Foam rollers are amazing tools that have just about changed all of our lives. They’re not only great for working out tight muscle knots; they’re also great relaxation tools AND help prevent stiffness and pain.
How To Choose The Best Foam Cylinder
Foam rollers differ tremendously from one model and make to another. They are available in different shapes and sizes, and they come out I different firmness levels and styles to suit individual preferences.
The best foam cylinders aren’t rated on their firmness alone. Their quality, cost and their purpose also play a big role. EVA foam rollers are the best quality and probably also the most popular. EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) rollers are top-tier competitors since they’re softer than regular foam, which means they perfectly cater to beginners and those with special needs.
Enough with the small talk. Let’s get to the real reason you’re still reading. We’ve rounded up the best foam cylinder rollers on the market today to help you spot the best from the rest.
Top 5 Best Foam Cylinder
SPRI Super High Density Foam Roller
Made with high quality materials, the foam cylinder roller from SPRI is ultra-rigid and provides you with maximum firmness. It was made with durability in mind and will hold up to even to most rigorous of foam rolling applications.
The Pros
- It’s great for targeting large muscle groups
- It’s very durable
- It’s very versatile
The Cons
- It’s not very portable
SPRI EVA Foam Roller
Another SPRI roller, but with the difference being the EVA foam instead of compressed Styrofoam as you’d find in the Super High Density Roller. EVA foam is great for maintaining its shape even after rigorous and continuous usage. It’s also more hygienic since bacteria and moisture can’t penetrate the surface and since it has a non-porous surface, this roller is easy to clean.
The Pros
- Made with high quality EVA foam
- Will withstand even the most rigorous of applications
- It’s affordable
The Cons
- The roller has a very annoying seam in the material that can irritate some users
- Since it’s so dense, this is not a beginner’s roller
Gaiam Muscle Therapy Foam Roller
Measuring in at a mere 18 inches long, this portable roller is great for working the glutes, IT band and hamstrings. It’s not as dense as most other foam rollers, so it’s a great beginner’s tool and for those with special needs. We like it for its unique look and the fact that’s its super portable.
The Pros
- It’s portable
- It’s suitable for beginners with the softer foam
- It comes with a great instructional DVD
The Cons
- Larger framed people might have an issue with the small length of the Gaiam roller
OPTP Pro-Roller
OPTP has been a leader in the foam roller industry for as long as the name has been around, which is why one of their products is always bound to land a top spot in roller related business. The Pro-Roller measures in at 36 inches long and offers maximum firmness that will give little to none with full body weigh applications. It’s great for working large muscle groups and helps to get rid of knots and tension spots that less-firm rollers would not be able to do.
The Pros
- It’s Its very firm
- It’s super durable
- It’s made with high quality materials that will withstand heavy and frequent use
The Cons
- The firmness isn’t suitable for all individuals
j/Fit High Density EVA Roller
The j/Fit roller is heat sealed and made with high quality EVA foam that won’t leave you disappointed in your purchase. It’s one of the most durable rollers currently on the market and will withstand heavy and consistent use. These rollers are available in 4 sizes; 12, 18, 24 and 36 inch. Adding a little more length adds to the total of your roller’s price tag, but these rollers are still very affordable considering the quality and value they bring to the table.
The Pros
- It’s made with high quality materials that won’t lose their shape over time
- It’s very durable
- The different sizes available ensures you can invest in the most appropriate roller for your individual needs
The Cons
- The firmness isn’t suitable for beginners
Final Thoughts
We’ve shown you 5 of the best foam cylinder rollers on the market today. Remember that what works for one person might feel like torture to another, so always make sure that you’re able to test drive the roller you’re considering before making the plunge.
We’ve covered a lot of ground friends, from the best Pilates Foam Rollers to the best Large Foam Rollers, the Best Foam Rollers and even foam rolling 101 with our What is foam rolling piece.
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