The 5 Best Compression Boots To Step Up Your Recovery Game In 2024

Compression boots have the ability to revolutionize workout recovery. “Aside from improving blood flow and lymphatic circulation, compression boots are much like getting a massage,” explains occupational therapist Natasha Caleel. They offer a pathway to faster healing and reduced downtime, whether you’re an athlete or a fitness enthusiast. After evaluating the best compression boots, we concluded that the Hyperice Normatec 3 Legs is our top pick. We also identified several other options to assist in recovery, including the budget-friendly Aicutti Compression Foot And Leg Massager and the premium Therabody RecoveryAir Pro for serious athletes.

The best compression boots have rechargeable batteries and the ability to choose your intensity level. “Portability, quality of materials and design champion heavier and clunkier models that may be more difficult to use,” Caleel explains.

Our list of the best compression boots features a mix of options across functions, technology and price.

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Why Trust Forbes Vetted

• The Forbes Vetted gear team includes experts with backgrounds in health sciences: Leoni Jesner, a Vetted contributor and internationally qualified personal trainer; and gear editor Cam Vigliotta, who edited this article for accuracy and clarity, and holds a degree in kinesiol.
• We’ve published scores of research- and expert-backed product roundups on fitness and wellness gear. We offer extensive coverage on recovery gear in particular, including massage guns, foot massagers, back massagers and neck massagers.
• We tapped occupational therapist Natasha Caleel to inform our selection process.
• We frequently review this list to ensure our recommendations for the best compression boots are up to date. It was last refreshed in August 2024 by contributing editor Hayley Helms.

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How We Chose The Best Compression Boots

The best compression boots aren’t made for walking: they’re made for recovery and rejuvenation, and as such, come with different requirements than your average pair of boots. Here’s how we evaluated and chose our top picks:

• Pressure ranges: There is a wide variety of pressure ranges and compression modes available in compression boots. Depending on your physical makeup and recovery needs, the level of compression you choose can have a significant impact on your recovery. Most compression boots have a pressure range of 20 to 150mmHg, with outliers on both ends of the spectrum.
• App compatibility: Many compression boots come with an accompanying app that can track sessions, personalize experiences and provide data and contextual information for the user. We considered how well the app works and pairs with each boot, and the overall usefulness of the app itself as opposed to a handheld remote.
• Availability: Two major names—Therabody and Hyperice—dominate the compression boot market because they build quality boots and have great customer service, which is helpful for providing replacement parts or troubleshooting problems. But that’s not to say lesser-known names should be overlooked. Plenty of less-expensive, tech-savvy brands build competitive compression boots that also do the trick.
• Maintenance: This includes cleaning, charging and general upkeep. We considered how long batteries last, how long it takes to charge each pair of boots and how easy or difficult it is to clean your pair after use.

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What To Consider When Shopping For Compression Boots

Your workout is just one half of your wellness routine; the other half is recovery, where compression boots come into play. When shopping for your own pair of compression boots, here’s what you should consider:

Fit

Before you purchase your first pair of compression boots—which can be a major investment for most of us—it’s imperative that you get an accurate measurement of your legs. Boots come in a selection of sizes and lengths, and for the boots to work properly, it’s important to find your correct size. The fit of your compression boot should be snug without causing discomfort or numbness.

Adjustability

Depending on the boot you choose, there may some adjustability available in terms of the actual construction of the boot. Some brands offer adjustable sizing options, while others offer more universal fits. If you’re between sizes or concerned you have an uncommon size that may not be available, you should opt for an adjustable model.

Noise

All compression boots are going to emit some type of noise. Some models are quieter than others, and it’s important to read reviews to make sure you’re buying a pair that won’t drive you up the wall every time you break them out. While noise is unavoidable, you can play music, read a book or watch television to distract yourself from the humming.

Chambers

All compression boots feature chambers built within the boot that inflate in a sequence, helping to improve circulation safely and effectively. The higher the number of chambers in your boot, the more customization available, which typically leads to better recovery. The number of chambers in a compression boot range from three to seven. Remember: more chambers, generally better recovery.

Cleaning

It’s pretty likely that you’re going to sweat while using your compression boots. How hot you get will depend on how long your session lasts, what type of pressure you choose and what you’re wearing. You should avoid loose or billowy clothing, and instead opt for shorts, leggings or tights, and if you’re wearing shorts, make sure your skin is clean and dry before sliding into your compression boots. To clean your boots, never submerge them or use excess water. Instead, use a warm, damp cloth and mild detergent and wipe down the inside of your boot after each session. This will keep both your boots clean and your skin healthy.

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