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- The best foam rollers keep their shape after many sessions of heavy-duty use, provide the level of pressure you need to loosen up muscles, and are built to last.
- The AmazonBasics High-Density Round Foam Roller is our top pick because it has an affordable price tag, multiple size options, firm density, and resistance to water.
As a roller derby player, I get my unfair share of sore muscles and stiffness. Nothing compares to the pain after an intense derby tournament. Yet, I have to admit that I thought my teammates looked silly as they rolled along the floor with their foam rollers. Well, after researching the phenomenon, which is supported by personal trainers, massage therapists, physical therapists, and plenty of scientific research, it's clear that foam rollers are a smart cost-effective way to relieve sore muscles and loosen up any stiffness.
Foam rollers work using a technique called self-myofascial release (SMR), which is basically a fancy way of saying "self-massage." You start to feel muscle knots and tightness when the fascia covering the muscles is restricted. The foam roller lengthens the fascia. Essentially, a foam roller is an inexpensive way to get a massage where and when you need it most.
Foam rollers come in all shapes and sizes, but the ideal size is generally about six inches in diameter and around 36 inches in length. This allows you to work most muscle groups and to use the roller in workouts. If you want to do deeper muscle work or target knots, textured foam rollers are an excellent solution. While most rollers work using gravity (e.g., your body pushes down on the roller to produce the massaging pressure), there are several handheld solutions that fit easily in your gym bag.
We should note that you may be able to use your health savings account (HSA) or flex spending account (FSA) to purchase a foam roller. Some plans require you to buy your roller from a physical therapist, chiropractor, or other medical professionals, so make sure you check with your provider before you buy.
We evaluated thousands of expert and customer reviews and ratings of dozens of different models before choosing the best foam rollers. In the end, the products that are included in our list are easy to use, effective at relieving muscles, and durable.
Here are the best foam rollers you can buy:
- Best foam roller: AmazonBasics High-Density Round Foam Roller
- Best textured foam roller: TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller
- Best vibrating foam roller: HyperIce Vyper 3 Speed Vibrating Foam Roller
- Best affordable foam roller: LuxFit Premium High Density Foam Roller
- Best stick foam roller: Original Tiger Tail Massage Stick
Updated on 01/03/2019 by Malarie Gokey: Updated prices and formatting.
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