Owned by Hyperice, NormaTec is a medical device company that offers a range of compression therapy products designed to support athletic performance and recovery.
Featuring innovative technology, these devices use targeted air pressure to boost circulation, alleviate muscle pain, and prevent excess fluid buildup.
In addition to the brand’s patented technology, NormaTec has become a leader in consumer compression therapy products thanks to its dedication to quality and outstanding customer service.
This article provides a comprehensive review of NormaTec’s Pulse 2.0 Recovery Systems to help you decide which device is right for you.
Pros
- easy to use
- TSA-approved as a carry-on item
- several sizes are available
- calibration phase ensures a custom fit
- NormaTec Pulse 2.0 app allows for personalized pressure and time settings
Cons
- expensive
- not suitable for certain populations and conditions
Compression therapy uses controlled and targeted pressure to increase blood flow to your lower limbs and heart.
In addition to high tech devices like NormaTec, other modes of compression therapy include wraps, leggings, socks, and sleeves.
These products are designed to apply gentle pressure to your limbs, helping strengthen and support your veins, minimize water retention, and reduce muscle soreness (
For example, one 2018 review found that compression stockings can help treat venous and lymphatic conditions, including venous edema, venous leg ulcers, and acute vein thrombosis (
Additionally, compression therapy offers benefits for those who are immobile or sit for extended periods of time by reducing fluid buildup.
In fact, one study found that wearing compression stockings during a 3-hour flight significantly reduced swelling in the participants’ calves and ankles (
These devices are also particularly popular with athletes as a way to warm up and aid recovery.
In fact, one 2015 review of 23 studies found that wearing compression garments after exercising improved performance recovery and prevented delayed-onset muscle soreness (
Similarly, another small study found that using NormaTec leg compression boots after bouts of heavy resistance exercise mitigated reductions in flexibility and reduced muscle soreness (
Still, more research is needed to confirm the ability of compression therapy devices to improve athletic performance and recovery.
NormaTec 2.0 Recovery Systems are wearable devices that provide a targeted massage using patented air compression technology.
Made of durable nylon, the devices resemble oversized space suits and include attachments for your legs, hips, and arms.
All of the systems are available in short, standard, and tall sizes. They also feature a calibration phase that molds the device to your body to provide a customized fit for more precisely applied pressure.
What’s more, the devices connect to the NormaTec Pulse 2.0 app, which allows you to adjust the intensity and time settings from your smartphone or tablet.
The products also feature ZoneBoost technology, which further personalizes your experience by targeting or skipping certain massage zones.
Other notable features of NormaTec Recovery Systems include:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- a color display panel
- a rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- a 2-hour battery life
- TSA-approved as a carry-on item
- seven intensity levels
NormaTech ships within the continental United States and offers free shipping on orders over $75.
All products are covered by a 1-year warranty, though extended warranties are available for an additional cost.
NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Leg System
Current MSRP: $899
The Pulse 2.0 Leg System is the most popular NormaTec device and features a patented massage pattern with overlapping zones to target your entire leg.
In addition to two leg attachments, the system comes with a power source, hosing, three additional plug adapters, and the NormaTec 2.0 Control Unit, which pumps air into the device and controls the pressure.
To use the system, simply unzip the sleeve, slip your leg inside, and attach the hosing. Once you’re hooked up, all that’s left to do is to set your desired time and intensity level.
NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Lower Body System
Current MSRP: $1,149
If you regularly experience hip pain, you’ll want to consider NormaTec’s Lower Body System.
Designed to target your full lower body, the system includes two leg attachments and one hip attachment, though they can’t be used at the same time.
The hip attachment features two overlapping zones, which cover your lower back, hamstrings, quads, glutes, and iliotibial band (IT) bands.
It also comes with two adjustable buckles, making it easy to secure the device tightly around your core.
NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Arm Attachment Pair
Current MSRP: $400
The NormaTec arm attachment includes two arm sleeves and offers five overlapping zones to help relieve tension from your shoulders down to your fingertips.
It’s also equipped with an adjustable elastic band that secures the attachment to your body, leaving your hands free.
NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Full Body System
Current MSRP: $1,549
The NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Full Body System is designed for athletes looking for the ultimate recovery solution.
The system includes the following parts:
- two leg attachments
- two arm attachments
- one hip attachment
- a NormaTec 2.0 Control Unit
- a hose
- a power supply
- three additional plug adapters
Note that the Full Body System costs the same as buying the Lower Body System and Arm Attachment Pair separately.
Therefore, if you aren’t sure that you’ll use all three attachments, it’s not a bad idea to start with the Lower Body System and then purchase the Arm Attachment Pair later if needed, or vice versa.
Also, keep in mind that you can only use one set of attachments at a time.
Plan on taking your device on the go?
NormaTec also offers a carrying case and backpack, both of which are specifically designed to keep your compression devices safe during travel.
NormaTec Backpack
Current MSRP: $150
The NormaTec Backpack safely transports any of the NormaTec 2.0 Recovery Systems.
It includes a detachable padded device case, a laptop pocket, and elastic side pockets.
Designed for comfort and convenience, the backpack also features ventilated shoulder straps and a compression-molded sunglass case.
NormaTec Carry Case
Current MSRP: $150
As with the backpack, NormaTec’s hard carrying case is compatible with all of the NormaTec 2.0 series systems.
It includes padded cells to protect your device and attachments, as well as an upper mesh compartment for storing the hoses and power supplies.
While it’s a bit bulkier than the backpack, the case features an over-the-shoulder strap and is small enough to carry on a plane, making it a good option for travel.
While all of the devices are of high quality, they differ in price and intended use.
Therefore, when deciding which one to buy, it’s important to consider which attachments you’ll actually use.
For example, if you’re a runner, you may only need the NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Leg or Lower Body System.
Meanwhile, athletes that frequently use their arms and legs may benefit from the Full Body System.
Also, keep in mind that while some studies have found that compression therapy devices reduce muscle soreness, research on the benefits of these devices before and after exercise is limited (
While compression therapy is generally safe, there are potential drawbacks and safety concerns to consider.
For example, in addition to being expensive, some customers find the devices to be a bit too tight.
Furthermore, NormaTec doesn’t recommend the use of these recovery systems if you have one of the following conditions:
- acute pulmonary edema
- acute thrombophlebitis
- acute congestive heart failure
- acute infections
- deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- a pulmonary embolism
- wounds, lesions, infection, or tumors at or near the targeted area
- areas where increased venous and lymphatic return is unwanted
- bone fractures or dislocations at or near the targeted area
Finally, before using a compression therapy device, be sure to talk with a healthcare professional, especially if you’re pregnant or have medical concerns, such as:
- skin fragility
- cellulitis
- a loss of sensation
- a leg shape or size that prevents the proper fit of the compression gear
- severe peripheral neuropathy
- peripheral arterial disease
NormaTec’s 2.0 Pulse Recovery Systems are compression devices that offer a customizable recovery experience.
While more research is needed, compression therapy may help ease sore muscles and improve range of motion.
Still, before using a device, make sure to talk with a trusted healthcare professional, especially if you have any medical concerns or are pregnant.
If you’re not sure which NormaTec system is right for you, see if you can try out the devices at a nearby gym, chiropractic office, or physical therapy clinic.
