Two Fundamentally Different Plunging Experiences
Cold plunge tubs come in two primary orientations: horizontal (bathtub-style) and vertical (barrel or upright). Each has distinct advantages and tradeoffs that can significantly affect your daily plunging experience.
Horizontal Cold Plunges
Horizontal cold plunges like the Plunge All-In, Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro, and Plunge Original allow you to recline or lie down during your session. This is generally considered more comfortable for longer sessions, as your muscles can relax completely.
Pros of horizontal design: More comfortable for extended sessions. Better leg extension for tall users. Feels more natural and less claustrophobic. Easier to enter and exit.
Cons: Larger footprint, typically 5 to 6 feet long. More water required (75 to 150 gallons). Heavier when filled.
Vertical Cold Plunges
Vertical cold plunges like the Nordic Wave Viking Gen 2, Ice Barrel 500, and Polar Monkeys Star Treatment have you sit upright with water up to your neck or shoulders.
Pros of vertical design: Significantly smaller footprint (2 to 3 feet diameter). Less water needed (75 to 95 gallons). Easier to fit in apartments and small spaces. Often lighter weight.
Cons: Less comfortable for long sessions. Limited leg extension. Can feel confined for broader-shouldered users. Entry and exit requires stepping over the rim.
Which Is Better for Immersion?
Both designs can achieve full-body immersion up to the neck when properly sized. Vertical tubs often provide better shoulder immersion because the water level is higher relative to the sitting position. Horizontal tubs offer better leg immersion.
Space Requirements
A typical horizontal cold plunge needs a 6 by 4 foot area. A vertical cold plunge needs a 3 by 3 foot area. For apartments, garages, and small home gyms, the vertical design is often the only viable option.
Our Recommendation
If you have the space, a horizontal cold plunge provides a more comfortable, relaxing experience. If space is limited, a vertical cold plunge delivers equivalent cold therapy benefits in half the footprint. The cold water does not care which direction you are sitting.
