Skip the frigid lake or ocean and enjoy cold plunging right in your backyard—or even inside your home gym—with the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 cold plunge. Blending luxury with function, this fully insulated acrylic tub is built to last. Whether for personal relaxation or post-workout muscle recovery, the Brainpod 2.0 delivers a one-of-a-kind cold plunge experience.
For this Polar Monkeys cold plunge review, our expert team evaluated the Brainpod 2.0, from Polar Monkeys’ delivery and support down to the tub’s construction, standout features, and overall performance, to determine if it’s truly worth the investment.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Key product features
What you should know
A popular Polar Monkeys cold plunge, the Brainpod 2.0 offers a convenient cold water immersion experience in a sleek, modern design.
- Our testers appreciated how pretty solid and sturdy it is despite being relatively lightweight. Using it felt like a relaxing tub bath, with the back angled slightly so you can comfortably lean back and relax.
- This tub offers great value. At a base price of $5,980, it’s a mid-tier option from Polar Monkeys’ lineup. While it’s pricier than many of its competitors, it pays off with its design, efficiency, and luxury features.
- Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 is best for those who value convenience. It comes assembled; no plumbing required. All you need to do is to plug it into a standard outlet.
- Being fully insulated means you don’t need to worry about condensation and water damage, and it’s energy efficient as it keeps water at an optimal temperature
Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 overview
Unlike the other Polar Monkeys tubs which are made of stainless steel (i.e., Star Treatment 2.0 and Cyber Plunge), the Brainpod 2.0 is the only one with an acrylic finish, giving you a sleek, modern look.
It comes in five colors—three of which feature artist-made designs. However, it’s worth noting that choosing an artist-designed tub adds $800 to the base price. It’s also available in two sizes: standard, which fits people up to 6 feet tall, and XL, which has a larger footprint of 71” L x 31.5” W x 23.5” H to accommodate those over 6 feet tall.
Aside from its modern artistic vibe, what sets this tub apart is its versatility. This acrylic tub is fully insulated, so you don’t have to worry about water damage and condensation—making it durable enough to withstand both indoor and outdoor use.
On top of its insulation, Polar Monkeys throws in a free marine-grade synthetic leather cover for all cold plunge tub purchases. This cover is lined with three-inch thick insulation foam, keeping your water crystal-clear and debris-free and preserving its temperature so your electricity bill doesn’t skyrocket.
Because of this, you don’t need to keep it plugged in all the time, so it takes less time to reach your ideal temperature. Just turn it on for 20 to 30 minutes before you start using it. This energy efficiency is beneficial for quick dips, as even just five minutes in a cold plunge can leave you feeling more active, alert, and inspired. (1)
These brief immersions may also boost mental health. For instance, a 15-minute dip in a cold plunge has been found to improve mood and reduce cortisol levels. (2) Another study showed improved mood with a single up to 20-minute immersion. (3)
Installation and setup
Polar Monkeys offers free shipping across the continental U.S. and even offers next-day shipping if the product is in stock. It also supports international shipping. The company offers two shipping options for local deliveries. Curbside delivery, the standard method that comes with your order, brings the product right to your doorstep. Alternatively, you can opt for premium in-home delivery, where they deliver the tub to your room of choice inside your home and remove all the packaging material—but for an additional $250 fee, available at checkout.
The tub arrives fully assembled in a large box with a user guide and installation video.
Despite the standard model’s dimensions of 67×31.5×23.5 inches and an empty weight of 110 lbs, two people can easily move the Brainpod 2.0, earning it a 4 out of 5-star rating for portability and footprint from our testers.
Although there’s no setup service, the tub still earned a 4 out of 5-star rating for delivery and ease of setup, as one is hardly necessary. All you need to do is plug it into a standard 120V outlet—making it a true plug-and-plunge cold plunge.
Our product testers also confirmed it could be set up within 15 minutes, though it may take others 20–30 minutes, factoring in water pressure for filling time.
Regarding customer service, you can contact Polar Monkeys via chat on their website, phone, or email. Our testers reached out to them via email, but it took them 24 hours to respond, garnering them a customer service score of 4 out of 5 from the testers. In my case, I tried to message them via email and chat, and their response took less than 10 minutes via chat.
Design
The Brainpod 2.0 has a built-in chiller, but unlike most ice plunge tubs that only offer a cold bath, this tub provides the best of both worlds—a cold plunge and a warm tub. Warm water immersion also offers health benefits, potentially improving exercise tolerance and providing mood-boosting and stress-reducing effects similar to cold water immersion. (4, 5)
The chiller gives you complete control over the water temperature, so you can get the cold or warm water immersion you need on demand. Even better, you can set it remotely via a smart app.
For optimal cold water immersion (CWI) benefits, experts suggest immersing your body in water at 50°F or lower. (6) Thanks to the Brainpod 2.0’s 1 HP system, which cools the water down to 32°F, reaching the ideal temperature is no problem. This allows you to take full advantage of cold plunge benefits on muscle recovery, particularly in reducing fatigue and muscle soreness after an intense workout. (7, 8, 9)
In terms of durability and construction, our tester awarded the tub a perfect five-star rating, noting its solid, stable feel on the ground, which improved further when filled with water. Despite its lightweight design, the tub felt sturdy and showed no signs of wobbling. Additionally, the six-foot hose also appeared highly durable, further contributing to the overall quality of the product.
Our tester found the oval, traditional bathtub shape super comfortable, allowing them to fully stretch out, rating it four out of five stars for ergonomics. However, taller people might not be able to fully stretch their legs, which may prevent you from achieving a head-out, whole-body CWI.
Our product tester said it might fit two shorter people, as long as they’re comfortable adjusting their position to make room for their legs.
Draining and cleaning
The Brainpod 2.0 boasts an automatic 20-micron filtration system and ozone sanitation, ensuring easy maintenance and contributing to the product’s longevity. These features help keep out tiny—even microscopic—debris, keeping the water crystal clear so there’s no need to drain the tub after each use. This setup enhances convenience and helps maintain water quality for extended periods.
The draining process is very intuitive, especially outdoors, according to our product testers. They noted that the drain is at the bottom center, so draining the tub is pretty straightforward, ridding you of the need to tip it or wipe off the remaining water. “I also appreciate the slight elevation of the tub from the ground,” said our tester. This makes for some space to drain when outdoors. Meanwhile, if used indoors, you can attach the hose to the built-in drain valve to drain the water from the tub.
Your order also comes with a comprehensive water maintenance protocol, which allows you to keep your water clean for at least three months, saving you from frequent water changes. However, you’ll need to purchase their six-month sanitation kit, purchased separately at $159.
Price and value
Compared to other tubs on the market, the Brainpod 2.0 offers a competitive mid-range price point, featuring luxury options such as temperature regulation and app control.
Comparing the Brainpod 2.0 to other tubs they tested, our product testers rated its value at 4.5 out of 5 stars, stating that its features are on par with some of the most popular cold plunge brands but at a more affordable price.
However, it’s important to note that while its base price is $5,980, it may change if you plan to customize your tub. Any changes to its size, design, or upgrades will result in a corresponding price increase.
Polar Monkeys offers flexible financing options through Affirm, with 12, 24, and 36-month terms available, including 0% APR for up to 24 months. Additionally, Polar Monkeys’ tubs are HSA/FSA eligible through Truemed.
We’ve featured Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 in:
Who Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 is recommended for:
Brainpod 2.0 is ideal for you if you:
- Prefer a relaxed, horizontal cold plunge experience.
- Enjoy an artistic tub aesthetic.
- Want both warm and cold immersion options.
- Seek a luxurious cold plunge without breaking the bank.
Who Brainpod 2.0 is not recommended for:
Brainpod 2.0 may not be the best for you if you:
- Prefer more privacy (a barrel plunge may be better).
- Have limited space for a large tub.
- Are tall and need extra space.
- Need a highly portable option (an inflatable tub may be preferable).
Specs (standard model)
| Footprint | 67” L x 31.5” W x 23.5 H |
| Weight | 110 lbs (empty), 568 lbs (filled) |
| Capacity | 85 gallons |
| Temperature | 32℉ to 107 ℉ |
| Indoor/outdoor | Both |
| Power requirements | 120V |
| Warranty | 1 year limited (with option to extend) |
Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 vs. competitors
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| Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 | Sun Home Saunas Cold Plunge Pro | The Plunge | Nordic Wave Viking | |
| Rating | ||||
| Price | $5,980 | $10,499 | $5,990 | $5,999 |
| Dimensions | 67″ L x 31.5″ W x 23.5″ H | 78″ L x 34″ W x 33″ H | 72.75″ L x 32.75″ W x 26.75″ H | 36″ W x 30″ D x 41″ H |
| Water capacity | 85 gallons | 150 gallons | 100 gallons | 95 gallons |
| Max cooling | 32°F | 28°F | 39°F | 38°F |
| Indoor/outdoor | Both | Both | Both | Both |
Polar Monkeys vs Sun Home
The Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro is made from industrial-grade stainless steel with dimensions of 34” x 78” x 33”, making it larger and heavier than the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0. With the extra space, you can stretch out a little more comfortably if that’s what you need. Priced at $10,499, it’s about $4,000 more than the Brainpod 2.0, potentially due to extra features like caster wheels for mobility, a three-stage filtration system with UV light that removes most pathogens invisible to the naked eye, and a chilling capability down to 28°F, generating floating ice. (10) If these added features aren’t essential, the Brainpod 2.0 offers a more budget-friendly alternative.
Polar Monkeys vs Plunge
The Brainpod 2.0 and The Plunge offer similar features at a comparable price, including easy setup, insulation, and an app for temperature control, plus perks like free delivery and a one-year warranty. However, The Plunge adds a 30-day guarantee and accessories like a cellphone holder, skimmer net, and rubber ducky.
In the Polar Monkeys vs Plunge debate, key differences set these models apart:
- Size: The Plunge is several inches wider and longer than the Brainpod 2.0, with its standard model offering more space than even the Brainpod’s XL version.
- Temperature:The Brainpod 2.0 chills down to 32°F, while The Plunge maxes out at 39°F. Additionally, the Brainpod 2.0 includes a heating function in its base model, whereas The Plunge requires an extra $500 for heating.
Polar Monkeys vs Nordic Wave
Both the Brainpod 2.0 and Viking Gen 1 feature insulation and easy draining. While app connectivity for the Viking Gen 1 is not available until January 2025, it currently provides access to the Nordic Flow app, which includes on-demand cold plunge classes for guided sessions.
One difference is in chiller power: the Brainpod 2.0 uses a 1 HP chiller, while the Viking Gen 1’s ¾ HP chiller suits its smaller, more energy-efficient footprint. Made from plastic, the Viking Gen 1 is also lighter than the Brainpod 2.0, which makes it a great portable option.
However, many people prefer a vertical plunge like the Viking Gen 1 over a horizontal plunge because it’s more space-efficient, provides added privacy, and requires less water to achieve full-body immersion. Another advantage of a vertical design is the influence of gravity, which adds a cardiovascular challenge by making the heart work harder. (11)
How we test cold plunge tubs
To review the best cold plunge tubs on the market, our team has tested numerous cold plunges. All of the tubs come in various sizes, offer different features, and have wide temperature ranges. We also researched dozens of others and chose the ones that met our strict quality standards. You can read our full recovery product testing methodology here.
Performance (recovery effectiveness)—30%
A high-quality cold plunge should deliver on its promise of aiding your recovery process. Performance covers key aspects, including the capacity for precise water temperature regulation for effective cold therapy. Our testers look at several factors to reflect the functional aspects of the cold plunge as well as the user’s recovery experience.
Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Temperature range
- Temperature stability
- Ease of use
- Durability and material quality
- Power demand
Design and safety—30%
Design is paramount for a positive recovery experience. It factors in how these cold water immersion therapies support and enhance the user’s overall well-being. Health and safety aspects are also critical, especially for products used in close contact with the body or for therapeutic purposes like cold plunge tubs. As an example, having a little extra room will allow the water to flow around the body more, which will keep the temperature against the body cooler than when the space is tight and the water can’t move as much. In this category, we examine the measures and features manufacturers implement to protect users from potential hazards while also assessing the health-promoting aspects of the cold plunge. These include:
- Size
- Accessibility features
- Material safety
- Certifications
- Safety features
Value—20%
This category delves into the intersection of quality, performance, durability, and the financial investment required to identify products that offer significant health and wellness returns without the financial burden. It assesses the cold plunge’s value by balancing the initial investment against its quality, benefits, and ongoing costs. This approach helps consumers make informed decisions, selecting the best cold plunge that meets their recovery needs while serving as a sustainable financial investment.
Customer experience—20%
This category includes the overall purchasing and ownership experience involved in having a cold plunge. It includes consumers’ journeys, from initial interest to post-purchase support. This aspect of our evaluation considers the entirety of the process, including shipping, customer support, assembly, and more.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Shipping
- Assembly
- Warranty
- Customer support
FAQs
Is the Polar Monkeys cold plunge worth it?
Polar Monkey has been in the cold plunge market long before it became mainstream. While generally on the pricier side, its tubs are considered mid-tier compared to others with similar features. Luxury elements like precise temperature control and an ergonomic, intuitive design make the price tag well worth it.
Who owns Polar Monkeys?
Alejandro Rostoker started Polar Monkeys after discovering cold therapy as part of his journey to heal and manage his chronic injuries. With the support and expertise of Elizabeth Levy and Eric Halfen, they transformed Polar Monkeys into the innovative product it is today.
What is the warranty on Polar Monkeys?
Polar Monkeys offers a one-year limited manufacturer warranty, covering workmanship and material defects from the date of purchase. The one-year warranty doesn’t cover issues caused by abuse, accidents, misuse, electrical power problems, and issues caused by using the product in ways not described in the manual.
You can upgrade to a three or five-year extended warranty, which extends your coverage from the date of purchase and covers failure due to wear and tear, as well as defects that occur after the one-year manufacturer’s warranty expires.
Additional information about Polar Monkeys’ warranty is available on the Polar Monkeys website.
How to drain a Polar Monkeys?
Every Polar Monkeys cold plunge tub has a built-in drain valve that lets you quickly drain the tub. You can also attach a hose to the valve to drain the water elsewhere—an ideal method for draining your tub indoors.
Our experts
Anju Goel, M.D., MPH
Anju Goel, M.D., MPH, is a public health consultant and physician in California with a focus on communicable diseases, health policy, health promotion, and disaster preparedness. She’s also a consultant for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the COVID-19 response. Dr. Goel received her medical degree from Stanford University School of Medicine and her Master of Public Health from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. She’s board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Victoria Burgess, Ph.D., CSCS, CISSN
Victoria Burgess earned her Ph.D. in Health and Human Performance from Concordia University Chicago and holds her NSCA CSCS and Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN). She is an adjunct professor in the Human Performance and Nutrition department at Concordia University Chicago & Parker University, where she teaches undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level courses.
Joana Neziri, M.S., NASM CPT
Joana is a writer, editor, and content strategist focusing on nutrition, fitness, and all things health. After earning a master’s degree in business from the University of North Florida, she began a career in research and digital marketing.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Rachel Ann Tee-Melegrito, OTR
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Rachel Ann Tee-Melegrito lives in Metro Manila, Philippines, with her husband, daughter, and miniature schnauzer. She is a freelance content writer, a licensed occupational therapist, and a former university instructor, and she holds a Master of Education in Childhood Development and Education. She would love to read nonfiction books while sipping coffee if her daughter would allow it.
References
- Yankouskaya, A., Williamson, R., Stacey, C., Totman, J. J., & Massey, H. (2023). Short-Term Head-Out Whole-Body Cold-Water Immersion Facilitates Positive Affect and Increases Interaction between Large-Scale Brain Networks. Biology, 12(2), 211. https://doi.org/10.3390/biology12020211
- Reed, E. L., Chapman, C. L., Whittman, E. K., Park, T. E., Larson, E. A., Kaiser, B. W., Comrada, L. N., Needham, K. W., Halliwill, J. R., & Minson, C. T. (2023). Cardiovascular and mood responses to an acute bout of cold water immersion. Journal of Thermal Biology, 118, 103727. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2023.103727
- Kjertakov, M., & Petersen, A. (2022). Hot water immersion could be an effective alternative to physical exercise in improving cardiovascular fitness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Frontiers in Physiology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2022.1035183
- Kelly, J. S., & Bird, E. (2021). Improved mood following a single immersion in cold water. Lifestyle Medicine, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1002/lim2.53
- Cullen, T., Steward, C. J., Menzies, C., Pugh, C. J., & Thake, C. D. (2024). The effect of underwater massage during hot water immersion on acute cardiovascular and mood responses. Journal of Thermal Biology, 103858. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2024.103858
- Nye, E. A., Edler, J. R., Eberman, L. E., & Games, K. E. (2016). Optimizing Cold-Water Immersion for Exercise-Induced Hyperthermia: An Evidence-Based Paper. Journal of Athletic Training, 51(6), 500–501. https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-51.9.04
- Piñero, A., Burke, R., Augustin, F., Mohan, A. E., DeJesus, K., Sapuppo, M., Weisenthal, M., Coleman, M., Androulakis‐Korakakis, P., Grgic, J., Swinton, P. A., & Schoenfeld, B. J. (2024). Throwing cold water on muscle growth: A systematic review with meta‐analysis of the effects of postexercise cold water immersion on resistance training‐induced hypertrophy. European Journal of Sport Science. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejsc.12074
- Xiao, F., Kabachkova, A. V., Jiao, L., Zhao, H., & Kapilevich, L. V. (2023). Effects of cold water immersion after exercise on fatigue recovery and exercise performance–meta analysis. Frontiers in physiology, 14, 1006512. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2023.1006512
- Espeland, D., De Weerd, L., & Mercer, J. B. (2022). Health effects of voluntary exposure to cold water – a continuing subject of debate. International Journal of Circumpolar Health, 81(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/22423982.2022.2111789
- Western Australia Department of Health. (n.d.). Ultraviolet disinfection of drinking water. Government of Western Australia. Retrieved October 25, 2024, from https://www.health.wa.gov.au/Articles/U_Z/Ultraviolet-disinfection-of-drinking-water
- Wang, H., Gao, X., Shi, Y., Wu, D., Li, C., & Wang, W. (2022). Effects of trunk posture on cardiovascular and autonomic nervous systems: A pilot study. Frontiers in Physiology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2022.1009806
- Petersen, A. C., & Fyfe, J. J. (2021). Post-exercise cold water immersion effects on physiological adaptations to resistance training and the underlying mechanisms in skeletal muscle: a narrative review. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 3. https://doi.org/10.3389/fspor.2021.660291