It’s been a long and stressful day at work, and your co-worker tells you that they’re heading home to de-stress in the comfort and serenity of their own backyard. How’s that possible, you ask? — and so, your colleague begins to describe the pure tranquility of bathing in the perfect warmth of water, as every inch of your body is ever so gently massaged by water jets. That’s right, the unparalleled experience of personal spas!

Fast forward, and you’ve done the research on the various health benefits and you’re now finally set on investing in a more relaxing future. But, before you can prepare to dive into the comforts of backyard paradise, you’re faced with the single most difficult question: Do you buy a Hot Tub or a Swim Spa? And what exactly is the difference?

While both hot tubs and swim spas are similar in a variety of ways, you may find that one option suits your unique needs better than the other. In this article, we’ll help you unravel what separates the two and hopefully put you one step closer to backyard paradise.

What Sets A Hot Tub Apart From A Swim Spa?

Although hot tubs and swim spas are similar in a variety of ways, there are some key factors that set them apart.

1) Unique Features

For starters, both feature ergonomic seating options, designed to ensure you’re well positioned with zero discomfort. Moreover, most modern day hot tubs and swim spas come equipped with high-quality materials, user-friendly control systems, hydrotherapy jets, bluetooth technology, and interior lighting.

However, the two are noticeably different when looking at the high-powered jetting system and large tank area (the actual volume of the “tub” itself), features that are only found with swim spas. This is because swim spas are catered towards younger families and the everyday athlete, where the large tank allows for all sorts of water-based activities. The powerful jets located at one edge of the swim spa create a water current strong enough to swim, walk, or jog against. This makes swim spas an amazing option for those looking for a space to comfortably sit and relax in, with the added benefit of space for water aerobics.

2) Size Matters… Or Not

Typically, swim spas are much larger than your traditional hot tubs. This is to accommodate the large tank area that allows users to reap the benefits of aquatic exercises and workouts. That being said, both swim spas and hot tubs offer inclusive seating areas, perfect for socializating and relaxation.

3) Seating Accommodation

If you’re leaning towards entertainment purposes, such as hosting your friends and family for a stress-free night of relaxation, you may opt for the closeness and increased seating accommodation that is typically associated with hot tubs. Hot tub seating options can range anywhere from two-person hot tubs for more intimate experiences, to accommodating six or more of your friends with ease. But, if your backyard has room for flexibility, a swim spa may be just as perfect for you, as many models are also able to comfortably fit five or more people.

4) Pricing

When comparing costs, you’ll typically notice that swim spas cost more than hot tubs, and rightfully so. This difference in price is reflective of the large size of the swim spa, and its multi-purpose usage of serving as a lounge space AND a pool compared to the casual, relaxing nature of a hot tub.

Should You Get A Hot Tub Or A Swim Spa?

If you’re ready to pull the trigger or have any home spa questions at all, be sure to stop by our showroom or contact our team of experts. We are always happy to help local Vancouverites find the perfect staycation vessel for their homes.

If you’re torn between deciding on a hot tub or a swim spa, we can assure you that you can’t go wrong with either! Of course, one may cater to your individual needs better than the other, but it’s important to remember that even if you were to purchase both a hot tub and swim spa, it would still cost less than installing a full-size in-group swimming pool! For more home leisure tips and updates, be sure to check out our other articles.