These Compression Boots Boost Circulation and Aid in Workout Recovery

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Not every fitness device that trends in the wellness world delivers the magic it promises, but compression boots—wearable massagers that combat swelling, soreness, and post-workout fatigue—are a definite exception. The type of physical therapy started out as an exclusively medical device used to treat lymphedema (lymph fluid retention), venous insufficiency (dysfunctional leg veins), and aid in post-surgery recovery, explains Anne Sharkey, D.P.M., board-certified podiatrist in Austin, Texas. But now, fitness enthusiasts swear by them as a tool to speed up recovery after an intense gym sesh.

Meet the Experts: Anne Sharkey, D.P.M., board-certified podiatrist in Austin, Texas; and Nikos Skevis, Hyperice Master Trainer.

They work by using a “milking method,” explains Hyperice master trainer Nikos Skevis, to move the fluid from your feet up towards your core where it can be returned to the bloodstream and filtered through the lymphatic and venous systems. In other words, compression boots offer a form of lymphatic drainage, which works to remove waste and toxins from tissues—it’s like gua sha, but for your legs! Other research says it interrupts blood flow to the legs and then returns it slowly, delivering isolated nutrients where they’ve been depleted, but more studies are warranted to back this up.

Whether you’re into high-intensity training, you deal with fluid retention, or you simply like to tend to your lower half after a long day of being on your feet, compression boots can be for you. Keep scrolling to shop for expert-approved pairs.

RecoveryAir JetBoots

Many compression boots are controlled via an external pump and control panel. These sleek wearables are as compact as they come—with individual air pumps built into each heel and easy-to-access buttons on each leg. No remote to use, nothing to hook up—simply put them on, press play, and enjoy.

Foot and Leg Massager for Circulation

Compression boots can get quite pricey, which makes this pair a rare find. At under $200, they span the length of the entire leg with a zipper closure for easy wear, which Dr. Sharkey especially loves. The three individual air compressors in each sleeve offer three levels of massage and three treatment lengths.

Normatec 3 Legs

Both Dr. Sharkey and Skevis recommend this high-quality pair for its easy zip-up design and ultra-adjustable features. “The Normatec boots use gradient holds to prevent backflow, which also makes the process very effective,” explains Skevis, meaning the massage moves from the bottom of the leg to the top, pulsing compression to keep all fluids moving in the same direction. “Imagine rolling a tube of toothpaste from the bottom to the top to get the last bit of toothpaste out,” Skevis adds.

The Normatec boots were specifically designed as a non-invasive treatment for patients with circulation and fluid accumulation disorders such as lymphedema.

Compressive Leg Massagers With Heat

What’s better than a compressive massage? Compressive massage with tension-relieving heat, of course! Everyone knows someone who struggles with cold feet due to poor circulation, and this affordable pair of boots is the perfect solution to that problem. They offer two heat modes and various massage and pressure levels for its user to find a sweet spot that feels best. And with 9,000 ratings and four stars, Amazon shoppers like these as well. “I recently purchased this leg massager with heat and it has been fantastic!” writes one satisfied shopper. “The pressure it provides is just right, targeting my calves and feet, and leaving them feeling amazing. The added heat feature adds a soothing touch, promoting circulation and relieving any muscle tension.”

Recovery System Compression Boots

This versatile pair of boots recommended by Dr. Sharkey offers an impressive 10 compression settings and allows you to control them via treatment zones, meaning you can deliver pressure to certain areas of the leg and remove it from others. You can also choose from two modes, intermittent massage or flush for a fast, optimized recovery. This piece of equipment also conveniently comes with a two-year warranty.

How to choose the best compresion boots

Dr. Sharkey recommends looking for compression boots that have adjustable pressure settings and ample sizing, whether that means they come in different sizes or have adjustable cuffs. It’s also important to pay attention to the number of air chambers within each boot, which determines the compression power you’re getting.

Skevis adds that the best compression boots operate on a peristaltic pattern, meaning they squeeze from the bottom up. “You also want to make sure the whole limbs is compressed, including the bottom of the foot. Some models have a flat foot base, which makes the treatment less effective,” he says

How do compression boots work? What do they do for you?

Compression boots are a form of massage therapy that deliver blood lacking oxygen and carrying waste (i.e. carbon dioxide) back to the lungs, via the heart, where the waste is traded for oxygen, explains Skevis. That blood can then be used to supply fresh oxygen to the tissues of the body. The boots also work to move lymphatic fluid, which “mops up toxins and waste,” to the lymphatic nodes or glands where it can be filtered, Skevis adds.

“Unlike a sports massage therapists hands, air compression therapy creates a complete circumferential strain around the limb, meaning no pressure is lost and fluid is shifted in an extremely efficient manner,” Skevis says. All of this results in a shorter post-workout recovery time, decreased swelling, and overall better circulation.

When should you use compression boots?

“It depends on your goal,” says Skevis. “For general health maintenance and relaxation, use them any time you like. If you have been sedentary for a long period (i.e. working in an office) and are planning to exercise, they can be a great tool for a passive warm-up, so you might use them for 15 to 30 minutes shortly before starting a workout, he continues, adding: “For recovery after an intense exercise session, try to get in your boots within a few hours of the session finishing for at least 15 minutes, but for as long as you want!”

How long should you wear compression boots?

Compression boot sessions can vary anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes or longer. The length of time you where them, again, depends on your goal. “The boots have to be worn daily to control edema,” says Dr. Sharkey. Skevis adds that it’s safe to wear them for longer periods if you want, however, Dr. Sharkey says compression boots are not recommended for those with organ failure, arterial insufficiency, peripheral vascular disease, or those who are prone to blood clots.

How we chose the best compression boots

We spoke with Anne Sharkey, D.P.M., board-certified podiatrist in Austin, Texas; and Nikos Skevis, Hyperice Master Trainer. We consulted dozens of customer reviews to narrow down the best picks based on criteria provided by our experts.

Why trust us

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

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