Products the world doesn’t need: the SKG Leg Massager BM3
13.2.2023
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
Boy oh boy, do I have a slating for you. Which is a pity, really. But there’s no sugarcoating it. Why? Because the Leg Massager BM3 by SKG should be listed in the category «products the world doesn’t need».
First up, I’d like to disclaim that I like products. And I like to like products. That’s why I generally prefer writing about sports gear that’s great. I take less pleasure in writing a negative review than a puff piece.
Today, however, there was no avoiding it. After all, we’re talking about this leg massager by SKG:
I don’t want to waste your precious time. I realise you have more important things to do than read a long-winded product review. Especially if the conclusion is: don’t bother getting it.
With this in mind, I’ll keep it short and sweet.
Cons
- The functions are badly described or not explained at all – neither on the manufacturer’s website nor in the user manual
- There’s no explanation on how long each massage should last
- After 30 minutes, the leg massager automatically turns off
- The SKG app doesn’t support the product
- There’s no noticeable effect – neither on the arms nor the legs
- The massages are painful at times
- Operating the massager via the display is awkward
Pros
- It’s wireless
These are my insights on the product in a nutshell. If you want a bit more detail, keep on reading.
What the Leg Massager BM3 by SKG claims to do
The SKG Leg Massager applies pressure and heat, is designed to relieve tension and prevent muscle ache. It’s wireless, so you can take it anywhere you go. It’s controlled via a touch screen. You attach it to your body with velcro fasteners. According to the product description in our shop, this gadget is intended for your calves and thighs as well as your arms and feet. And here’s the first problem. If your thighs are larger than toothpicks, the Leg Massager won’t fit.
Source: Patrick Bardelli
Source: Patrick Bardelli
Put to the test: what’s it good at?
I used the massager on the right side of my body after working out. I didn’t do anything for my left side. In total, I put the Leg Massager to use six times. Twice on my right foot, twice on my right calf, twice on my right upper arm. I did this after an hour of strength training and about the same amount of time on my gravel bike.
The effect? Nothing. I felt zero difference between the left and right side of my body. And yet, there are products out there by other manufacturers that definitely have an effect. I recently discovered this after using Therabody’s RecoveryAir JetBoots. Here’s my review of it:
The Leg Massager BM3 by SKG, on the other hand, not only has zero effect, its manufacturer also leaves you pretty much in the dark with figuring out the product. There are three massage modes to choose from: lift model, leg model and knead model (yes, it actually says «model» on the display. And there’s no mention of «mode» on the website either). The massager features three levels of strength ranging from 1 to 3. And you can add heat. You can choose between 40, 45 and 50 degrees.
However, what the various modes and levels are good for is left unexplained. It also remains unclear when you should add temperature. Neither the manual nor the manufacturer’s website contain any information on this. What about the SKG-App? It doesn’t support the product.
Source: Patrick Bardelli
My verdict: thanks. But no thanks.
To wrap up, I’ll keep it short again. SKG’s Leg Massager BM3 should be listed in the category «products the world doesn’t need». Should you buy it? No way.
On its website, SKG states: «Communication with customers is our number one priority. Reply within 24 hours on working days.» And, true to their promise, the manufacturer got back to me by e-mail within 24 hours. They responded to my inquiry regarding the detailed functions of the BM3 Leg Massager. I was sent the same vague user manual that already came with the product again. Not very helpful.
Header image: Patrick Bardelli
Patrick Bardelli
Senior Editor
Patrick.Bardelli@digitecgalaxus.chFrom radio journalist to product tester and storyteller, jogger to gravel bike novice and fitness enthusiast with barbells and dumbbells. I'm excited to see where the journey'll take me next.
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