1.3 ATA Hyperbaric Chambers

QWhat is the difference between 1.3 ATA and 1.5 ATA?

1.3 ATA is 10 feet below sea level — the standard for soft-shell portable chambers. At 1.3 ATA you're breathing ambient compressed air with a modest increase in dissolved oxygen. 1.5 ATA is 16 feet down — 50% above normal pressure — with noticeably more oxygen reaching tissues. For general wellness and sleep, 1.3 ATA is a solid starting point. For athletic recovery, post-concussion protocols, or chronic conditions, most practitioners recommend 1.5 ATA or above. See our 1.5 ATA collection for comparison.

QDo I need a prescription to buy a 1.3 ATA chamber?

Generally no. Soft-shell 1.3 ATA chambers are classified for home and wellness use in most US states and do not require a prescription. Newtowne's FDA-cleared chambers are sold directly without a prescription for home use. Macy-Pan chambers are rated for home and wellness use. If you have a specific medical condition and want to use HBOT as part of a treatment plan, we recommend getting guidance from a licensed healthcare professional before starting.

QWhat does FDA-cleared mean, and why does it matter?

FDA-cleared means the chamber has been reviewed and cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration for safety and effectiveness for its intended use. Newtowne Hyperbarics holds FDA clearance (510k #K051759) for their soft-shell chambers — they're the only FDA-cleared brand in this collection. For most home wellness buyers, FDA clearance isn't a requirement. If you're using the chamber for a specific medical condition under physician supervision, or if your insurance or facility requires it, Newtowne is the right choice.

QWhat is the difference between Newtowne and Macy-Pan?

The key differences are origin, certification, and model variety. Newtowne is made in the USA with FDA clearance — six models ranging from 27" to 40" diameter in lying and seated configurations. Macy-Pan is manufactured in China with CE and ISO13485 certification — seven models with more variety in sitting configurations, accessible entry options, and configurable pressure up to 1.5 ATA on some models. Newtowne is the right choice if FDA clearance matters. Macy-Pan is worth considering if you want a specific sitting or accessible configuration not available in the Newtowne range.

QHow much space do I need for a 1.3 ATA soft-shell chamber?

Most lying chambers need 7–9 feet of floor space when inflated, plus a few feet for the compressor and concentrator nearby. Seated chambers like the Newtowne Shoe or Macy-Pan ST2200 have a smaller footprint — typically 4–5 feet. All models pack down and store flat when not in use. Send us your room dimensions on your consult call and we'll confirm fit before you order.

QIs 0% financing available on these chambers?

Yes. RecovAthlete offers 0% financing on qualifying purchases across all models in this collection. Call 866-861-6317 or book a consult to go through the options.