Pro-Tec AthleticsHollow Core Smooth Foam Roller, Blue

This is just what I needed for travel. It’s hollow, so you can pack things inside to save space in your luggage. It’s very firm, but just right for stretching out my back and relieving tech neck pain and stiffness in the hotel at night after a long day sitting at a computer.

I bought it as most probably did as used by the author of the Bible of back pain, Christopher Kidowski. I looked for a cheaper version for a long time and finally gave up. Definitely over priced but I couldn’t find anything cheaper. As for the use, it is surprisingly uncomfortable and harder to roll up and down on your back then you might think. You need a surface that your feet can really grip on so carpet does not work. As a medical doctor, I believe his theory has some merit and I’m willing to try it. He is correct that all the bodies connective tissue is connected and they just don’t teach that in medical school the way he presents it. And it is certainly true that you can develop contractures and tight spots/trigger points in muscles and joints. Currently I have no disc problems but just arthritis in the posterior elements of the spine. My only pain now is in one SI joint, and I’m really hoping this will help because I have to wear a back brace to get through the day. My other comments are about the ball exercises so I will put them under my lacrosse ball purchase.

Only wanted to spend $20 but glad I went for this one. The first one I got was from another manufacturer, it had spikes on it and was way too painful. (I had to return it.) This one is a good pain. It feels like it's working and like it will last. Also not too cumbersome to travel with.

Fits in a carry on and takes up very little cargo space since it is hollow. Wide enough to roll all major muscles. Perfect for a week long mountain biking trip. Small size is actually better than the 4’ foam one I have. It’s quick and easy to use anywhere and is now my go-to even when I’m home.

I used to have a back roller with a smooth foam pad and after 10 years, it degraded so much we had to get rid of it. Lately, the only rollers I've been able to find (and bought) have been the ones with a corrugated like surface which is a lot harder on the back. Glad to have found this one which, while it's not the same as the one we used to have, it works great for our backs.

I much prefer this over my cheaper foam roller. It’s great size for me, but I have narrow shoulders. I like that it’s hallow and light enough to easily take on trips.

I bought for a vacation trip since its small and the hollow center allows me to pack things inside.Do not really like compared to my 36 inch at home. It is very hard and the size limits my usual stretches. Still glad I bought - Will try a different one - same size next time I travel and then compare the 2

This product is exactly what I have been looking for. It tougher than a foam roller but not too hard that it hurts. I recommend this product for anyone who is looking for something tougher than your basic foam roller.