Cold plunging can be a great way to refresh your mind and body quickly. It may energize you and help with physical recovery after long days of travel (whether for business or pleasure), too.
Fortune’s testing team tried the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0, trying it to check the ergonomics, durability, and overall value for business travelers and performance-minded leaders. Read on for our tester’s full review.
Polar Monkeys Brain Pod 2.0
| Fortune score | 4/5 |
at Polar Monkeys
- Our thoughts: Our tester found this tub comfortable and easy to use
- Who it’s for: Professionals and serious athletes who want to prioritize recovery with a hot/cold plunge tub
- What makes it different: The BrainPod 2.0 makes its own ice, so you don’t need to fill it yourself
Pros
- Large temperature range (32 to 107 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Comes with lots of extras
- White glove delivery service at no additional cost
Cons
- No built-in tub comfort features
- Large footprint, so ample space required
- Requires dedicated, permanent space
Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 Specs
Our Experience with Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0
The Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 is an indoor/outdoor tub that can provide both hot and cold therapy. It comes as standard or XL, and is available in black, white, and four designs. The Brainpod 2.0 also includes a 2-year warranty, along with a bunch of extras: insulated cover, two filters, an ergonomic pillow, phone holder, filter, skimmer, and white glove delivery services.
Rachel tested the Brainpod 2.0 at a temperature of 55 degrees to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. This was plenty cold enough for her, though the tub does cool down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, per the brand. She tested the Brainpod 2.0 for a minute or less, for two sessions.
What We Liked
Here’s what Rachel rated highly after trying the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0:
- Overall experience (3 out of 5): “This tub was comfortable, and I didn’t feel cramped while using it,” she said. “I was also able to adjust my temperature to what is most comfortable for me.”
After testing the Brainpod 2.0, Rachel could see cold exposure becoming part of her daily routine. This could be appealing to professionals who treat recovery as vital for energy and focus while working.
- Durability (4 out of 5): The Brainpod 2.0 is made from high-grade acrylic. Rachel had no issues with durability while getting in or out of the tub.
What We Would Change
Here’s what Rachel would improve about the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0:
- Ergonomics (2 out of 5): There are no comfort features built into the Brainpod 2.0 to allow you to rest your head against, though it does come with an ergonomic pillow. “The ends are slanted so you can more comfortably lean back and relax while using,” Rachel said. She also thinks that the tub would be perfect for a shorter person. “If you’re taller, you can adjust the amount of water that goes into the tub so it can fit you.” She didn’t feel cramped and was able to easily relax after a long day of work.
Who It’s For & Who It’s Not For
The Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 may be a good fit for:
- High-performance professionals who want cold plunges (+heat) for recovery and energy
- Folks who own their home and have dedicated space for the tub
- Creatives who want aesthetic design options to choose from when picking out a tub
The Polar Monkeys BrainPod 2.0 may not be ideal for:
- Professionals who rent their home, do not have ample space for the tub, or who are moving frequently
- Beginners who aren’t sure if they want to make a high-ticket purchase yet
Comparing Polar Monkeys to Other Cold Plunges
Why The Right Recovery Tools Matter to Professionals
Having a cold plunge at home may help you create a lasting recovery habit, especially when the tub controls temperature well and has indoor/outdoor capabilities. This way, you can build hot and cold therapy into your actual schedule.
While not everyone needs to have a cold plunge tub at home, leaders seeking premium value may see an at-home cold plunge tub as a great long-term recovery tool. It may help with improved sleep and more energy, too.
Fortune’s Final Thoughts
The Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 is durable and aesthetically pleasing. It also has both hot and cold capabilities, along with being suitable for indoor or outdoor use. The ergonomics aren’t built in, though, and it comes at a premium price. Fortune thinks this is a good option if you’re an advanced cold plunger and want to use the tub daily.
We recommend talking with your doctor about cold plunging before trying it or buying your own tub.
Frequently asked questions
Are cold plunges actually good for you?
A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis noted that while cold plunging may impact sleep quality and quality of life, more randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed.
What are the risks of cold plunging?
Cold plunging may impact your heart, so be sure to check with your doctor or cardiologist before trying it if you have high blood pressure or other heart conditions. It’s best to limit your time in cold water as well.
How long should you stay in a cold plunge?
If you’re trying out a cold plunge for the first time, it’s typically best to start slowly, for around 30 to 60 seconds. You may want to do even less time, depending on how you feel.
