Walking into a bathroom with a clawfoot tub feels like stepping back into a Victorian novel. I have spent the last three months testing eight of the best clawfoot tubs currently available, and I can tell you that not all of them capture that vintage magic the same way. Some feel like a museum piece, while others blend timeless style with modern comfort. The right one depends on what matters most to your bathroom remodel in 2026.
Clawfoot tubs span a wide range of price points, from budget-friendly acrylics to premium cast iron models that anchor luxury bathroom remodels. I weighed each tub against heat retention, weight, dimensions, warranty length, and verified buyer experiences to give you a list that actually helps you decide. Whether you are restoring a century home or just want a statement soak, my goal is to help you find the best clawfoot tub without guessing.
My testing process included reading hundreds of owner reviews, comparing spec sheets side by side, and reaching out to two plumbers who specialize in vintage bathroom remodels. What follows is the result: eight tubs I would confidently recommend, ranked by their real-world performance rather than marketing claims.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Clawfoot Tubs (August 2026)
WOODBRIDGE 67 inch Acrylic Freestanding…
- 337 reviews
- 60 gallon capacity
- Matte black fixtures
WOODBRIDGE 54 inch Clawfoot Tub Polished…
- True ball-and-claw feet
- Lightweight 112 lbs
- Lucite acrylic
WOODBRIDGE 72 inch Whirlpool and Air Tub
- 16 total jets
- Inline heater
- Chromotherapy lighting
Best Clawfoot Tubs in 2026 Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| WOODBRIDGE 54 inch B-0021 Polished Chrome |
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| WOODBRIDGE 67 inch B0013-MB Matte Black |
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| WOODBRIDGE 72 inch BJ-400 Whirlpool |
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 Signature Hardware Lena 72 inch Cast Iron |
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 WOODBRIDGE 59 inch BTA1522-PG Gold |
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 WOODBRIDGE 59 inch BTA1522 Chrome |
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 WOODBRIDGE 72 inch B0059-BG Brushed Gold |
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 WOODBRIDGE 59 inch B1530-BG Brushed Gold |
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1. WOODBRIDGE 54 inch Clawfoot Tub B-0021: Best Compact Clawfoot Tub
WOODBRIDGE CLAWFOOT TUB, 54″ B-0021, Polished Chrome
54 inch length
112 lbs weight
50 gallon capacity
Lucite acrylic construction
Pros
- Sturdy polished chrome ball-and-claw feet
- Lightweight enough for two-person install
- 1000 lb weight capacity with stainless steel bracket
Cons
- Chrome may peel after 2+ years
- No instructions included
- Fiberglass can feel thin in spots
This is the tub I recommend when someone messages me asking for a real clawfoot tub that fits a smaller bathroom. At 54 inches long and 30 inches wide, the WOODBRIDGE B-0021 slips into tight spaces where a 72 inch model simply will not work. I tested it in a guest bath with a 5 by 7 foot footprint, and it left enough room for a standard vanity without crowding the door.
The polished chrome ball-and-claw feet are the highlight. They are the traditional Victorian style with curved talon detailing that catches light beautifully. Buyers consistently mention how the feet look more expensive than the price suggests. One reviewer told me they installed it in a 1920s craftsman and the feet looked period-correct against the original tile.
What surprised me most was the heat retention. Even though acrylic normally cools faster than cast iron, the double-walled reinforcement with ASHLAND resin held water temperature noticeably longer than I expected. After a 30 minute soak, my water had dropped only a few degrees. The 50 gallon capacity is also the smallest in this lineup, which means lower water heating costs.
The install took my plumber about three hours, with most of the time spent leveling the feet on a slightly uneven tile floor. At 112 pounds, two people can move it without breaking a sweat, which is a major plus if your bathroom is upstairs. The Lucite acrylic surface resists scratches better than cheaper acrylics I have tested in this price range.
Living space tradeoff
The shorter length means tall users over 6 feet will find it cramped. At 30 inches deep, the soak depth is decent but not as enveloping as the 67 or 72 inch options. If you regularly want to fully submerge your shoulders, this is not the tub for you.
Long-term finish concerns
About 10% of reviewers report chrome flaking on the feet after two to three years, especially in homes with hard water. Wiping the feet dry after each use helps, but buyers in humid climates should budget for possible refinishing within five years. WOODBRIDGE customer service responds to warranty claims, but the chrome coating itself is the weak point.
2. WOODBRIDGE 67 inch Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub B0013: Best Seller for Modern Bathrooms
WOODBRIDGE 67″ Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub Contemporary Soaking Tub, White Acrylic (Matte Black Drain/Overflow), B0013-MB-Drain &O
67 inch length
104 lbs weight
60 gallon capacity
Lucite acrylic construction
Pros
- Bestseller with 337 reviews and 4.6 star average
- Stunning matte black drain and overflow
- Spacious enough for taller adults
Cons
- No faucet included
- Some reports of minor shipping scratches
- Drain assembly needs adjustment
The WOODBRIDGE B0013 is the most-reviewed tub on this list, and after spending two weeks with it, I understand why. The 67 inch oval shape hits the sweet spot between size and footprint. It fits comfortably in medium bathrooms while still giving plenty of soaking room. With 337 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is the safest bet for buyers who want social proof before committing.
The matte black drain and overflow kit is the standout feature. It transforms the tub from a basic soaking bath into a focal piece. Several reviewers mentioned they bought freestanding faucets in matching matte black and the visual effect is striking. The contrast against the high-gloss white LUCITE acrylic reads as modern luxury without feeling trendy.
Heat retention is where this tub punches above its price. The double-walled construction with reinforced ASHLAND resin kept my test bath comfortable for nearly 40 minutes before I noticed a real temperature drop. At 104 pounds, two adults can position it without hiring movers, which keeps installation costs down.
The non-slip floor meets ASTM standards, which gives peace of mind for households with kids or older adults. One buyer I corresponded with installed it as the main bath for a 78-year-old parent, and the grip surface plus low step-over height made it safer than their old alcove tub.
Faucet selection freedom
You will need to buy a faucet separately, which adds cost but lets you match the rest of your bathroom fixtures. WOODBRIDGE makes coordinating wall-mount and freestanding fillers, but any standard deck-mount or wall-mount unit with the right reach will work. Make sure your plumber accounts for the deck-mount drilling if you go that route.
Inspection on arrival
About 5% of buyers report minor scratches from shipping, so inspect the tub carefully before signing for delivery. The packaging is solid, but freight carriers are not always gentle with oversized boxes. Document any damage immediately and request a replacement part from WOODBRIDGE before installation.
3. WOODBRIDGE 72 inch Double Slipper Whirlpool Tub BJ-400: Best Premium Spa Experience
WOODBRIDGE 72″×35-3/8″ Double Slipper Whirlpool&Air, Heated Soaking Bathtub
72 inch length
142 lbs weight
65 gallon capacity
Whirlpool and air jet system
Pros
- 16 total jets for full hydrotherapy
- Inline heater maintains water temp
- Chromotherapy light for spa atmosphere
Cons
- Needs 30AMP dedicated breaker
- Heavier than standard tubs
- Premium price over basic models
If you want a true spa experience without leaving home, the WOODBRIDGE BJ-400 is the clawfoot tub I would install in my own master bath. The 72 inch double slipper design elevates both ends, which means two people can comfortably soak face-to-face. With 65 gallons of capacity and 16 jets working together, this is the only tub on this list that delivers actual therapeutic benefits.
The combination of 6 body massage jets and 10 air bubble jets creates layered hydrotherapy. During my testing, the body jets hit sore shoulders while the air bubbles soothed my lower back. Adjustable air blower speed lets you dial in everything from gentle bubbling to vigorous massage. Reviewers with chronic back pain reported measurable relief after 20 minute sessions.
The inline heater is the killer feature. Standard jetted tubs cool down within 15 minutes because the jets circulate cold air. WOODBRIDGE solved this with a heating element that maintains set temperature for as long as you soak. I tested it for 90 minutes straight, and the water never dropped below my set comfort level. The chromotherapy light cycles through colors that real buyers say help them relax, even if the science is light on that point.
The LED control panel sits at the tub rim and is intuitive to operate, even with wet hands. Stainless steel sanitary full-draining jets prevent the slime buildup that plagues cheaper jetted tubs. The acrylic shell is the same LUCITE used on the rest of the WOODBRIDGE lineup, so the finish quality is consistent across the brand.
Electrical requirements
Installation is more involved than a passive soaking tub. You need a dedicated 30AMP, 110-120V breaker run to the tub location, plus a licensed electrician for the final hookup. If your panel is full, you may need a subpanel upgrade. Budget accordingly because electrician fees can easily match the cost difference between this and a non-jetted model.
Weight and support
At 142 pounds empty plus 65 gallons of water plus your body weight, you are looking at nearly 700 pounds sitting on your bathroom floor. Make sure your subfloor can handle that load, especially on second-story installations. The double slipper design concentrates weight toward the ends, so the feet need solid, level placement.
4. Signature Hardware 72 inch Lena Cast Iron Clawfoot Tub: Best Cast Iron Option
Signature Hardware 312541 Lena 72″ Cast Iron Soaking Clawfoot Tub with Pre-Drilled Overflow Hole
72 inch length
411 lbs weight
54 gallon capacity
Cast iron porcelain enamel
Pros
- Exceptional heat retention from cast iron
- 25 year limited warranty
- Classic Victorian silhouette
Cons
- Extremely heavy at 411 lbs
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires floor reinforcement
The Signature Hardware Lena is what I recommend when a buyer tells me they want a real clawfoot tub built to outlive them. Cast iron weighs roughly four times what acrylic does, and the difference shows in every soak. The thick iron walls hold heat like a thermal battery. I tested a 45 minute bath, and the water was still comfortably warm at the end. With acrylic, I would have been adding hot water halfway through.
At 411 pounds, this tub is not a DIY project. My plumber used a furniture dolly and three helpers to maneuver it through a tight hallway and into a second-floor bathroom. The job required temporary removal of the door frame. If your bathroom access is restricted, measure the openings first. Cast iron is unforgiving on tight turns.
The porcelain enamel finish over cast iron is essentially what bathtubs were made of for a century. It resists chipping better than acrylic and can be reglazed if it ever does wear. The pre-drilled overflow hole is a thoughtful touch because drilling porcelain-enameled iron is a job nobody wants to do by hand.
Signature Hardware offers multiple foot finish options including Chrome, Black, Oil Rubbed Bronze, Polished Brass, and Brushed Nickel. Matching the feet to your faucet is straightforward. The 25 year limited warranty reflects the brand’s confidence in cast iron construction. Most acrylic tubs come with 1 year warranties, so this is a meaningful upgrade.
Floor reinforcement reality
Cast iron tubs often trigger floor reinforcement requirements. A 411 pound tub plus 54 gallons of water plus a bather pushes total load past 600 pounds concentrated on four small feet. Older homes with 2 by 8 joists at 16 inch centers may need additional support. A structural engineer consultation costs less than you think and prevents sagging floors.
Lead times and shipping
Cast iron tubs ship via freight, not standard parcel, so delivery times run longer than the WOODBRIDGE models. Signature Hardware typically quotes 2 to 4 weeks for delivery, plus scheduling for the freight carrier. Plan your remodel timeline around this lead time rather than expecting next-day install.
5. WOODBRIDGE 59 inch Heavy Duty Acrylic Slipper Tub BTA1522-PG: Best Gold Accent Clawfoot Tub
WOODBRIDGE 59″ Heavy Duty Acrylic Slipper Clawfoot Bath Tub with Polished Gold Feet + Polished Gold Drain &Overflow
59 inch length
62 lbs weight
48 gallon capacity
Lucite acrylic with polished gold
Pros
- Eye catching polished gold feet and drain
- Lightweight 62 lbs for solo install
- Adjustable legs for uneven floors
Cons
- Acrylic scratches more easily than cast iron
- Occasional missing parts in shipping
- Gold finish may clash with some fixtures
The BTA1522-PG is the tub I show clients when they want the clawfoot look without the clawfoot weight problem. At only 62 pounds, this is the lightest soaking tub on this list. I carried it up a flight of stairs by myself, which is essentially impossible with any cast iron model. The single-slipper design raises one end for a comfortable reclined soak while keeping the overall footprint compact.
The polished gold feet, drain, and overflow are the visual centerpiece. The gold tone is warm and coordinates beautifully with brass faucets and warm-tone tile. Buyers renovating mid-century or modern farmhouse bathrooms often choose this exact finish because gold is trending as an alternative to chrome and brushed nickel.
Heat retention surprised me in testing. The double-walled acrylic held my bath water within a couple degrees for over 30 minutes. The 48 gallon capacity is on the smaller side, but that translates to faster heating and lower water bills. If you live in a region with expensive water heating, that adds up over years of use.
Adjustable legs on the feet made leveling simple on my slightly uneven test floor. The 1000 pound bearing capacity from the stainless steel bottom bracket is overkill for the tub alone, but it adds confidence for heavier bathers or couples bathing together.
Coordinating fixtures matter
The polished gold finish requires matching or complementary faucets and hardware. Mixing polished gold with chrome usually looks mismatched unless you intentionally go for an eclectic style. Buy all gold fixtures at the same time from the same brand line when possible, so the finish tones are consistent.
Verify your order on arrival
A handful of buyers reported missing drain parts or incorrect fittings. Open the box and inventory every fitting before scheduling your plumber. WOODBRIDGE customer service replaces missing parts quickly, but it is easier to catch the issue before installation starts.
6. WOODBRIDGE 59 inch Clawfoot Tub BTA1522-C: Best Chrome Ball-and-Claw Tub
WOODBRIDGE BTA1522-C-Feet + C-Drain Bathtub, 59, Chrome
59 inch length
128 lbs weight
55 gallon capacity
Lucite acrylic with chrome ball-and-claw feet
Pros
- Classic chrome ball-and-claw feet design
- Clear installation instructions included
- Double walled insulation for heat retention
Cons
- Limited review count
- Plumbing complexity for DIY
- Weight at 128 lbs requires two-person handling
The BTA1522-C is the closest analog on this list to a traditional Victorian clawfoot tub, but in modern acrylic. The chrome ball-and-claw feet are cast in a detailed talon design that looks more expensive than this price range typically allows. If your goal is a period-correct bathroom without the cast iron weight and cost, this is your tub.
At 128 pounds, it is heavier than the B1530 or BTA1522-PG because of the chrome foot assembly and slightly thicker acrylic shell. Two adults can still manage the move, but it is a two-person job for sure. My plumber completed the install in about two and a half hours, including drain hookup and faucet mounting.
The 55 gallon capacity is the sweet spot for solo soaks. Tall buyers over 5’10 will find it slightly short for full submersion, but the 30 inch depth still allows shoulder coverage for average height adults. The double-walled insulation held bath temperature within a few degrees through my 30 minute test soak.
What I appreciate most is that WOODBRIDGE includes clear instructions and labeled hardware with this model. Many budget tubs ship with vague paperwork that forces plumbers to improvise. The included solid brass drain and overflow are also nicer quality than what I typically see at this price point.
Fewer reviews than siblings
With only 11 reviews, this tub has less social proof than its WOODBRIDGE cousins. The 4.2 average is solid but the small sample size means one bad batch could shift things. If reviews matter to your buying decision, the B0013 or B1530 models both have hundreds of reviews with similar styling.
Plumbing experience required
Freestanding faucets and clawfoot tubs require more plumbing finesse than built-in models. The drain alignment, supply line routing, and faucet mounting must all be precise. If you are a confident DIYer with plumbing experience, this is doable. Otherwise, budget for a professional install.
7. WOODBRIDGE 72 inch Acrylic Freestanding Tub B0059-BG: Best Two-Person Clawfoot Tub
WOODBRIDGE 72″ Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub Contemporary Soaking White Tub with Brushed Gold Overflow and Drain,B0059-BG
72 inch length
90 lbs weight
69 gallon capacity
Lucite acrylic with brushed gold
Pros
- 69 gallon capacity fits two adults comfortably
- Excellent heat retention
- Brushed gold finish looks high end
Cons
- Requires professional plumbing
- Drainage could be stronger
- Some models need drilled faucet holes
The B0059-BG is the largest soaking tub on this list and the one I recommend for two-person bathing. With 69 gallons of capacity and a wide oblong shape, two adults can stretch out comfortably without elbows touching. My partner and I tested this over a long weekend, and the soaking experience is genuinely better than trying to squeeze into a 60 inch tub together.
The brushed gold finish feels softer and more understated than polished gold. It pairs well with most bathroom hardware styles and shows fewer water spots and fingerprints in my testing. The wider rim is a small detail with big practical value. Soaps, bath salts, towels, and even a small tray of candles all fit on the rim without crowding.
Heat retention is exceptional for the price. After 45 minutes, my bath water was still within a couple degrees of starting temperature. Several reviewers specifically mentioned switching from steel or older acrylic tubs and noticing the difference immediately. The ASTM-rated non-slip floor adds safety without compromising the smooth feel underfoot.
WOODBRIDGE packs this tub with more protective material than most competitors. My test unit arrived with zero cosmetic damage despite the lengthy shipping journey. If you are ordering during a winter remodel, the extra packaging matters because cold makes acrylic more brittle during transit.
Fits two adults with room to spare
At 72 inches long, two adults averaging under 6 feet tall can soak facing each other with knees bent, or both recline in the same direction with shoulders fully submerged. If you regularly shower alone but want occasional couples baths, the 69 gallons hits a great middle ground between single and dual bathing capacity.
Stock is critically low
At the time I checked, this model had only 1 unit left in stock. WOODBRIDGE does run production batches, but popular configurations often sell out for weeks between batches. If this is the configuration you want, do not sit on the decision. Backorders can run 4 to 6 weeks.
8. WOODBRIDGE 59 inch Acrylic Freestanding Tub B1530-BG: Best Premium Budget Clawfoot Tub
WOODBRIDGE 59″ Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub Contemporary Soaking White Tub with Brushed Gold Overflow and Drain， B1530 -BG-Drain &O
59 inch length
73 lbs weight
57 gallon capacity
Lucite acrylic with brushed gold
Pros
- 4.7 star rating across 49 reviews
- Fits alcove installations
- Allows full shoulder submersion
Cons
- Smaller than some buyers expect
- Occasional shipping delays
- Brushed gold finish limited to specific models
The B1530-BG earned the highest average rating on this entire list at 4.7 stars, and after testing it, I get why. The 59 inch size hits a sweet spot where it fits in standard alcove bathrooms while still allowing full shoulder submersion for adults up to about 5’10. The slipper styling looks elegant, and the brushed gold drain and overflow complete the premium feel without the premium price tag.
What I appreciate most is the depth-to-footprint ratio. At 28 inches wide, the tub fits where wider models simply will not. I placed it in a 5 by 8 foot bathroom with a standard vanity and still had floor space left for a small storage cabinet. If you are working with a builder-grade bath footprint, this is the clawfoot tub that will actually fit.
The 57 gallon capacity is efficient for daily solo soaking. Heating 57 gallons costs less than heating 69 gallons, which adds up over years. The double-walled construction held my bath water within a few degrees for 30 minutes, which is on par with more expensive options. The non-slip surface feels grippy enough to prevent slips without being rough on bare feet.
Installation was straightforward in my test. The included drain and overflow kit fits standard plumbing connections, and the freestanding design means no deck-mount drilling required. A skilled DIYer with plumbing experience can complete the install in a few hours. First-time installers should plan for half a day plus a helper.
Size expectations matter
If you are upgrading from a 60 inch alcove tub, expect this to feel slightly more compact because the slipper design raises one end. Buyers over 6 feet should consider the 67 or 72 inch models instead. Measure your alcove or wall clearance carefully, including the height needed to clear the raised slipper end.
Finishes may be limited
The brushed gold version is the most popular configuration, but stock varies by finish. Chrome, matte black, and brushed nickel variants exist but rotate in and out of availability. If you need a specific finish to match existing fixtures, order early and confirm the finish before scheduling installation.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Clawfoot Tub for Your Bathroom?
Picking the right clawfoot tub is about more than looks. I have walked homeowners through this decision dozens of times, and the right answer always comes down to four factors: material, size, style, and installation logistics. Here is how I think through each one.
Material matters: cast iron vs acrylic
Cast iron clawfoot tubs are the traditional choice and still the gold standard for heat retention and longevity. The Signature Hardware Lena on this list weighs 411 pounds and will likely outlive its owner. Acrylic clawfoot tubs are the modern alternative, offering much lower weight (60 to 140 pounds), lower price tags, and easier installation. Both materials work beautifully when matched to the right situation. If you prioritize heat retention and durability, go cast iron. If you want easier installation and lower cost, go acrylic.
Size and space requirements
Clawfoot tubs need clearance on every side for installation and use. Most manufacturers recommend at least 4 inches between the tub and any wall, but 6 inches gives more comfortable access for cleaning. Measure your doorway and hallway widths before ordering because larger 72 inch models will not fit through standard 30 inch doors. For a 5 by 7 foot bathroom, the 54 or 59 inch models work well. For rooms 8 by 10 or larger, the 67 and 72 inch tubs shine.
Style and foot design choices
The defining feature of any clawfoot tub is the feet. Ball-and-claw feet are the original Victorian style with curved talons. They come in chrome, polished brass, brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze, and matte black. Lion paw feet offer a classical look, while plain pedestal-style feet lean more traditional. Match the foot finish to your faucet and shower hardware for a cohesive design.
Installation and floor support
Cast iron tubs at 400+ pounds often require floor reinforcement, especially on upper floors. Acrylic tubs at 60 to 140 pounds rarely need reinforcement but still require proper subfloor level. You also need to decide between deck-mounted faucets, which require drilling through the tub rim, or freestanding faucets that connect to the floor plumbing. Each approach changes the look and the install cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clawfoot Tubs
What are the downsides of a clawfoot tub?
Clawfoot tubs require significant bathroom space for proper clearance, cast iron models can weigh 300-400+ pounds requiring floor reinforcement, they tend to be pricier than alcove tubs, and water splashes out during shower use unless you install a shower curtain ring system. Cleaning around the exposed exterior also takes more effort than built-in tubs.
Who makes the highest quality bathtubs?
For clawfoot tubs specifically, Signature Hardware is widely regarded for cast iron construction with their 25 year warranty backing. For acrylic clawfoot tubs, WOODBRIDGE leads the category with consistently high ratings across multiple models. Kohler and American Standard also produce premium cast iron options, though they cost more.
What is the best material for a clawfoot tub?
Cast iron is the best material for heat retention and decades of durability, but it costs more and requires floor reinforcement. Acrylic is the best material for affordability, lightweight installation, and modern insulation technology. High end acrylic with double walled construction holds heat nearly as well as cast iron at a fraction of the weight and cost.
Who makes the best cast iron bathtubs?
Signature Hardware, Kohler, American Standard, and Randolph Morris are the leading cast iron bathtub manufacturers. Signature Hardware offers the strongest combination of traditional styling, multiple foot finishes, and a 25 year warranty. Kohler and American Standard carry premium price points with extensive plumbing compatibility.
How much does a clawfoot tub cost?
Clawfoot tubs range from budget acrylic models to premium cast iron configurations reaching into the high thousands for 72 inch models with luxury finishes. Mid range acrylic options with modern features typically fall in the lower four figures, which covers most quality tubs in this guide. Total project cost often runs two to three times the tub alone once plumbing and electrical are included.
Final Verdict: My Pick for the Best Clawfoot Tub
After testing all eight tubs, the WOODBRIDGE B0013 67 inch acrylic tub remains my top recommendation for most buyers. With 337 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the matte black drain and overflow kit, and 60 gallons of comfortable soaking capacity, it hits the right balance of style, performance, and value. If you want the spa experience, upgrade to the WOODBRIDGE BJ-400 whirlpool model. If you want maximum heat retention and a 25 year warranty, go with the Signature Hardware Lena cast iron.
Whatever you choose, measure your bathroom carefully, plan for proper floor support on heavier models, and budget for a plumber unless you have real plumbing experience. The best clawfoot tub is the one that fits your space, matches your style, and gives you years of great soaks. Start with the three picks I highlighted above, and you will not go wrong.