Inomata Japanese Foot Spa Bucket, White

Cold water does not have to mean an 85-gallon tub. This is a tall plastic foot bucket from the Japanese maker Inomata: the listing describes it as roomy enough to soak feet and ankles and gives a depth of 9.5 in (24 cm), with raised bumps on the base and a carry handle. Filled with cold tap water and a tray of ice, it is the smallest version of the cold half of a contrast routine – ready in a minute and emptied down the drain afterward.

It is a partial dip and makes no claim to be more. There is no lid, drain or insulation, and the listing’s size figures do not agree with each other, so treat the numbers as approximate. What it does offer is water that is properly cold on any day of the year, whatever comes out of the tap.

Tip: Fill it where you will use it – standing in the bathtub or shower tray – and sit down before your feet go in; a bucket of water is heavier and livelier than it looks.