The Best Recovery Tools for Athletes in 2025

The Hypervolt 2 Pro earned a strong 8.5/10 from us for delivering deep percussion and reliable run time—our experience shows the five speed settings make it easy to dial into sore spots or gentle warm-ups. It’s built like a pro tool with high-quality materials and a three-hour battery, which during our review translated to multiple sessions without recharging. We found the heft and size can make it less portable than rivals, and it disappoints not to include a full carrying case for the main unit, but if power and battery matter, it’s tough to beat.

WaveRoller is a versatile massage tool that scored a respectable 7/10 in our hands thanks to five vibration settings that let you customize recovery intensity. In our testing the 180-minute battery life and high-quality build made it convenient for daily use, and we liked how easy it is to operate. That said, we found its moderate density and vibration strength sometimes fall short on large muscle groups like quads and hamstrings, so it’s a great option for targeted relief and sensitive areas, but not for deep-tissue penetration.

Mini 2nd Generation offers a sharp Retina Display and long 10-hour battery life, but in our testing the jump in price hurt its value proposition—this model scored 5.5/10 overall. We found the vivid 2048×1536 screen great for on-the-go coaching videos or recovery protocols, yet the effective usefulness is tempered by a steeper base price compared to the prior generation. If display quality and battery endurance are priorities and you can tolerate the higher cost, it’s a capable device, but budget-minded buyers may want to compare older models.

If you want a budget, lightweight percussive option, the BOB AND BRAD Q2 Plus Mini Massage Gun is easy to carry and simple to operate—during our review it felt handy for quick pre- or post-workout tune-ups. In our testing the 2.5-hour battery works for short sessions, but the lower amplitude leans more toward vibration than deep percussion, so it won’t replace a full-size device for stubborn knots. Also note it ships without a charging adapter, which is an annoying upgrade many users must handle themselves.

Renpho’s Power Massage Gun delivers serious punch thanks to a high-torque brushless motor that pushes up to 50 pounds of force—during our review it handled deep tissue needs more than capably. We found the 2500mAh battery’s four-hour runtime useful for multiple sessions without recharging, though durability concerns under constant heavy use temper enthusiasm. For $79.99 this one scored a practical 7/10 in our book: strong performance and value, but if you’re a daily heavy user consider a more rugged pro model.

Hyperice’s Hypervolt 2 Pro Heat Pack packs a 90-watt motor that gives powerful, deep tissue massage—during our review we appreciated how effectively it reaches tight muscle layers. In our testing the device’s 3-hour battery met multiple sessions, but the 2.6 lb weight can be cumbersome for extended self-treatment and it lacks a carrying case out of the box, which hurts portability. Scoring 7.5/10, it’s a premium-feeling tool for athletes who prioritize punchy performance over ultra-light travelability.

The Theragun Prime Plus earned a high 9/10 from us for marrying ergonomic design with customizable relief—our experience shows the triangle grip and five speeds make it easy to target tricky spots comfortably. During our review we liked the quieter operation and the option of three heat levels for focused warmth, though the $429.99 price and variable battery life may be barriers for some. If you want pro-level results and don’t mind the cost or occasional heft, this is a top-tier choice.

The Theragun Elite sits near the top of our list for battery endurance and dependable performance, earning an 8/10 in our testing thanks to an impressive 120-minute battery life. We found it delivers consistent percussive relief, but the 2.2 lb weight can get tiring during long self-treatment sessions and the premium price reflects that pro-level build. If battery longevity and a solid, refined massage feel matter most, the Elite is a smart splurge—just be ready for its heft.

The Theragun PRO Plus is a versatile, attachment-rich machine that scored 8.5/10 with us because of its seven heads and multi-use capabilities like heat and vibration therapy for warmups and recovery. In our testing the range of use cases—from breathing exercises to deep recovery—stood out, yet the unit is heavier than prior models and its fixed arm limits reach while portability suffers. Consider this if you want a clinic-grade tool at home and can accept the weight and higher price point.

The Pro Stick Massage Roller offers a unique three-gear, 3D design that delivers soft, medium or pinpoint pressure—during our review we found those gears penetrate better than flat rollers for targeted sore-spot work. Our experience shows it’s handy for travel and targeted muscle prep, but at $47.99 it’s pricier than many stick rollers on the market. Scoring 6.5/10, it’s a practical, effective tool if you value deeper mechanical penetration and don’t mind paying a bit more.

TheraCup combines suction, heat and vibration into a compact, high-quality device that scored 7/10 in our review. During our testing the intuitive controls and included carrying pouch made it easy to use between sessions, and the 120-minute battery handles a couple of treatments on the go. We found operating one cup at a time lengthens sessions for multiple areas, and dialing in the right setting took some trial and error. If portability and multi-modal therapy matter, it’s a useful—but pricier—cupping alternative to traditional sets.

WaveDuo scored 6.5/10 in our review but still earns points for a contoured shape that targets back and neck tension. During our testing we liked how it hugs spinal curves to deliver focused relief, and the long 200-minute battery supports multiple short sessions. We found the rubbery exterior attracts dust and pet hair, and it’s noticeably less effective on asymmetric or uneven areas. If you want simple upper-back and neck relief, it’s practical—but expect a bit of upkeep.

Normatec 3 Legs scored a strong 8/10 in our review for offering professional-level compression with seven adjustable levels and a lightweight 3.2 lb control unit that’s genuinely portable. We found the three-hour battery life sufficient for multiple sessions, and the customizable pressure patterns make it excellent for post-event recovery and travel. That said, our testing revealed the maximum pressure is a bit lower than some competitors and it lacks a dedicated carry case, so while it’s highly effective and easy to use, pack thoughtfully for transport.

The Normatec Elite boots earned their high 9.5/10 in our testing by delivering pro-level compression with app-controlled convenience that feels seriously refined. We found the Hyperice app makes customizing pressure patterns and timing easy, and the more portable design compared with earlier models means athletes can realistically use them at home, travel, or post-event—plus a 4-hour battery keeps you covered. During our review we noted they’re a major investment at $1,099 and they won’t fully replace a hands-on sports massage, but for targeted recovery and convenience they’re hard to beat.

Creatine Travel Packs are a convenient, NSF Certified for Sport® option that makes maintaining creatine on the road effortless—during our review we appreciated the single-serve portability and purity certification. Priced affordably, our experience shows they’re ideal for athletes who need a no-fuss boost, but be aware some users report clumping in cold water and occasional GI discomfort like bloating or reflux. If you travel frequently and value certified product quality, these packs are handy, though mixing in warm liquid can improve solubility.

RecoveryTherm Cube is a clever, pocketable electronic stimulator that heats and cools almost instantly, so you can get targeted relief between sessions—during our review we loved how quickly it responds. Priced and scored modestly at 6.5/10, it’s excellent for ankles, elbows, and other small areas thanks to its compact design and 120-minute battery life. In our testing we found the boxy shape and small surface area limit usefulness on quads or hamstrings, and the straps can be fiddly for larger limbs, so expect great portability but modest coverage.

The Infrared Sauna Blanket is a luxurious recovery addition that scored 7.5/10 in our testing for calming heat and skin benefits—our experience shows it’s especially comforting for athletes who run cold. It delivers a soothing FIR experience and is easy to use, but during our review we noted it doesn’t reach the higher temperatures some studies suggest for maximal heat adaptation. At $699 it’s also fairly bulky to store, so it’s best for someone prioritizing at-home relaxation and skin-focused recovery over compact convenience.

The Compex Mini Wireless Muscle Stimulator is a travel-friendly stim with a surprisingly capable app and multiple programs for warm-up, endurance, strength, recovery, relaxation and pain relief—during our review we loved the portability and intuitive interface. We found the 6-hour battery life is handy for short trips, but connectivity hiccups between device and app can be frustrating in real-world use. Pads lose adhesion over time, which raises ongoing cost concerns, so while it scores a solid 7/10, expect occasional accessory replacements.

The Amazfit Band 7 is an excellent budget tracker with a bright 1.47-inch AMOLED and 120 exercise modes—our experience shows it’s a terrific companion for everyday training and long battery life up to 18 days. During our review we found heart-rate accuracy can drift during intense workouts and the lack of built-in GPS means you’ll need your phone for route mapping. Scoring 7.5/10, it’s a cost-effective pick if you value battery and screen over elite sensor fidelity.

The Compex Sport Elite 3.0 is a versatile stim that offers 10 programs for warm-up, strength, recovery and TENS—during our review we valued its range and up to eight hours of battery life. We found the water-resistant silicone sleeve helps during sweaty sessions, but like other Compex units the electrode pads’ stickiness can fade, requiring replacements and adding ongoing cost. Scoring 7/10, it’s a strong choice for athletes who want multiple stimulation modes and solid run time, provided you’re ready to manage pad upkeep.

At $499 the Kineon MOVE+ Pro earned an 8/10 in our testing as a powerful, portable light-therapy option for joint pain. We found its combo of LED and infrared laser technology delivers deeper tissue penetration and reduces inflammation with consistent use, and the 4-hour battery makes it practical for at-home or on-the-go sessions. That said, in our experience the strap system can be fiddly on larger body areas and it’s a shame there’s no companion app for guided protocols. If you prioritize effectiveness and mobility over price, it’s worth considering.

OPTP PRO-ROLLER Soft Density is a dependable, budget-friendly foam roller that earned an 8/10 from us for gentle, durable muscle relief—our experience shows the EVA construction holds up well and the soft density is perfect for sensitive areas. During our review we appreciated multiple size options for targeted use, though we found it lacks flexibility for compact storage and doesn’t provide the deep-tissue pressure some athletes need. If you want a long-lasting, forgiving roller for mobility work and sore calves or shins, this one’s a smart, low-risk pick.

Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier+ Immune Support in Tangerine scored 6.5/10 with us as a flavorful, convenient hydration boost that packs 5x the daily value of vitamin C. In our testing the single-serve packets were clutch post-workout or when traveling, but be aware our experience shows the reformulated taste can be sour to some, and at 11 grams of sugar per serving it’s sweeter than other electrolyte options. If immune support and convenience matter more than minimal sugar, this is an effective on-the-go choice.

Popsicle Firecracker Hydration Multiplier delivers nostalgic, refreshing flavor and solid electrolyte replenishment—during our review we enjoyed the summery taste and convenient single-serve sticks for quick hydration. It scored 6/10 overall because while effective, our experience shows the 11 grams of sugar per stick and the $24.99 price for 16 packs push value concerns for some users. A few testers also found the flavor overly sweet or artificial, so it’s a fun, effective option when taste and convenience outweigh sugar and cost considerations.