Soft Shell vs Hard Shell Hyperbaric Chambers: What's the Difference?

If you're looking into hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), you'll come across two main types of chamber: soft shell and hard shell. Both use raised pressure and extra oxygen, but they are built differently, run at different pressures and suit different settings.

This guide explains the differences in plain English, so you can decide what fits your clinic, your home or your budget. We offer soft-shell chambers to rent or buy, and hard-shell chambers to buy, so we have no reason to push one over the other.

What is a soft shell hyperbaric chamber?

A soft shell chamber is a flexible, fabric-based chamber, usually made from a strong coated material over a frame. It is inflated by a compressor, and oxygen is typically delivered through a mask from an oxygen concentrator.

• Operates at lower pressures, commonly up to about 1.5 ATA
• Lighter and easier to install, move and store
• Often used at home, in wellness clinics and in sports settings
• Lower purchase and rental cost

What is a hard shell hyperbaric chamber?

A hard shell chamber is a rigid chamber, usually metal or acrylic, built to hold higher pressures. This is the type used in hospitals and in specialist hyperbaric centres.

• Can operate at higher pressures than soft shell chambers
• Rigid construction with precise pressure control
• Typically installed in a fixed location, often with a dedicated operator
• Higher purchase cost and more demanding installation

The key difference: pressure

Pressure is measured in atmospheres absolute (ATA). Normal air pressure is 1 ATA. Raising the pressure lets more oxygen dissolve into the blood plasma. Soft shell chambers are generally limited to around 1.5 ATA, while hard shell chambers can reach higher levels. Higher pressure is not automatically better for everyone: the right pressure depends on what the chamber is used for and who is using it.

Oxygen delivery

Both types can deliver oxygen through a mask. The oxygen purity depends on the concentrator or oxygen supply, not on whether the shell is soft or hard. Ask any supplier for the oxygen percentage, flow rate and pressure the chamber actually delivers, rather than relying on the type alone.

Safety and supervision

Any hyperbaric chamber should be used with a proper health screen, a clear emergency procedure and trained supervision, whichever type it is. Chambers should come with the right certifications and safety features, such as release valves that can be operated from inside. Hard shell chambers in medical settings are normally operated by trained staff, and we recommend the same level of care in any clinic setting.

Comfort and experience

Soft shell chambers are lying chambers, and some people find the space snug. Hard shell chambers are often more spacious, with seating or a bed. Comfort matters, because people use HBOT more consistently when they are relaxed in the chamber.

Which is right for you?

A soft shell chamber may suit you if you want

• A lower cost, or the flexibility to rent before buying
• A chamber that is easy to install in a smaller space or at home
• A routine wellness setup

A hard shell chamber may suit you if you want

• A permanent installation in a clinic or gym
• Higher pressure capability
• A more spacious, seated or reclined experience for clients

Our approach

At Ultra Wellness we supply soft-shell hyperbaric chambers to rent or buy, and hard-shell chambers to buy, alongside red light therapy beds and compression boots. Tell us how you plan to use a chamber and we will give you honest advice on which type is the better fit.

HBOT is not suitable for everyone, so speak to your doctor about any health condition before starting. Information in this article is general and is not medical advice.

See our hyperbaric chambers for sale and rent →