Runners are always on the lookout for ways to enhance their recovery and performance. One tool that has gained popularity in recent years is compression boots.
In this guide we explore the recovery device everyone is talking about, discover which compression boots are the best on test and answer some common questions.
WHAT ARE COMPRESSION BOOTS?
Compression boots are inflatable garments that cover your feet and legs, typically extending from your feet to your thighs.
These boots contain multiple air chambers that inflate and deflate in a specific sequence, applying pressure to different parts of your legs.
HOW DO COMPRESSION BOOTS WORK?
Compression boots use dynamic air compression to inflate and deflate, creating pressure at various points across the leg.
This process starts at the feet and works its way up, increasing blood flow and removing metabolic and lymphatic waste from your leg muscles.
WHAT DO COMPRESSION BOOTS DO?
The primary function of compression boots is to aid in recovery after intense workouts or races.
Compression boots are designed to:
- Reduce muscle soreness
- Decrease swelling in the feet and legs
- Speed up recovery time Improve circulation
ARE COMPRESSION BOOTS DANGEROUS?
When used correctly, compression boots are generally safe for most runners.
However, it's always advisable to consult with a physiotherapist or doctor before incorporating them into your recovery routine, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.
ARE COMPRESSION BOOTS WORTH IT?
The value of compression boots can vary depending on individual needs and training intensity.
For elite athletes or those with rigorous training schedules, compression boots can be a worthwhile investment.
They offer a convenient at home recovery solution that can help maintain a consistent and effective training regimen.
Whilst not scientific, our experience using them suggested wearing them for 30 to 60 minutes was the best length of time to wear them after training.
HOW TO USE COMPRESSION BOOTS
Wear loose clothing and remove shoes before use. Start with the lowest pressure setting and gradually increase as you become more comfortable.
Relax during the session - you can read, watch TV, or even take a short nap. Use the boots after your workout or run, following your cool-down routine.
HOW OFTEN AND HOW LONG SHOULD YOU USE COMPRESSION BOOTS?
Most manufacturers recommend using compression boots for 15-30 minutes per session, 2-3 times a week.
However, elite athletes or those with more demanding training schedules might benefit from 4-5 sessions per week.
WHAT ARE THE BEST COMPRESSION BOOTS?
While there are many options available, seven popular compression boots stand out:
- Myomaster Compression Boots
- Pulsio Compression Boots
- Hyperice Normatec Premier Compression Boots
- Therabody RecoveryAir Jet Boots
- Hyperice Normatec 3 Legs Compression Boots
- Protec Recovery Proboots Dynamic Compression Boots
- Therabody RecoveryAir Prime Boots
MYOMASTER COMPRESSION BOOTSBEST COMPRESSION BOOTS ON TEST |
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| £799 |
| BUY NOW FROM MYOMASTER |
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The MyoMaster MyoAir compression boots are touted as "the world's strongest compression boots," delivering a remarkable pressure range of up to 250 mmHg, which significantly enhances blood circulation and accelerates recovery from exercise-induced soreness and injuries. With a user satisfaction rate of 98% reporting noticeable benefits within just 10 minutes of use, these boots effectively reduce muscle pain and inflammation, making them an essential tool for athletes seeking to optimise their performance and recovery. |
| READ OUR REVIEW |
PULSIO COMPRESSION BOOTSBEST VALUE COMPRESSION BOOTS |
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| £299 |
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The Pulsio compression boots stand out for their impressive 8 different pressure modes up to 200mmHg, significantly exceeding the industry standard and providing enhanced blood flow and recovery benefits for athletes. Additionally, their lightweight and simple design makes them easy to transport, allowing runners to conveniently incorporate them into their recovery routines at home or while travelling. |
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HYPERICE NORMATEC PREMIERBEST WIRELESS COMPRESSION BOOTS |
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| £997.49 |
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| BUY NOW FROM HEALF |
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The latest Hyperice Normatec Premier compression boots offer a revolutionary approach to recovery for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. These wireless, lightweight boots boast integrated air pumps, eliminating the need for external hoses and control units. With seven adjustable compression levels and a four-hour battery life, users can enjoy customised recovery sessions wherever they go. The boots utilise HyperSync technology to synchronise massage on each leg, whilst the ZoneBoost feature allows for targeted compression. Weighing just 1.45 kg per boot, they're incredibly portable, making them ideal for travel. The Bluetooth-enabled Hyperice app provides additional personalisation options, allowing users to tailor their recovery experience to their specific needs. |
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THERABODY RECOVERY AIR JET BOOTS |
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| £649 |
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The Therabody RecoveryAir Jet Boots offer a revolutionary wireless design that eliminates cumbersome external pumps, making recovery sessions more convenient and efficient with integrated motors and FastFlush Technology, which inflates and deflates in just 60 seconds. With adjustable pressure settings and the ability to track recovery stats via a smartphone app, these boots provide a tailored experience to enhance blood circulation and alleviate muscle soreness. |
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HYPERICE NORMATEC 3 LEGS COMPRESSION BOOTS |
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| £899 |
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The Hyperice Normatec 3 Legs compression boots stand out with their patented Pulse technology, delivering precise treatment to five overlapping zones and offering seven levels of compression for a customised recovery experience. Additionally, these boots feature an intuitive interface and Bluetooth connectivity to the Hyperice App, allowing users to unlock advanced features and personalise their sessions, making them a top choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts seeking professional-grade recovery tools |
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PROTECT RECOVERY PROBOOTS DYNAMIC COMPRESSION BOOTS |
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| £750 |
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The PROBOOTS Dynamic Compression Boots are designed to enhance recovery by promoting increased blood circulation through their adjustable compression settings, making them suitable for various fitness levels. Their user-friendly design allows for easy application and comfort, enabling users to effectively relieve muscle soreness and stiffness after intense workouts. |
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THERABODY RECOVERY AIR PRIME |
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| £494 |
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The Therabody RecoveryAir Prime compression boots offer an innovative recovery solution for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. These pneumatic compression boots boast TruGrade Technology™, which creates a unique negative pressure gradient that stimulates blood circulation from the feet towards the heart. With FastFlush Technology™, the boots can inflate and deflate in just 60 seconds, providing rapid muscle recovery and reducing muscle soreness4. Users can customise their experience with adjustable pressure settings ranging from 20-100 mmHg, four time intervals (20, 40, 60 minutes, or continuous), and Bluetooth connectivity to the Therabody app. Designed with four overlapping air chambers, the boots are hygienic, easy to clean, and offer a comfortable 180-minute battery life, making them an excellent passive recovery tool for anyone looking to enhance their post-workout recuperation. |
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CONCLUSION
Compression boots can be a valuable addition to a runner's recovery toolkit, especially for those engaged in high-intensity training or frequent racing.
While the scientific evidence is still emerging, many athletes report subjective benefits in terms of reduced soreness and faster recovery.
As with any recovery tool, it's essential to use compression boots as part of a comprehensive recovery strategy that includes proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and other recovery techniques.
OTHER GUIDES
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