the smart plug to set a schedule for your tub to turn on or off with your phone.
Main Takeaways
- All of the cold plunge models from Polar Monkeys feature a chiller that is able to adjust the temperature anywhere from 36 to 103 degrees.
- Changing your water is made easy thanks to the hose hookup.
- Polar Monkeys uses a filter in their tubs that is big enough for a pool, ensuring that your tub stays clean with minimal maintenance.
Polar Monkeys Brainpod
This luxury cold plunge is 5.5 feet long, just under two feet tall, and a little over four feet wide with the plumbing and chiller attached. Polar Monkeys designed the Brainpod out of fiberglass, plus it features water as cold as 36 degrees, and as hot as 103 degrees.
What Are The Big Differences Between The Plunge Cold Plunge And Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge?
While both of these companies offer a product that is similar in nature, it’s no secret that there are some distinct differences. The main ones include the money you will need to spend on one of these plunges, the materials used, and the sizes that are available.
Materials Used
The Plunge uses an acrylic build for all of their cold plunges, while Polar Monkeys has three different builds for you to choose from. The Portal and Portal LE are both made from steel, the Brainpod is made from fiberglass, and the Star Treatment is made from wood. While acrylic may be the most durable, the fiberglass may also be durable enough to stay outside. The chiller featured with the Polar Monkeys tubs is able to be three degrees colder, but we also felt that the steel tub felt colder than the fiberglass overall.
There’s a Price Difference
Aside from the different materials used, the price you have to pay for these products may be the biggest difference between these two companies. While The Plunge may offer a more durable product made from acrylic, you will be saving over $2,000 with the Portal (their base model) opposed to the base model from The Plunge.
The Plunge Cold Plunge
Both of these products are without a doubt investments, but the base model from The Plunge is more expensive than the base model from Polar Monkeys (the Portal), and is listed right around $4,500. It does not feature hot water though — if that’s something you’re interested in, you will need to upgrade to another version of the Plunge.
The Hot & Cold Plunge will run you around $5,500, the Cold Plunge Pro is around $5,600, and the Hot & Cold Plunge Pro is listed right around $6,500. The Pro model features a chiller that is three times the strength of the base model, so you can expect the temperature to drop around eight to 10 degrees per hour, as opposed to 2.5 degrees per hour.
If you want a bigger model, the XL version may be the one for you. The dimensions of the Pro are 5.5 feet long, two feet tall, and 3.5 feet wide (including the plumbing and chiller), while the XL is 11.5 feet long, five feet tall, and five feet wide. The cold water only version of the Cold Plunge Pro XL is nearly $6,700, and the Hot & Cold XL is going to cost you around $7,500.
The models just mentioned are all for home usage, but there are also two commercial models available for purchase. The Commercial Plunge Pro is around $6,500 while the Commercial Plunge Pro XL is listed right at $7,500 — it’s worth noting that neither of the Commercial models feature hot water.
When making your purchase, you can also add on a maintenance package that includes supplies to help keep your water clean. This is an additional $200 or so, and includes six filters, a 16 ounce Baqua Spa Sanitizer, a 32 ounce Baqua Spa Oxidizer, a 16 ounce Alkalinity Up, a 16 ounce pH Down, and 25 testing strips.
Polar Monkeys Cold Plunge
As we noted, Polar Monkeys offers their tubs at a more reasonable price tag than The Plunge. All of their models are still luxurious though, and we wouldn’t consider them “cheap.” Their base model is the Portal, it comes in two different sizes, and you have the choice of your tub being regular steel, or painted black. The 2’ x 4’ x 2’ regular steel model is priced around $2,200, and the black one is about $2,400.
The 2’ x 6’ x 2’ regular steel model will cost you nearly $2,700 while the black one is almost $3,000. The Portal LE features the same steel build and dimensions as the Portal, but only comes painted black with a monkey graphic on it. The 2’ x 4’ x 2’ is around $2,800 and the 2’ x 6’ x 2’ tub will cost you around $3,200.
The Star Treatment model is the most expensive one available, but is also the most luxurious. It’s made from wood, all of the components are built into the framework, and the dimensions are 2’ x 2’ x 7’. This model is priced right around $8,000, but installation may be easier, and you don’t need to add anything on to control it with your phone.
One thing worth mentioning is that unlike The Plunge, all of the models from Polar Monkeys feature the exact same chiller. So there isn’t a need to spend more money on a model in hopes of it cooling or heating your water at a faster rate.
You can purchase any necessary extra parts through their website for the following prices: a new hose used to connect the pump and chiller is around $50, a new chiller will cost you about $2,000, with a new pump being about $100, and an insulated cover being right around $500. The smart plug is used to pair your phone to the more “basic” models and is available for right at $55, a GFCI cord is about $35 (and is recommended for your safety from electric shock), and the ozone generator is nearly $400.
So if money is your main concern when choosing between these two companies, Polar Monkeys is going to be your best bet — specifically the Portal since it can still act as a hot tub, and if you were to add on all of the accessories, you would still be spending less money than you would on the base model from The Plunge.
Commercial vs. Home Usage
Polar Monkeys only offers a warranty for at-home usage with their products, while The Plunge has a model that is specifically made for commercial usage. So if you plan on adding one to a commercial facility, it will make the most sense to go for the commercial model from the Plunge. That’s not to say you couldn’t still use one from Polar Monkeys, but their warranty just won’t cover that type of usage.
Size Options
Both of these companies offer a cold plunge that is able to fit the majority of people, even those who are over six feet tall. However, if you are looking for the biggest option available, The Plunge may be the way to go. Their XL model is four feet longer than the biggest model that Polar Monkeys has to offer, and is also three feet taller and wider. The XL models are 11.5 feet long, five feet tall, and five feet wide. The biggest model from Polar Monkeys is the Star Treatment model which is seven feet long, and only two feet tall and wide.
Hot Water
A great feature that both of these companies offer with their tubs is hot water. The temperatures reach 103 degrees, but with Polar Monkeys, the hot water is featured in all of their tubs. This isn’t the case with The Plunge, and you will need to pay around $500 for a Hot & Cold option from them.
Which Cold Plunge is the Better Option?
In terms of which one is “better,” that entirely depends on your specific needs and your budget. If you’re looking for a luxury plunge product but still want to save a couple thousand dollars by not buying the most expensive option on the market, then you will definitely want to go with The Portal from Polar Monkeys, especially since it can double as a hot tub.
However, if you want the biggest option possible, then the XL model from The Plunge is going to be the one for you. It’s four feet longer than the biggest model that Polar Monkeys has available, and is more than twice as wide and tall.
At the end of the day, you need to think about which is the better fit for your current situation. If you have a large budget and want a tub that is acrylic, then The Plunge may be “best” for you. But if you have a tighter budget, and don’t necessarily care about the material used then a model from Polar Monkeys is a solid choice. Either way, you can’t necessarily go wrong with either company — just make sure you weigh your needs, and the pros and cons of each brand.
Is There Anything That One of These Cold Plunges Can Do That the Other One Can’t?
Both of these companies have designed a cold plunge that operates in a nearly identical fashion, so they both can do the exact same thing. However, if you want to have your tub also act as a hot tub at a good price point, then you’ll likely want to go with the base model (Portal) from Polar Monkeys since you will save nearly $2,000 compared to the cheapest model from The Plunge that features hot water (which is an upgrade from their base model).
Final Word
These two companies are revolutionizing the cold plunge experience with their ease of use, the chiller eliminates the need for bags of ice, and the filters make it to where you don’t need to drain your water after each use (which can be pretty wasteful). Before deciding on which brand to go with, you want to be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each model available. If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a designated cold plunge, the Portal from Polar Monkeys is likely your best choice since it’s by far the cheapest model available.
If you’re working with a pretty large budget, well then like Tony Montana would say, “The world is yours”, and you can choose one of the more expensive options for a more luxurious experience — such as the Star Treatment model from Polar Monkeys, or one of the Pro models from The Plunge. The Star Treatment model can be controlled by your phone, while the Pro models from The Plunge feature a more powerful chiller, so your temperature can change at a faster rate.
At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with either one of these companies since they make cold plunging as easy as possible. Their products are very comparable, so on top of your budget, you might want to factor in what material you want your plunge to be made from and go from there.
The acrylic tubs from The Plunge might last you a bit longer, but you’re getting the same features from Polar Monkeys at a discounted price (aside from the Star Treatment model). If you do in fact want the option of hot water, Polar Monkeys might be your best bet since you don’t have to pay anything extra like you do with The Plunge. So in our opinion, Polar Monkeys is going to be the best choice for anyone who’s on a tight budget, while The Plunge will likely be the go-to for anyone wanting a longer lasting build.
FAQs
What benefits will I experience from plunging with The Plunge and Polar Monkeys?Aside from not needing to mess with adding the perfect amount of water and ice to your bathtub or maybe a trash can, cold baths are proven to increase the recovery of sore muscles. Cold plunges may also be extremely beneficial for mental health and could assist you in combating anxiety. Since both companies offer hot water with their models (except for the commercial models from The Plunge), you can also loosen up any stiff muscles or joints before your training sessions, or before bed, since it could lead to improved sleep.
Why is there such a price gap between the Plunge and Polar Monkeys?We think the gap in pricing with the base models from both companies is likely due to the materials that are used. The acrylic from the Plunge is going to be more durable than the fiberglass and steel from Polar Monkeys — plus, it costs more to manufacture.
Are there any temperature limitations with The Plunge or Polar Monkeys?Technically no, both companies offer water that is colder than 40 degrees, and up to 103 degrees. Polar Monkeys offers water at 36 degrees compared to the 39 degrees with The Plunge, but that three degree difference might not be that big of a deal for the majority of people. However, Polar Monkeys offers hot water with all of their models of plunges, without paying extra — you’ll need to upgrade to a Hot & Cold model from the Plunge if you want the heated feature.
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