In the quest for love, Californians are forgoing traditional venues and opting for a unique approach—speed dating in near-freezing ice baths.

Hosted just outside Los Angeles in Santa Monica, the event, aptly named Icebreakers, invites singles to immerse themselves in frigid waters, creating an unconventional setting for romantic connections.

Icebreakers begin with a meditation and a “sound journey” session to set the stage for meaningful conversations. Clad in swim trunks and bikinis, participants are randomly paired up for three-minute sessions in a tub of water maintained at a chilly 37 degrees Fahrenheit (2.78°C). 

To stimulate dialogue, waterproof cards with thought-provoking questions like “What does love mean to you?” are provided for discussion during the icy encounters.

Caitlyn Moyer, a 25-year-old dancer, shared her initial challenge, stating, “At first, it was hard to kind of focus on what the question was because you’re focused on how cold you are.” However, as the session progressed, Moyer found a connection with her bathing partner, 27-year-old engineer Miles Gibson, emphasising the unique bonding experience despite the chilly conditions.

The concept originated from Kyle Cassidy and Aryan Davani, co-founders of IcePass, a Venice Beach company specialising in ice bath plunges and saunas. While ice baths are popular among athletes for muscle recovery, IcePass introduced a novel twist by incorporating speed dating into the icy regimen.

Since the inception of Icebreakers, three events have been held, drawing around 30 to 40 participants each time. Notably, seven couples from these events have ventured on second dates, with three still maintaining their connections. 

Cassidy encourages participants to approach the experience with an open mind, emphasising that genuine connections can arise naturally without forcing the romantic aspect.

Whitney Hancock, a 36-year-old mental health worker, shared her surprising experience in the ice bath with 39-year-old video producer Dustin Steward, expressing how the unique setting facilitated a remarkably present connection despite the initial discomfort.