Normatec Elite Streamlines Leg Compression Recovery

Hyperice, makers of the Normatec line of compression recovery products, has something new for their line up, the Normatec Elite. The Elite offers fully integrated dynamic air compression therapy, removing the hoses and external control module found on previous models. This makes it easier to take them with you, without sacrificing the features and recovery you need.

Normatec was created by a PhD and physician bioengineer to replicate the natural muscle pumps of the body and the one-way valves in the venous system. The peristalsis (cyclical waves of compression) helps to move fluid in your body, to help improve circulation, reduce swelling and inflammation, and accelerate recovery. Scientific studies have shown benefits of using Normatec include a decrease in pain sensitivity and muscle fatigue after exercise, and an increase in range of motion.

Right off the bat, I’m going to tell you I’m a big fan of Normatec. As a cyclist, runner, and group fitness instructor teaching seven classes a week, I rely on various tools to help keep my legs ready for the next workout. A major part of that is my Normatec Pulse 2.0 system. Multiple times a week, you’ll find my wife and I in the chair, boots on, and letting them work their magic. After a recent 135-mile cycling event, they were my main tool for recovery that evening, and I felt ready to teach two classes the following evening and a third the next morning, without any soreness. While being a few generations old, it’s a great system, but it doesn’t travel that well, due to the hoses and external control unit.

The new Elite removes the hoses and control unit from previous versions and adds control units to each leg. The control units are much more streamlined in shape, compared to the bulky control unit and hoses from the past. The units are attached to the outer thigh of each boot and allow users to control each leg independently, or use the HyperSync feature found on the Normatec Go calf sleeves to allow the boots to work through the same pattern simultaneously. You can still control the time, level of compression, and also the ZoneBoost setting.

“The launch of Normatec Elite signifies a meaningful next step in the advancement of dynamic air compression technology,” said Jim Huether, Hyperice CEO. “As we continue to focus on providing a premium user experience, Normatec Elite sets a new standard for recovery by eliminating external hoses and control units, and discreetly integrating the technology into the product.”

Currently showing in only one size, the boots have five overlapping compression zones. In use, the standard pattern starts by filling up the boots to a minimum pressure, and then works its way up from the feet to your thighs. Starting at your foot, the zone compresses and releases a few times before starting to work into the next zone. As it moves up, there is still a small amount of compression left in the previous zone below to help prevent backwards flow. The seven levels of compression goes from a light squeeze to python grip and the ability to add an extra boost of compression with ZoneBoost. ZoneBoost focuses on one zone throughout the boot, but can me moved throughout the session to hit various parts of the leg. All of this compression comes from a brushless pump, which helps keep it as one of the quietest units on the market.

“The goal of Normatec Elite was to deliver a marriage of what our users have come to love from the traditional Normatec system with our most innovative Normatec technology,” said Hyperice Chief Innovation Officer and Normatec Recovery Founder, Gilad Jacobs. “By seamlessly integrating the same no-hose tech utilized in the Normatec Go but on a full, lower body scale, we’re allowing Hyperice customers to elevate their recovery and wellness experience to a whole new level.”

Even with it’s small footprint, the Elite has the longest battery life of any Normatec system, lasting up to 4 hours of use per charge, and can be used while being charged. That’s about an hour more than the previous Normatec 3. You also can connect by Bluetooth to the Hyperice App, where you can personalize your recovery. The app offers some additional features, along with guiding you through various recovery routines based on muscle groups and other Normatec and Hyperice products you may have, like the HyperVolt percussion massagers. All in, the pair of boots now weigh under 6.5 pounds, and can be packed down to fit in a backpack or luggage for traveling.

“As my career has evolved, I’ve become much more intentional about my approach to training, performance and recovery,” said Four-time Major Winner and PGA TOUR Pro, Rory McIlroy. “I adopted Normatec a number of years back, and it has become a non-negotiable for me following a round, a session on the range, or after a tough workout. Normatec Elite will enhance the experience 10-fold, especially with my schedule, as the product is a great solution for travel during the golf season.”

Normatec Elite is available now in the US and will be available globally by the end of the year, retailing for $999 at hyperice.com, Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods and REI.