When it comes to your health and fitness, getting in your workout is only half of the battle. Once you’re done exercising, the recovery process begins, which is just as important as your training, if not more so. After all, if you’re not recovering properly, you’re not going to be feeling 100% ready for your next workout.
A good night’s sleep and proper nutrition go a long way toward improving your recovery, but these days, there are plenty of recovery tools available to help speed things up. These include tools like massage guns, cold plunges, and of course, compression boots.
The best compression boots are designed to improve blood flow and relieve leg pain, and many people find them quite enjoyable to use, especially after a tough workout or long day on your feet. However, choosing the right compression boots can be challenging, and that’s where we come in.
We test as many boots as we can get our hands on, and in this Ublives Compression Boots review, I’ll be breaking down the SoleFlux Relax Air Compression Boots. I’ll share the pros and cons based on our extensive testing, and help you decide whether these boots are worth a try.
Tested by a Certified Personal Trainer
Every review we publish is based on hands-on product testing from our team of expert testers, which includes certified personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, CrossFit enthusiasts, gym owners, and even an Olympian.
For this review, our tester was GGR’s Director of Content, Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC, a certified personal trainer who’s tested countless products over the years. Nicole spent plenty of time using these boots (she even shared them with her husband), and used our testing methodology to calculate a final score.
Our methodology assigns a score ranging from 1-5 for a variety of categories, including:
- Materials
- Size and Fit Options
- Compression Levels
- Value
Ublives SoleFlux Relax Air Compression Boots
Ublives SoleFlux Relax Air Compression Boots
Product Highlights
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Portable, battery-powered boots
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Heavy-duty materials
-
Durable
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Ships with carrying bag
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Often on sale
- Durable materials
- Sized to fit most users
- Portable
Cons
- Only one size available
- Limited compression levels
Bottom Line
The Ublives SoleFlux Relax Air Compression are durable, full-leg, battery-powered compression boots that fit over your entire leg. They’re a great alternative to some of the more expensive options on the market, especially when they’re on sale.
A Quick Look at the Ublives Compression Boots
The Ublives SoleFlux Relax Compression Boots are full-leg air compression boots that fit over your entire leg and foot. The design and function are extremely similar to the Hyperice Normatec Elite boots, which are some of the most popular compression boots on the market, but the Ublives are more affordable.
Ublive compression boots are completely portable, and each boot has an individual battery pack that can be removed and charged. This means that you don’t need to be tethered to an outlet to enjoy these boots; you can use them anywhere.
These FDA-approved compression boots offer five pressure levels and four compression modes, including muscle relief mode, sports recovery mode, deep care mode, and targeted massage.
Before we get much further, we need to address the lack of evidence for using compression boots as recovery devices. Many enjoy using them, but at the time of writing, there’s no research that shows any measurable recovery benefits to using them. They may feel nice and help get the blood flowing, but that’s about it.
A 2020 study1 published in the International Journal of Exercise Science compared the impact of pneumatic compression boots vs. no treatment at all on delayed-onset muscle soreness. The authors found no difference at all in reported soreness or blood serum CRP levels, which indicate inflammation.
However, research shows2 that using compression boots decreases symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS), so if you suffer from RLS, they may be worth a try.
Before You Buy
- The list price is $988, but every time we’ve checked, the boots have been on sale for $500-$600.
- While most users should fit comfortably in these boots, they may be a bit long for shorter individuals, and some users report they’re a bit tight in the thighs.
- While the boots are portable and come with a carrying bag, they’re a bit bulky and not the most convenient size to travel with.
Are the Ublives Compression Boots Worth It?
Even though these boots are more affordable than many competitors, they’re still not cheap.
As we mentioned earlier, the current research1 suggests any pain relief or recovery benefit you may receive from these boots is likely a placebo, or simply the fact that a leg massage feels pretty good. Compression therapy might improve blood circulation, but doesn’t seem to make a measurable difference when it comes to soreness and recovery–something to keep in mind while you’re shopping.
That said, if you’re interested in trying out compression boots, here’s who we think is a good fit for the Ublives boots.
Great for:
- Athletes of all levels
- Those who regularly lift weights
- People who struggle with recovery from workouts
Not recommended for:
- People on a tight budget
- Anyone who doesn’t notice any current recovery issues
- Shorter individuals, or those with larger than average legs
Ublives Compression Boots Specs
| Weight | 6.17 lbs |
| Dimensions | Inseam is 29.5-33.5”, with a 15” opening |
| Sizes | One size |
| Battery | Up to 300 minutes |
| Compression Levels | 5 levels |
| Tech Capabilities | Individual boot controls with built-in display screens |
Experience Using the Ublives Compression Boots
Our tester, Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC, was impressed with her experience, comparing the feeling to a deep tissue massage of the legs. She used these boots multiple times and shared them with her husband to get as much testing as possible.
While she was impressed with the versatility and variety of massage modes, she found that the boots, which are only available in one size, were a little long for her.
“I’m 5’3″ and my husband is 6’2″, and we can both use these,” says Nicole. “They are a bit long for me, but they fit my husband’s legs great—this just may be a watch out for shorter people. They zip from top to bottom so I just leave the top unzipped a bit to accommodate.”
One reviewer also commented that she wishes the thigh area was bigger, but other than that, these boots should fit most people, but Nicole pointed out, “If you have a larger body, boots with velcro are probably a better option from a size standpoint.”
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Sizing aside, she was impressed with massage quality, durability, and function of these boots, especially for the price point.
Portability
One standout feature of the Ublives compression boots is their wireless functionality. Many air compression boots need to be plugged into a wall, which limits where you can use them.
Instead, these boots have removable battery packs that can be charged via USB-C, so you can take the boots anywhere, earning these boots 4 out of 5 stars for portability.
They even come with a duffel bag to carry them, but Nicole said they’re still a little bulky. Taking them on a trip with you may not be super convenient, but we love the fact that you can use them anywhere, even if you’re not near an outlet.
Materials and Construction
For the materials and construction, the Ublives earn 5 out of 5 stars.
“I’m not sure what the material is, as it’s not listed, but they feel more like canvas as opposed to that swishy/shiny outer material the Normatecs are made of,” says Nicole. “They’re heavy-duty for sure and seem like they’ll last with proper care.”
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Now, we’ve only been testing these boots for a few months, so we can’t speak to their longevity, but they seem like they’ll last for years.
Compression
We can’t rate compression boots without talking about the actual compression experience, and for this category, the Ublives boots earn 4 out of 5 stars.
The boots offer five intensity levels that range from 67-165 mmHG and four compression modes:
- Muscle Relief Mode (Sequence mode）
- Sport Recovery Mode (Circulation mode)
- Deep Care Mode Whole mode）
- Targeted Massage area mode
You’ll also be able to choose a 10, 20, or 30-minute session.
“I use the middle compression level, 112, and that’s more than enough for me,” explains Nicole. “I’ve tried all four compression modes as well and my favorite is the Sport Recovery. Overall, I think the versatility here in terms of compression levels and modes is nice.”
Technology Benefits and Conveniences
When it comes to the technology benefits and conveniences, the Ublive boots are fine, but nothing special or exciting.
The boots are controlled by removable control units that clip on each boot, and each one has a bright, large display that’s easy to read, allowing you to choose your settings.
As far as technology, that’s about it. Of course, these are a more affordable option, but we’d love to see the ability to control the boots via Bluetooth, a feature we’ve seen with other compression boots.
Ublives Compression Boots vs Hyperice Normatec Elite
Hyperice Normatec Elite
Hyperice Normatec Elite
Product Highlights
- Portable air compression boots
- 7 levels of compression
- 4 hours of battery life
- Bluetooth-enabled controls
- Supposed benefits include decreasing muscle soreness, increased circulation, and improved recovery
Pros & Cons
Pros
- More portable than previous iterations
- 4-hour battery life
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Expensive piece of equipment
- Can't replace traditional hands-on massage from a professional
Bottom Line
The Normatec Elite boots are the latest iteration of air compression boots from Hyperice. These are more portable than previous versions and are controlled via the Hyperice app. You'll get a 4-hour battery life and 7 levels of compression with these boots to supposedly help recovery and muscle soreness.
If you’re considering Ublives compression boots, you’ve likely seen the Hyperice Normatec Elite boots, which look nearly identical from afar but have a higher price tag.
The Ublives are listed at $988, but they’re almost always on sale for $500-$600, while the Normatec Elites are $999, and only on sale periodically throughout the year.
Both boots are portable, wireless boots that cover your entire leg and foot, delivering full-leg compression. While the Ublives only come in one size, Normatecs are available in three sizes, making it easier to choose the right ones for your height. Normatecs also have seven compression levels, while the Ublives only have five.
The battery life on Normatecs is better, although both will last for multiple uses before needing a charge. Normatecs also allow you to control the boots via Bluetooth with an app on your phone, which we don’t see on the Ublives.
That said, while the Normatec has better features, the compression experience on both is excellent. If you don’t need all the bells and whistles, the Ublives are still a great choice.
Overall, we recommend the Normatec Elite boots for those who don’t mind paying extra for more features and technology conveniences, and we recommend the Ublives for those who want to save money, and still enjoy great compression boots.
For more, read our full Normatec Elite review.
| Ublives Compression Boots | Hyperice Normatec Elite | |
| Weight | 6.17 lbs (pair) | 3.2 lbs (single boot) |
| Dimensions | Inseam is 29.5-33.5”, with a 15” opening | 15.5″ x 40.5″ (single boot) |
| Sizes | One size | Short (5’3” and under), Standard (5’4” to 6’3”), Tall (6’4” and above) |
| Battery | Up to 300 minutes | Up to 4 hours |
| Compression Levels | 5 levels | 7 levels |
| Tech Capabilities | Individual boot controls with built-in display screens | Connects via Bluetooth to the Hyperice app; ZoneBoost Technology provides extra time and pressure in a particular zone |
Value
For the overall value, Ublives 4 out of 5 if you get them at the right price.
These boots seem to always be on sale for $500-$600, despite the listed price of $988. If you can get them for that price, they’re a great deal.
However, if you see them at full price, Nicole recommends choosing the Normatec Elite boots instead, which only cost $11 more.
“Compared to the Normatecs, which are about $1,000, the sale price is attractive for what you get with these boots,” Nicole says. “If they were ever sold for their MSRP, you’d be better off going with the Normatecs, which have a longer battery life, more compression levels, more sizes, and Bluetooth capabilities.”
Customer Experience
If you’re not satisfied with your purchase, you can return your boots within 90 days, and if you keep them, they’re covered by a one-year warranty.
Customer service can be reached via phone, chat, or email, and while we didn’t reach out to test the response time, it seems like you can talk to someone via live chat during normal business hours.
Ordering Ublives Compression Boots
If you want to purchase Ublives compression boots, the process is simple and the company has a surprisingly great shipping policy.
Ublives offers free shipping to the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, with estimated delivery times ranging from 5-10 business days. If you don’t want to pay up front, orders can be financed with Afterpay.
Customer Reviews
The Ublives Compression Boots have an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on the Ublives website, though we couldn’t find reviews anywhere else as the boots aren’t sold on Amazon. Most users are very happy with the quality and performance of the boots.
Final Verdict of Our Ublives Compression Boots Review
If you’re looking for a great pair of compression boots and don’t want to spend $1,000, the Ublives Compression Boots are an excellent choice, especially when they’re on sale, which seems to always be the case.
Nicole says, “At the sale price of about $500, you’re getting a good value, but they don’t provide quite as many options as something higher end like the Normatec Elites. For the average person looking for the benefits of compression boots at a decent price, these fit the bill.”
- Ublives Compression Boots are listed at $988, but they’ve been on sale for $500-$600 every time we’ve checked.
- They don’t have all the bells and whistles you’d find on a higher-end product, but they’re extremely durable and the compression is great.
- Short users or those with larger thighs may need to choose a different boot with more size options, but most users will enjoy the Ublives compression boots.
Full Rating
Ublives Compression Boots
The Ublives SoleFlux Relax Air Compression are durable, full-leg, battery-powered compression boots that fit over your entire leg. They’re a great alternative to some of the more expensive options on the market, especially when they’re on sale.
Product Brand: Ublives
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 988
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.45
Ublives Compression Boots: FAQs
Do compression boots really work?
Compression boots are often used to increase blood flow, promote recovery, and reduce leg fatigue, however, the current research shows no difference in reported soreness or inflammation as measured by bloodwork when using them.
What are the side effects of compression boots?
Because the boots can create a significant amount of pressure, some users may experience pain, skin irritation, and general discomfort from wearing the boots.
Which compression boots are best?
There are plenty of great compression boots to choose from, and it’s hard to say which is the best. Some of the most popular boots come from Hyperice and Therabody, but many other manufacturers offer high-quality compression boots.
References
- Draper, S. N., Kullman, E. L., Sparks, K. E., Little, K., & Thoman, J. (2020). Effects of Intermittent Pneumatic Compression on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) in Long Distance Runners. International journal of exercise science, 13(2), 75–86. https://doi.org/10.70252/HSPN3402
- Lettieri, C. J., & Eliasson, A. H. (2009). Pneumatic compression devices are an effective therapy for restless legs syndrome: a prospective, randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled trial. Chest, 135(1), 74–80. https://doi.org/10.1378/chest.08-1665
