Reviews You Can Rely On

The 7 Best Foam Rollers

We put the best foam rollers from TriggerPoint, Premvida, Brazyn Life, Lululemon, and more through some serious self care and therapy tests to help you find the best
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Best Foam Rollers
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Friday November 3, 2023

Looking for some muscle relief? After researching more than 50 of the top foam rollers on the market, our fitness experts bought the top 15 for this review. We then spent over 60 hours rolling out various muscle groups in a series of rigorous side-by-side tests to find which rollers are the best for various purposes. Foam rolling is a hurts-so-good kind of healing modality, and the myriad of available options can be overwhelming. We assessed ergonomics, topography, foam density, and durability with a keen eye for detail and an obsession for anatomy. Read on to find the perfect foam roller for your needs and budget.

It's important to take care of our bodies from top to bottom, and we're here to help. From muscle massage guns to top-ranked yoga mats, we've tested it all. If you're building out a workout space or therapy room in your home, we also have advice on the best portable home gyms, the top exercise bikes, and more.

Editor's Note: Our foam roller article was updated on November 3, 2023, to include more recommendations alongside our award choices.

Top 15 Product Ratings

Displaying 1 - 5 of 15
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Awards Editors' Choice Award Best Buy Award Top Pick Award Top Pick Award Top Pick Award 
Price $43 List$36.95 at REI$100 List
$99.99 at Amazon
$58 List$70 List
$69.95 at Amazon
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Pros Versatile, comprehensive, affordable, great ergonomicsGreat topography, super durable, affordable, exceptional ergonomicsAwesome topography, great vibration settings, user-friendly, durable, great ergonomicsVersatile, great foam density, uniqueIdeal for travel, excellent topography, great foam density, good ergonomics
Cons Inner roller is less durableMight be too firm for someMore expensive, might be too firm for some peopleMight not be for everyone, cannot use the outer roller without the innerMore expensive than simpler choices
Bottom Line This self-massage kit provides ergonimically-sound tools to roll out all of your sore muscle groupsWe would recommend this roller to most users, from first timers to the most limber among usThis small, perfectly textured, and ergonomic vibrating roller will help loosen your muscles after those hard workoutsThis 2-in-1 roller duo provides a medium-firm touch to work into both large and small muscle groups with equal efficacyWe love that we can pack this beautifully textured roller flat for easy transportation
Rating Categories Elvire Sport Foam R... TriggerPoint Grid Premvida Arrow Vibr... Lululemon Double Ro... Brazyn Morph Collap...
Ergonomics (30%)
9.0
8.0
7.0
8.0
7.0
Foam Density (25%)
8.0
7.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
Topography (25%)
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
9.0
Durability (20%)
7.0
8.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
Specs Elvire Sport Foam R... TriggerPoint Grid Premvida Arrow Vibr... Lululemon Double Ro... Brazyn Morph Collap...
Length 13" 13" 12.75" 20" 14.5"
Weight 34.0 oz 29.1 oz 47.8 oz 27.2 oz 24.6 oz
Material Ethylene Vinyl Acetate EVA foam, hollow core Foam Ethylene vinyl acetate Foam
Height 14" 5.5" 6" 5"6" 5.5"


Best Overall Foam Roller Kit


Elvire Sport Foam Roller Set


81
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Ergonomics 9.0
  • Foam Density 8.0
  • Topography 8.0
  • Durability 7.0
Length: 33" | Density: Firm/Soft
REASONS TO BUY
A comprehensive set
Versatile
Great foam density
Affordable
REASONS TO AVOID
Inner roller is less durable

The Elvire Sport Foam Roller Set is a one-of-a-kind kit with all of the self-massage goodies you need for a comprehensive session. The firm and consistently-textured outer roller snugly holds the softer, more pliable inner roll in place. The foot roller helps you work out underfoot kinks, and the massage ball is a great on-the-go tool for added versatility. We love that this affordable set offers a little bit of everything, from firm and texturized to soft and nurturing. With the added extras, this set of massage tools allows you to massage nearly every muscle in your body. The main roller is 33 inches long and boasts a firm density with a slight amount of give. The inner roller is much softer, almost mushy under body weight, and almost the same length.

It is difficult to find elements to dislike about a self-massage kit that can massage your entire body. Our main complaint is that the inner roller, as comfy as it may be, just isn't as durable. We didn't have any trouble during our battery of testing, but our not-too-sharp fingernails were able to easily dive right into the foam, earning it a lower durability rating. This minor concern aside, if you are in the market for a bundle of self-massage tools that provide versatility without breaking the bank, the Elvire Sport Set is definitely the way to go. If you don't need the whole kit-n-caboodle, the TriggerPoint Grid is a simple foam roller that we think just about anyone will love.

best overall foam roller kit
The Elvire Sport Foam Roller Set includes tools to dig into nearly every body part you could want to roll out.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Best Bang for Your Buck


TriggerPoint Grid


78
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Ergonomics 8.0
  • Foam Density 7.0
  • Topography 8.0
  • Durability 8.0
Length: 13" | Density: Firm
REASONS TO BUY
Multi-density EVA foam
Affordable
Excellent topography
Super durable
REASONS TO AVOID
Less versatile

The TriggerPoint Grid is one of the most popular self-massage tools on the market. We've seen these everywhere, from physical therapists' offices to the gym and the homes of many athletes and weekend warriors. Its rise to fame is due to its versatility and durability as a self-care tool — characteristics we attribute to its unique design. Its popularity also hinges upon its affordable price point, which is a huge asset for many people looking for at-home gear. The TriggerPoint Grid has a hollow core, made possible by .2" of hard plastic tube surrounded by a half-inch of multi-density EVA foam. The topographical features of this roller are modest but just right. The surface texture strikes a perfect middle ground between being super bumpy and completely smooth. Combined with the harder sections of foam and tight diameter of 5.35", these features allow you to pinpoint specific muscle groups. This stellar roller weighs in at 1.8 pounds and is just under 13".

The TriggerPoint's short length made it slightly less versatile and ergonomic than others we tested. Folks with broad shoulders may find it too narrow to roll out their backs, and though it's not soft, those seeking an intense rolling session may not find the TriggerPoint to be quite firm enough. We think it hits just right, but this is completely subjective based on what your body craves. If you want a longer and firmer roller for an affordable price, take a look at the Amazon Basics High-Density roller. Overall though, we think the TriggerPoint Grid is an ideal roller for beginners to even the most experienced athletes.

foam roller - best bang for your buck
The TriggerPoint's unique design allows it to use softer foam than the other "firm" foam rollers thanks to the rigid hollow core. This combination makes this the most well-rounded foam roller.
Credit: Jason Peters

Best Vibrating Roller


Premvida Arrow Vibrating


77
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Ergonomics 7.0
  • Foam Density 8.0
  • Topography 8.0
  • Durability 8.0
Length: 12.75" | Density: Extra Firm
REASONS TO BUY
Simple interface
Powerful vibrations
Very durable
Superb topography
REASONS TO AVOID
Loud
Expensive

The Premvida Arrow Vibrating was our favorite vibrating foam roller we tested. This model boasted the most intuitive interface, so controlling vibration levels is easy using the large, three-position dial. The extra firm EVA foam exterior features dual massage zones to tailor your experience further. The vibrations, combined with the moderate 6" diameter, help to further release tight and stubborn muscle groups. The battery lasted us two hours and 44 minutes on full power during our testing. The charging port is tucked under a removable cover, protecting it from becoming contaminated by sweat, dust, or dog hair that might reside on your floor. Premvida provides a one-year warranty for registered products, which is a great bonus.

There were a couple of things that we didn't like about the Arrow. First, we found it a little undersized for folks with wider backs. Since it is a vibrating roller, we didn't feel as inclined to recline with it horizontally across the back. Of course, it all comes down to individual preference, but we personally don't love the sensation of our spinal cords vibrating. Secondly, we wish there was a built-in battery indicator, as you need to plug it in to find out the current battery level. Our main gripe, however, is the noise it produces. At an average of 75 dBa, it is very noticeable and even distracting. The Arrow is also on the pricier side, but if you are looking for a massage tool that can go deep, we think you'll be glad you paid up for this one. Folks interested in a vibrating roller may also be enticed by the deep tissue massages offered by textured rollers like the TriggerPoint Rush or RumbleRoller Mid Size, which can provide targeted intensity for a lower price.

foam roller - best vibrating roller
The Premvida Arrow was an easy pick for a vibrating roller because of its topography and user-friendly interface.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Expertly Designed Topography


Lululemon Double Roller


76
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Ergonomics 8.0
  • Foam Density 7.0
  • Topography 8.0
  • Durability 7.0
Length: 20" | Density: Medium
REASONS TO BUY
Versatile
Excellent medium-firm foam density
Unique design stimulates muscle tissue differently than smooth rollers
REASONS TO AVOID
Topography might not suit everyone
Cannot use the outer roller without the inner roller

While the color options available for the Lululemon Double Roller are soft in nature, the general feel of the roller strikes a perfect balance between soft and strong. The wavy texture of the outer roller is consistent enough to break up long, lean muscle groups. We love that the surface topography of the outer roller, which is 6 inches in height, is unvaried, as this pattern seems to allow us to dig it with a bit more vigor. Even if you prefer a gentler foam roll, the consistent surface texture makes for a predictable rolling experience, allowing the body to release muscle-guarding tendencies as you go. The 5-inch diameter inner roller is structured so that you target small or large muscle groups with ease. While it may not be your go-to texture for rolling out your IT bands or quads, the right body positioning can lead to the inner roller's bumps feeling like a massage therapist's knuckles on your body. The Double Roller is 20 inches long and constructed of ethylene-vinyl acetate, which is unscented and provides a durable, medium-firm touch.

Though we loved nearly everything about the Double Roller, it has a couple of downsides. Most notably, since the inner roller acts as structural support for the outer roller, the outer tube is unusable without the inner one. Furthermore, the unique surface texture might not be what everyone desires, and this is especially true if you are looking for something larger with a smooth surface, like the 36-inch Amazon Basics High-Density roller. But if you are looking for an updated and unique way to dig into your tight muscles, this versatile 2-in-1 roller will likely be the self-massage tool you find yourself reaching for day after day.

foam roller - expertly designed topography
With the Lululemon Double Roller, you get two uniquely designed rollers to break up tight tissue in multiple ways.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Best for Traveling


Brazyn Morph Collapsible


75
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Ergonomics 7.0
  • Foam Density 7.0
  • Topography 9.0
  • Durability 7.0
Length: 14.5" | Density: Medium
REASONS TO BUY
Packs flat
Easy to set up
Great topography
Forgiving exterior
REASONS TO AVOID
Doesn't roll as smoothly as some competitors

The Brazyn Morph Collapsible utilizes a clever and simple system to pack flat in just a few seconds. We were dubious of the mechanism's stability even though Brazyn claims it will support 350 pounds. In an effort to test this, we jumped on it repeatedly and even laid two adults on it simultaneously, and it didn't buckle. It's constructed from bamboo, recycled aluminum, and recycled foam, and we appreciate the use of recycled materials and renewable resources like bamboo. When this roller is folded flat, it's just over 14" long by 6.5" wide and 1.9" tall. When set up for use, its length felt like the perfect size, wide enough to roll out the upper back effectively while remaining packable. The latex-free EVA foam also inspires confidence in the longevity of this product. Our favorite thing about the Brazyn Collapsible is the versatile topography. The exterior is soft enough for use on more sensitive areas but firm enough to get into the knots in your meaty quads if that is what your body needs.

We found that users new to the Brazyn Morph had a tendency to only partially open the foam roller, and as such, we recommend checking to make sure it's fully deployed. This isn't something that takes away from this roller's ability to loosen knots, but it is something to be aware of. Furthermore, due to the paneled design devised for collapsibility, this model does not roll as smoothly as others we tested. But, if you often find yourself on the go looking for an easy-to-pack roller, we highly recommend adding this one into rotation.

A look at the Brazyn roller in its collapsed state.
A look at the Brazyn roller in its collapsed state.
With a simple pull of the strings, the Brazyn transforms into a...
With a simple pull of the strings, the Brazyn transforms into a fantastic roller.

Best for an Aggressive Self-Massage


RumbleRoller Mid Size


74
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Ergonomics 7.0
  • Foam Density 7.0
  • Topography 7.0
  • Durability 9.0
Length: 22" | Density: Firm
REASONS TO BUY
Super strong topography
Deep massage capabilities
Not quite as gnarly as it looks
Durable
Waterproof exterior
REASONS TO AVOID
Only provides an aggressive massage
Less versatile

When it comes to strength and durability, look no further than the aggressive RumbleRoller Mid Size. A favorite amongst athletes and people who love massages with a side of pain, this intensely textured roller is our go-to when we have serious knots to contend with. We tested the extra-firm option, though there is one that is slightly less rigid. The consistent topography across the RumbleRoller makes learning how to use it a breeze. This roller is definitely a specialty piece of equipment in that it can pretty much only provide a deep massage. But after excessive testing, we grew used to the sensation and can confidently say that the RumbleRoller doesn't feel quite as aggressive as it looks. We love that this roller has multiple size options, all of which are latex-free and waterproof.

The RumbleRoller is not the roller we recommend for beginners because of the intensity of its protrusions. Our preference would be to have this roller and a softer, secondary roller to round out our massage tool lineup. The more aggressive topography also takes away from this roller's versatility. If you want a do-it-all foam roller, the RumbleRoller isn't the best option because it is hard to dial back the intensity. But if you want a roller that is capable of accessing your deepest knots, this is a great choice for you. We also liked the wavy topography of the TriggerPoint Rush, which is a bit less intense.

foam roller - best for an aggressive self-massage
The RumbleRoller is incredible if a deep tissue massaging experience is what you're after.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Most Unique Roller


Chirp Wheel+ 6"


70
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Ergonomics 7.0
  • Foam Density 7.0
  • Topography 7.0
  • Durability 7.0
Length: 6" | Density: Soft
REASONS TO BUY
Multiple applications
Great ergonomics
Durable
REASONS TO AVOID
Less popular design
Won't replace a traditional roller

The Chirp Wheel+ 6" is one of the more interesting self-massage devices in our review. We tested the 6-inch wheel, which is a hollow piece of hard plastic covered in EVA foam. The compact size makes this unique device easier to tote around than many of the typical foam rollers we tested. While there are many size options available, we found that the 6-inch size crossed over from being a yoga wheel to being used as a foam roller with ease. Though it took some time, we found we could roll out popular locations like our IT bands and calves. The durability of the inner tube and the outer foam is exceptional, with the outer foam being tough in the face of abrasions and the occasional clawed dog paw.

Though we fell in love with many of the applications of the Chirp Wheel, it won't take the place of a traditional roller in some ways. While many body parts are pretty accessible with this wheel, some rolling is best done with a standard-sized roller. We recommend this yoga wheel to anyone looking to expand their fitness gear arsenal, but we hesitate to recommend it to beginners who want to learn about foam rolling. If you are just getting into foam rolling, there are more user-friendly options out there, like the TriggerPoint Grid or even the no-fuss Amazon Basics High Density. But if you want a massage tool that will introduce you to new self-massage positions, we recommend giving the Chirp Wheel a try.

foam roller - the chirp wheel is a great tool for getting into the fascia...
The Chirp Wheel is a great tool for getting into the fascia surrounding the spine.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Compare Products

select up to 5 products to compare
Score Product Price
81
Elvire Sport Foam Roller Set
Best Overall Foam Roller Kit
$43
Editors' Choice Award
78
TriggerPoint Grid
Best Bang for Your Buck
$37
Best Buy Award
77
Premvida Arrow Vibrating
Best Vibrating Roller
$100
Top Pick Award
76
Lululemon Double Roller
Expertly Designed Topography
$58
Top Pick Award
75
Brazyn Morph Collapsible
Best for Traveling
$70
Top Pick Award
75
TriggerPoint Rush
$48
74
RumbleRoller Mid Size
Best for an Aggressive Self-Massage
$65
Top Pick Award
71
TriggerPoint Core
$23
71
321Strong Medium Density
$45
70
Chirp Wheel+ 6"
Most Unique Roller
$45
Top Pick Award
66
Amazon Basics High-Density
$22
63
Yes4All Extra Firm EPP
$15
63
ProsourceFit High Density
$17
60
Hyperice Vyper 3
$199
57
OPTP Pro-Roller Soft
$29

foam roller - we love the gentle give and satisfying feel of an evenly-textured...
We love the gentle give and satisfying feel of an evenly-textured roller.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Why You Should Trust Us


We considered over 60 rollers before buying the top contenders to test. We had skiers, mountain bikers, runners, and rock climbers try these rollers for dozens of hours. Utilizing a consistent, full-body rolling routine to target most major muscle groups gave us a full picture of each model's performance. We also consulted personal trainers and physical therapists to understand how they use foam rollers with different clients. There are many factors to consider in choosing the right roller for you: length, ergonomics, topography, foam density, durability, and other features. For scoring, we broke our tests into four metrics:
  • Ergonomics (30% of overall score weighting)
  • Foam Density (25% weighting)
  • Topography (25% weighting)
  • Durability (20% weighting)

Ally Arcuri leads this review armed with a lot of therapeutic exercise knowledge. Ally worked in a physical therapy clinic in South Lake Tahoe for 6 years before relocating to San Luis Obispo to encourage people through therapeutic exercise routines. She is an accomplished runner, professional yoga teacher, and an overall fitness enthusiast with a degree in exercise kinesiology. She believes that the key to physical success lies in balancing strength, endurance, and mobility.

Ally is backed up by Jason Peters, who has spent years training as a national-level rock climber. After his competition career, he transitioned into training youth athletes. With such strenuous training programs, recovery is a huge component of staying healthy. Foam rolling is a key element to Jason's recovery program, and he has spent hundreds of hours working with foam rollers.

We love this 2-in-1 roller by Lululemon.
We love this 2-in-1 roller by Lululemon.
The Arrow&#039;s firm foam mixed with its strong vibrations make this a...
The Arrow's firm foam mixed with its strong vibrations make this a painful but effective tool.
For some muscle groups, the vibrating rollers needed to be turned...
For some muscle groups, the vibrating rollers needed to be turned off to be functional.

Analysis and Test Results


Your experience level and intended use will help you define which of these tools is best for you. Be honest with yourself about what you need in a roller. Though there are many uses for these tools, the most common is simply as a self-massage aid. As your muscles grow tight after a hard workout or just sleeping a bit funny, it is recommended that you roll them out to help with recovery and breaking up fascial adhesions. You can also use these versatile tools as balance trainers or as general home exercise equipment. All in all, foam rollers are fairly inexpensive tools that offer great returns to almost everyone who employs them.


Value


We always purchase our gear at full price and test it without considering the cost, and we revisit the price only once we have scored each item across our board of metrics. This helps us ensure that we provide unbiased, relevant information to you.

We have fallen in love with the versatility and durability of rigid...
We have fallen in love with the versatility and durability of rigid rolls encased in medium-firm density foam.
This soft roller by OTPT offers a restorative self-massage experience.
This soft roller by OTPT offers a restorative self-massage experience.

For us, durability is also an important aspect of what makes a high-value product. It doesn't seem worth it to spend your hard-earned money on a foam roller or anything else that isn't going to hold up through a variety of imposed demands. With foam rollers, this is actually a fairly tricky thing to assess. Some rollers are super soft and offer a more beginner-friendly approach to rolling. However, those products often do not hold up because they lack the foam density of burlier options. However, they do tend to be a bit less expensive because of the simple support.

foam roller - the amazon basics foam roller is one of our favorite values.
The Amazon Basics foam roller is one of our favorite values.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

The Elvire Sport Foam Roller Set is a high-value choice. It's extremely versatile, which is important when it comes to value — we love knowing that we are spending our money on items that can be employed in various ways. In that vein, the Elvire Set knocks it out of the park because the otherwise simple roller comes with many other self-care tools.

foam roller - this versatile set by elvire is a great value because of how...
This versatile set by Elvire is a great value because of how comprehensive the whole set up is.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

The high-scoring TriggerPoint Grid is also of tremendous value. It is highly durable and very effective in a multitude of ways. This is one of our highest-scoring rollers and boasts an accessible price tag, impressive topography, and above-average versatility. We also really like the 321Strong Medium Density roller, which is much more aggressively textured than some, but its soft touch makes it a more versatile option.

foam roller - the 321strong roller is a great value because of its versatility.
The 321Strong roller is a great value because of its versatility.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Vibrating rollers are pricier than standard foam options, which makes sense. The Hyperice Vyper 3 is the most expensive roller we tested, but it offers a really user-friendly interface and app connectivity to help keep you moving. The app provides guided rolling sessions and an option to track your progress, which is unlike the other vibrating rollers we have tested. If you like to pay up for tech, the value of something like this will likely appeal to you. If you'd rather just have a solid vibrating roller without as many bells and whistles but for half the price of the Vyper, check out the Premvida Arrow.

foam roller - the rubber banding around the edges of the vyper 3 help it stick to...
The rubber banding around the edges of the Vyper 3 help it stick to the ground or mat beneath you. This is especially helpful as vibrating rollers have a tendency to vibrate away from you when they aren't weighted.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

We love using the vibrating rollers on big muscle groups like our quads. Overall though, these rollers don't score as high because they lack the versatility of non-vibrating options. They tend to be significantly more rigid and less comfortable for restorative exercises. While the vibrations feel nice on large muscle groups, the sensation doesn't consistently feel good throughout the entire body. If you want a device that doubles as a massage gun and a roller, a vibrating roller might be for you. When viewed through the lens of therapeutic exercises, the vibrating rollers seem more gimmicky and expensive than anything else. All told, we enjoyed the sensations of some of them but ultimately prefer a more back-to-basics approach to self-massage.

foam roller - the surface texture and firmness of the premvida roller make it...
The surface texture and firmness of the Premvida roller make it aggressive even before you turn the vibration settings to high.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Ergonomics


Ergonomics is the science of ensuring that something is designed so human bodies can use it effectively and safely — the relationship between an object and a human. The ergonomics of a foam roller are the most important factor when it comes to using them, which is why we chose to weight this metric more heavily than the others.


To determine the ergonomic fortitude of each roller, we tested each one at length on specific body parts. We took notes about how our bodies felt as they melted over the shapes of the rollers. We assessed how well each roller could penetrate our tissues to get deep into our fascia. The easier it was to assess and loosen muscle groups across the board, the higher the roller scored in this category. It's a bit unfair, but the Elvire Roller Set easily ran away with the high score here. Because it is a set comprised of many different tools, you're pretty much guaranteed to have the right-shaped tool for whatever tight spot you want to address.

foam roller - the best rollers are the ones that offer good ergonomics for...
The best rollers are the ones that offer good ergonomics for multiple body parts.
Credit: Ally Arcuri


The TriggerPoint Grid offers great ergonomics thanks to its size and shape. These two elements combine to make this roller excellent for almost any body part you would want to roll out. On the flip side, more unique rollers tend to have less wide-reaching ergonomic properties. Throughout our testing, we found that the simple rollers, such as the 321Strong, Amazon Basics, and TriggerPoint Rush, offered better ergonomics than more niche options like the vibrating rollers.

foam roller - we love the ergonomic prowess of the textured yet simple...
We love the ergonomic prowess of the textured yet simple TriggerPoint Rush.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

We really enjoyed the Lululemon Double Roller. Initially, we expected to dislike this unique design, but the consistency of the topography won us over. It's more penetrative than a smooth roller but without being overly aggressive. The TriggerPoint Core is another high scorer, thanks to its texture and size. It's small enough to get into smaller muscle groups but strong enough to take whatever you throw at it.

foam roller - the unique design of the lululemon double roller feels great and...
The unique design of the Lululemon Double Roller feels great and offers a lot of versatility.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Foam Density


Foam density is another key factor in the feel of your roller. Generally, the softer the foam, the more gentle your foam roller will be, though exceptions exist. The downside to soft foam is that it tends to break down faster and will need to be replaced sooner.


The Elvire scored major points in this metric. This set has a two-in-one roller that offers a firm and evenly-textured outer and a smooth, soft inner roll. Though each component offers a divergent specialty, either can be used comfortably across a multitude of body parts.

foam roller - the soft inner roller of the elvire offers a more relaxing touch...
The soft inner roller of the Elvire offers a more relaxing touch than its tough exterior roll.
Credit: Ally Arcuri


We think the Brazyn Life Morph, Lululemon Double Roller, and the 321Strong are the best densities for most people. The TriggerPoint Grid and TriggerPoint Rush are a little firmer than the three rollers listed above. We found the Grid and the Rush a bit too firm for a beginner's first couple of rolling sessions, but these rollers offer some of the most versatile of densities. Much like the casing of the Chirp Wheel, the foam is actually one of the softest we tested, but there is not much of it before getting to the rigid inner tube. This helps you manipulate your body weight on the roller to get the experience you need most. The TriggerPoint Core is a great option if you want something more compact than the Grid and also a bit more beginner-friendly. Instead of a rigid tube, the Core is solid foam, offering a gentler balance.

foam roller - the medium-soft foam density of the triggerpoint core roller is the...
The medium-soft foam density of the TriggerPoint Core roller is the perfect balance of softness and strength when it comes to areas that might be a bit tender.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

The firmest roller in our testing is the vibrating Premvida Arrow. Is it like rolling on a PVC pipe? Not quite, but it's certainly not gentle. A step softer than that is the Hyperice Vyper 3, another vibrating option. However, the slightly softer surface doesn't feel that way if you turn the vibrations up too high. In general, vibrating rollers tend to be a lot harder because of what's needed to execute the technological demands of the motor. Even those covered in soft foam have less give because of how hard their centers are. The Vyper 3 is a high-performing and notably firm vibrating roller. The three vibration settings vary, and they all feel pretty great when in motion. However, it is incredibly firm when used with no vibration, as the vibrations soften the intensity by quite a bit. Overall, we are not totally stoked by the lack of versatility offered by the Vyper when compared to the interesting topography of the Premvida.

foam roller - the simplicity of the vyper 3 interface makes it a very...
The simplicity of the Vyper 3 interface makes it a very user-friendly vibrating roller.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

The ProsourceFit High Density and Amazon Basics High-Density have strong but not too dense foam for easy and simple rolling. Both offer a less aggressive touch but perform relatively well in terms of durability. The Prosource roller might not be the most durable on the market, but don't let that deter you if you need something gentler for recovery or to help you work up to something firmer on particularly tender areas.

foam roller - with the right roller, foam rolling can be both an excruciating...
With the right roller, foam rolling can be both an excruciating experience and a therapeutic one.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Topography


Topography refers to the ridges, grooves, and knobs that the surface of the roam roller features. Depending on your needs and preferences, this can be pretty interesting to experiment with, and if you can afford it, it's nice to have several options in your self-care kit. Ultimately, which topography is right for you all depends on how deep of a massage you are looking for. If you have tight muscles and are just working your way into your foam rolling journey, we recommend starting out with a medium-density foam roller with smooth topographical features. Knobs and textures can dig deep into tight fascia, but sometimes this can be too painful if you're new to rolling.


If you think that a smooth roller might be too smooth and a harder, grooved roller might be too much, fear not — we have some options for you, Goldilocks! Our favorite middle-of-the-road roller, topographically speaking, is the Brazyn Morph Collapsible. It offers a cohesively textured surface and a bit of squish to truly split the difference between the rollers with thick knobs versus no knobs. Overall, this option provided us with everything we wanted out of a foam roller. The thumb-print-style divets can penetrate into sore muscles, but if you lighten your pressure, you can get by with a softer self-massage experience.

foam roller - it&#039;s highly personal, but we love the surface texture on the brazyn...
It's highly personal, but we love the surface texture on the Brazyn Morph.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

The TriggerPoint Grid and TriggerPoint Rush offer balanced rolling experiences, too. The modest topography helps find those deeper knots while maintaining its standing as a foam roller you'll want to use daily. The gentle features mixed with multi-density foam and a rigid hollow core make it one of the more versatile rollers we tested.

foam roller - while the topography is by no means extreme, the hollow-core and...
While the topography is by no means extreme, the hollow-core and multi-density foam of the Grid allow you to dig in or back off depending on what your body needs in that particular session.
Credit: Jason Peters

If you're seeking something with a bit more oomph, we recommend the RumbleRoller. The topography of this roller is rugged enough to provide a deep tissue, massage-like experience. The knobs generally feel like strong knuckles that dig into your tender bits in a hurt-so-good way.

foam roller - a comparative look at the most prominent knobs (rumbleroller) versus...
A comparative look at the most prominent knobs (RumbleRoller) versus the least (OPTP Pro-Roller Soft).
Credit: Ally Arcuri

The varied topography of the 321Strong, much like the Lululemon roller, is great for digging into smaller muscle groups or areas where you need more pinpointed attention. Both of these rollers strike the perfect balance between aggressive and forgiving, making them a great choice for rolling out perpetually sore muscles. The chemical-free EVA foam of the 321 that makes up the 3D surface is set up to mimic the feeling of a massage therapist's hands.

foam roller - the soft yet strong texture of the 321 roller is great for full-body...
The soft yet strong texture of the 321 roller is great for full-body rolling.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

For beginners, it is important to find the balance between a bit of give and a mushy, worthless roller. This is often best found in a smoother, simpler topography. We really enjoyed the simplicity of the Amazon Basics roller, and we think you'll like it too, especially if smooth topography is more your speed.

foam roller - the smooth texture and extra length makes the amazonbasics roller...
The smooth texture and extra length makes the AmazonBasics roller great for beginners and for home workouts.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

The TriggerPoint Core stands out in this metric as well. The balance between the gentle-but-strong lugs and the foam density feels perfect. The topography is interesting enough for advanced foam rolling fiends to enjoy but not so firm or varied to turn off those new to foam rolling.

The wavy texture and gentle squish of the Lululemon roller feel...
The wavy texture and gentle squish of the Lululemon roller feel great along the spinal muscles.
Though the TriggerPoint Core is smaller, the surface texture is...
Though the TriggerPoint Core is smaller, the surface texture is exactly what we want when it comes to digging into the quadriceps.

We would be remiss not to mention the softest, squishiest roller in our collection — the OPTP Pro-Roller Soft. With the word "soft" in the title, you know this roller is bound to give you a therapeutic rolling experience. While it wasn't a high-scoring model, the OPTP roller is comfortable and useful on days when only the gentlest touch will do. This roller became our go-to during trail marathon training, a grueling and intense season that culminated in a plethora of agonizingly sore muscles.

foam roller - the soft squish of the optop pro-roller soft is fantastic after a...
The soft squish of the OPTOP Pro-Roller Soft is fantastic after a grueling workout.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Durability


In our experience, durability goes hand-in-hand with value. Shelling out cold, hard cash for gear and watching it fall apart or degrade after a few uses doesn't feel good. With this in mind, we took our collection of foam rollers through a rigorous battery of tests to determine how durable they have the potential to be.


In addition to using these foam rollers for standard rolling purposes, we imposed heftier demands to see what these massage tools are truly made of. As you may expect, the softer, less dense rollers are more susceptible to abrasions, and in general, the vibrating rollers are coated in heartier, denser foam. The harder it was to mar each surface, the higher the roller scored in this category.

foam roller - a look at how not durable some of the softer materials can be.
A look at how not durable some of the softer materials can be.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

The TriggerPoint Grid and Rush were some of the most durable and resilient models, standing up to the weight of our bodies as well as sharp fingernails. We also love the durability of the foam that coats the Brayzn Morph Collapsible. The foam coating of this travel-friendly roller is tougher than we expected, with no noticeable wear and tear after our testing regimen. The RumbleRoller took the top spot, though — this knobby and burly roller is ready for the long haul.

The Premvida Arrow also earned high marks in the durability department. The Arrow is the Navy Seal of foam rollers — tougher than most, doesn't complain under pressure, and promotes deep muscular loosening. The control panel is also impressive; we've commonly seen small buttons and finicky toggle switches to change settings on the vibrating rollers. But the Arrow's mechanism is a basic rotating switch that feels strong beneath the fingers.

foam roller - vibrating rollers tend to be a bit more durable because of how hefty...
Vibrating rollers tend to be a bit more durable because of how hefty the vibrating technology inside of each is.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Conclusion


After hours of foam rolling for this review, we're feeling more limber and ready to train. Now it's time for you to consider your needs for your next massage tool purchase. You'll need to determine what kind of ergonomic support suits you best, what topography style will best serve your muscle groups, and how much foam density you'd like. Once you figure those things out, deciding and purchasing a tool that will serve you for years to come becomes much easier.

Ally Arcuri and Jason Peters