Abstract Polymeric gels are a vital class of functional biomaterials for biomedical applications. Cryogels, formed through cryogelation of polymeric or monomeric precursors in aqueous solvents at sub-zero temperatures, provide a cost-effective and straightforward solution for incorporating porosity, mechanical strength, and chemical cues into gels. This review highlights recent advancements in cryogelation and factors influencing the synthesis of cryogels. The three key stages – freezing, incuba