New range of footwear promises ‘air compression massage’; we find out what that means

What happens when an athletic footwear and apparel corporation ties up with a health technology company? They launch high-top boots that promise to give your feet and ankles a heat and air-compression massage.

According to Nike, the shoes have a battery-operated adjustable system that evenly distributes heat throughout the upper part, helping to warm the muscles and tissues in the foot and ankle. This ensures faster recovery for athletes. The brand has developed the shoes — which contain a system to warm elements that evenly distribute heat — in collaboration with Hyperice, an expert in recovery technology.

“This combination is designed to drive heat deep into the muscle and tissue in the foot and ankle, helping athletes move, perform, and recover naturally much faster. To that end, athlete testers report that their feet and ankles feel freer and lighter — as if they’ve already completed their warm-up before actually starting their usual routine,” the statement adds.

But what exactly is air compression technology?

Unlike the kneading, rolling, or percussive movements of massage chair rollers, the air compression massage technique is a different method for relaxing, improving blood circulation, and rejuvenating your body, said Dr Suman Sharma, physiotherapist, Apollo Clinic, J P Nagar.

The massage help improve blood circulation (Source: Getty Image/Thinkstock)

“Different compartments (called airbags or air compression chambers) inflate and deflate against your body to provide a full-body relaxation experience by improving blood circulation. The inflation and deflation process helps in improving blood circulation along with providing relief from varicose veins, leg edema, swelling, and cramps,” said Dr Sharma.

We’re joining joining forces with @Nike to take warmup and recovery to the next level. We’ve created the Nike x Hyperice boots and vest— wearable technology designed to help athletes perform at their best throughout training and competition.

Learn more: https://t.co/u7qVlcsEs8 pic.twitter.com/QQdl5qxtWG

— Hyperice (@Hyperice) June 21, 2024

Compressed air massage causes an immediate increase in skin blood flow (skin blood flow) but can also have an immediate fall in SBF (simulated body fluid) when treatment is stopped, said Dr Sharma.

“The effect appears to be locally and not centrally mediated and is related to the pressure used. Treatment cools the skin for at least 15 minutes after a 45-minute treatment,” said Dr Sharma.

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