10 Best Ice Packs – 2024 Reviews
If you have a recent injury where swelling is an issue, ice can be the best treatment for not only decreasing your pain but also reducing inflammation and speeding the healing process.
The companies who make the gel ice packs on our list employ experts who conduct extensive research to ensure the design and application will give you the maximum benefits of ice without doing any damage.
We looked at the reusable ice packs on the market and chose the 10 that are best for runners, to help you heal quickly and get back out there. Check them out below!
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
There are a number of materials that are commonly used both inside and outside the ice pack.
For the outer materials, you will want something that helps insulate the pack so it stays cool for a long time while still allowing the cold to flow through the materials and into your body. Inside, you want your gel pack to be made of a material that will hold in the cold for a good long time.
The material the gel packs are made of should be high quality, durable, and pliable to fit your body correctly. Seams must be well-made, and they can’t split.
After taking it out of the freezer, the gel or any other content should be flexible to fit the shape of your body comfortably. Avoid products in which liquid substances stay only on one side of the gel packs.
Durability
It is also important to think about the durability of the ice pack you decided to purchase.
Avid runners, athletes, and those who are always on the go, will need reusable ice packs that are reliable and that can handle a lot of use and abuse.
The durability of the packs is a significant factor to consider. ou want something that you can use again and again, and that won't fail you when you need it the most.
We considered over 1300 reviews to see what users had to say about the durability of various products we were reviewing for our list.
Versatility
You are going to want to look at versatility to see what ice packs are best for you as a runner.
There are some key areas of the body that tend to get injured more than others when you are an avid runner- feet, knees, and legs being the most common. But other areas of the body can get sore or injured during a run or in a workout session. So, you will want to make sure your packs are able to be used on more than just one area of the body to make things easier.
While choosing the best product, you should consider what’s the aim of its usage. If you’re going to use it on small parts of your body like knees or hands, you don’t need to purchase a big one. It’s a different story if you're looking for relief for your back, shoulders, or arms.
You must be aware that gel packs must fit around the whole area of the arm, leg, etc. It’s usually better to buy a bigger one because while it may be a little heavier than a small one, it will still work with smaller parts of the body, whereas small packs won't work for more significant body parts.
Value
Remember, value is more than just the price tag.
Many people may think that ice packs shouldn’t be costly, and they aren’t. You have a wide range of prices from 20 dollar products to options that cost up to 50 dollars.
However, the most expensive products aren’t always the best ones. You should personalize your product. We would recommend checking the price after considering other important factors. Remember that if you need an ice pack for your back, it won’t cost the same as an ice pack for the wrist.
Top 10 Gel Packs for Runners
1. FlexiKold Gel
While these are essential gel ice packs, it's quality materials and construction, large size, and tons of satisfied customers made us put it #1 on our list. It's big enough and flexible enough to use just about anywhere, and it's double sealed to prevent leaks.
Read moreMaterial
These reusable ice packs are made of high-quality, durable materials that make them built to last. It uses the brand's proprietary professional-grade gel, which allows it to remain flexible when frozen as well as ensures it stays cold longer.
Durability
This product is incredibly durable even though it looks simple. It is made of extra-thick nylon and is also double sealed to prevent any leaking from occurring.
Ease of Use
Since this ice pack stays flexible, it is super easy to use you can use it anywhere on your body. You can also expect it to stay cold for as long as you need it to, thanks to the gel it utilizes. With this one, it is as easy as just grabbing it from the freezer and putting it wherever you need it.
Versatility
If you want something versatile, this is one of the best. Since it stays flexible even when it is frozen, you can use it anywhere. It is also a great size to cover almost any issue--although if you need something massive, you will need to buy more than one of these.
Value
This gel pack for runners comes at a great price and, given that physical therapists all over the country highly recommend it, it is safe to say that it is worth every penny.
2. Roscoe Medical
There is nothing fancy about these gel ice packs; however, everyone should have a couple of these handy packs around due to their versatility and effectiveness.
Read moreMaterial
It May look like simple gel packs for runners but, it is anything but that. While it doesn't come with any extra features or accessories to use, it is definitely worth having some of these around. The gel they employ can be used cold or hot, and the high-quality material it is made of prevents leaking.
Durability
This ice pack is built to last and perfect for those of you looking for something that will last you the long haul. If you want something that won't leak or easily break, then this is a great ice pack to consider.
Ease of Use
These are hot/cold so you freeze it or you heat it in the microwave, easy as that!
Versatility
This reusable ice pack is the perfect size for the most commonly iced areas. It allows you to apply both hot and cold therapy, so you don't have to go back and forth between this option and a separate heating pad.
Value
Given that this product is incredibly affordable, it is easy to say its value indeed shows. It is a high-quality reusable ice pack at a fraction of the cost.
3. The Coldest Water
If you’re looking for something bigger, you should check out The Coldest Water ice packs. It’s 15.2 x 11.7 inches, so it’s one of the biggest on our list.
Read moreMaterial
This large ice pack is made of really flexible and high-quality materials that allow it to fit the icing area perfectly. The non-toxic gel pack was explicitly made for athletes, so it is made of comfortable and CE certified, and FDA approved flexible plastic to make this a perfect fit for you.
Durability
Made of really durable materials, this larger pack is built to last. If you take care of it, you won't have to worry about any cracks or leaking issues.
Ease of Use
It is a large ice pack but doesn't worry; it is just as easy to use as your smaller packs. You can lay this one on the bed and put it on it to ice your back, or you can lay it where it needs to go. While it isn't flexible enough to mold to your arms and legs, you can lay it wherever you need it.
Versatility
This reusable ice pack is pretty versatile when it comes to how you can use it. However, it is far less flexible, and since it is so large, it isn't the best for icing smaller areas.
Value
This pack come at a great price, especially considering how large it is.
4. O2 Cold Therapy
This option is unique as it offers the user compression along with the healing effects of ice to help you recover faster. It's specifically designed for use on knees, which any runner can appreciate. Compression increases blood circulation, so fresh oxygenated blood rushes to the area speeding healing.
Read moreMaterials
This product is made with high-quality materials that have been approved by professional physical therapists who freeze, thaw, and re-freeze these ice packs constantly, so you know that if it takes that kind of continuous use, it will hold up to use at your home.
Durability
We did find a few reports from users that the pack portion of the product started to leak over time, but this is typical with this type of product and didn't seem to be a consistent issue.
Ease of Use
Reviewers said that it was easy to use, both to put on the knee and to inflate for compression.
Versatility
Because of its knee-specific design, this product isn't that versatile.
Value
This model is one of the more expensive ones on our list; however, for those looking for the healing effects of both ice and compression all in one product, it will be money well spent.
5. Koo Care 2
The Koo Care 2 ice pack is one of the most affordable packs on our list, but don't let that make you think it isn't a great option. You can use this one anywhere on your body, so it is definitely a perfect fit for anyone.
Read moreMaterial
This gel ice pack uses non-toxic gel, which lets it stay flexible so you can wrap it around certain areas when you need to. It also comes with a hot and cold compress as well as nylon wrap.
Durability
This ice pack is pretty durable, but if you have any issues, you will love the one-year warranty they offer! They make the purchase worth it.
Ease of Use
Since this is another hot and cold pack, you can bet that it is easy to use. Just freeze or microwave it, depending on what you need, and it will stay heated or cold for 30 minutes!
Versatility
Since this gel ice pack is so flexible, it can be wrapped or placed wherever you need it. The fact that you can securely strap it as well makes it even more versatile since you can walk around and get stuff done while you ice if you need to.
Value
The Koo Care 2 comes at an excellent price, especially given the additional accessories it comes with.
6. TheraPaQ
This reusable ice pack is perfect for athletes and the everyday person; it's easy to use and great for pain relief from arthritis or muscle soreness.
Read moreMaterial
This is another hot and cold pack so the gel it uses can be both heated and frozen--all while also still being able to stay flexible regardless if you use it hot or cold. The straps that come with this pack are adjustable which allows you to wrap any part of your body.
Durability
This pack is incredibly durable and designed to be leakproof, so you won't have to worry about it breaking apart and leaking.
Ease of Use
If you want it cold, grab it from the freezer, and if you need heat therapy, all you have to do is pop it into the microwave.
Versatility
Since the gel is flexible, this pack is versatile and can be wrapped around and securely held. It also provides you with both hot and cold therapy, so it is perfect for those of you who want a 2 in 1 option.
Value
While this pack comes with lots of additional accessories and is incredibly versatile, it also comes at an excellent price, and the specified money-back guarantee make it even better.
7. TheraPearl
The shins are one part of your body that can take a real beating when it comes to running. Shin splints, calf strains, stress fractures, you name it. Why not give them a bit of TLC?
Read moreMaterial
These wraps have a double velcro adjustable strap set which makes sure that they stay in place. They also are guaranteed to hold their therapeutic temperature for a minimum of 20 minutes. Don’t let shin issues keep you out of commission, fight back with TheraPearl Wraps.
Durability
This pack is durable and built to last--however, some users did report that their packs started experiencing leaks after a while or after scraping them against something.
Ease of Use
They smoothly envelop your calves and shins and provide a calming chill or a refreshing burst of warmth (depending on what you need).
Versatility
These wraps are slim enough to fit underneath your pants, so if you want you can put them on at the office and take a load off your shins while you work.
Value
While it comes at a reasonable price, if you want something more versatile, then you won't get too much out of this one.
8. Polar Ice
For any soft tissue trauma in the foot or ankle area, strapping on the Polar Ice Foot can be a significant first step in healing the injury. Reduce swelling, control pain and get yourself back to full speed as soon as possible.
Read moreMaterial
This is another custom-designed icing implement that will more thoroughly cover your ankle than an all-purpose pack ever will. On the interior, the Polar Ice pack has encapsulated gel ice packs filled with purified water. On the exterior, you have a soft fleece that is easy on the skin and protects from frostbite. Combine the two with a smart design, and you’ve got a winning pack.
Durability
This product is durable and designed to last--so you can rely on this it to help your ankles stay working optimally.
Ease of Use
With this one you won't have to worry about having any issues getting it on--the straps make it easy to adjust, and the flexible material will mold to your foot for the perfect fit.
Value
A little pricey given that you can only use this one on your feet.
9. NatraCure
If you want an affordable, reliable, and effective ice pack, then this is an excellent one to consider. Not only does it come at a great price, but it stays flexible enough to wrap around where you need it thanks to the secure and adjustable belt strap.
Read moreMaterial
The interior of this gel pack is made of professional-grade clay that allows it to contour to where you want to wrap it. The clay also allows this wrap to stay colder for much longer than other gel packs for runners.
Durability
This one uses both clay and gel ice packs, both of which are incredibly durable and built to last.
Ease of Use
If you want a gel pack that is super easy to use, you will love this option. It is super easy to wrap around since it is very flexible. You don't have to put too much effort into this one, so it is a great one to consider.
Versatility
The belt wrap is made of elastic and stretchy material that lets it fit you perfectly and securely.
Value
This ice pack is super affordable and holds its value given how many great features it has to offer.
10. CryoCup
This is a handy ice massage tool that can breathe new life into tired and sore muscles. dd in the motion of moving the CryoCup around and it’s easy to understand how this method can reach deeper into the muscle tissue and achieve better results.
Read moreMaterial
This one is made of durable material that securely holds the ice and allows you to apply direct cold pressure to certain areas.
Durability
Really durable and doesn't crack easily--however, when the ice starts melting, it could be frustrating to deal with.
Ease of Use
One point of caution, when applying ice directly to the skin, be sure not to overexpose one area as this can result in frostbite. On the plus side, your fingers won’t freeze when applying the ice and this product is much more eco-friendly than throwing away a bunch of Dixie cups every week. If you’ve never tried it before, an ice massage can be exhilarating.
Versatility
Not too versatile as far as to use, but it does allow you to apply pressure to certain areas.
Value
This cryo selection is super affordable and easy to use.
Sources
- , Runners And Ice Packs, Clinical Information
- , Burning Runner: Don’t Take Ice For Granted, Sports & Fitness Publication
