Plunge pool vs. cocktail pools vs. dipping pools vs. spools

—Going small for big benefits with compact swimming pools 

What is a plunge pool?

Is it different from a cocktail pool or a dipping pool?

And how are these three kinds of compact swimming pools different from a design known as a spool?

Small but mighty

Pool experts agree that a plunge, cocktail, and dipping pool, or spool often provides an excellent solution for a tight backyard.

One of these compact structures can fit into small, awkwardly shaped outdoor spaces where a traditional pool would not be possible. A pint-sized pool may even fit into a large side yard.

However, where there may be less-than-perfect unanimity is in the precise definition of a compact pool.

The pool industry does not rigidly define this category; no rules spell out the exact dimensions of what is compact or precisely what a plunge, cocktail, and dipping pool, or spool are and are not.

However, the compact category generally refers to pools that are significantly smaller than standard residential builds.

What is “significantly smaller” is open to some interpretation—even by the pros.

Many would agree that compact means about 8 to 20 feet in length and 6 to 10 feet in width. Others may have dimensions in mind that vary by several feet.

What the names of each design mean is also open to interpretation; no single industry reference outlines the specific criteria of a plunge, dipping, or a cocktail pool, or a spool.

Some professionals assert that there are minor differences between them. Others use the adjectives “plunge,” “dipping,” and “cocktail” interchangeably; these terms describe a similar compact design—or at least a similar design with subtle differences we will describe here.

Now, there is greater industry consensus to reserve the term “spool” for a sub-category unto itself.

Let’s examine the possibilities available via “aquatic downsizing” and look at minor variations across the compact category.

Again, no strict definitions exist. So, don’t be surprised if your pool builder mixes and matches the terms and characteristics you see described here.

Plunge Pools

While short in width and length—typically 8 to 12 feet long—plunge pools are generally deep enough to allow you to jump in and submerge up to your neck.

Depending on the height of the homeowner who will be taking the plunge, this depth could run 5 to 7.5 feet.

In many plunge designs, the depth is uniform. But if the pool runs 6 or 7 feet at its deepest, the floor may be built with graduated depths.

A plunge pool is named for exactly what it provides: a quick cooling off. For that reason, it might not have a pool heater.

In fact, in climates with extremely hot summers, some plunge installations are equipped with a chiller system to keep the water cool.

While you won’t be swimming laps in a plunge pool, it may allow you to engage in other forms of aquatic exercises. For example, you can stand erect and perform weight-bearing moves, wade or walk in place, or tread water.

The plunge design is also being influenced by the recent popularity of the cryotherapy health trend and ice baths.

With this in mind, some health-conscious homeowners build one with a chiller system to maintain the water temperature at extra-cold temperatures—around 40 to 60 degrees.

Because a plunge pool is typically used for a brief dip rather than extended lounging, it may have no or only minimal seating.

As plunge pools are somewhat utilitarian with a minimal surface area, most are built square or rectangular.

If you are intent on building an indoor pool, a plunge pool’s tight dimensions make it easier to find the space.

In particular, a plunge pool may be perfect in a home fitness/wellness center. It can even serve as the mate for an at-home sauna to create a hot-cold circuit for contrast therapy.

Dipping Pools

Dipping pools are similar to plunge pools; some would say they are identical—simply, that there are two possible names for essentially the same design. 

But others would argue there are some distinctions.

Many plunge pools run 8 to 12 feet wide and 12 to 20 feet in length.

Like a plunge pool, a dipping pool is intended for a quick, refreshing dip, as the name suggests. The idea is that you simply wade around in one to relax, refresh, and escape the heat.

A dipping pool may or may not provide seating. That’s because, again, nothing dictates that a dipping pool shall or shall not include a bench or tanning ledge.

Some pool builders assert that there is one key distinction that sets a dipping pool apart: depth.

An argument could be made that a dipping pool is shallow, only two or three feet deep. In fact, these short dimensions may be consistent throughout the entire pool interior, as no graduated depth changes are even needed.

With this shallow water in mind, some homeowners build a dipping pool specifically to accommodate young children, seniors, or those with mobility challenges (although the family pooch may also appreciate it too,)

Another possible distinction is water temperature: Unlike a plunge pool, a dipping pool is more likely to be equipped with a heater for comfort.

A dipping pool is ideal for those who want an aquatic retreat but do not need or want space to swim. And they have no desire to have water up to their neck or to perform any kind of standing water aerobics.

Your builder can integrate a dipping pool into a patio or garden area, providing a tranquil spot for a brief retreat from the heat. Some are located beneath shade structures to enhance the relief factor.

If backyard space is limited, the most space-efficient shape for a dipping pool is usually a square or rectangle.

However, there is nothing that says you can’t go for a curvy free-form, Roman-Grecian, or custom geometric shape.

Cocktail Pools

As the term implies, a cocktail pool is meant for socializing and relaxation—and yes, maybe even with a beverage in hand. In addition, aesthetics may also be emphasized more than other compact pool designs.

Like its namesake libation, a cocktail pool can include a “mix of ingredients.” Design objectives include comfort and creating an attractive, inviting ambiance for backyard entertaining.

Since the goal is leisure, a cocktail pool is generally shallow, such as three or four feet. Built-in seating, such as a pool bench or tanning ledge is also usually part of the configuration.

If a tanning ledge is included, it may have an integrated pole sleeve; this simple accessory—included during construction—makes it easy to slip in a patio umbrella to provide shade in the pool and shield you from the sun.

Typically, cocktail pools emphasize style more so than their plunge and dipping cousins. For this reason, a cocktail pool is more likely to have a shape that goes beyond a basic linear one.

In contrast to a plunge or dipping pool, a cocktail pool is also more likely to have decorative elements, such as water features or integrated landscaping.

Not surprisingly, a favorite spot to locate a cocktail pool is near an outdoor bar, grill, kitchen, or dining area, where it becomes part of the activity.

Spools

Finally, we come to what is a more distinct sub-category of compact pools: Spools.

A clever combination of a gunite spa and a pool, a spool performs double duty providing the functionality of both amenities in one small aquatic package.

Sometimes referred to as a swim spa, a spool delivers the therapeutic benefits of a spa and the cooling features of a pool. In some designs, it can even provide you the ability to swim laps.

Indeed, a spool may look like a very large spa, although it may run roughly 10 to 16 feet in length.

What truly sets a spool apart from a plunge, dipping, or cocktail pool is jet action!

To be considered a spool, most would agree that the vessel must include equipment that creates currents.

Most spools are built with a series of spa jets and come equipped with a heater. These components produce hot, swirling water for relaxation and massage so you have the physical benefits of warm water hydrotherapy.

For this reason, nearly all spools with spa-style jets are built with bench seating. Bathers can recline on the bench and enjoy the pulsating massage.

However, an entirely different kind of jet action can also make a spool a spool: a swim jet.

This large, specialized device generates a powerful, adjustable current against which you can swim in place.

Despite its small footprint, a spool with this countercurrent allows you to engage in lap-type fitness for a true workout. In these cases, the spool may forgo any seating so there’s plenty of room to get in your strokes.

Unlike a full-size lap pool, a spool’s small size makes it economical to keep heated for extended periods—even year-round in some climates.

Small miracles

If you want the joy of a beautiful gunite swimming pool but have limited yard space, a petite version may offer a solution.

The same goes if you have a moderate-size yard with a desire to include multiple outdoor amenities such as an island grill, kitchen, dining area, miniature putting green or sports court, or space for the kids' jungle gym.

Whether you build a plunge pool, cocktail pool, dipping pool, or spool, it can provide some of the same fun, style, relaxation, and fitness opportunities as a full-size counterpart.

With careful design and thoughtful features, a compact design can transform a small yard into a private oasis, providing a perfect retreat for cooling off, relaxing, exercising, and entertaining.

Any of these can provide opportunities for decorative options as well.

For example, you might be able to include a water bowl or raised bond beam punctuated with a sleek cascade waterfall.        

Bright accent tile is a simple upgrade that can fit onto any size of bench, pool entry step or sun shelf. Integrated landscaping, such as pool “pocket planters,” will blend any size of pool into a backyard setting.

Regardless of the pool’s shape or dimensions, adding color-changing LED lighting is always possible too, and it and will dramatically dress up its appearance.

Although uncommon, one of these miniature beauties can even be built with a dramatic infinity-edge. Another elaborate version is a cocktail or dipping pool with an attached spa.

Qualified builders and designers can walk you through the many options and opportunities you can have in a compact pool.

Indeed, if you have a small backyard, plenty of ideas for small swimming pools are possible. These condensed pools can provide outsized benefits, especially when thoughtfully designed.