When looking for a calf stretchers, think about if the design will allow you to achieve a deep stretch in the proper places. It should also be durable, comfy, and secure.
We tested dozens of market products and rated them based on size, materials, portability, pricing, and other factors.
Rockers, inclines, straps, slant boards, and foam rollers are examples of calf stretching equipment.
Tight calves can be caused by being on your feet all day, sitting for lengthy periods at a desk, and wearing unsupportive shoes. While your calves may not be a regular part of your stretching practice, it’s crucial to keep them relaxed because tight calves have a limited range of motion. Calf limitation reduces mobility as well as strength, power, and endurance.
Keeping your calves active and in good shape also aids in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, as well as lowering your chance of injury.
However, if manual stretches are too difficult to hold on your own. Experts believe a calf stretcher can assist in keeping your muscles extended for longer, providing for a secure, relaxed stretch.
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Out Top Choice: ProStretch The Original Calf Stretcher and Foot Rocker *
Pros
- anti-slip surface and cushions
- APMA Acceptance Seal
- Compact
Cons
- Balance and stability are required
- Some people may find it too small
It has an ergonomic design that relieves plantar fasciitis pain, Achilles tendinitis, shin splints, and more. We love that it received the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance, which means that a group of APMA podiatrists assessed that it promotes optimal foot health. This rocker is simple yet effective, manufactured of robust plastic, and has a weight capability of 250 pounds.
This is one of those calf stretchers that is small and compact, making it easy to store between usage. Although it demands some balance and stability, this stretcher includes crucial safety features for easy stretching. Non-slip pads secure the rocker, while curved heel cradles and traction give you more control.
However, because it only fits men’s size 12 feet, it may be too small for some people. ProStretch also has a double rocker to stretch both calves at the same time—just keep in mind that it takes more balance and coordination.
At the time of publication, the price was $23.50
Best Price: Nooncrazypro Slant Board *
Pros
- Lightweight
- It may be adjusted to five different angles
Cons
- Large weight capacity
- It’s possible to move around
We recommend this unit for gentle to deep stretching if you’re on a budget. Changing the angle from 8.5 to 34 degrees is simple by stacking the boards. Turn them around, and they’re a terrific tool for strength and conditioning, as well as honing the “knee-over-toe” technique, which promotes superior depth while lifting weights without stressing your knees.
I like the Nooncrazy slant board since it offers varied ranges for different people’s mobility. It’s also lightweight and portable.
Furthermore, this set has a weight capacity of 480 pounds, which is 180 pounds higher than CalfPro’s Deep Calf Stretcher Slant Board, another of our top selections. They’re biodegradable, recyclable, and come with a one-year warranty, which we appreciate. Users have found that placing these blocks against a wall or on a sticky surface (such as a carpet or an exercise mat) helps them avoid slipping during deep stretches.
At the time of publication, the price was $19.26
The Most Effective Foam Roller: Trigger Point Performance GRID 1.0 *
Pros
- The hollow core
- Maximum weight capacity
- Padding with a textured surface
Cons
- Might be too short for some
Trigger Point’s GRID 1.0 Foam Roller is intended to help you realize the benefits of self-myofascial release (SMR), a massage method commonly utilized by specialists to increase mobility. SMR with a foam roller has been demonstrated to reduce pain and increase muscle activation—not just in your calves but throughout your body.
We enjoy how this roller has a lot of padding while yet being able to get into tight knots. The grooved texture aids in the release of tight areas and lets you adjust the amount of pressure you apply when stretching. We also like how the short length makes it easy to manipulate when training your calves or other muscle regions. However, the ideal length for a foam roller is subjective, so this one may be too short for some.
The Grid Roller is built to last due to a hollow, reinforced core and a weight capacity of 500 pounds. This is another one of those calf stretchers that is compact, light, but very sturdy. It fits conveniently in a closet or behind furniture and is ideal for tiny settings. You can also utilize the hollow core to store smaller items such as towels, resistance bands, or jump ropes.
At the time of publication, the price was $35.
The Best Strap: OPTP Stretch Out Strap *
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Portable
- Includes a library of books and videos
Cons
- There is no cushioning.
OPTP’s The Original Stretch Out Strap is the ideal strap, in our opinion, because it can be used to stretch out everything from your calves to your hamstrings. The strap, which is popular among runners, dancers, and yoga studios, works by delivering a deep, passive self-stretch across the entire back of the leg.
With nearly 6 feet of slack and 10 loops to hold, this one is suitable for both long and short legs. It also features 10 loops for easy stretching, which is more than most yoga straps have. This product comes with a book as well as a video library with over 30 stretches to get you started.
While the Stretch Out Strap lacks padding, it is the most portable calf stretcher on our list, making it ideal for stretching at the gym or on the road. It’s convenient, affordable, and simple to use: all characteristics of a high-quality, long-lasting calf stretcher.
At the time of publication, the price was $16.
Best incline or slant board: Slant Board Guy Slant Board *
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-slip
- Maximum weight capacity
Cons
- It is not adjustable.
- Expensive
Despite the fact that we recommend several incline boards on our list, Slant Board is our favorite. It’s straightforward and durable. Its robust, reinforced center and wooden structure allow it to withstand more weight than most foam boards (such as Nooncrazy’s Slant Board).
Even so, at just over 6 pounds, it’s light and easy to transport. We particularly enjoy how the board’s surface is wrapped in tough, non-slip tape for a secure grasp while stretching or lifting weights.
While it isn’t adjustable, the sleek design of this board makes storing a breeze. If you’re a weightlifter or looking to improve your mobility, flexibility, or knee health, we believe this slant board is well worth the premium price.
At the time of publication, the price was $125.
The Best Rocker: Hammacher Schlemmer Plantar Fasciitis Relief Rocker *
Pros
- Adjustable heel cradle
- Lifetime warranty
- Non-slip Cons
Cons
- Stretches only one calf at a time
While we recommend ProStretch’s The Original Calf Stretcher and Foot Rocker. However, Hammacher Schlemmer’s The Plantar Fasciitis Relief Rocker is our top option for an advanced rocker that can still deliver an excellent stretch as your feet and legs grow more flexible.
Unlike the ProStretch rocker, the deep V form of this rocker includes an adjustable heel cradle to help deepen your stretch with time. We also enjoy the optional, angled toe wedge5, which can be particularly beneficial for relieving plantar fascia pain. This rocker also fits feet up to size 14 (two sizes larger than the ProStretch).
This rocker comes with a handbook and a five-minute stretching program to make stretching easier. Although it can only stretch one calf at a time, its sturdy construction and non-slip padding make it a safe solution for individuals who struggle with balance. This rocker is additionally distinguished by a lifetime warranty.
At the time of publication, the price was $50.
Best for Achilles Tendonitis: DMoose Calf Stretcher & Foot Stretcher *
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Foot cradle that is both comfortable and functional
Cons
- The strap is easy to grab
- Smaller feet may find it too big
We enjoy DMoose’s method for carefully extending your Achilles tendon. Thanks to a soft neoprene foot cradle and an easy-to-hold strap with six loops.
This stretcher is one of those calf stretchers that is lightweight, compact, and portable, weighing only a few ozs. It comes in three colors or in sets of two, and it comes with a beginner’s stretch and workout instruction.
Some consumers have complained that this stretcher isn’t as adaptable as others on our list. If you have small feet, consider wearing thick socks or experimenting with a different strap, such as OPTP’s The Original Stretch Out Strap.
At the time of publication, the price was $16.
One of the Best Collapsible Calf Stretchers:CalfPro Deep Calf Stretcher *
pros
- It can be worn with or without shoes.
- Heel cradle with padding
- Slip-resistant surface
Cons
- Expensive
If you’re short on room, we recommend CalfPRO’s folding slant board. We enjoy the innovative design of this plastic stretcher, which has a lever that you pull up to lock the board into an inclination. You can then place the board against a door frame or a wall and adjust the stretch with your own body weight.
For safety, the surface includes non-slip treads. Although the stretcher has no grips on the bottom, CalfPRO now provides a bundle that includes a training mat and a foam roller for improved traction (and more stretching choices).
This unit is one of the more expensive solutions on our list, but we believe the convenience of its construction is a fair trade-off. You can use this equipment with or without shoes.
At the time of publication, the price was $12.
Best Plantar Fasciitis: Hammacher Schlemmer The 5 Exercises Plantar Fasciitis Trainer *
Pros
- Multiple applications
- The removable roller can be used either hot or cold
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Expensive
The 5 Exercises from Hammacher Schlemmer is a type of “reverse rocker” with a 2-in-1 design. Our one of the best calf stretchers for plantar fasciitis pain is the Trainer.
This was designed by a podiatric specialist and surgeon and has five distinct ways to work out. But we especially like the removable soapstone roller, which can be heated in boiling water or frozen for therapeutic comfort. A set of five massage rings comes with this product, which may be slipped onto the roller to treat the arch of your foot more effectively.
Despite the initial outlay, we were won over by this stretcher’s distinctive design and lifetime warranty.
At the time of publication, the price was $100.
Click Here to Read Part 2 of Calf Stretchers