A device for measuring the rate of recovery of a foam sample under compression includes a compression surface engageable with the foam sample and a displacement transducer disposed in mechanical communication with the compression surface. A process of measuring the rate of recovery of the foam sample under compression includes exerting a compressive force on the foam sample such that the foam sample is compressed by a predetermined percentage of its thickness, releasing the compressive force, and measuring the thickness versus time of the recovering foam sample as it returns to its pre-deformed state.