Calves rarely steal the spotlight, but ignore them and they’ll make you pay – whether it's in sudden post‑run tightness or the lingering ache after a day on your feet.
That’s where calf stretchers come in. Once exclusive to physiotherapy clinics, these devices are fast becoming a staple in the routines of runners, office dwellers and fitness fans alike.
But what are calf stretchers, and what are the benefits of using them?
“Typically, they are an angled platform that positions the foot at a particular angle to elicit a stretch of the calf. There are also rocker style stretchers that create more of a dynamic stretch,” explains Claire Mills - founder of Core LDN, physiotherapist, and ante/postnatal health expert.
“They are designed to increase flexibility and range of movement of the calf/ankle, decrease discomfort from tight calf muscles, and therefore aim to decrease the incidence of injuries such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. Maintaining length in the calf and range of motion at the ankle will also enhance your squatting, lunging and jumping techniques, Mills continues.
NHS physiotherapy guides identify these stretches as essential for improving calf flexibility and ankle mobility. Other NHS Trusts recommend performing stretches twice daily, each held for 20–30 seconds, to reduce tightness and support recovery from conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy.
Broad-stroke benefits of ankle stretchers include:
- Improved flexibility and reduced stiffness
- Better ankle range of motion and posture
- Support for recovery post-exercise
- Prevention or management of plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and Achilles tendinopathy
Put simply: regular stretching can help you move more freely, feel less stiff, and potentially avoid those frustrating calf and tendon issues.
Are there any risks associated with calf stretchers?
When used correctly, calf stretchers are generally safe – more reliable than makeshift stair stretches. However, stretching too aggressively or ignoring poor form can backfire, potentially overloading the Achilles tendon.
“Ensure that when you start using them, you gradually increase the stretch and range. In other words, start slow. Never force a stretch of a tight muscle as this can cause injury. If you have a calf strain, do not stretch the calf muscles in the initial stages as this can worsen the injury,” warns Mills.
Clinical advice from the NHS urges a gentle approach: begin with a shallow angle, avoid bouncing, and stop if sharp pain occurs. Anyone with existing Achilles injuries, nerve problems or persistent calf pain should seek professional advice before using these devices.
The golden rule: stretching should feel firm, not painful. If you feel a sharp jab instead of a steady pull, ease off.
How do calf stretchers help with plantar fasciitis and tendinitis?
“Shortening/ tightness of the calf muscles will increase the load on the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. As such, maintaining length of your calf and flexibility of your ankle will prevent overload of these areas and optimise biomechanics, which helps you to recover from and prevent plantar fasciitis and tendinitis.
From compact wedges that slip under your desk to adjustable boards with incline options, our top picks are designed to cater to every level and every body.
Keep scrolling to find the right fit for your calves.
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CalfPro
Easy to use, incredibly portable and praised by users across the board, CalfPro’s purpose-built leveraged calf stretcher is the perfect solution to those pesky, slippery stair stretches that you’ve been doing. Designed to help prevent the onset of shin splints and Achilles tendonitis by improving range of motion and increasing circulation, the collapsible, one-size device also features cushioned ankle support and a patented door jam groove.
CalfPro recommends three types of stretches with the non-slip device, all of which work best in a doorway with the top of the CalfPro resting against the door jam.
The first stretch sees the user leaning back against the door frame, with one foot firmly planted on the ground, the other on the device, pointing upwards, glutes still resting on the wall. In position two, the user should slowly rock forwards, placing more pressure on the foot that sits on the CalfPro, with hips vertical. In position three, if comfortable, users should rock further forward and rest the hips on the opposite wall.
Repeat up to three times a day, et voilà! Loose and limber calves in record time.
Buy now £146.00, Amazon
DMoose Fitness Foot & Calf Stretcher with Adjustable Padded Strap
Ideal for avid yogis and dancers, this calf stretcher helps to slowly improve range of motion from a seated position. The handy, padded device comes with a detailed guide with step-by-step visuals of rehabilitation exercises for Plantar Fasciitis.
The device itself features a strong hook and loop closure which provides an adjustable fit for all foot sizes. It helps users stay in control of those deeper stretches, preventing over-exertion and potential injury. Simply secure your foot in the device, pull on the straps and hold the position to deepen the stretch and improve your flexibility.
Buy now £17.99, Amazon
Pvolve Slant Board
We know, £100 for a simple slant board seems slightly obscene, but the five-star reviews on this fitness accessory beg to differ.
Pvolve’s ethos is centred around the fact that even the most targeted low-impact workouts can’t reach certain muscles, which is why it’s important to incorporate certain fitness accessories where possible. The Slant Board works to strengthen your feet, ankles and hips with every stretch and exercise – all the while engaging the core for a more holistic approach to stretching.
While the board features a customisable incline, Pvolve recommends using the lowest incline unless instructed by a professional. Opt for the essentials bundle if you’re looking for more than just calf stretching.
Buy now £109.99, Healf
Pro-Tec Athletics Calf Stretcher
Half foam-roller, half calf-stretcher, this simple but effective accessory helps to alleviate symptoms of plantar fasciitis by improving circulation, foot posture and stretching the Achilles tendon. The rounded side function as a massage arch, while the flat edges can be propped up against walls and door jams for more targeted, physiotherapy exercises.
Buy now £9.04, Amazon
StrongTek Portable Wooden Slant Board
Offering multiple stretch angles (ranging from 20 to 35 degrees) depending on your level of flexibility and personal needs, this adjustable wooden slant board by StrongTek is equipped with a steel frame for better durability.
Though it features a non-slip base and surface, we recommend propping it against a wall during use in order to be extra safe. Use for rehabilitation therapy, daily stretches or professional training.
The accessory is foldable, lightweight and extremely portable – office dwellers can even prop it up underneath a desk for additional posture support.
Buy now £35.99, Amazon
PROIRON 3Pcs Slant Board Squat Wedge Blocks
These anti-slip EVA wedges are a compact alternative to full-size slant boards — ideal if you’re tight on space or want flexibility during mobility drills or weighted squats. Each wedge offers a different incline, allowing you to layer or separate depending on the stretch or movement.
They’re especially useful for ankle dorsiflexion work, balance exercises, or even deep squats with heel elevation. Plus, they’re lightweight enough to throw in your gym bag.
Buy now £15.99, Amazon
Yoback 3-Piece Stretching Wheel Set
For a truly versatile piece of kit that’ll elevate your stretching routine tenfold, look no further than Yoback’s three-piece stretching wheel set. Designed to support everything from backbends to calf stretches, this trio of differently sized wheels helps improve flexibility, balance and mobility across your entire posterior chain.
The textured surface offers grip without discomfort, while the curved shape lets you ease into deeper stretches safely - especially helpful for tight calves, arches and hamstrings. Bonus points for its space-saving stackable design.
Buy now £89.99, Amazon
ProStretch Calf and Achilles Tendon Stretcher
If you’re dealing with chronic Achilles tightness or want a more targeted stretch than a slant board can offer, this rocker-style stretcher is a classic for a reason.
Designed to isolate the calf and Achilles tendon, it’s often used by physiotherapists to support rehabilitation and relieve tightness in runners, dancers and walkers alike.
Its single-foot design allows for controlled stretching at varying intensities, with deep heel drops that mimic traditional wall stretches - just with more precision.
Buy now £29.99, Shoe Insoles
