When shopping at home centers like Walmart, you might have stumbled upon foot massagers and questioned their actual benefits and ability to offer spa-like relaxation at home. This concern is particularly relevant for individuals who exert significant strain on their feet, potentially leading to conditions like plantar fasciitis. However, with a variety of brands like Renpho and Sharper Image selling these items, it can be difficult to decide which one to choose.
For this round, we've compiled a list of 9 sought-after foot massagers, handpicked from the newest releases and top sellers of various manufacturers. These devices have undergone a comprehensive evaluation based on five key criteria.
At mybest, we define the best foot massager as one with comprehensive functions for a thorough foot massage and easy to use every day without any complicated operations.
We've also uncovered the best way to choose a foot massager through careful testing. Feel free to check out our results when you’re ready to decide which one to buy.
As a seasoned Massage Therapist and Esthetician, Laura is dedicated to bringing a healing touch and skincare expertise to clients. Specializing in transformative neuromuscular therapy and deep tissue work, Laura tailors sessions to individual needs. With additional skills in scrubs, hot rock treatments, and sound therapies, Laura creates holistic well-being experiences. Committed to continuous growth and education, Laura ensures a rejuvenating journey that goes beyond the surface, leaving clients refreshed and radiant.
As head of personal care products, Ayuka is responsible for a wide range of items, including massagers, oral care products, and more. Since joining the company, Ayuka has clarified that it is imperative that she "delivers trustworthy information about products that affect the body" and has since gone on to verify 200 products and counting.
We define a foot massager that provides the best pleasurable sensation as a machine that stimulates legs and gives our testers a sense of relief.
We define a foot massager that has abundant massage features as a machine that can knead a wide range and is equipped with a rich variety of massage functions.
We define a foot massager that is easy to operate as a machine that is very intuitive, eliminating the need to repeatedly refer to the instruction manual.
We defined a foot massager’s acceptable noise level as quiet enough to not disrupt relaxation time.
We define a foot massager’s easy wear/removal as a product that can be used immediately when someone wants, without any trouble inserting and removing the feet from it.
All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.
Do your feet often feel tired from long hours of standing, desk work, or workouts, leaving you with little time for a massage parlor visit or self-massaging efforts? If so, there's great news for you! A foot massager offers physical and psychological benefits and can complement your relaxation time when you're tired.
A foot massager brings about physical benefits by enhancing blood circulation through the stimulation of foot muscles. Loosening up your feet promotes improved blood flow, facilitating the release of accumulated waste at the base of your feet. As a result, you may also experience reduced swelling.
Additionally, the roller stimulates foot acupoints, which may be beneficial for overall body discomfort. This technique is known as Reflexology, a massage method that aims to improve body discomfort by stimulating reflex zones on the soles of the feet, believed to be connected to various organs of the body.
Furthermore, a foot massager can be used for relaxation. We tried foot massagers at the office during work, and it was so relaxing that some of us almost fell asleep while working. Being able to rejuvenate your feet in your most comfortable space at the end of a hectic day is sure to be a pleasant experience for both body and mind.
Imagine coming home after a tiring day, lighting some scented candles in a dimly lit room, and receiving a foot massage - you can easily create this spa-like atmosphere at home, without having to make a reservation and at a much lower cost.
Our testing has identified foot massagers that replicate the sensation of a professional massage. Explore our rankings to discover the product that best suits your needs.
Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best Foot Massagers.
To ensure a satisfying massage experience, consider three key elements: shape, function combination, and roller specifications. Find a detailed guide on choosing each aspect below.
Sharper Image's Shiatsu Dome Foot Massager is designed to extend up to your ankle, ensuring a comprehensive foot relaxation experience with simultaneous kneading and air features. Its three rollers mimic wavelike movements, offering a professional massage feel. For additional insights, refer to our detailed review in the rankings section.
On the other hand, foot massagers that solely target the soles lack the secure hold found in ankle-reaching types. This may result in a sensation that the roller's stimulation only reaches the surface of the foot. As your foot rests on the massager without a secure enclosure, it might gradually shift from the vibrations, requiring you to hold it in place manually.
Some foot massagers are equipped with a heat function. The heat promotes blood circulation and relaxes your feet.
The vibration function is said to help soothe muscles by shaking the entire foot. However, when we tested both a version of the same foot massager with a vibration function and a version without, we didn't notice any significant difference in relaxation after use. While using it, the noise was a bit of a concern. If you're considering using it during desk work, the vibration function may not be essential.
Having two or more rollers ensures consistent stimulation of the sole, allowing you to fully savor the varied movements. Additionally, the wavelike motion, extending from toes to heel, offers a hand-like massage sensation. Massagers with a single roller only concentrate on one spot, which can make the experience less satisfactory.
Foot stiffness and pain can vary daily. Finding a massager that suits your foot condition is beneficial, particularly when there are multiple intensity levels to choose from.
The appropriate massage pressure should be enough to relieve muscle tension but not so much that it becomes hard to relax. Please note that it's not necessarily the case that the stronger the pressure, the more your muscles will relax.
To fully maximize the effects of most foot massagers, bare feet are often recommended. However, for those planning to use it before a shower or those with daily hygiene concerns, it is advisable to opt for washable foot covers.
In our recent test, we used a foot massager for a set time and noticed a dampness in the foot cover afterward. The full foot cover type, due to its structure, is challenging to expose to air, leading to slight moisture retention from sweat inside the foot massager. Regular use in a damp state can promote bacterial growth, making it unhygienic and potentially causing unpleasant odors.
For frequent users or those sharing the foot massager with family, selecting a washable option ensures better hygiene. If you want a washable foot cover, you can search for "for those concerned about hygiene" in the ranking below.
Among foot massagers, there are some products that can be used while wearing socks. However, even if you are wearing socks, it can get stuffy, so it would be better to choose a foot cover that can be washed to maintain hygiene.
Without a description, relying solely on illustrations or light color for mode settings can make it challenging to discern the specific adjustments during a massage or find the appropriate settings. This might lead to the initial inconvenience of having to refer to the instruction manual while adjusting settings. With labeled buttons, you can easily select and adjust features like kneading level 3 + air level 5 without trouble while trying to relax.
To fully leverage a foot massager's features, consider the control buttons when making a purchase.
Products | Image | mybest Score | Click to purchase | Key features | Main Score | Details | ||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Massage features | Pleasurable sensation | Ease of wear/removal | Ease of operation | Noise level | Massage areas | Massage features | Heating function | Speed adjustability | Number of speed levels | Modes | Automatic shut-off | Power source | Weight | Number of rollers | Accessories | Width | Depth | Height | Cloth is washable | Number of intensity levels | ||||||
1 | The Sharper Image Shiatsu Dome Foot Massager | ![]() | 4.67 | mybest's Top Choice: Luxurious Feeling of an Real Foot Massage | 4.84 | 4.64 | 5.00 | 4.50 | 4.08 | Sole to ankle | Rolling, Compression | - | kneading+air compression(emphasis on toes/ heels), or air compression only | Power supply | 8.4 lb. | 2 | Adaptor | 15.2 in. | 16.7 in. | 9.7 in. | 3 | |||||
2 | Miko Yoisho | ![]() | 4.65 | Experience a Human-Like Massage Across Your Entire Foot! | 4.84 | 4.53 | 5.00 | 4.50 | 4.67 | Sole to ankle | Rolling, Compression | - | kneading only, air compression only, or both | Power supply | 9 lb. | 3 | Adaptor, Wireless remote x2 | 15.4 in. | 15.2 in. | 8.3 in. | 5 | |||||
3 | Renpho Shiatsu Foot Massager Premium | ![]() | 4.59 | User-Friendly Display to Find Favorite Massage Mode. | 4.84 | 4.39 | 5.00 | 4.50 | 4.56 | Sole to ankle | Rolling, Compression | - | shiatsu and kneading only, air compression only, or both | Power supply | 18 lb. | 3 | Adapter, Manual Remote | 12.2 in. | 16.7 in. | 9.9 in. | 3 | |||||
4 | Fit King Shiatsu Foot Massager with Heat | ![]() | 4.56 | Approach Stiff Foot Muscles with Abundant Settings | 4.84 | 4.31 | 5.00 | 4.50 | 4.78 | Sole to ankle | Rolling, Compression | 2 | 2 kneading modes combined with or without air compression | Power supply | 8.3 lb. | 3 | Adaptor, Remote Controller | 12.9 in. | 17.8 in. | 8.4 in. | 6 | |||||
5 | Massage Medik Shiatsu Foot & Leg Massager | ![]() | 4.52 | Quiet and Easy to Use While Working | 4.84 | 4.28 | 5.00 | 4.25 | 5.00 | Sole to ankle | Roller, Compression | 3 | 4 kneading and air compression combination modes | Power supply | 12.2 lb. | 1 | Adaptor, Remote Controller | 20.9 in. | 12.5 in. | 8.9 in. | 0 | |||||
6 | Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot & Calf Massager | ![]() | 4.49 | Currently unavailable | Extensive Massage Features, But Has Some Operational Noise | 5.00 | 4.27 | 5.00 | 4.25 | 3.67 | Sole to ankle | Rolling, Compression, Vibration | - | 5 massage modes | Power supply | 17.8 lb. | 2 | Adaptor, Remote Controller | 20.4 in. | 15 in. | 8.5 in. | 5 | ||||
7 | Neteck Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine | ![]() | 4.45 | Arch is Well-Kneaded, but There’s Roller Monotony. | 4.50 | 4.45 | 5.00 | 4.25 | 4.22 | Sole to ankle | Roller, Compression | - | Massage Mode(Kneading+Rolling), Air Pressure Mode | Power supply | 4.1 lb. | 2 | Adaptor | 13 in. | 13.5 in. | 6.3 in. | 2 | |||||
8 | The Sharper Image Foot Multipoint Acupressure Massager | ![]() | 4.00 | Intriguing Stimulating Foot Pressure Points Despite Hygiene Concerns | 3.84 | 3.87 | 5.00 | 4.50 | 4.22 | Sole of the foot | Rolling, Compression, Vibration | 2 | Acupressure massage combined with/ without air compression and vibration | Power supply | 5.8 lb. | 3 | Adaptor | 12.6 in. | 14.1 in. | 6.1 in. | 3 | |||||
9 | Neteck Foot Massager | ![]() | 3.59 | Operates Intuitively, but Lacks Relief or Ease | 3.17 | 3.95 | 5.00 | 3.50 | 4.39 | Sole of the foot | Rolling, Vibration | - | - | Power supply | 5.8 lb. | 3 | - | 13.4 in. | 16 in. | 4.5 in. | 0 |
Massage areas | Sole to ankle |
---|---|
Modes | kneading+air compression(emphasis on toes/ heels), or air compression only |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The best-selling product is Sharper Image’s Shiatsu Dome Foot Massager, which envelopes your ankle and offers programmable modes, allowing you to focus the massage on your heels or on your toes.
The most impressive feature is the enveloping airbag that wraps around your entire foot, coupled with rounded rollers providing an all-encompassing massage. With the airbag securely covering up to the ankles, it holds your feet in place, ensuring the stimulating pressure reaches deep into acupressure points. This is the perfect product for those seeking relief for their entire foot, rather than specific areas of tension.
Furthermore, the rollers move in a wavelike pattern from toes to heels, with three adjustable intensity levels for personalized comfort. Testers often highlighted in their reviews that "the rollers are comforting, like a human hand massage."
The foot cover is washable, providing a bonus as it allows for a fresh experience every day. However, a potential concern is the lack of instructions on the buttons. While the settings are not overly complex, it's recommended to keep the user manual handy during your initial attempts to navigate your preferred mode.
This product is recommended especially for those who spend long hours on their feet, seeking relief through a soothing foot massage while also valuing spa-like relaxation.
Heating function | |
---|---|
Speed adjustability | |
Automatic shut-off | |
Power source | Power supply |
Weight | 8.4 lb. |
Accessories | Adaptor |
Width | 15.2 in. |
Depth | 16.7 in. |
Height | 9.7 in. |
Cloth is washable |
Massage areas | Sole to ankle |
---|---|
Modes | kneading only, air compression only, or both |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Additionally, you can customize the intensity in five stages, adapting to your daily fatigue level with user-friendly button operations and clear instructions. Plus, the mesh foot cover is washable, enhancing comfort for those who prioritize hygiene in daily use.
It's essential to mention that there's a disparity in comfort between the kneading and air functions. While the majority of testers were content with the kneading technique on their soles, some found it challenging to adjust the air function's consistency. The air function aims to induce a relaxing sensation in your feet, catering to those seeking relief from muscle tension throughout the entire sole of the foot.
Heating function | |
---|---|
Speed adjustability | |
Automatic shut-off | |
Power source | Power supply |
Weight | 9 lb. |
Accessories | Adaptor, Wireless remote x2 |
Width | 15.4 in. |
Depth | 15.2 in. |
Height | 8.3 in. |
Cloth is washable |
Massage areas | Sole to ankle |
---|---|
Modes | shiatsu and kneading only, air compression only, or both |
What we loved
What we didn't love
You have the flexibility to customize the intensity of both kneading and air functions independently. So, when you crave a refreshing feel in your feet, highlight the air function. On days with discomfort in your soles, intensify the kneading function for easy daily adjustments.
Additionally, L (Low), M (Medium), and H (High) labeled buttons allow you to quickly find your preferred setting, and the washable foot cover ensures cleanliness and ease of continued use.
However, be aware that the intensity levels have a wide range. Some testers found the "H” level excessively intense and painful, despite the three-step adjustment. Nevertheless, the ease of adjusting the massage function caters to varying foot needs throughout the day.
Heating function | |
---|---|
Speed adjustability | |
Automatic shut-off | |
Power source | Power supply |
Weight | 18 lb. |
Accessories | Adapter, Manual Remote |
Width | 12.2 in. |
Depth | 16.7 in. |
Height | 9.9 in. |
Cloth is washable |
Massage areas | Sole to ankle |
---|---|
Modes | 2 kneading modes combined with or without air compression |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Additionally, you can adjust the speed of the kneading function, making it perfect for those who often experience foot tension, catering to varying levels of foot tension each day. Testers have praised it, stating, "the rollers move in detailed motions, and it feels like there is no spot left unkneaded.
You can also adjust the intensity of the air function, offering up to six levels of pressure that can soothe even the most overworked feet. Especially on those long days at your desk when you want to give your feet a refreshing treat, finding your preferred air pressure could be a great perk.
The washable foot cover and clear button labels simplify usage. It's user-friendly, but individuals sensitive to foot stimulation should exercise caution; even at the lowest intensity, some reviews mention potential discomfort. This massager is more suited for those seeking intense stimulation and relaxation, rather than just relaxation.
Heating function | |
---|---|
Speed adjustability | |
Automatic shut-off | |
Power source | Power supply |
Weight | 8.3 lb. |
Accessories | Adaptor, Remote Controller |
Width | 12.9 in. |
Depth | 17.8 in. |
Height | 8.4 in. |
Cloth is washable |
Massage areas | Sole to ankle |
---|---|
Modes | 4 kneading and air compression combination modes |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Shiatsu Foot & Leg Massager from Massage Medik is designed to cover up to the ankle but can be applied to various body parts, including your calves and arms, due to its non-dome shape. Just place the desired body part on the central roller for targeted massage. it.
Furthermore, you can enjoy various massage settings for the entire foot by adjusting the direction and speed of the massage in three stages. A notable feature is the non-bothersome operating noise, and the washable foot cover adds to the convenience.
While suitable for those enjoying a massage during activities like working, reading, or watching TV, it's regrettable that it has only one roller, and the sole kneading may feel repetitive.
Additionally, the heel hold is weak, and when testers used the foot massager at an angle, the heel sometimes slipped off the machine. However, the air function’s pressure can be firmly felt on the foot, providing a refreshing sensation for legs and arms.
Heating function | |
---|---|
Speed adjustability | |
Automatic shut-off | |
Power source | Power supply |
Weight | 12.2 lb. |
Accessories | Adaptor, Remote Controller |
Width | 20.9 in. |
Depth | 12.5 in. |
Height | 8.9 in. |
Cloth is washable |
Massage areas | Sole to ankle |
---|---|
Modes | 5 massage modes |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Cloud Massage’s Shiatsu Foot & Calf Massager, designed to cover the ankles, is recommended for use with socks to avoid direct contact with bare skin. Our testing was conducted with socks on.
Most ankle-covering foot massagers offer air and kneading functions, but this one stands out with an additional vibration feature. Dual rollers provide front and back foot massage, and a unique swaying motion gently compresses the foot's sides. Testers noted a refreshing sensation after use, and the washable foot cover ensures long-term use.
The downside? Even at the lowest of its six intensity levels, it's quite stimulating, and the buttons are hard to understand, making intuitive operation difficult. Also, the mechanical noise of the vibration function can be distracting and may hinder concentration on other tasks. Rather than for relaxation, it suits those seeking a thorough foot massage or targeting ankles with its unique air function.
Heating function | |
---|---|
Speed adjustability | |
Automatic shut-off | |
Power source | Power supply |
Weight | 17.8 lb. |
Accessories | Adaptor, Remote Controller |
Width | 20.4 in. |
Depth | 15 in. |
Height | 8.5 in. |
Cloth is washable |
Massage areas | Sole to ankle |
---|---|
Modes | Massage Mode(Kneading+Rolling), Air Pressure Mode |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Neteck Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine, covering ankles, is lightweight at 4.1 lb., allowing easy portability for use at home, in the living room, or at your desk.
The product can impact both the sole and top of your foot with air compression and the central roller. Tester feedback included comments like, "It feels good to have the tips of your toes compressed by the airbags as well."
In addition, the buttons are labeled with instructions, and the foot cover can be washed, ensuring ease of use over the long term. However, because the roller specifically targets the arch of the foot and moves rhythmically, you may feel that it's lacking. Also, with only two intensity levels it could be challenging for those with varying foot fatigue to find the right strength daily.
If you're someone seeking a product that delivers a realistic feeling, spa-like massage, you might want to consider other options
Heating function | |
---|---|
Speed adjustability | |
Automatic shut-off | |
Power source | Power supply |
Weight | 4.1 lb. |
Accessories | Adaptor |
Width | 13 in. |
Depth | 13.5 in. |
Height | 6.3 in. |
Cloth is washable |
Massage areas | Sole of the foot |
---|---|
Modes | Acupressure massage combined with/ without air compression and vibration |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Sharper Image's Foot Multipoint Acupressure Massager stimulates only the soles of the feet. Rather than rollers kneading the feet, it stimulates the soles with acupressure.
In addition, the rollers work to perform acupressure on the feet, resulting in comments from testers such as "a unique sensation as if the foot's acupoints are moving." This massager is better suited for people who want to stimulate the acupoints on their feet rather than to relieve muscle stiffness in the feet.
Moreover, the absence of button descriptions makes it challenging to identify each mode. Furthermore, both airbags and foot covers are non-washable, potentially impacting its long-term usability.
Heating function | |
---|---|
Speed adjustability | |
Automatic shut-off | |
Power source | Power supply |
Weight | 5.8 lb. |
Accessories | Adaptor |
Width | 12.6 in. |
Depth | 14.1 in. |
Height | 6.1 in. |
Cloth is washable |
Massage areas | Sole of the foot |
---|---|
Modes | - |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Neteck Foot Massager only stimulates the soles of the feet.making it a product that prioritizes simplicity. Although there are no instructions, it's very easy to operate due to its single button.
As there are only two modes, with or without heat, you can intuitively understand the massage function. However, given its foot reflexology-like stimulation, the product lacks the sensation of a strong roller, making it unsuitable for those expecting a kneading function. Comments from testers have mentioned that it "feels more like it's stroking the surface of your foot rather than kneading it."
It's not suitable for those who want to thoroughly relieve their foot fatigue.
Heating function | |
---|---|
Speed adjustability | |
Automatic shut-off | |
Power source | Power supply |
Weight | 5.8 lb. |
Accessories | - |
Width | 13.4 in. |
Depth | 16 in. |
Height | 4.5 in. |
Cloth is washable |
At mybest, we define the best foot massager as a product that has a comprehensive foot massaging feature, is simple to operate, and is easy to use on a daily basis. In order to find the best products, we have gathered the 9 top-selling foot massagers from popular manufacturers and platforms such as Amazon, Walmart and other sites.
The following five points were thoroughly examined:
Pleasurable Sensation
Massage Features
Ease of Operation
Noise Level
Ease of Wear/Removal
Products we tested
We define a foot massager that provides the best pleasurable sensation as a machine that stimulates legs and gives our testers a sense of relief.
We assessed each product by gauging the testers' experience of thorough leg relaxation after a 5-minute session and the overall comfort of the massage.
We had testers in their 30s and 40s grappling with tired or heavy legs use each product. A break of over four hours was allotted between each foot massager test.
Were the legs thoroughly relaxed?
Is the massage feature comfortable?
We define a foot massager that has abundant massage features as a machine that can knead a wide range and is equipped with a rich variety of massage functions.
Testers were asked to evaluate each foot massager as if they actually bought the product themselves, and they then scored their satisfaction on each of the following points. We then converted that satisfaction level into a number rating for each foot massager.
Range of massage features
Intensity of the stimulation
Number of adjustment levels
Presence or absence of a heating function
We define a foot massager that is easy to operate as a machine that is very intuitive, eliminating the need to repeatedly refer to the instruction manual.
Testers were asked to evaluate each foot massager as if they actually bought the product themselves, and they then scored their satisfaction on each of the following points. We then converted that satisfaction level into a number rating for each foot massager.
Can you intuitively understand the mode you've selected?
Can you understand its meaning just by looking at the button?
We defined a foot massager’s acceptable noise level as quiet enough to not disrupt relaxation time.
Each product was evaluated by a tester for a period of five minutes to assess if the operating noise was bothersome, and subsequent recommendations were scored accordingly.
In testing foot massagers for men and women in their 30s-40s who tend to be concerned about foot fatigue and heaviness, we set an interval of more than 4 hours.
We define a foot massager’s easy wear/removal as a product that can be used immediately when someone wants, without any trouble inserting and removing the feet from it.
Testers were asked to evaluate each foot massager as if they actually bought the product themselves, and they then scored their satisfaction on each of the following points. We then converted that satisfaction level into a number rating for each foot massager.
No. 1: The Sharper Image|Shiatsu Dome Foot Massager
No. 2: Miko|Yoisho
No. 3: Renpho|Shiatsu Foot Massager Premium
No. 4: Fit King|Shiatsu Foot Massager with Heat
No. 5: Massage Medik|Shiatsu Foot & Leg Massager
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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