For many, ice baths are about embracing discomfort, but it is important to consider protecting yourself from the cold and maximizing your experience Wearing the right clothes during cold water therapy can help people with cold sensitivity, or those
When your body is submerged, it loses heat quickly, particularly in your extremities. While brave souls opt to ice bathe with little to no clothes, wearing certain protective clothing into cold water will help protect the more sensitive parts of the body like the head, hands, feet, and privates.
With that, let’s dive into the best ice bath clothing options for different parts of the body, exploring a range of clothing styles and brands designed to enhance comfort and safety while immersed in cold water.
Best Shorts to Wear in an Ice Bath
While clothing is optional, those new to cold water therapy should start with a swim suit. The ideal ice bath clothing helps trap some body heat, making the experience more tolerable for those who need it and can allow you to stay submerged for longer periods.
For those who cold plunge at colder temperatures and for longer durations, may also want to use protective clothing to protect the skin. The benefits of ice baths, from improved muscle recovery to increased mental clarity are amazing, but they are not without their risks.
At a minimum, a pair of shorts is recommended to limit the direct contact of the cold water on the most sensitive parts of the nether regions. While a regular pair of swim trunks is better than nothing, there are a few options that offer a bit more shielding from the cold.
Here are some great options for protective short options for ice baths.
Swim Shorts With Liner
Best Deals:
Features:
- Soft and flexible compression lining
- Fast-drying polyester
- Zipper pockets
- Multiple color and sizing options
The Silkworld men’s swim trunks are the perfect choice for those seeking a comfortable and stylish option for an ice bath. Crafted from a blend of polyester and spandex, these trunks are designed for quick drying and increased elasticity.
This material choice is ideal for ice baths, as it minimizes the discomfort of wet clothing post-bath and allows for easy movement. Additionally, the spandex component enhances overall comfort, accommodating different body types and movements.
The trunks are equipped with multiple pockets, including side pockets with zippers to secure valuables before your plunge. These are the ideal shorts for workouts before or for post-ice bath activities.
Women’s Shorts With Liner
Best Deals:
Features:
- Soft and flexible compression lining
- Quick dry mesh material
- Pockets for out-of-water storage
- Multiple color and sizing options
The BALEAF Women’s 3″ Quick Dry Mesh Swim Shorts offer a combination of comfort, functionality, and durability. Their quick-dry mesh fabric is a key feature for ice bath use, as it reduces the discomfort of wet clothing post-bath and allows for a quick transition to other activities.
This fabric also has UPF 50+ sun protection, an added benefit for outdoor ice baths, and chlorine resistance, for regular swimming or when plunging in a pool. The design of these shorts, featuring an elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring, ensures a snug and comfortable fit, essential for maintaining comfort during the intense experience of an ice bath.
These fit securely but are flexible, allowing the body’s natural movements and reactions to the cold. The built-in short boyleg lining also has an anti-slip design that further enhances the wearer’s comfort, providing stability and preventing the shorts from shifting during the ice bath.
Best Ice Bath Shirts
Many cold therapy enthusiasts choose to bare their chest and hop in the cold water, but wearing a shirt can offer numerous advantages. For some the shirt provides a good start to the therapy with a psychological benefit, creating a sense of separation from the cold and enhancing the overall experience.
Here are some shirts, great for an ice bath, that can act as a heat barrier, trapping your body warmth and allowing you to stay submerged for longer. These shirts are ideal for both beginners and those seeking more extended exposure.
Long Quick Dry Shirts
Features:
- Quick dry fabric
- Rash guard and UV protection
- Comfortable full range of motion
The BALEAF Long Sleeve Quick Dry Shirts are an excellent choice for men and women engaging in ice baths. The shirts feature a lightweight and quick-dry fabric that is perfect for minimizing discomfort from wet clothing after an ice bath. This quick-drying and rash guard fabric is great for a comfortable transition to other activities, for both guys and girls.
Designed to enhance comfort, these unisex rash guards are not too tight and include flatlock seamlines and a tagless collar, which help prevent chafing during an icy plunge. The relaxed fit of these shirts, coupled with the long sleeves and raglan design, ensures a full range of motion for all wearers.
The UPF 50+ protection is an added advantage for outdoor activities, though the primary appeal for ice bath use lies in the moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric and the comfortable, flexible fit, catering to the needs of both men and women.
Short Sleeve Quick Dry Shirts
Features:
- Quick dry fabric
- Rash guard and UV protection
- More full range of motion
One great option is the Kanu Surf Short Sleeve Swim Shirt is a solid choice for minimal body coverage in cold water. Its short-sleeve design and crew neckline offer comfort and ease of movement. The contrast panels at the sides not only add a touch of style but also contribute to the garment’s snug fit, ensuring it stays in place during the immersion.
A UPF 50+ rating helps with sun protection for outside activity after the plunge, and the high-quality rashguard material provides an additional layer that helps to insulate the body a bit. This shirt is a comfortable and functional option for those staring op put ice baths into their recovery or wellness routines.
Best Ice Bath Footwear
Ice baths can be beneficial for feet, but for those with sensitive feet or circulatory issues, ice bath footwear is an invaluable tool. Cold water can quickly cause discomfort and numbness, especially in the extremities. Neoprene socks, constructed with thick insulation, provide a protective barrier against the icy chill.
Ice bath socks offer a crucial element of stability. The textured soles enhance grip, reducing the risk of slipping while entering or exiting the icy water. This is particularly beneficial for those new to ice baths or individuals with balance concerns. Here is our top choice for ice bath socks.
Neoprene Cold Water Socks
Best Deals:
Features:
- Protective 3mm Thick Insulation
- Ergonomic, Non-Wrinkle Fit
- Slip-Resistant Sole
- Durable Neoprene Material
The XUKER Neoprene Cold Water Socks are an excellent accessory for anyone utilizing ice baths for recovery or therapy. One of the key features of these socks is their ergonomic, non-wrinkle fit. This design ensures a snug, glove-like fit that eliminates any uncomfortable wrinkles. This is particularly important in ice baths, as it prevents cold water from pooling around your feet, which can significantly detract from the comfort and effectiveness of the bath.
These socks are designed with a 3mm thick insulation of neoprene material, offering the warmth and protection necessary to counter the extreme cold of ice baths. This thickness and design makes them our top pick for the best ice bath sock, as they effectively keep your feet warm and comfortable, even in the chilliest of waters.
The XUKER socks are also equipped with a slip-resistant sole, providing essential stability for safely getting in and out of the ice bath. This feature reduces the risk of slipping, a common concern when entering or exiting the bath. Combining practicality with comfort, these neoprene cold water socks are a must-have for those who have feet issues that the cold may worsen.
Best Ice Bath Gloves
Hand protection in an ice bath is essential to prevent numbness and maintain dexterity. Protective gloves can guard against potential skin irritation or frostbite, allowing those with circulatory or hand grip concerns to enjoy cold therapy with less worry.
Here is a good protective pair of gloves for an ice bath, trusted for exposure to cold water.
XUKER Neoprene Water Gloves
Best Deals:
Features:
- Durable glue blind stitching
- Anti-slip rubber palm
- Premium thermal neoprene material
The Xuker Water Gloves are a superb choice for those seeking hand protection during ice baths and various water sports. These gloves are meticulously crafted with glued blind stitching, resulting in a design that is both strong and flexible. This construction provides excellent protection for your hands against potential hazards in the water, ensuring safety during activities like ice baths, where hand protection is crucial.
Made from premium neoprene, these diving gloves are thermal and covered with a soft elastic fabric, ensuring your hands stay warm. The gloves also have a great palm grip, with anti-slip rubber-printed palms. The adjustable wrist closure with straps ensures a close fit, minimizing water entry and preventing the gloves from slipping off. This adjustability allows for freedom of movement while providing high thermal insulation against cold water.
Best Headwear For an Ice Bath
Is a cap absolutely necessary for an icy cold plunge? No, but for those crazy head dippers, it is a good way to protect the hairstyle or the ears and feel the power of a facial ice bath. It can also ease the mind of those who may get cold-induced headaches or migraines.
Here is an example of a quality cap that will protect your head, hair, and ears in an ice bath.
Silicone Water Cap
Best Deals:
Features:
- Extra stretchy
- Odorless material
- No shape deformation
The Whale Silicone Water Cap is a great choice for head, hair, and ear protection in cold water, offering flexibility, durability, and comfort. It stands out with a slightly heavier weight of 60g compared to regular swim caps, providing a secure and snug fit essential for maintaining warmth during an ice bath. The cap is made from a high-quality, exclusive silicone formula, ensuring it is stretchable and odorless, making it ideal for colder wet conditions.
This swim cap is designed with exceptional anti-slip properties and great elasticity, thanks to its extra-strong silicone that can stretch to twice its size while retaining its shape. The interior non-slip stripes ensure the cap stays firmly in place. Its larger size caters to the head circumference of both women and men with long air. Overall, the Whale Silicone Swim Cap is a great choice for those seeking a reliable, comfortable, and guaranteed to fit well for your cold therapy.
Ice Bath Safety Precautions
Besides wearing basic or protective clothing when doing cold water exposure, the temperature of the water and how long you are in ii being the primary things to pay attention to.
Temperature
The ideal temperature for an ice bath is crucial for both safety and effectiveness. For beginners, start with water between 50-59°F (10-15°C). This range provides therapeutic benefits while minimizing the risk of cold shock. As you become more accustomed to cold exposure, you can gradually lower the temperature. Experienced users often use temperatures as low as 39°F (4°C). However, never use water colder than 39°F, as this increases the risk of hypothermia and other cold-related injuries.
To get your goal temperature always:
- Use a thermometer to accurately measure water temperature.
- Add ice gradually, stirring to distribute cold evenly.
For more on both the safe and ideal temperatures, see our full guide for ice bath temperatures.
Duration
The length of time spent in an ice bath is equally important as the temperature. For beginners, start with very short durations:
- First-timers should aim for just 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually increase time by 30 seconds to 1 minute per session.
- Even experienced users should generally not exceed 10 minutes.
To learn more about the ideal length of cold exposure see our article outlining how long to stay in an ice bath.
Tips for managing duration:
- Use a timer to track your sessions accurately.
- Exit the bath immediately if you start shivering uncontrollably or feel numbness.
- Always have someone nearby. They can monitor time, check on your well-being, and assist if you need help exiting the bath quickly.
Other Considerations for Ice Bath Safety
Environment considerations:
- If outdoors, factor in ambient temperature and wind chill. Colder air temperatures require shorter bath durations.
- For indoor baths, ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and use non-slip mats around the tub.
- Enter the water slowly, starting with your feet and gradually immersing your body. This helps prevent cold shock and allows your body to adjust.
Body Awareness:
- Pay close attention to how you feel. Exit immediately if you experience severe discomfort, numbness, or difficulty breathing.
- Have warm, dry clothes ready. Plan to raise your body temperature gradually through light exercise or warm (not hot) showers.
- Consult a healthcare professional before starting ice bath therapy, especially if you have cardiovascular issues, diabetes, or other health conditions.
Remember, while ice baths can offer benefits, they also carry risks. Always prioritize safety and listen to your body’s signals.
