I believe Art is correct. Looking at the port design, they're top and sides- but the sides are not directed rearward at all.
While it would reduce recoil (90 degrees to the side, is still better than nothing), and the top porting would reduce muzzle rise, felt recoil is always best reduced by angling the blast at an angle back towards the shooter. Simple physics on the basic level.
My guess is that's why they also offer a brake...
The "less recoil" moniker comes from an apples to apples comparison for performance with the .308. You can match the .308 performance with a lighter 7mm. bullet, and less powder. However, if you're shooting 162's hot from the 7-08 as I do, recoil doesn't feel any different than a 168 out of a .308 to me. All depends on what your shooting needs are and how you base the "comparison".
I have a brake on mine- but it's in a custom lightweight Okoume stock I made for it. I use the brake to help me spot my hits at long range- but even with it I've had guys at the bench nearby comment that the recoil looks more than they would have expected.