Compression boots quick picks
Expert favorite: Normatec 3 Legs
For beginners: Quinear Air-Compression Leg Recovery System
Portable: Hyperice Normatec Go
Budget-friendly: Aicutti Compression Foot and Leg Massager
Hospitals have long used compression boots on bedridden patients to improve circulation and help prevent blood clots. In recent years, a number of companies have introduced at-home versions for their potential to relieve stress, reduce aches and pains after a hard workout and help the body recover faster after exercise.
To get the skinny on how well they work and what makes a good compression boot, we talked to an osteopath, an MD, an exercise physiologist and a personal trainer. “Several comprehensive analyses pretty consistently show that boots reduce soreness and pain, not an amazing amount but a statistically significant amount,” says Ben Gordon, an assistant professor at the University of Florida with a doctorate in applied physiology and kinesiology.
What are compression boots?
Although they look somewhat like boots, these devices are actually sleeves that slide over your foot and up your calf, usually reaching past the knee. The inside of the sleeve contains small pockets or bladders, and when the machine is turned on, a compressor — either internal or external — fills the pockets with air.
This inflation and deflation creates a massage-like effect that increases blood flow, flushes out lactate and other fluids, and reduces inflammation and muscle tension. “Some studies show that, in many cases, a normal cool down would have similar effects, but the boots work best after a really intense workout,” says Dr. Sara Mateen, a podiatrist with Hackensack Meridian Medical Group in New Jersey.
What to look for in compression boots
A number of factors play into what makes good compression boots, including the number of pockets or compartments, method of inflation, ease of use and portability. “In general, the more control you have the better,” Gordon says. “If you can independently adjust the sequence, pressure, compartments, the better.”
Beyond that, make sure the boots treat you like a tube of toothpaste, starting at the bottom and working their way up. “Sequential are best options because they mimic the way the body works,” Mateen says.
All the experts suggest that, as with any device related to your health, consult a physician before using compression boots and stop if your legs are in pain or feel hot.
Looking to get in on the action? Whether you want to recover from running, working out or just a very tough day, here are the best compression boots you can buy right now.
Best compression boots
Their pricey, but the Normatec 3 Legs compression boots utilize a patented pulsing action through five overlapping zones with seven compression levels, from 30 to 100 millimeters of mercury (mmHg), which the company says mimics the body’s fluid movement system. The boots go as high as the thighs, fold up into a compact bundle and the handheld controller is supplemented by a Bluetooth app that allows for additional customization.
The JetBoots range in pressure from 25 to 100 mmHg, and it runs through a complete cycle in a speedy 60 seconds, which leads to more cycles per session and faster recovery, according to Therabody. That functional efficiency goes well with the product’s other notable feature: These boots are fully self-contained, with internal pumps and batteries. That means there are no tubes, hoses or wires — or the hassles that go along with them.
Quinear's system is easy to use and comes at a more manageable price for someone who’s still figuring out how much they might like or need compression treatment. Despite the (relative) discount, it performs well. It even goes beyond compression, offering 10 preset programs that replicate the feel of a hands-on massage for an extra bit of stress relief. Also a relief? If you clip the on-page coupon, you can save an extra $60 on these beginner compression boots.
These self-contained calf sleeves are small and light enough (1.2 pounds each) to wear under pants while at the office or on a long flight — which is possible since they’re TSA approved as carry-on gear. Despite their size, they offer three overlapping compression zones, seven levels of pressure, customization through the app and three hours of battery life on a single charge.
For less than $100, the Aicutti offers effective compression at three levels of intensity and three massage settings. It complements those features with a heating element that can add to the good vibes and a 20-minute shutdown timer to make sure things don’t get too steamy. They come in one standard size, but extensions are available (for an extra $30) to accommodate taller users. Apply the coupon at checkout for an additional $10 off.
The Regen doesn’t do anything halfway, from its features to its size. The boots have 20 pressure settings, four compression patterns and three inflation speeds, all controlled by a handheld touch screen. For even further customization, an app contains a series of programs designed for specific workouts. These big features come in a big package — the entire kit weighs in at close to 10 pounds — but it folds up into a case and comes with an international voltage converter.
If you’re after something akin to a boa constrictor in a box, these boots have the highest compression on the market, 250 mmHG, which SLS3 says provides faster recovery times. Probably best suited for hard-core athletes — marathoners, triathletes, etc. — these boots have four overlapping air chambers, six preset programs, an Isolation mode and a remote control. It's worth nothing that our experts thought 80 to 100 mmHG was the sweet spot for most users and caution that too much pressure can be harmful for some.?
