Speed Hound Recovery Boots Review vs Normatec Compression Boots

Speed Hound vs Normatec Compression Boots Review

Discount coupon codes for Speed Hound recovery boots can be found at the bottom of this review. Any current Hyperice Normatec code will also be posted if available.

It has been a few years since I did my initial review on Hyperice Normatec 3 vs Air Relax and along the way I have continued to test new compression boot offerings. Speed Hound has been my favorite as of late. They offer a world-class device, with a super-slick user interface at a very attractive price point of $649 using the RecoverFaster24 coupon code.

In short, Speed Hound does everything Normatec does but at a better price point and with a 60-day money-back guarantee and all the feels from supporting small businesses.
.

Speed Hound ($649 w/ coupon RecoverFaster24)

Normatec head unit is slightly
smaller than Speed Hound

- Small, portable, compression unit. It is very sturdy with a sturdy handle that pops up out of the unit and collapses for storage. A little bit bigger than Normatec and weighs 8lbs 11oz for the system.

- Best-in-class usability. The display is so clear and simple to use. I really love how easy it is to use.

- 3 easy select time cycles of 10, 20, and 30 minutes. You can of course do more than one cycle.

- 10 easy select pressure levels ranging from 20-200mmHg. Normatec goes to 100mmHg over 7 levels. I really like the visual of the increasing pressure here for new users.

- 2 easy select modes (flush and massage)

- 4 programmable zones with the ability to shut off or turn on the exact zones you want. For instance, if you just had a lower calf issue you could run just zone 1 and zone 2. 

- Features hidden hoses sewn in the legs with dark fabric that won't show dirt.

- Whisper quiet

- Available in 110V (USA) and 230V (Non-USA)

- Comes in two sizes.

Sizing comparison of leg sleeves

• Medium (5' 5" and taller)
• Long (5' 4" and shorter)

- Sizing Hack - because you can turn off zones on Speed Hound, you could always go with Long if you wanted to share a long pair of boots with someone who needed short. You would simply deactivate zone 4 for the shorter person. 

- Comes with width extenders for those needing more width. Speed Hound boots are slimmer than Normatec. While compared to most triathletes, I have pretty stocky calves and thighs and I fit comfortably, but if you have really large calves/thighs it is something to consider. They do have wider models as well so if you are a lymphedema patient reading you will probably need the included width extenders.

- Carrying case is included so no need to buy an optional $150 carrying case.

- 60 day "love them" guarantee with a 2-year warranty.

- Optional attachments for hips and arms.

- Highly affordable direct from Speed Hound with an extra $50 discount when you enter discount coupon code RecoverFaster24 at checkout. 

Speed Hound only sells direct to keep costs low so you will not find them on Amazon. Nor will you find them spending money on flashy athlete sponsorships. Instead, they are a small business that focuses on supporting grass-roots athletes.   

Hyperice Normatec Pulse 2.0 ($1295) 

- This is a review against the Hyper Normatec Pulse 2.0. They have since updated it to the Hyperice Normatec 3

- Slim design that can be used and moved with one hand. Head unit is smaller than Speed Hound. Total system weight is 8lbs 7oz for the system.

- Has a battery so it can be used without power. Note, past Normatec models had issues with the battery that seem to be fixed in this new model.

Normatec Pulse System

- Comes in three sizes:

• Short (under 5' 3")
• Regular (5'4" to 6'3")
• Tall (over 6' 4")  

- 7 pressure levels with a max of 100mmhg

- 1 mode of squeezing known in the industry as sequential compression, tweaked with Normatec's patented "pulse" technology with the zone boost option.

- Time increment is controllable in 5-minute increments from 5 minutes to 2 hours.

- 5 zones with no ability to program them off or on.

- Available in one "world voltage" model only

- Features hidden hoses sewn in the legs with dark fabric that won't show dirt.

- Optional attachments for hips and arms.

- Optional travel case. $150 for a hard-shell case.

- 2-year warranty for the Gen 2 Pulse. 

-  $1295 direct from Hyperice Normatec or save $75 by using your Amazon Prime Visa (5% cash back) to purchase via Amazon Prime.

Final thoughts

I continue to believe strongly in recovery compression boots as a must-own device for any serious athlete and I can't speak highly enough of Speed Hound. If you like supporting small businesses with great customer service then give them and their 60-day "love them" guarantee a try. 

Coupon Codes & Discussed Product Links:

- Speed Hound Compression Boots - Save $50 with discount coupon code:  RecoverFaster24

- Hyperice Normatec Pulse 3 Compression Boots on Amazon

- Hyperice Normatec Pulse 2.0 Compression Boots on Amazon 

- Amazon Basics Zero Gravity Chairs - $39.99 perfect chairs for relaxing in your recovery compression boots either at outdoor events or on the patio

- Normatec on eBay - Used and New (Various prices, generally $500-$6000)
- Normatec Gen 1 Pulse vs Normatec Gen 2 Pulse Review
- Air Relax vs Normatec Review

Black Friday Compression Boots Discount Coupon Code Sales - Normatec vs Speed Hound vs Air Relax

The following Black Friday / holiday discount coupon code sales exist in the recovery compression boot space for Normatec (Save $210), Speed Hound (Save $100), and Air Relax (Save $45).

Normatec - Save $210 on Normatec thru Black Friday weekend, no coupon necessary. This is an extra $50 off for the Black Friday weekend, then the promotion will revert back to $100 off for the rest of the holiday season up thru New Years. If you purchase via Amazon and use their Amazon Prime Visa then you can save an additional 5% off for a total of $210 off and effectively makes them $1085. Purchasing via Amazon also offers Amazon's outstanding customer service, longer holiday return period (Jan 31st 2020), and potentially same-day delivery.

Speed Hound - Save $100 with Speedhound Black Friday coupon code for $100 off is TG100. Sale runs thru Dec 8th. Beyond those dates you can still use RecoverFaster24 for $50 off for the rest of the holiday season. Speed hound recovery boots can only be purchased from Speed Hound's website. Side note, I really like this brand of boots as they have a super slick user interface and the owner is actually a triathlete himself. He is really adamant that you love your boots even if that means you end up in a competitor. If you support small business Saturday then Speed Hound is a great option for this cause. I did a short review against Normatec here.

Air Relax - Save 10% (~$45) with Air Relax Black Friday coupon code BMT87. Starts 11/28 at 11:00pm EST and runs thru 12/02. After Black Friday, monthly coupon for 5% saving - coupon changes monthly - can be found here.  Air Relax is much more affordable than Normatec ($400 vs $1085) and they have gotten tons of solid praise over the years. Purchasing Air Relax is also supporting small business Saturday. Although the owners are not triathletes, they have been a blessing to work with over the years and it has been a wonderful family run business. I'll add that for the skinny-lean triathlete the Speed Hound boots width can be more appropriately sized. Air Relax really started as a medical device for a typical larger body in my humble opinion and has a more relaxed fit. Air Relax can only be purchased at their website. I did a review of Air Relax and Normatec here.

Relevant Links

- Normatec - No code necessary
- Air Relax Website - Use code BMT87 to save 10%
- Speed Hound Website - Use code RecoverFaster24 to save $100

2018-2019 Normatec Pulse Gen 2 Review - Gen 2 Pulse vs Gen 1 Pulse (2015-2017)

Enjoying the new 2018
Gen 2 Normatec Pulse System

Although on the surface the 2018 Normatec Pulse looks and functions just like the original Normatec Pulse (2015-2017), there are some nice upgrades to the new unit that are not clearly visible and marketed, but nonetheless are beneficial to the customer. Normatec has been shipping what I am calling the "Gen 2" 2018 Pulse since at least November 2017 so if you bought one after this date then you probably have it, but I thought I would take the opportunity to highlight a few key benefits of the new 2018 system.

My thoughts on this 2018 unit are my thoughts after 6+ months of use with 80+ hours of runtime. I can definitely say that this is the best Normatec Pulse unit yet and fixes the battery issue which was the one gripe I had with my original Pulse. It is worth mentioning that while I discussed the battery limitation in my original review of Normatec vs Air Relax, I have since updated that article to reflect the improved battery. This isn't a complete detailed review of the Normatec system akin to the likes of DCRainmaker's Garmin reviews, but I am happy to answer any questions you have.

2018 Normatec Pulse Gen 2 vs 2015-2017 Normatec Pulse

While the changes to the 2018 Pulse may not seem obvious, there are some significant changes in the 2018 model. The biggest include:

• Improved Battery - The old Normatec Pulse had a battery that was always in a "low-power" mode even when off.  This led to situations where you might charge the unit but it was dead when you went to use it. This was highly annoying if you were traveling and didn't have access to power outlets such as in an airport, in the car, or on a soccer field. This issue has been fixed in the 2018 Pulse.
• Enhanced Durability - The legs have been reinforced further making them stronger to handle the continuous cycle of expanding, holding pressure, and decompressing, and then doing it over and over, for weeks, month, and years. This may not seem like much, but every pro athlete I know depends on their recovery compression boots to get them thru their biggest training blocks. Failures do happen and it is nice to know that Normatec has worked on increasing durability.
• Increased Warranty - With the durability enhanced, Normatec was able to extend the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. However, if you have an AMEX card then I highly recommend using it for this purchase. AMEX will double your warranty for free which increases the warranty to 4 years. I have gone thru their claim process a couple of times (usually with Garmins) and it is a great benefit to cardholders.
• Decreased Price - Despite the improvements, the new 2018 Normatec Pulse is more affordable than ever. Normatec has been reducing the price of the Normatec Pulse over the past few years. While originally it was priced at $1695, it is now $1495. 

Battery Testing - 2 hours 51 minutes at level 5 with standard size leg boots

Along with testing the battery to make sure it held a charge over extended periods of time, I also wanted to test battery life. This test was conducted after many months of use and charge/discharge cycles. Battery life will vary on boot size, pressure level, and your own leg size. Personally, I got 2 hours and 51 minutes at level 5 (max is level 7) from a standard set of legs. Normatec claims 2 hours of battery life. 

Leg Fluid Edema Testing - 90 minutes in the boots at level 5, 6, and 7 reduced my calf diameter from 41mm to 39mm

Baseline (top) / After 90 mins (bottom)

Normatec was originally designed for patients with leg edema (swelling). I don't suffer from edema, but I figured I would test how much difference it made on otherwise healthy legs.

For this test, I took a baseline measurement and photo and then sat in the boots for 60 minutes at level 5. I photographed and measured them again and then I got back in the boots for 30 more minutes with 18 mins at level 6 and 12 mins at level 7. I used a Sharpie on the front of my legs to draw support lines to make sure the tape measure was being placed in the same spot for consistent measurement. The results are as follows:

Baseline: 41cm  (left) / 40.6cm (right)

60 minutes at level 5: 39.5cm (left) / 39.6cm (right)

30 additional minutes - 18 mins @ level 6 & 12 @ level 7: 39.0cm (left) / 39.1cm (right)


Normatec Leg Sizing

As a reminder, Normatec leg sleeves come in three sizes. Keep in mind it is not only the leg length but also the width that is affected.

• Short for under 5' 3"
• Regular 5'4" to 6'3"
• Tall for people over 6' 4"  

Tall / Regular / Short

Identify the 2018 Normatec Pulse (Gen 2) vs the 2015-2017 Normatec Pulse

One can easily determine which Pulse they are getting via a sticker on the back of the unit. You want to see a manufactured date of 2017 or later, plus a sticker at the bottom, with a "Rev 2".

2015-2017 Normatec Pulse vs 2018 Normatec Pulse

Final Thoughts

Lebron James in his Normatec MVP

The 2018 Normatec Pulse is a nice upgrade to a system that was already very nice. Never in my life has a product category been embraced by so many professional athletes in so many sports, including triathletes, marathoners, cyclists, cross-fitters, NBA, NFL, NHL, golf, tennis, soccer, lacrosse, track and field, and even Hollywood celebrities (Snoop Dogg included). The overwhelming majority of these athletes aren't being paid for their endorsement. Lebron James is probably the biggest sports name and it was reported he spent $3 million dollars in 2017 on his recovery.

Personally, as a tinker but minimalist, I have been surprised by how often I am willing to travel with recovery compression boots. They simply go everywhere with me and I write this as I am in them. While there is still a place for many other recovery modalities in the athlete toolbox, no tool is as convenient and relaxing as recovery compression boots. They are just too easy to get into and I really do believe they help athletes recover faster and feel fresher. I believe the best recovery tools are the ones that don't seem like a chore and recovery compression boots are definitely not a chore to me.

For those that are looking for a more affordable set of boots please take a look at my original Air Relax vs Normatec review. Air Relax is a competitively priced system that has also become the choice of many champions and in many sports. Some triathletes using Air Relax include Ironman Champions Romain Guillaume, Jozef Major, Guy Crawford, Kate Bevilaqua, and Susie Cheetham (6th at 2017 Ironman World Championship).

When companies have competition the consumer wins. Normatec, Air Relax, and Rapid Reboot will all help push the boundaries of what the human body can accomplish.


Relevant Links
- Normatec on Amazon - $1495 and ships via Amazon Prime
- Normatec ($1495) vs Air Relax ($370) - original review
- Normatec.com
- Amazon Basics Zero Gravity Chairs - $39.99 - great chairs for lounging in Normatecs
- Normatec on eBay - Used and New (Various prices generally $700-$1200)

Competitors
- Air Relax - $400
- Rapid Reboot - $995

Air Relax Travel Carrying Case For Recovery Compression Boots Systems

NEW Air Relax Travel Bag

Here is a short review of Air Relax's NEW $80 travel case. You can always save 5% on the new case, recovery compression boots, and hip shorts on Air Relax's website with:

- 2020 discount coupon code:  KEC12TG

If you travel with your Air Relax system or you just want to keep the house tidy then this is a MUST have accessory. It is a great way to stay organized and travel with your Air Relax system and protect your investment.

The bag itself is a well thought out bag with extra room for additional gear and clothes. The bag itself has a soft shell that is made of high-quality nylon and is built with thick padding for extra protection. It features:

• Removable shoulder strap and main compartment divider insert
• 1 large front zippered pocket with two mesh compartments and two non-mesh compartments
• Built-in elastic waterproof shell. Tucks away in small side pocket and snaps around entire bag for added water-resistance
• YKK zippers
• Velcro attachment flap and buckle for extra security 
• Colors: black only
• Exterior Dimension: 18" X 9" X 8"

There is easily enough room for a pair of legs, shoulders, head unit and more. I traveled a couple of times with the bag and it has been a great way to stay organized. I pack it the night before with everything the Air Relax system needs plus other recovery tools that I like to use and I have made it a total RECOVERY bag. I have had no complaints other than questioning why Air Relax didn't come out with this bag sooner.

This bag makes a great alternative to Normatec's Pulse hardshell case ($160). The longer shape and softshell design make it comfortable to carry with the shoulder strap.

As of right now the only way to purchase the bag is direct thru Air Relax. The bag is $80 and as always you can save 5% with the coupon code below:

 Pictures

Front zippered compartments where
I keep 'other' recovery tools

Waterproof snap-around shell

Normatec Hardshell (taller) vs
Air Relax Soft Shell (longer)

Normatec Hardshell (taller) vs
Air Relax Soft Shell (longer)

Video:

Other Links

- Air Relax vs Normatec Review
- Amazon Basics Zero Gravity Chairs

Normatec vs Air Relax Review - Recovery Compression Boots Comparison

Air Relax vs Normatec

Any discount coupon codes for Normatec can be found at the bottom of this comparison review! Current best Air Relax price is always available and automatically applied thru this link!

Simply put, Normatec and Air Relax recovery compression boots are awesome. As a professional triathlete, I have every recovery tool that exists and each tool has a purpose, however, I have come to rely heavily on my compression boots for general recovery. They are just too easy to use and I actually look forward to winding down my day, in bed, in boots, as they massage my legs, and I relax and watch an episode of Suits.

While professional athletes use recovery boots to recover faster and feel fresher, they are also great for non-athletes, after all, Air Relax and Normatec got their birth from the medical market specifically for lymphedema patients with intermittent pneumatic compression pumps, as they were called, and featured sequential compression technology. I won't go into great details here, but you can benefit from compression boots whether you are suffering from edema and pitting in the legs, have arthritis and need to get the blood flowing in the morning, are a long-haul driver looking for something more powerful than compression socks, have diabetic ulcers, MS, or just want a relaxing massage after a long day's work.

Compression boots squeeze blood &
lymph from the legs helping it back to the
heart, lungs & kidneys. The end result is you
recover faster and feel fresher!

While I am sold on recovery compression boots, the question is which set to get? Personally, I discovered Air Relax when I was looking for more affordable Normatec alternatives. While the Normatec Pulse ($1500) is a nice device, it was WAY more than I and many want to pay. Air Relax (about $545) makes a competitive product at a much lower price point. While I was a very early adopter of Air Relax in 2016, they are now the choice of many professional athletes and champions in cross-fit, basketball, cycling, triathlon, running and many other sports.

There are many other recovery boot systems available including Rapid Reboot, Recovery Pump, Elevated Legs, Podium Legs, Doctor Life LX7, and the older Normatech MVP - but I am only focusing on Air Relax vs Normatec Pulse today.

Air Relax ($545)


- FDA approved Class II medical device designed originally to treat patients with edema / swelling of the legs. As a result, they can go much higher in pressure. All the way to 230mmHg with 4 pressure levels. They have 3 different modes of squeezing.

- Small, portable, compression unit, smaller than the older bulky Normatec MVP system but larger than the Normatec Pulse.

- Manufactured in Korea. Features

- Time increment works off a 15-minute cycle which you can restart as many times as you would like.

- Features hidden hoses sewn in the legs with dark fabric that won't show dirt and YKK zippers for durability.

- System and pair of size 2 boots weigh 7lb 14oz.

- Available in both 110V (USA) and 220 (EU Asia).

Sizing comparison

- Comes in three sizes.

• Size 2 (5' 3" to 5'7") 
• Size 3 (5' 8" to 6'1") 
• Size 4 (6' 2"+) 

- Optional attachments for hips and arms.

- Optional travel carrying case. $75 dollars for a well-padded, soft-shell design, with unique storage for other recovery tools.  I did a short review of the case with pictures and video here.

Highly affordable from buy from Air Relax USA today from $575 or on Amazon.

Normatec Pulse ($1195) 

- Has a battery with a stated battery life of 2 hours. In my testing of the 2018 Pulse system was able to achieve almost 3 hours at level 5 pressure. The 2015-2017 Pulse system had problems with the battery. Get the 2018 Pulse if you have a choice.

Normatec Pulse System

- Comes in three sizes:

• Short (under 5' 3")
• Regular (5'4" to 6'3")
• Tall (over 6' 4")  

- Assembled in the USA with parts from China.

- Pressure can go up to 100mmHg with 7 pressure levels and 1 mode of squeezing that Normatec calls "Pulse", hence the name.

- Zone boost option allows you to boost the pressure of one zone by 10mmHg over the rest. Max for that Zone boost zone is 110mmHg.

- Time increment is controllable in 5-minute increments from 5 minutes to 2 hours.

- Features hidden hoses sewn in the legs with dark fabric that won't show dirt and also uses YKK zippers.

- Optional attachments for hips and arms.

- Optional travel case. $150 with hard-shell design

-  $1195 direct from Normatec and Amazon. I highly recommend purchasing via Amazon as you get 5% cash back (~$65) w/Amazon Prime Visa + longer return period. All the way until Jan 31st the following year during their holiday promotion. Normatec's direct return period is 14 days only. Plus you get Amazon's great customer service.

Final thoughts

Not long ago it would have cost you $5,000 for a pair of Normatech Recovery MVP boots. The price has come way down with the Pulse system and they have made the system considerably smaller, more durable, and included new features like a battery. Normatec popularized compression boots for pro athletes and they make a great a device that everyone likes and I have no problems recommending.

Air Relax makes an extremely compelling alternative at a very attractive price point that allows more people to discover the benefits of recovery compression boots. It is ~$900 less than Normatec and that is a huge difference for many people. Air Relax has grown by leaps and bounds since I first reviewed them in 2016 and now outsells Normatec 3:1. I have received so many messages from happy Air Relax customers who wanted compression boots but didn't want to pay the Normatec price and I have no problems recommending them as well.

Lastly, I wanted to mention that I recently (April 2019) put a recommendation on another product in this space. It is from a young but growing company that makes a fantastic set of recovery boots at an equally compelling price point albeit slightly more expensive ($650 with a case). I really like the size and shape of the unit and the user interface is super slick and allows you to easily see the pressure levels as a "range of pressures" in combination with the ability to turn on and off specific zones. I really want to encourage people, especially triathletes, to take a look at this brand as well.  I did a short comparison review of these boot here - Speed Hound vs Normatec Review.

Discussed Product Links:

- Normatec Pulse 2.0 Leg System - $1195 on Amazon
- Normatec Pulse 2.0 Leg System + Hips - $1595 on Amazon
- Normatec on eBay - Used and New (Various prices, generally $700-$1200)
- Normatec Pulse 2.0 Detailed Review


- Amazon Basics Zero Gravity Chairs - $39.99 - perfect chairs for compression boots recovery if you are on the go or even at home on the patio.


- Air Relax.com - from $575 
- Air Relax on Amazon - from $580
- Air Relax on eBay (3rd party sellers only)
- Air Relax Carrying Case Quick Review
- Amazon Basics Zero Gravity Chairs - $39.99 perfect chairs for relaxing at outdoor events or on the patio