The 6 Best Foot Massagers

Our Picks of Foot Massagers

Best Overall Foot Massager

Renpho Shiatsu Compact

Heat	Yes
Massage Type	Kneading shiatsu, air pressure
Massage Speeds	3 speeds (low, medium, high)
Washable	Yes
Has Remote	Yes

The Renpho Shiatsu Compact quickly became the overall favorite foot massager of our testing team thanks to a user-friendly design that provides clearly labeled massage settings and fully encloses and massages the entire foot. Although the device accommodates up to a US men's size 13 and offers a variety of massage options, it remains lightweight and compact, thanks to a flexible, easy-to-transport, and store design. Weighing only 9 pounds and measuring 17 inches in length, this massager is ideal for older users or those recovering from injury. Each member of the testing team selected this model as their overall favorite, whether they had a wide or narrow foot, a high arch, or a larger foot shape. “I like that the massager fully encloses my foot, providing coverage even to the backside where most other models are limited,” says one tester. With three different adjustments for both kneading and intensity levels, plus three heat options, it's easy to find a massage that suits your taste. It also features a clearly lit function diagram that shows you exactly your choices, including buttons for the timer, heat, intensity, kneading, and on/off. There are no confusing colors or diagrams to follow; it's all straightforward. The time is automatically set to 15, 20, or 30 minutes, and the digital display, located in the function area across the top of the unit, is large and easily visible. The device also includes a wireless remote for an even more user-friendly experience.

Every member of our test team sang the praises of the Renphro Shiatsu Compact, as it not only notably outperformed the competition in use, but it also came with an extremely affordable price tag. Yet the design is not without a few drawbacks. Some of our testing team found that combining the higher pressure settings with the most intense massage-type settings proved too aggressive for relaxation or to alleviate aches and pains. “My foot was too sensitive to endure the highest intensity and kneading combination,” says lead tester Trish Matheny. That being said, if you find yourself seeking a more aggressive massage, the Renphro Compact will certainly do the trick. Additionally, while we appreciate that the massager fully encloses the foot, this design can be limiting for individuals with larger feet, even though the device accommodates up to a US men's size 13. Similarly, while the versatile size, settings, and built-in timer on this Renhro are more affordable than many other models, it may still be a bit of a stretch for those on a strict budget. If budget is your top priority, we suggest options like the Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu, which provides a versatile massage experience including heat and a multi-directional kneading mode, at a very reasonable price.

Best Multi-Use Massager on a Budget

Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu

Heat	Yes
Massage Type	Kneading shiatsu
Massage Speeds	1 speed but can change direction
Washable	Yes
Has Remote	Yes, connected by wire

The Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu is a versatile Shiatsu kneading machine offering a plush synthetic cocoon for the feet with the option for warmth and a multi-directional kneading massage. Additionally, the user can remove the cover and use the heated kneading balls on almost any part of the body. “I especially appreciated the versatility of this massager on my lower back, where the gentle kneading and heat worked well in alleviating pain that had built up after a demanding day of physical labor,” says one member of our testing team. The massage balls operate in a smooth, circular motion, delivering a solid massage without overexerting pressure and intensity. The grippy underside of the unit helps to secure it in place while you relax into the warmth and comfort of your foot therapy routine. If you have bigger feet, this is a great option as well, as it can accommodate up to a men's size 14. Another model offering welcome versatility is the Cloud Massage Shiatsu with Remote with options to massage both the calves and the feet, while allowing you to adjust the angle of the massager to get the alignment just right.

The Snailax 2-in-1 only addresses the soles of the feet, and unlike other models we tested, it has no air pressure. If you're after adjustable speeds as well as excellent air pressure to cover the entire foot, we recommend the Renpho Shiatsu Compact. Another caveat to the Snailax's affordable design is the kneading balls, which only cover a portion of each foot, requiring the user to move the foot around to massage the entire sole. “Unfortunately, the heat and massage are limited to the center of the device, meaning a session required my attention if I wanted to massage more than just the one part of my foot,” says one tester who was looking for a more passive massage experience. Moreover, the speed of the massage is fixed. On the upside, the direction of rotation is adjustable, and the unit's compact size makes it easy to store. For an affordable leg-focused massage, look at the Fit King Leg Air Massager, a boot-style massager.

Most Luxurious, Highly Customizable Experience

Cloud Massage Shiatsu with Remote

Heat	Yes
Massage Type	Deep-kneading shiatsu massage, air pressure, sway, vibration
Massage Speeds	4 pressure settings
Washable	Wipe down
Has Remote	Yes

The Cloud Massage Shiatsu Machine is a versatile, highly effective foot and lower leg massaging device that provides a superior, highly customizable experience. Its wide selection of settings can be utilized together or independently of one another to dial things in just right. “I appreciated the unique and customizable settings that allowed me to select the best option for my specific aches and pains at any given time,” says our lead tester, Trish Matheny. This customizable unit accommodates most feet (up to a US men's size 14, based on measurements). It delivers heat, as well as a variety of massage types, including deep-kneading Shiatsu, air pressure, “sway,” and vibration. The design features an adjustable bar that enables users to modify the angle of the massager to accommodate an upright seated or reclining massage, or simply adjust the angle and positioning of the massager to achieve different results. This massager also has an oscillating airbag feature that moves one foot and the other laterally across the rollers. This unique massaging method addresses overstimulation when the user's feet are being kneaded, and it is the only device we tested that includes such a feature. If all these details and modifications are a little over the top for the type of massage you are seeking, the Renpho Shiatsu Compact offers excellent adjustability and air pressure for a much more affordable price.

While the Cloud Massager Shiatsu will likely have you feeling like you're on cloud nine, the user interface leaves something to be desired. For instance, the programmed settings are only identified by lights that range between 4 different buttons. It may be necessary to keep the user's manual handy or exercise good memory to reference the setting and massage combination you prefer. “I love that you can manually select the pressure, vibration, sway, and kneading settings; however, it is difficult to remember the exact combination of the pre-programmed massage settings,” says one tester. Moreover, it was too aggressive for many of our testers, even when operating at the lowest settings. We attribute this intensity to the lack of padding on the bottom of the foot, which can feel too aggressive when fully pressurized. Some of our testers couldn't even leave their feet in the device long enough to complete the massage time. The massager also lacks speed settings, so users cannot customize the experience. Finally, at 24 pounds and 20 inches long, it is heavy and bulky, especially for a small apartment. Bearing all that in mind, this model offers a high-quality massage, particularly for those seeking to increase the intensity and customize their experience. If you want something smaller, lighter, localized to the feet, and that doesn't cost a fortune, check out the Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu.

Best Compact, High-Precision Massager

Miko Shiatsu Y2

Heat	Yes
Massage Type	Kneading, rolling, air pressure
Massage Speeds	5 pressure settings
Washable	Yes
Has Remote	Yes

The Miko Shiatsu Y2 is a high-end foot massager that supplies ample controls to adjust both air pressure and kneading settings for a wide range of massage options, whether you're interested in a subtle or intense foot massage experience. Although this design offers tons of adjustability, that versatility is provided within an extremely lightweight and compact package, weighing only 11 pounds and measuring 17 inches in length. This small-scale design enables easier storage and mobility, particularly for users who are older or recovering from an injury. The design is easy to use and accommodates up to a US men's size 13 foot within compartments lined with an easy-to-zip-off material. This makes for easy cleaning, which is especially nice if it's going to be shared. “I like the comfort and adjustability for my wide profile, size 11 foot,” says one male tester. The device is also equipped for precision massage, thanks to 5 pressure settings, a heat option, subtle vibration, deep kneading, rolling, compression, a built-in timer, and wireless remote control. If you like the sounds of precision and adjustability but prefer a massager that provides support for more than just the feet, check out the Cloud Massage Shiatsu Machine. Although it is expensive, it provides an enhanced massage experience that effectively relieves tired feet and calves.

While the wide range of pressure settings is perfect for dialing in a precise massage to suit different user preferences, some members of our testing team found the Miko Shiatsu Y2 massage too intense for their liking, especially when set to the higher pressure settings. “I had to turn off the massager when I attempted to test the higher pressure settings as it was too aggressive for my smaller feet,” says lead tester Trish Matheny. The design is also more expensive than other designs in the lineup, including some, such as the Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu, which also provides heat and a bit more versatility across body parts (although the overall performance isn't nearly as effective as that of the Miko Shiatsu). While the Mike Shiatsu does provide great coverage for the top, sides, and bottom of the foot, some testers wished it fully enclosed the foot, especially toward the back of the foot near the Achilles. Overall, we appreciated all the features that combine to create a precise massage experience for multiple users with varying foot shapes and sizes, as well as massage preferences.

Best Air Massager Cuffs

Fit King Leg Air Massager

Heat	No
Massage Type	Air pressure
Massage Speeds	1 speed with adjustable air pressure
Washable	Wipe down
Has Remote	No

The Fit King Leg Air Massager is a pair of wrap-around boots that massage the calf and foot with air bladders. Whereas other models require the user to be in a seated position or lying down, this product accommodates any position, allowing you to enjoy a full lower-leg kneading sensation in whatever position you find most comfortable. Additionally, the unit is remote-controlled with two massage types (rolling and uniform pressure). If you prefer a foot massager that offers versatility in multiple body positions, as well as the ability to massage more than just the foot, we highly recommend the Cloud Massage Shiatsu with Remote. It not only offers adjustability but also a highly customizable massage for the feet and calves.

Unfortunately, this unit favors smaller to mid-sized feet — our men's size 11 tester found his feet protruded slightly out of the wrap. Additionally, the speed of the rolling massage is not adjustable, so you're limited to adjusting the pressure instead. Potential purchasers of this product should also be advised that the device delivers a relatively slow and subtle massaging action. That said, it proved to be quite nice, although it took us a while to warm up to it. Nonetheless, for those on a budget, this unique option won't disappoint. If you want a serious leg massage, look towards the Cloud Massage Shiatsu Machine. Although pricier, it offers heat and can accommodate larger foot sizes. And if price is a dealbreaker, we recommend the Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu, which accommodates larger and wider foot shapes without breaking the bank.

A Notable Manual Foot Massager

TheraFlow Dual Roller

Heat	No
Massage Type	Roller
Massage Speeds	User controlled
Washable	Wipe down
Has Remote	No

The TheraFlow Dual Roller is a compact wood roller with two knob types (low and high profile) that stimulate the soles of the feet. This unit lacks remote controls, power cords, and dials. As such, it is simple and easy to operate, virtually maintenance-free, and easy to store. Cleaning the TheraFlow is a breeze as well. Just wipe it down with a gentle cleaning agent. If you're interested in another design that's affordable and easy to use, check out the Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu that accommodates those with larger and wider feet, includes heat, a remote control, and the ability to unzip the top to place the massager on your lower back for additional versatility within an affordable price.

The main drawback with TheraFlow is that it requires user input — feet are massaged by pushing them back and forth across the knobby roller bars. It includes ten independently rotating roller bars, five for each foot, with four on each side of the unit. These low-profile side knobs are designed to remain uniform, while the rest of the roller features raised, offset knobs that provide a more intense experience when your feet require stronger stimulation. This level of simplicity may not be what everyone is looking for in a foot massager, but we appreciate how this basic unit is always ready to roll and is easy to stash when not in use. Its price is also highly competitive in its class, providing low-cost retail therapy to those seeking relief without a big budget. Another moderately priced massager that incorporates user input is the Nekteck Heated. Powered and featuring a heat setting, the user can adjust the massage intensity by applying pressure directly to the massager, increasing or decreasing it as needed.

Why Trust GearLab

Committed to seeking out the highest-quality, stress-relieving foot rubs available, our testing team developed a set of assessments and evaluations that enabled them to make direct comparisons between different classes of massager models. Each product was thoroughly tested by multiple users of varying ages, sizes, foot types, and massage preferences, with no detail left unscrutinized. Despite the somewhat subjective nature inherent in evaluating a massage, this team labored to achieve objectivity in their descriptions of the type — and range — of massages that each unit delivers to the user.

Our foot massager testing and ranking is divided into four rating metrics:

-Comfort (35% of overall score weighting)
-Ease of Use and Adjustability (30% weighting)
-Foot Coverage (20% weighting)

-Foot Size Versatility (15% weighting)

Senior research analyst Austin Palmer is a seasoned electronics tester who is always on his feet — both at home with his toddlers and in the lab running tests. When his dogs are barking, he knows what they need. Likewise, Senior Review Editor Nick Miley is no stranger to sore feet as his plantar fasciitis flares up on long bike rides, ski days, and hikes. Over the years, he has experimented with several different treatments and massage styles. Finally, tester and author Ruth Bruckbauer is a mother of five adult children, four grandchildren, and four “grand-doggers.” Plagued with lifelong foot problems, Ruth has had a complete foot reconstruction done and still consistently hits 8,000-10,000 steps on her FitBit each day. She was thrilled to be given this assignment and knows a thing or two about foot comfort. Rounding out the testing team is Trish Matheny, a current member of Yosemite Search and Rescue who puts countless miles on her feet week after week throughout the year. Whether assisting in a rescue or seeking adventure in her spare time, Trish enjoyed the reprieve she experienced during hours of testing these unique designs.

Analysis and Test Results

The following provides a detailed examination of the metrics (or categories of analysis) used to evaluate each foot massage model in our review. Specifically, we looked at comfort, sizing, adjustability, and coverage/massage area of each machine.

What's the Best Value?

Value is always a subjective matter, as what one person thinks constitutes good value may not be the same for another. Still, a few units stand out for their solid performance and reasonable price point. Although not the least expensive model we tested, our team unanimously agreed that the Renpho Shiatsu Compact far exceeded its modest price tag and quickly became our favorite of all the massagers that we had the pleasure of testing. The device features three settings for both kneading and air pressure intensity, along with a built-in timer, a heat option, and a wireless remote control, all within a compact and user-friendly design. We were also impressed by the even more affordable Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu, which features a removable cover that allows the unit to convert into a back, calf, or hamstring massager. The added versatility, low price, options for heat, as well as multi-directional kneading make the Snailax a great bargain and high value for those seeking to alleviate aches and pains on a strict budget.

Comfort

While we recognize that comfort is a very subjective testing metric, especially considering various age groups, foot shapes, and sizes along with individual preferences for specific massage modes, we made a concentrated effort to take a broad view of how diverse users would feel when utilizing the various massage devices included within our comprehensive review. Each member of our testing team scored the massager based on whether the device provided heat, included any painful compression, offered sufficient space to provide comfort for their specific foot shape, and identified the limitations of each specific model. After using the device for 20 minutes, our panel would score each device based on these submetrics to reach a comprehensive comfort score.

Models like the Cloud Massage Shiatsu with Remote, the Snailax 2-in-1, and the Fit King stand out because they do not bind the foot and do not significantly restrict the position or posture of the person using these units. We assume that when receiving a foot massage, one does not want to sit at attention but would rather relax into a more comfortable position. Additionally, these models will accommodate both small and large feet (more on that in the sizing metric discussion). And while there is no doubt that the Cloud Massage provides exceptional comfort for a wide range of foot shapes and sizes, the lack of padding against the bottom of the foot was the reason our team reduced the overall comfort score. The lack of a cushioned buffer created too much intensity for those testers with sensitive feet.

Aside from foot size and position, another factor we consider when assessing comfort is how the foot is held in place. Many models compress the top of the foot and heel with airbags, which can be uncomfortable or even painful. Those models that are the most comfortable either wrap the lower leg and foot, like the Fit King, or leave the foot unencumbered, like the Cloud Massage, the TheraFlow, and the Nekteck Heated. These last two models are unique in that they allow the user to control the pressure of the massage by the pressure the user places on the massage surface.

While the Renpho Shiatsu Compact fully encloses the entire foot, even providing coverage on the back of the foot, each member of our testing team noted the ample amount of space within the foot compartments, which allowed various testers to experience comfort and more air pressure near the Achilles. Conversely, the Miko Shiatsu Y2 does not fully enclose the foot, yet provides more padding and excellent comfort, for those feet up to a US men's size 13.

Ease of Use and Adjustability

For this important metric, our testing team took note of the time required to setup the device, how easily the user could identify and select their preferred modes of massage, the ease with which each device could be modified between speed, pressure, kneading, and heat settings, as well as the overall length of the massage. We also took note of devices that included the convenience of a remote control or those that required the user to bend over to adjust the various settings to meet their preferences.

The Cloud Massage was the standout in this category as the settings on the device can be used interchangeably and independently of one another. The massager offers four pressure settings, as well as two settings for sway, roll, vibration, or heat, allowing users to customize the settings to their preference. Our only complaint is that the program settings, which range between four separate options, require a bit of a memory exercise to track which setting you prefer without consulting the user's manual.

Surprisingly, few models allow for both speed and air pressure to be adjusted independently. Both the Renpho Shiatsu Compact and the Renpho Shiatsu Premium are among these models, offering three settings for massage speeds and three settings for downward pressure. While we tested both Renphro models side by side, we were surprised when our team preferred the Compact version to the full-sized model, noting the user-friendly interface as well as the additional heat and timer options found within the lightweight version.

As part of this metric, the testers also examined the size and weight of the machines themselves and considered how they could be carried and stored. While options like the Nekteck Shiatsu with Heat Air Compression and Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu are much smaller devices and weigh 5 pounds or even less, options like the Best Choice Products Shiatsu with Remote and Cloud Massage are much larger and heavier, making them less easily moved — the Cloud Massage weighs in at a massive 23 pounds. The Best Choice Products measures 22 inches long, while the Cloud is similarly sized but weighs ten pounds more. That might not seem like a big deal, but if you live in a small house or apartment with limited storage space, or if you find yourself losing mobility due to age or injury, the overall size and weight of these devices can significantly impact your decision to purchase them or how often you use them once in the home.

Foot Coverage

For the foot coverage metric, our team measures the overall coverage of the device, compares it to the manufacturer's claims, and also assesses whether the device is versatile enough to provide coverage for other body parts, such as the calves, lower back, and hamstrings. The team also thoughtfully noted whether or not the device fully covered the foot, and if not, the areas of coverage provided by each foot massager.

Models such as the Fit King offer the most comprehensive coverage by covering the entire foot — top, bottom, and sides — in addition to the ankle and calf. This unique full-coverage design offers a wide range of massages for various body and foot shapes and sizes, although it is limited to those with feet that exceed a US men's size 11.

Not far behind in overall foot coverage is the Cloud Massage, which doesn't appear to offer full coverage until the massager is pressurized, allowing you to watch your foot disappear below the pressurized compartments. Perhaps our only complaints are the limited width, which may not accommodate those with larger calves, and the lack of coverage over the Achilles area.

Our team was pleasantly surprised by the coverage provided by the Renpho Shiatsu Compact and quickly became a favorite of our testing team members who have a wider foot profile. The coverage that surrounds the top, sides, bottom, and even the Achilles was especially appreciated by those testers who needed pressure to help alleviate Achilles injuries.

The Miko is somewhat more limited than the previously discussed models. This device works the whole sole, plus the tops and the sides, but ends the massage about midsole on a size 11 foot. The Best Choice Products Shiatsu with Remote massager doesn't cover the entire top of the foot or the heel, but it does cover the majority of the sides. The TheraFlow, Nektek Heated, and the Snailax contenders are the most limited in their coverage, addressing the muscles in the sole of the foot exclusively. However, the Snailax features a more diverse design that can be utilized on the lower back, calves, and hamstrings.

Foot Size Versatility

While foot coverage, comfort, and size versatility have a lot in common, our testers also considered the size range that each device would accommodate, as well as how easily the device switched between various modes and settings when used by testers with different foot shapes and sizes.

Several models can accommodate feet as large as a US men's size 14 or larger. These are the Best Choice Products, the Cloud Massage, the Fit King, the Snailax 2-in-1, and the TheraFlow. These models will also accommodate a wide variety of ankle, calf, lower back, and hamstring sizes. However, it should be noted that the Fit King, Cloud Massage, and Best Choice Products will limit massage coverage for larger feet, as the toe or heel may extend beyond the massage surface. However, feet are narrower than calves, so keep that in mind if you are looking for a machine that will massage both feet and calves.

Users with feet of US men's size 12 or smaller will find the Renpho Shiatsu Compact, the Renpho Shiatsu Premium, and the Miko Shiatsu Y2 to provide enough coverage, even if it's just under what the manufacturer advertises. These models are what we have dubbed “foot garages” and will massage the entire bottom of the foot, provided the foot fits into the unit.

And if you find yourself looking for a more affordable model that massages up to a US men's size 11, the Nekteck Shiatsu with Heat Air Compression provided solid performance but nothing that really stood apart from other competitors.

How to Select a Foot Massager

If you're in the market for a foot massager that's specifically designed to provide a massage experience that will alleviate those aches and pains that accumulate from daily modern life, we're here to help you identify and consider various details so that you can select the best foot massager to meet your specific needs and preferences.

What Type of Massage Do You Enjoy?

Have you ever paid money for a massage where you couldn't even enjoy the experience due to intense pressure or discomfort caused by factors such as room temperature, the size of the massage table, etc.? We mention these experiences to highlight the fact that there is no enjoyment unless there is comfort as well as the ability to relax, release tension, and let go of the day.

We highly recommend considering the type of device that best suits your exact needs. Are you interested in various air pressure settings, a shiatsu kneader, the option for heat, a massager with significant padding for sensitive feet, or the ability to adjust the intensity? All of these details are key factors in selecting the best device for your specific needs.

How Simple Does It Need to Be to Operate?

While no device that we tested was particularly difficult to operate, some designs provide a more user-friendly experience than others. This is an important consideration, as you wouldn't want to waste precious massage time with your head buried in the user's manual to achieve your preferred massage experience.

Some models we tested feature a user-friendly display screen that clearly indicates various settings, illuminating to allow users to precisely select different intensities, air pressure, heat, or Shiatsu kneading with a simple button press. Furthermore, some models even come equipped with a wireless remote, so you don't have to bend over to adjust the massage settings from one mode to another.

What Size Do You Need to Fit Your Feet?

Lastly, pay close attention to the foot size, versatility, and coverage of each foot massager. How it fits can make or break your massage experience. While some manufacturers are spot on with their coverage and the size range they advertise, our testing team noted the best models for those with larger feet, as well as whether the device provided the intended coverage it advertises.

While some massagers only allow for an upright, seated position, others allow you to slouch, recline, and even adjust the massager to apply it to other areas of the body, such as the lower back, calves, or hamstrings.

Conclusion

The goal of our comprehensive foot massager review is to provide our readers with an in-depth perspective on what makes a quality product and delivers a satisfying massage experience. Specifically, we addressed four categories that collectively cover all aspects of these devices. These are comfort, ease of use, and adjustability of the massager, as well as the foot coverage and versatility. If you are in the market for a little slice of foot massage heaven, the above article will provide you with direct apples-to-apples comparisons of the market's leading products. Enjoy.