The 7 Best Leg Compression Machines of 2024
Vive Health
The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. Sports Illustrated editorial staff are not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.
Leg compression machines, sometimes called leg compression boots, have wraps or sleeves that apply intermittent pressure through the feet, calves and sometimes thighs. These machines got their start in the medical field and have found their way into recovery treatment for athletes and, now, non-athletes alike.
For more insight into compression therapy, we spoke with Eric Fiedler, DPT, certified tennis performance specialist and director of physical therapy at the Bone & Joint orthopedic surgery clinic in Raleigh, N.C.
“I’m a big fan of compression therapy, especially with athletes,” he says. “Sometimes they just need a mental edge in how they’ll feel the next day—if you can give an athlete a mental edge the next day, it's a big deal.”
Like cold plunge tubs or ice baths, compression boots have jumped from the locker room and clinic to the home, offering a way for people to help their sore muscles recover whenever, wherever. Some people even use their leg compression boots to warm up before working out, although Fiedler personally prefers to use compression boots for recovery: “There are some people who do use them beforehand to improve blood flow. But for me, I like compression boots as a recovery tool afterward,” he says.
Though the evidence behind the physiological mechanism of compression therapy is “mixed,” according to Fiedler, he can point to his own observed clinical experiences with the therapy. “Regardless of what the research says, I think it's invaluable, especially in the post-op patients it’s extremely helpful because I can see the therapy actually helps decrease the swelling after we take it off. And then patients almost always report decreased pain and that they're feeling good later.”
We’re taking a deep dive into the best leg compression machines and best leg compression boots on the market in 2024. Take a look at our buying guide to help you decide on the machine that best fits your legs and needs.
This content is meant to be informative but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.
Our Picks for Best Leg Compression Machines of 2024:
- Best Full Leg Compression Machine: Hyperice Normatec 3 Legs
- Best Leg Compression Machine For Lymphedema: Vive Health Leg Compression Machine
- Best Leg Compression Machine for Thighs: Lifepro Radiate X Thigh, Calf and Foot
- Best Leg Compression Boots For Athletes: CINCOM Leg Massager With Heat
- Best Leg Compression Machine For Circulation: Fit King Upgraded Leg Massager With Heat
- Best Budget Leg Compression Machine: Lifepro Radiate Compression Sleeve
- Best Luxury Leg Compression Machine: Therabody RecoveryAir PRO
Best Full Leg Compression Machine: Hyperice Normatec 3 Legs
SI Showcase + Hyperice
Key features & specs
- Compression Settings: 7
- Pressure Range: 30–110 mmHg
- Power Source: Rechargeable battery
- Additional Features: Bluetooth connectivity, app, timer, ZoneBoost technology
- Battery Life: Up to 3 hours
- Price: $799
Hyperice entered the recovery market in 2011 and has since expanded to include a wide range of restorative athletic devices. The brand carries everything from percussion massagers and air compression devices to massage balls and compression braces. The Normatec 3 Legs is Hyperice’s full-leg compression massager designed to give users customized control over their compression therapy.
This recovery system, tested in-house by one of our Senior Editors, gets the award for the best full-leg model thanks to the overlapping pressure zones, ZoneBoost technology and the option to customize treatments through the app. “I’ll be the first to admit I don’t do enough when it comes to recovery, and these boots really take the guesswork out of it,” our tester says. “As I’m getting back into running, I know that I need to focus more on my pre-run warmup and I will definitely be taking advantage of the pre-workout warm-up setting: using the compression boots before a recent run had my legs feeling fresh and ready to go.”
Overlapping pressure zones keep consistent pressure through the legs. At the same time, ZoneBoost lets you independently adjust the seven pressure levels in each of the five overlapping zones. The app gives you the option to customize your programs based on the individual needs of each session. Plus, the Hyperice has high-quality internal hoses, tubing, materials and zipper, making the leg circulation machine a durable investment.
Users on Hyperice.com also sing the praises of this device; as one user put it, “As a nurse who works very long days and [is] an active person, these are incredible! I was first introduced to sequential compression after running an ultra marathon. It literally saved my legs from feeling like garbage. That was almost 10 years ago. . . . I finally took the plunge with the 3.0 system and I have ZERO regrets.” Our only issue with this model is that the case is expensive and is sold separately, which is disappointing considering the already-high price of the Hyperice.
SI Showcase
What we like:
- Overlapping pressure zones with the option for different pressures in each zone
- Easy-to-use control unit or advanced control through the Hyperice app
- High-quality materials and streamlined design
What to consider:
- Expensive
- Case sold separately
Best Leg Compression Machine for Lymphedema: Vive Health Leg Compression Machine
SI Showcase + Vive
Key features & specs
- Compression Settings: 8
- Pressure Range: 30–250 mmHg
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Additional Features: Timer, three massage modes, remote control
- Battery Life: N/A (corded)
- Price: $399.99
Vive Health carries a wide range of medical and health and wellness devices. Besides compression devices, the brand also offers braces, physical therapy items, mobility devices and daily aids. The Vive Health Leg Compression Machine has a wide compression range that stretches from 30 to 250 mmHg. That range makes the compression boots ideal for those who get a build-up of lymphatic fluid and may need a wide pressure range to adjust to varying daily needs.
This model has three massage modes to customize the pressure in different areas of the legs. The four compression chambers can work independently of one another, so you can target specific areas or turn off different chambers based on where you’re experiencing swelling or pain. The Vive Health Leg Compression Machine also includes eight pressure levels that you can use to inflate the air chambers in various sequential patterns.
Most users of the Vive Health machine have been very happy with the product, such as this one from Vivehealth.com, “I purchased the leg compression system and showed [my wife] her when it arrived. She wouldn't use it. She was so scared it would hurt. . . . [Eventually], she tried the compression system. The cellulitis is gone, the edema has been drastically reduced, and she corners me to get the leg cuffs put on because they make her legs feel good.” The only issue reported by users was that the remote needed to be close to the control unit to work correctly.
What we like:
- Adjustable sequential pressure
- Three modes to change the sequence pattern
- Wide pressure range and the option to turn off different sounds
What to consider:
- Remote must be within range of the control unit to work
Best Leg Compression Machine for Thighs: Lifepro Radiate X Thigh, Calf and Foot
SI Showcase + Lifepro
Key features & specs
- Compression Settings: 3
- Pressure Range: 181.5–300 mmHg
- Power Source: Rechargeable battery
- Additional Features: 6 massage modes, heat, lifetime warranty
- Battery Life: Not listed
- Price: $99.99
Lifepro was founded by friends who struggled to overcome injuries with the available fitness equipment on the market. They took matters into their own hands and started a company that provides fitness equipment and videos and plans to help you implement that equipment to its full potential. The Lifepro Radiate X Thigh, Calf and Foot is affordable and includes a separate compression chamber for the thighs, offering better circulation from toe to hip.
This model gets the award for the best machine for thighs because the design allows you to get compression on the thighs from a seated or lying position. The compression boots for legs include six massage modes that target different areas of the legs and offers varying compression patterns. Additionally, you can choose from three intensity levels that range from 181.5 to 300 mmHg. This machine also comes with a lifetime warranty, which is much higher than the average one-year warranty.
Generally, users have a positive experience with the Radiate X. One user on lifeprofitness.com says, “Like the compression, discovered the feet must be flat on the floor to feel the heat. This would be beneficial for my leg discomfort.” Our only concern with this model is that the pressure range is high. There’s potential for some people to find the low-end of the range a little uncomfortable, though we didn’t see complaints about the recovery boots from any users.
What we like:
- Design allows for using lying down or sitting
- Six massage patterns provide an excellent selection to target pain points
- Lifetime warranty
- We like that this product offers foot massage, which some others may not
What to consider:
- High-pressure range could potentially be too high for some users
Best Leg Compression Boots for Athletes: CINCOM Leg Massager with Heat
SI Showcase + CINCOM
Key features & specs
- Compression Settings: 3
- Pressure Range: 562.5–795 mmHg; 75–106 kPa
- Power Source: Electrical cord
- Additional Features: 3 modes, heat
- Battery Life: N/A (corded)
- Price: $199.99
CINCOM has made rehabilitation devices for 20 years, and the CINCOM Leg Massager with Heat falls into its top two categories—massage and rehabilitation. These leg compression boots offer three modes (sequence, circulation and combination) along with three intensities and three heat levels.
This model gets the nod as the best leg compression boots for athletes for a few reasons. First, the leg circulation machine has a three-way heat design that can warm the feet, calves or thighs independently. Consequently, athletes can target problem areas with heat to improve circulation and help the muscles relax. Second, the compression boots for legs come with two free extension pieces to fit thighs up to 37 inches and calves up to 28.5 inches in circumference. Athletes may need those extensions to fit muscular calves and thighs.
One user on Amazon.com said, "It's been a game changer for my chronic knee and leg pain. The heat function is especially nice and really helps to loosen up my muscles. The different massage modes and intensity levels are also great, allowing me to customize the massage to my specific needs." Most reviews of these leg compression boots are positive, although a small number of reviewers find the compression a little weak in the calves. The fit of the cuff may be a bit loose despite the high pressure levels.
What we like:
- Three-way heat design for targeted heat treatment
- Included extension pieces to fit a muscular physique
- Three modes and pressure intensities
What to consider:
- Compression may be too weak for some users, especially in the calves
Best Leg Compression Machine for Circulation: Fit King Upgraded Leg Massager with Heat
SI Showcase + Fit King
Key features & specs
- Compression Settings: 3
- Pressure Range: 37.5–172.5 millimeters of mercury; 5-23 kPa
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Additional Features: Heat, massage, timer, extension pads
- Battery Life: N/A (corded)
- Price: $159.99
Fit King offers home-based recovery solutions, with a full line of massagers that range from massage guns to those targeted to specific areas of the body. The Fit King Upgraded Leg Massager with Heat targets the feet and calves with three massage modes.
What makes this model our best leg massager with heat for circulation is the ability to use three massage modes, three heat levels and three intensity levels in different combinations to meet your individual needs. This model’s heat element significantly contributes to its circulation-boosting benefits. A 2016 study published in The Journal of Physiology found that heat opens veins and arteries to temporarily improve circulation.
Users report positive benefits from regular use of the Fit King, with one user on Amazon.com stating, “Light weight, easy to use. Does a great job and very well manageable. Quality material, smart design. Helps a lot after long work days.” On the downside, more than one user shares this Amazon.com user’s sentiment, “It's actually less massage than alternating zones of compression. It's slow to move from one zone to the next. But that's because it's not a mechanical device, but one that works on air compression. One zone fills, another one empties, and you get a slow workover of your sore muscles.” While it’s good for blood circulation, you may not get a true massage effect with this machine.
What we like:
- Three heat settings can be used in varying combinations with intensity and massage modes
- Easy zip entry
- Affordable price
What to consider:
- Slow-filling air chambers
Best Budget Leg Compression Machine: Lifepro Radiate Compression Sleeve
SI Showcase + Lifepro
Key features & specs
- Compression Settings: Three
- Pressure Range: 181.5–300 mmHg; 25-40 kPa
- Power Source: Rechargeable battery
- Additional Features: Heat, massage
- Battery Life: Not listed
- Price: $79.99
Founded by a pair of friends who found themselves injured at the same time, Lifepro offers fitness and recovery equipment to keep people on their feet and active with fitness videos and plans. The Lifepro Radiate Compression Sleeve targets the feet and calves and comes with a carrying case. In total, the compression boots costs less than $100.
Despite the low price, the recovery boots still include six massage modes and three intensity levels that you can adjust as needed. You can also get heated compression with three heat settings that range from 95 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the leg circulation machine comes with a lifetime warranty.
Users report that the compression boots offer enough pressure to help with swelling, as one user on Lifeprofitness.com states, “It is very relaxing and pain free. I am very sensitive, have painful edema in my legs, ankles and feet. I was skeptical as it was a gift. I am glad I tried it and love it.” The rechargeable battery only lasts about two uses. But for the price, it’s an excellent option. The pressure levels are on the high side, but users don’t report discomfort.
What we like:
- Affordable price
- Six massage modes and three intensity levels
- Three heat settings with the option to use heat along with massage modes
What to consider:
- Rechargeable battery only lasts for two sessions
Best Luxury Leg Compression Machine: Therabody RecoveryAir PRO
SI Showcase + Therabody
Key features & specs
- Compression Settings: Adjustable
- Pressure Range: 20–100 mmHg
- Power Source: Rechargeable battery
- Additional Features: Flash inflation, adjustable time settings, four programs, Bluetooth connectivity, app control
- Battery Life: 240 minutes
- Price: $1,200
Therabody is known for the quality of its products that extend from percussion massagers and smart goggles to items like the Therabody RecoveryAir PRO. This luxury leg compression machine comes in three sizes and includes upgraded features, like inflation and deflation in 60 seconds, Bluetooth connectivity, adjustable time settings and adjustable pressure hold and release features.
It also qualifies as the best luxury model for the long 240-minute battery life and accompanying app, which saves your data and helps you adjust the air compression leg massage based on your recovery needs. The compression boots also come with four preset programs and four inflation cycles in various configurations. The Therabody uses sequential compression to promote blood flow from the toes through the thighs. You can adjust the air pressure to fill only certain chambers to target problem areas, too.
Users love this machine despite the high price tag. One user on Therabody.com states, “Honestly don’t know how to continue my active lifestyle without this product!! Speeds up my recovery and provides the opportunity to rest while doing so. So many different functions and adjustments are easy to build your own optimal routine. Absolutely love it.” The biggest downside is the price. However, casual and competitive athletes may want to view it as an investment to decrease muscle soreness and post workout recovery times.
What we like:
- Long list of premium features like fast inflation/deflation, app, adjustable time and pressure settings
- 240-minute battery life
- Control of compression zones and adjustable pressure range
What to consider:
- Expensive
What Are Leg Compression Machines?
A true leg compression machine or compression boot is a lot more than a leg massager. A compression machine for legs, otherwise called an intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) machine, consists of several air chambers inside a sleeve or cuff that zips or wraps around the legs and secures with Velcro.
Some models cover the feet, calves and thighs, while others may only cover one leg area. Devices that cover the entire leg from thigh to foot are sometimes called leg compression boots.
As one study put it, the main function of compression therapy is to "counteract gravity" by promoting blood flow in the lower extremities. While leg compression boots, compression wraps and similar devices can be used in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, some people use them for pre-workout warmup, post-workout recovery or relieving sore muscles.
What is Compression Therapy?
Compression therapy aims to act upon the body, although Fiedler notes that research is “mixed” as to the extent of the proven physiological effect.
"Generally the idea of cycled compression is that you’re pumping excess lymph fluid and edema that’s been in the healing tissue, and with it all the inflammatory factors that are contributing to the soreness and the tissue damage, and that leads to decreased pain, increased blood flow and then a faster recovery on the soft tissue,” Fiedler says.
How Do Leg Compression Boots Work?
Leg compression machines and leg compression boots use some of the same principles as a blood pressure cuff or an adjustable air mattress. A series of tubes, either internal or external, connect to the air chambers to fill them with various amounts of air. As the amount of air increases or decreases, so does the pressure.
Depending on the device, the leg compression boots may have several pressure levels, heat and inflation/massage patterns as well. Advanced models may also connect to an app, where you can further customize the settings.
Benefits of Leg Compression Machines
Leg compression machines were originally used in medical settings to aid the recovery of immobile or bedridden patients. However, professional trainers and athletes began using leg compression boots to aid recovery. Today, people from all walks of life seeking pain relief use leg compression boots or machines, often when compression socks and compression running shorts aren’t quite enough.
IPC devices have also been shown to:
- Reduce pain for people who spend their workday standing, according to a 2021 study published in Medicine
- Decrease blood lactate during recovery, according to a 2013 study published in the Journal of Athletic Enhancement
- Reduce deep vein thrombosis when used with anticoagulants, according to a 2016 study published in Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management
- Reduce lymphedema, according to a 2013 study published in the European Journal of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery
The pressure created by a leg compression machine’s inflating air chambers promotes blood flow to promote healing and reduce swelling. Most machines let you adjust the pressure, so you can customize pressure based on your pain points and needs.
How to Choose the Best Leg Compression System for You
Here are the top considerations to keep in mind as you compare leg compression boots and other compression machines:
Pressure range and settings
Pressure is usually measured in mmHg (millimeters of mercury), though some manufacturers also measure pressure in kilopascals (kPa). A range starting at 20 to 30 mmHg and ending around 100 to 130 mmHg is more than enough for most people. Many people find anything over 150 mmHg to be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. However, the firmness or stretch of the sleeve or cuff also plays a role. For example, a machine with a looser cuff or sleeve may have a range starting around 175 and ending at 300 mmHg. But because the cuff is loose, the pressure may not feel as strong as a model with a less stretchy sleeve.
Fit: sleeve circumference and length
Before buying, measure your foot, calf and thigh circumference and the length of your inseam to order a leg compression machine with a sleeve that fits correctly. The sleeve should be snug but not tight before inflation. Some models come in several lengths and circumferences, while others don’t. If you have wide legs, look for a leg compression machine that comes with extensions to fit a larger calf or thigh.
Portability and power source
Battery-powered leg compression boots are generally more portable, but the battery isn’t the only factor that affects portability. The design of the control unit, the bulk of the sleeve and the case design all affect portability. Not all models come with a case. If you want to take the machine on the road or to competitions, a model with a carrying bag or case will make that much easier, as will a model that’s battery-powered. Keep an eye on the weight too. Many models weigh less than five pounds.
Power source comes into play when determining where and when you’ll use the machine. Battery-powered models give you more freedom. You can use them anywhere you can get comfortable. Battery power can also be helpful if you want to use the machine while traveling to events, such as a race or competition. Models with an electrical cord always have a charge, but they limit where you can use the machine.
Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Leg Compression Machines
In evaluating our list of best leg compression boots and compression machines, we focused on criteria including:
- Basic features and specifications. Fit, adjustability, pressure range and pressure settings
- Extra features. Advanced setting controls, heat settings, massage modes and other features
- Materials and design. High-quality fabrics and durable air chambers that help the machine withstand the pressure of repeated inflation and deflation
- Consumer factors. Affordable pricing, length of warranty and user reviews
See our product review process for more details on how we evaluate fitness equipment and other products.
Leg Compression Machine FAQs
Who should not use leg compression boots?
Leg compression boots and machines are generally safe. However, you might want to skip one if you have an open wound, skin irritation, skin infection, certain skin allergies (because close contact with the materials could further irritate the skin) or a history of clots or deep vein thrombosis, Fiedler says. “Post-operative you can still probably use a compression boot, but you have to be careful because you don't want to open the wounds if it's too much pressure,” he adds.
How often can you use a leg compression machine?
You should be able to safely use a leg compression machine every day. Just the same, it's worth checking with your doctor before you start, even if you're using leg compression boots for non-medical reasons.
How long should you use leg compression boots?
You can use a leg compression machine or leg compression boots for 15 to 30 minutes at a time. Many machines have timers that automatically shut off the machine after 20 to 30 minutes, so you’re less likely to overuse one.
Are compression boots covered by insurance?
Compression boots are sometimes covered by insurance, and whether you can get coverage will likely depend on medical necessity, as well as your specific health insurance policy. Some devices, such as the Normatec Legs, are HSA/FSA eligible. Talk to your healthcare provider about getting documentation of medical necessity before contacting your insurance company to dig into coverage specifics.
Takeaway: Are Leg Compression Machines Worth It?
Compression boots can be used to aid in recovery and reduce swelling and pain. Compression therapy can especially help athletes hasten recovery in his experience, Fiedler says, noting that “recovery is often more important than what an athlete does—if you can recover well, then you can push yourself a little bit harder.”
While athletes were the first to use them outside of a medical setting, anyone can benefit from using a leg compression machine. Make a budget, and then look for a machine within that range with the best fit and features based on your needs. Whether you’re hoping to reduce recovery times or keep swelling down, one of these machines can definitely help.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
