While it’s easy to think that foot massagers are reserved for athletes or any profession where you’re on your feet all day, the truth is these machines are an excellent addition to any self-care routine. Sure, foot massagers can provide pain relief, reduce inflammation, and stimulate muscle recovery, but they can also do some heavy lifting to soothe your soul. If your budget can’t sustain a standing appointment with a personal masseuse, a foot massage machine might be the next best thing. The best foot massager provides pain relief on demand, but bells and whistles may vary based on personal preferences and your budget.
Between heat functions, air compression, shiatsu massages, and variations in pressure and intensity, the details can be dizzying. Ultimately, the best foot massager for you is the one that you’ll use consistently. To help you make an investment in your wellness, we researched the best foot massagers on the market. From a budget-friendly option to an outright splurge, there’s a foot massager on this list for everyone.
Best foot massage machines overview
- Best overall: Therapeutic Best Choice Products Foot Massager With High-Intensity Rollers
- Best budget: HoMedics Shiatsu Deluxe Foot Massager With Heat
- Best heated: Etekcity Foot Massager Machine With Heat
- Best for feet and legs: Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot and Calf Massager
- Best foot spa: Best Choice Automatic Heated Shiatsu Massage Foot Bath Spa w/ Pumice Stone
- Best splurge: Human Touch Reflex SOL Foot and Calf Massager
- Best shiatsu: Miko Foot Massager Machine
- Best with a remote: Renpho Shiatsu Foot and Calf Massager
- Best for versatility: Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu Foot Massager and Back Massager With Heat
- Best for travel: Therabody Wave Solo
How we chose the best foot massage machines
To compile this list, we researched manufacturer specifications, including massage modes, heat functions, ease of use, and more to create a short list of the top foot massagers. Then, we combed through detailed product descriptions, ratings, and reviews to find the best foot massagers for each category.
Our picks for the best foot massage machines
Ideal for those who are on their feet all day, the Therapeutic Foot Massager With High-Intensity Rollers by Best Choice Products is feature-full and wallet-friendly, so it hits our list as the best foot massager overall.
Using the machine’s manual mode, users can choose to massage the soles of their feet, toes, or aching arches. For those that don’t want to overthink it, the auto mode offers a consistent preset massage that hits all areas of your feet. Either way, you can treat your feet to a deep, therapeutic massage complete with pulsing, kneading, and rolling. The remote control allows users to change the power, speed, and massage directions without bending over to do so, and your choices are all viewable on a bright LCD screen.
Best Choice Products also keeps the maintenance of this foot massager to a minimum. It’s designed for easy cleaning with a removable, washable sleeve. A built-in handle lets you take it on the go, and the unit has a nonslip bottom.
In terms of real-world performance, this foot massager by Best Choice Products has hundreds of five-star reviews. One reviewer even said that it “truly feels like you are receiving a foot reflexology by a professional.”
Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 in. | Weight: 13.5 lbs. | Heated: No
Coming in at about $55, this HoMedics heated foot massager is an affordable option for budget-conscious shoppers. But don’t let its low price fool you — this foot massager has plenty to offer. For starters, it’s designed with four counter-rotating massage heads with multiple rotating nodes, all of which work in concert to simulate the deep-kneading fingers of a professional masseuse.
Another nice-to-have feature includes an optional heat setting that can give your massage an extra boost (plus the heat function can be used independently from the massager for those chilly days). This machine also has easy-to-use toe-touch controls that allow you to select between the heating and massaging functions without bending. While the foot massager has an open design, which accommodates larger feet, it’s still discrete enough to slip under your desk.
Dimensions: 13.6 x 3.6 x 9.1 in. | Weight: 4.18 lbs. | Heated: Yes
For folks who believe heat and foot massages go together like peanut butter and jelly, Etekcity’s Foot Massager Machine should probably top your shortlist. It offers a deep-kneading massage on the bottom of your feet while airbags gently create pressure on the top of your feet and around your ankles. Users can turn the heat on with the touch of a button to improve circulation and warm and soothe their feet.
This massager features three air pressure levels and three different speeds for the massage rollers, and users can save their preferences on the free VeSync app, which also functions as a remote control. For those who don’t care to tangle with apps and smartphones, the unit is also designed with a clear LCD display and touch panel for easy use. If you don’t want to watch the clock, you can set a timer for a 15-, 20-, or 25-minute run time through the app or touch panel.
Etekcity’s Foot Massager Machine is generously sized to accommodate larger feet up to men’s size 12, and the sleeves are removable and machine washable.
Dimensions: 18.4 x 15.4 x 10.7 in. | Weight: 12.1 lbs. | Heated: Yes
Using a combination of compression therapy, rolling massage, and shiatsu technology, Cloud Massage’s Shiatsu Foot and Calf Massager is designed to relieve pain and tension in your lower extremities. Whether it’s the aftermath of a tough workout or a grueling shift on your feet, users can choose from five massage settings and three intensity levels that expertly target your feet, ankles, and calves.
An adjustable bar allows for multiple massage positions, and the unit can be used from a seated position in a chair or while lying in bed. Cloud Massage’s shiatsu foot massager hits our list as the best massager for feet and legs, but you don’t have to take our word for it — it’s backed by thousands of five-star reviews.
Dimensions: 22 x 11 x 17.7 in. | Weight: 22 lbs. | Heated: Yes
This foot bath by Best Choice Products combines a foot massage with soothing hot water for a relaxing spa-like experience. It features a shiatsu mode to gently relieve tension and a removable maize roller design for acupoint pressure to help alleviate stress. The massager also has a heating function that can be turned on or off, depending on your preference. The best part might be the waterfall feature that massages the top of your feet and legs with the touch of a button.
For those committed to a spa-like experience, this massager also features a pumice stone that takes care of calluses and softens your feet while doubling as a medicine box to add bath salts, herbs, and oils. While Best Choice Products’ foot spa is larger than most of the entries on our list, it’s designed with four wheels and a handle for portability. It also has a detachable base and drain hose so cleaning won’t be an issue.
Dimensions: 18 x 14.5 x 15 in. | Weight: 11.3 lbs. | Heated: Yes
If you’ve got room in your budget, as well as your living space, the Reflex SOL Foot and Calf Massager by Human Touch, would be an excellent splurge. This foot massager features the brand’s CirQlation and Figure-Eight technologies, both of which are designed to mimic the hands of a professional masseuse.
The Reflex SOL uses a combination of reflexology massage, rolling massage, and under-foot vibration to soothe the feet and enhance circulation. The unit also features a heat function that gives your massage a nice boost.
In terms of use and care, this foot massager has a large footprint, but it’s designed with an adjustable tilt so users can easily find their sweet spot. The unit doesn’t have a remote control, but bending down to make adjustments might be kept at an acceptable minimum since the control pad is at the top of the unit — so it should be comfortably reachable. The sleeve inserts are removable and washable, so while this foot massager may be an investment, it can provide a fresh experience time and again.
Dimensions: 19 x 18 x 18 in. | Weight: 25 lbs. | Heated: Yes
If you’re looking for a soothing, healing foot massage, shiatsu foot massagers are where it’s at. To that end, you might consider Miko’s Foot Massager Machine. This foot massager is equipped with everything you need to get back on your feet, including heat, a deep-kneading shiatsu massage, gentle compression, and subtle vibration.
Digging into the details, we found that independent foot chambers provide a rolling and shiatsu massage to the bottom and sides of the feet while air inflation applies pressure to all parts of your foot. To bump things up a notch or two, flip on the heat to relax tense muscles even faster.
This foot massager is designed with five pressure settings, which users can toggle between using one of two included wireless remote controls. The unit also features removable, washable foot liners for easy care, and the foot chambers are wide enough for some wiggle room and large enough to accommodate up to men’s size 13.
Dimensions: 16.75 x 16.75 x 9.25 in. | Weight: 11 lbs. | Heated: Yes
If bending to adjust your foot massager is a deal-breaker or mobility is an issue, you might consider our pick for the best foot massager with a remote — Renpho’s Shiatsu Foot and Calf Massager. Not only does this machine massage your feet, but it also tackles your calves and arms.
To select the best massage therapy, users can choose between three rolling intensities and four squeeze intensities. Additionally, they can target specific areas with heat (bottom, instep, and full foot) — all of which are controllable through remote control, so there’s no need to bend or move.
The support bar with 270-degree adjustability lets you position the massager to accommodate your feet, legs, or arms, and it also serves as a carry handle. The heat function can automatically be shut off after 15, 20, or 30 minutes, and the cover is removable and washable.
It’s also worth noting that this massager is designed with a calf chamber that’s generously wide at 7.7 inches, and the foot area has an open design that can accommodate up to men’s size 14.
Dimensions: 22.99 x 15.55 x 9.69 in. | Weight: 19.85 lbs. | Heated: Yes
Designed for multipurpose use, the Snailax 2-in-1 Shiatsu Foot Massager and Back Massager With Heat starts as a foot massager and warmer. Once you detach the top cover, it’s also a shiatsu back massager and a heating pad.
This unit uses eight rotating shiatsu rollers to provide deep-tissue kneading where you need it. Plus, it’s equipped with a toasty heat function that works equally well for a warm massage or just a cold day.
At just under 4 pounds, it’s lightweight and completely portable, so you can relax on your sofa, bed, or chair — whatever floats your boat. And to round out a nice list of features, the top cover is detachable and washable, and a nonslip rubber bottom helps keep the unit in place.
The Snailax 2-in-1 massager lost some points because the massage nodes are only located in the middle of the unit instead of running the entire length of the unit. As such, it only massages one area at a time. If you need to target your heels, you’ll need to readjust your foot to do so.
Dimensions: 13.8 x 11.8 x 10.1 in. | Weight: 3.7 lbs. | Heated: Yes
If you’re a frequent traveler and find that a foot massager is a nice-to-have in your hotel room, consider the Therabody Wave Solo. This guy may be petite, but it’s mighty enough to restore your aching feet when you’re on the go.
This ultra-portable foot massager uses smart vibration therapy to deliver pinpointed pressure and relief to achy feet. But as a little added benefit, it can technically be used anywhere on your body, including your legs, back, and thighs.
Ergonomically shaped to work deep into trouble spots, this massager uses vibration to dampen pain. It features three customizable vibration frequencies and is equipped with innovative QuietRoll Technology to effectively mute sound and reverberations (so if you only travel as far as the office, you can use it there too). To deepen the massage, users can simply press into the device.
Therabody’s Wave Solo has a 120-minute battery life, and it’s a smart device with Bluetooth connectivity so that users can control it with the accompanying app.
Dimensions: 3.4 in diameter | Weight: 0.7 lbs. | Heated: No
Who needs an expensive massage?
A good foot massage can make you feel like a million bucks. However, if your budget doesn’t allow for regular appointments with a masseuse, foot massagers are a great alternative. Depending on your specific needs and space, our list should provide an option for nearly everyone.
How to pick the right foot massage machine for you
Massage modes
Foot massagers are typically designed with a number of massage modes to soothe sore feet, including shiatsu massage, manual massage, and air compression. If you’re looking to mimic the massage you’d get from a masseuse, you’re looking for a shiatsu massager. If you’re looking for a more gentle massage, opt for air compression options or manual massage modes that require your input to adjust the intensity. Ultimately, you need to pick one that suits your preferences.
Controls
While some foot massagers come with a remote control to adjust settings, plenty more only have a control pad on the machine itself. That means you’ll likely need to lean forward to change your massage and heat settings. If that’s a deal-breaker for you, you may want to limit your search to remote-controlled units only.
Heat
Foot massagers often use heat to increase effectiveness and promote relaxation. To be honest, heat functions can take your massage to the next level, especially on a chilly day. Ideally, you’ll want to look for a foot massager with adjustable heat settings to make your experience comfortable in all seasons and temperatures.
FAQs
What’s the best foot massager on the market?
If this is your first time shopping for a foot massager, consider our Best Overall pick, the Therapeutic Foot Massager With High-Intensity Rollers by Best Choice Products. This foot massager delivers a deep therapeutic massage to sore feet. Users can target specific areas with the manual massage mode or choose the auto function for a thorough preset massage. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, and with removable, washable sleeves, it’s easy to maintain.
Do podiatrists recommend foot massagers?
While we didn’t tap any podiatrists to weigh in for this article, our research shows that foot massagers can improve circulation and reduce foot pain and tension. For those reasons, they’re often recommended by podiatrists.
Are foot massager machines good for you?
If foot pain is consistently an issue for you, a regular massage could work wonders to ease the discomfort and get you back on your feet. However, the skilled hands of a masseuse typically come at a premium. Foot massagers are an excellent way to enjoy the benefits of a foot massage without breaking the bank. Many are designed with multiple massage modes and intensities that users can adjust to their liking and comfort level, so there’s usually no harm in using a foot massager machine.