This guide analyzes a series of compression recovery boots that make your recovery much quicker and more enjoyable.
I am a serious athlete who has spent more than two decades running and playing basketball. My own research, mixed with firsthand accounts and extensive reviews, allowed me to find the very best recovery boots on the market.
The NormaTec Pulse 2.0 is my pick for the best recovery boot because it’s comfortable, versatile, and incredibly useful.
It’s a well-made item that actively boosts your circulation and increases recovery through 7 different intensity levels and a range of settings. There’s a great mobile app that works perfectly with the device, and it’s fully cordless.
If you want to learn more about the Pulse or discover other amazing compression recovery boots, read onto the sections below.
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Who Should Get This?
Any serious athlete, basketball player or otherwise, can benefit from a good recovery boot. The devices are becoming quite popular these days due to how well they can increase blood flow throughout the legs. That helps reduce injury and decreases issues like soreness.
If you’re someone who experiences a lot of soreness or who doesn’t recover as fast as they would like, any of the below items will do you some good. They are especially good for extreme or high-level players who spend a lot of time practicing during the week.
Top Compression Recovery Boots 2022
This section reviews the traits of each top model, as well as where they fit into the larger market.
Best for: Overall
Key Features: Seven intensity levels. Actively boosts circulation. Fully connected mobile app. Zone boost. Quiet. Cordless control.
Levels: Seven
Height: 5’3 to 6’3
Power Source: Internal Battery
Fully cordless and excellent at reducing pain, the NormaTec Pulse 2.0 is a fantastic compression recovery boot for players at all levels. It’s a strong, well-made device that generates a ton of circulation through your legs. It’s also incredibly easy to use.
Adding to that is the fully connected mobile app, which adds an extra layer of functionality to the entire device. There are seven different intensity levels for better customization and integrated zone boost. In addition, the entire unit is quiet so you can relax and recover in peace.
If the Pulse 2.0 has a downside it’s that it tends to run a bit long on the fit. It’s usually around the right size, and you won’t have any lasting issues, but it may not be as snug as you want. It’s also important to note that it’s quite expensive, which is something to consider before buying.
2. Rapid Reboot
Best for: Fast Recovery
Key Features: Full leg coverage. Many size options. Wide range of additional items. Boosts circulation. 2-year warranty.
Levels: Three
Dimensions: 19 x 16 x 9 inches
Height: 5’ to 6’3
All of the boots listed here speed up your recovery process, but if pure speed is your number one priority the Rapid Reboot is worth a long look. The comfortable sleeve not only provides full leg coverage, it also quickly boosts circulation, releases muscle tensions, and raises mobility.
On top of that, the boot comes with 10 customizable pressure settings, three duration options, a position indicator, and two different compression modes. That’s a ton of versatility that is then backed by a tough rip-stop fabric construction for added comfort and long-term durability.
The only real drawback to the Rapid Reboot is that it’s not the most intuitive option on the market. Using it can be tricky for people not experienced with recovery boots, and setting it up for the first time is not simple. However, it’s definitely worth the extra time if you need results.
Best for: Versatility
Key Features: Easy to use. Many different levels. 6-chamber leg cuffs. Durable build. Quiet operation.
Levels: Sixteen
Height: 4’11 to 6’7
Power Source: Battery
Outfitted with an extremely impressive sixteen different compression levels, the Flyte Recovery Boot is an extremely versatile system outfitted with tons of different options. You even get four different modes that enable you to freely switch up how you want your recovery to go.
Each sleeve has six chambers for further customization, allowing you to massage specific areas, and everything is extremely well made. The material is lightweight-but-sturdy and everything is quiet. You even get a great zippered bag to store it all in.
Just note that this boot is not that intuitive. Setup and tear down both take a while, so it’s best to factor in that time if you plan on putting it away after use. The company also doesn’t have great customer support, which is something to know if you experience any defects.
Best for: Lightweight
Key Features: 15 minute auto shutoff cycle. Boost circulation. Lightweight and portable. Adjustable and fully versatile.
Levels: Four
Dimensions: 12 x 11 x 8 inches
Power Source: Outlet
If you’re looking for a recovery system that won’t take up too much room or be too unwieldy, the Sequential Compression Device may be your pick. It’s a lightweight item that, despite its reduced size, manages to deliver awesome pressure through four different levels.
It’s incredibly easy to use and quite intuitive compared to similar models. In addition, all of the modes help increase lymphatic function and actively improve circulation so you get back out onto the court without any lasting soreness or long term fatigue.
This is a solid device. However, the hoses can become unplugged before or during use. That can lead to some annoyance when you’re trying to get everything together or when you’re in the middle of a recovery. It’s not super durable either, making it only good for home use.
Best for: Budget
Key Features: Full coverage massage. 20-minute auto shut off timer. Affordable. One size fits most design.
Levels: Six
Material: Pu Leather
Power Source: Battery
One thing to know about compression recovery boots is that they can be expensive. That’s especially true of high-end models. If you’re someone who wants to get a good item that won’t break the bank, the Renpho Compression Leg Massager is the way to go.
While not a boot by name, the device works in an extremely similar way. It massages your legs to help increase circulation and blood flow. There are three different modes and intensities, oversized leg wraps made from soft pu leather, as well as a snug, comfortable fit.
As with other models, this isn’t the easiest to use. That’s especially true if you’re someone who doesn’t use a lot of massage items. Some people might also not like that it can only be used in short intervals, but if you don’t mind that it’s a good deal at an affordable price.
Best Compression Recovery Boots: What to Look For in 2022
Always keep an eye out for the following traits when searching for a compression boot.
Versatility
Compression recovery boots are great on their own, but the more options you have, the better. As such, look for models that come with several different compression levels or massage modes. Both will enable you to better tailor your recovery experience.
You don’t need something that goes overboard, but you at least want several modes. Not only will that enable you to pick and choose based on what you need, but it will also allow you to mix and match in a way that allows you to find the best compression for you.
Sturdiness
Though you might not think of durability when first looking at recovery boots, it definitely matters. Getting a cheaper model might be fine at first, but it can cause problems if you replace it quickly. Gravitate towards well-made models with premium materials and solid reviews.
Budget
It’s easy to spend a lot of money when getting a compression recovery boot. However, you don’t need to shell out too much for a good item. Premium models do tend to have more features, but there are plenty of excellent budget items that promote circulation and blood flow.
You should always figure out what you’re willing to spend before looking at other aspects. As long as you stay inside your budget first, you’ll be able to make the right purchase for your life and needs.
My Verdict
Few compression recovery boots can match the NormaTec Pulse 2.0. It’s a durable item with seven excellent intensity levels, a well-rounded and well-made mobile app, and a comfortable fit. It also has cordless control, zone boost, and one of the quietest operations on the market.
There are many ways to recover after a basketball game, but few give you the results or feel as the Pulse 2.0.
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