Thinking about adding a hot tub to your home? It’s a fantastic investment in your relaxation and well-being. But with different types available, it can be tricky to know which one is the right fit. At Wave, we believe in making luxury accessible, portable, and affordable.
This guide compares our popular Inflatable and innovative Eco Foam hot tubs with traditional Acrylic models to help you decide.
| Feature | Wave Inflatable Hot Tubs | Wave Eco Foam Hot Tubs | Traditional Acrylic Hot Tubs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | £ (Most Affordable) | ££ (Excellent Value) | ££££ (Very High) |
| Portability | Excellent. Can be packed away and moved by one person. | Very Good. Lightweight and can be easily moved by one to two people. | None. Extremely heavy, some require a crane for installation. |
| Installation | DIY in minutes. Simply inflate and fill. No special tools. | DIY in under 20 mins. Simple assembly, no professional help needed. | Professional installation required. Needs a permanent concrete base and dedicated electrics. |
| Energy Efficiency | Good. Insulating covers included to retain heat. | Excellent. Up to 50% more thermally efficient than comparable tubs. | Variable. Can be very high, but often comes with much higher running costs. |
| Comfort | Comfortable floor and walls. | Solid, sturdy feel with added cushioning to the base. A true hybrid experience. | Hard, moulded seating. |
| Durability | Tough, puncture-resistant materials designed for outdoor use. | Rigid, durable foam construction with a protective outer layer. | Very long lifespan but susceptible to cracking/fading over time. |
| Best For | Value, flexibility, renters, and first-time hot tub owners. | Those wanting a premium, efficient spa without the cost and hassle of acrylic. | Homeowners with a very large budget and a permanent, dedicated space. |
A Deeper Dive into Your Options
Wave Inflatable Hot Tubs: The Ultimate in Flexibility and Fun
Add a touch of luxury to your outdoor space with our collection of inflatable hot tubs, the most indulgent and affordable way to relax all year round. If you value flexibility and unbeatable value, this is the perfect choice.
Our inflatable spas are designed for modern life. They can be set up anywhere with a flat surface in minutes, and packed away just as easily for storage or to take to a new home. Available in a variety of sizes, shapes and designs, accommodating up to 6 people, our Wave hot tubs are perfect for enjoying on your own or spending quality time with friends and family.
-
Key Benefit: Unmatched portability and low initial cost. Enjoy the hot tub experience without the commitment.
Wave Eco Foam Hot Tubs: The Best of Both Worlds
Foam insulation is a game-changer for hot tubs, and our new foam spas are leading the charge. This is the perfect choice for someone who wants a more permanent-feeling, energy-efficient spa that is still portable and affordable.
The foam core at the heart of our rigid models means the hot tub is up to 50% more thermally efficient, giving you cheaper bills whilst being better for the environment. This structure provides a sturdier, more traditional feel than an inflatable tub, while remaining light enough to be moved when needed. Our newest foam spas are made up of 3 models: the Garda, the Tahoe and the Como, each featuring a different shape and available in a range of 4 styles to perfectly match your garden.
-
Key Benefit: Superior energy efficiency and a rigid structure, offering a premium experience without the extreme cost and permanence of acrylic.
Traditional Acrylic Hot Tubs: The Heavyweight Option
Acrylic hot tubs are what most people picture when they think of a traditional spa. They are moulded from a single sheet of acrylic plastic and are known for their powerful jets and fixed seating.
However, this permanence comes at a significant price. Acrylic tubs are incredibly bulky and heavy, often requiring cranes for installation on a specially prepared concrete base. They represent the highest initial investment by a large margin and can be complex to maintain. While they are built to last, their lack of portability means they are a permanent fixture, which isn't suitable for everyone.
-
Key Drawback: Extremely high cost, permanent and bulky installation, and a lack of flexibility.
The Wave Verdict
For the vast majority of people, the choice comes down to lifestyle and value.
-
Choose a Wave Inflatable Spa if: You want the most affordable and flexible way to enjoy a hot tub. It's perfect for parties, relaxing weekends, and for those who may move home or want to reclaim their garden space in the winter.
-
Choose a Wave Eco Foam Spa if: You want a superior, energy-saving experience with a more permanent feel. It’s the ideal balance of performance, portability, and price, giving you a premium spa day, every day.
While acrylic hot tubs have their place, their high costs, bulk, and permanence make them an impractical choice for many. At Wave, we focus on bringing you portable, innovative, and value-driven spas that fit your life, not the other way around.
A New Wave of Luxury: Introducing the Adriatic Frame Spa
For those looking to bridge the gap even closer between our innovative Eco Foam spas and traditional acrylic models, we're proud to introduce our most advanced spa yet: The Wave Adriatic.
Elevate your relaxation experience with the Wave Adriatic, a seamless blend of sophisticated design, exceptional thermal efficiency, and indulgent comfort. Designed for year-round indulgence, this spa envelops you in soothing warmth, no matter the season. With enough room for up to six people, it's a haven for shared moments.
The Adriatic is the most eco‑friendly spa in its class, engineered with advanced rigid foam insulation and a sleek aluminium frame. This powerful combination delivers exceptional thermal performance, making it up to 60% more energy efficient compared to conventional portable hot tubs. This means faster heating, longer retaining warmth, and significantly lower running costs.
-
Sleek Modern Design: A stunning centrepiece for any garden.
-
Ultimate Energy Efficiency: Save on bills and be kinder to the planet.
-
Quick & Easy Setup: Intuitive, user-friendly assembly.
-
Smart Control: The integrated WiFi heater lets you set the perfect temperature from anywhere.
By combining sustainable design, quieter operation, and luxurious comfort, the Wave Adriatic transforms your outdoor space into a stylish, energy-smart retreat that’s kinder to both the planet and your wallet.
Ready to relax? Explore our full range of Inflatable and Eco Foam hot tubs today!
Share:
Reset Your Mind in 30 Minutes This Relaxation Day