Hardly anything is as exhausting as proper recovery. At least when you want to go full throttle again the next day after a strenuous tour. Removing the body's own "waste products" means high performance for the body. Reduce lactic acid levels. Loosen hardening and adhesions in the fasciae. All of this is too much for a stressed body and requires support. For example, through kneading by a physiotherapist. Or by using a fascia roll, which is highly efficient but also tedious to use.
The Reboots are something like a mixture of massage device and fascia roll to put on. They knead the legs and stimulate the removal of the body's own metabolic products while you sit comfortably on the sofa. Some time ago, we were able to convince ourselves of the function of the Reboots One, the classic, boot-like version with eight air chambers each. Now there is a new version in the shape of trousers that massages the buttocks as well as the legs. Also new: the battery-operated control unit, which allows the reboots to be used independently of power sockets.
Small battery unit and easy operation
Practical: The rechargeable battery version is significantly smaller and lighter than the normal (and also available) control unit, which is designed exclusively for use with stretchers. Barely bigger than a lunch box, it fits into any travelling bag. Operation is intuitive as usual and can be done without looking at the operating instructions. Time, compression pressure and type of massage are as easy to set as the volume or track selection on a stereo system.
Slipping into the trousers, on the other hand, is a little more awkward than with the boot version. Once you're in, you can sit back, relax and let the air chambers do their work. In contrast to the reboots boots, which have eight air chambers each, the trousers only have six chambers per leg. Chamber by chamber, the pressure works its way upwards, which feels as relaxing as if the gripping hands of a masseur were kneading the tiredness out of your legs.
Depending on the sitting position, the last air chamber can be a little uncomfortable. If the upper body is in an upright position, such as when watching TV, the air chamber can squeeze the stomach. However, this is not a problem, as each individual air chamber can be deactivated or activated at the touch of a button. If you are sitting, simply switch off the bum/belly chamber.
Quiet compressor, but high price
Also top: the compressor works so quietly that you can watch the telly without turning up the volume. It hums, it hisses. But just quiet and muffled enough not to be annoying or to risk stress with your flatmates. Once the programme, which lasts a maximum of 30 minutes, is over, your legs actually feel freer and more relaxed.
The battery runs for up to three hours, although we had the impression during the test that the massage power decreases slightly as the battery level drops. As soon as the control unit is connected to the power supply, the air chambers are noticeably more powerful again. If you want to use the reboots at home or in a hotel anyway, you can still opt for the much cheaper control unit with mains connection only.
Pros and cons: Reboots Go Recovery Pants
+ good massage effect
+ noticeably looser legs
+ simple operation
+ quiet operating noise
+ Can be used anywhere
+ possibility to test (information on manufacturer's website)
- Price
- limited use when seated (stomach is squeezed)
Conclusion: The Reboots Go Recovery Pants are the perfect tool for boosting leg recovery after a tough tour. They are also perfect for relaxing after a hard day's work. The price of up to 989 euros makes them particularly interesting for racers who strive for the last per cent. However, if you have financial leeway, you can also consider a purchase without sporting ambitions. For example, to loosen up those heavy legs after a long day at the office. If the price of the Reboots set is too expensive, you can opt for the tried and tested fascia roll. It costs just under 30 euros, has a similar effect, but is much more demanding on the user.
