Choosing Between a Hot Tub with a Lounge or Without: Which is Right for You?

• Steve Jost August 15, 2024

When shopping for the perfect hot tub, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to choose a tub with a lounge seat or one without offering open seating. Both options have their unique benefits, and the best option ultimately depends on your personal preferences, space, and how you plan to use your hot tub. Let’s explore some factors to consider when deciding between a hot tub with a lounge and one without.

What Is a Lounge Seat?

A lounge seat in a hot tub is a reclined seat that allows you to stretch out fully, providing a full-body massage. Most lounges offer jets positioned to massage various parts of your body, including your back, legs, and feet. A lounge seat is designed for maximum relaxation, just like reclining in a chaise lounge, yet while enjoying the benefits of hydrotherapy.

Benefits of a Hot Tub with a Lounge

1. Full-Body Relaxation:

• One of the most significant advantages of a hot tub with a lounge seat is the ability to relax your entire body. The reclined position allows for a more immersive hydrotherapy experience, with jets targeting key muscle groups, including your lower back, thighs, calves, and feet. This is ideal if you’re on your feet a lot throughout your day and looking for the ultimate, head-to-toe massage after a long day.

2. Targeted Hydrotherapy:

• Lounge seats are often designed with strategically placed jets that focus on different muscle groups. If you suffer from muscle tension or specific aches and pains, a lounge seat can provide targeted relief, making it a great choice for those who prioritize therapeutic benefits.

3. Luxurious Experience:

• The lounge seat adds an element of luxury to your hot tub experience. Stretching out in a reclined position while relaxing and soaking in warm water can be incredibly soothing and indulgent, enhancing your overall enjoyment of your hot tub.

Considerations for a Hot Tub with a Lounge

1. Space and Seating Capacity:

• While a lounge seat is luxurious, it can take up more space within the hot tub, potentially reducing the number of standard seats available. If you plan to entertain frequently or have a larger family, this could limit seating capacity and the ability to accommodate multiple users comfortably.

2. Personal Fit:

• Not everyone finds lounge seats comfortable. Depending on your height and body type, you might find it challenging to stay fully submerged while reclining. I would recommend to wet test a hot tub or at least sit in dry hot tubs to test out each seat for comfort.

Benefits of a Hot Tub Without a Lounge

1. More Seating Capacity:

• Hot tubs without lounge seats typically offer more standard seating, which can be a better option if you plan to entertain guests or have a large family. With more upright seats, you can comfortably fit more people into the hot tub at once.

2. Versatility:

• A hot tub without a lounge seat may offer a more versatile experience, with different seating positions and jet configurations. Most hot tubs are designed so that each seat provides a different massage and experience. Allowing for more seating allows a hot tub to offer more unique jet placement. This allows each user to find their favorite seat and enjoy the hydrotherapy experience that best suits their needs.

3. Maximized Space:

• Without a lounge seat taking up extra space, the hot tub’s interior can feel more open, allowing for easier movement within the hot tub. This can make the hot tub more conducive to socializing and group relaxation.

Considerations for a Hot Tub Without a Lounge

1. Less Full-Body Support:

• While standard seats are comfortable, they don’t offer the same full-body support that a lounge seat provides. If deep relaxation and full-body hydrotherapy are your primary goals, you might miss the benefits of a lounge seat.

2. Personal Preference:

• In my experience, I’ve seen an equal split between customers who prefer a lounge and open seating. Some users prefer the reclined position for relaxing and may feel that a hot tub without a lounge doesn’t offer the same level of comfort or luxury.

Conclusion: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between a hot tub with or without a lounge seat comes down to your personal preferences and how you plan to use the hot tub. If you value full-body relaxation and hydrotherapy, and don’t mind sacrificing a bit of seating capacity, a hot tub with a lounge seat might be the perfect fit. On the other hand, if you prioritize seating capacity, versatility, and a more social experience, a hot tub without a lounge could be the better option.

Before making your final decision, it’s a good idea to try out both options in person if possible. This will give you a feel for the comfort and fit of each seat type, ensuring that you choose the hot tub that best meets your needs and enhances your relaxation experience.

About Dover Pools

Since 1976, Dover Pools has been Delmarva’s largest pool, hot tub, and swim spa dealer. Dover Pools has five locations conveniently serving Delmarva from Salisbury Maryland, Seaford, Milford and two locations in Dover. Dover Pools offers exceptional customer service, expert advice, free water testing, and quality chemicals, supplies, accessories, games, and toys for your backyard pool and hot tub. Whether you already have your own backyard oasis of are looking for a new above ground pools, hot tubs, or power pool swims spas; Dover Pools is here to help.