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Athletes and gym enthusiasts alike often search for the best muscle recovery tools to maximize their post-workout recovery—like massage guns, supplements, and foam rollers. Still, if you’ve been out and about on your feet all day, you may need tools specifically designed for foot relief.
Now, you can bring the rest of the spa home with the best foot massagers, with a variety of massage functions, heat settings, and air compression options. Our team of certified personal trainers, lifelong athletes, and coaches have taken the time to relax—er, recover—and test these massage machines, looking at aspects of these foot massagers according to our fitness equipment testing methodology. Our testers scored our picks 1 through 5 in the following areas:
- Portability
- Functionality
- Additional features
- Foot size accommodations
- Price and value
Additionally, I talked to physiologist and dietitian Chris Mohr, Ph. D., RD, about the benefits and usage of foot massagers. We’ll discuss the correct usage of these massage machines and purported benefits throughout this roundup as well. Now, let’s get to stepping with the best foot massagers.
The 9 Best Foot Massagers
- Best Foot Massager Overall: Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massager
- Best Budget Foot Massager: NekTeck Foot Massager
- Best Massage Gun for Feet: Theragun Prime
- Best Foot Massager with Remote Control: MIKO Foot Massager
- Best Foot Roller Massager: Theraflow Foot Roller
- Best Foot Massager for Plantar Fasciitis: Bob and Brad Foot Massager with Heat
- Best Foot and Calf Massager: FIT KING Leg Air Massager
- Best Foot Bath Massager: Medical King Foot Spa
- Best Shiatsu Foot Massager: RENPHO Foot Massager Machine with Heat
Best Foot Massager Overall: Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massager
Good for: Users who want great functionality and features to their foot massager
The Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massager is a versatile and multi-functional foot massager. With four major massage functions with varying intensities, the foot massager can also be used on calves and has a heating function. Its 22-pound weight doesn’t make it the most portable foot massager, but it has four preset 15-minute programs.
What our tester says:
“It’s expensive, but I hesitate to rate the value low because my husband and I have both been using it almost every night since I received it last month. It does feel like it has a lot to offer because there are multiple massage types, pre-set programs, and a heat setting. For me, the cost is worth it since we’ve been using it so much.”
Best Budget Foot Massager: NekTeck Foot Massager
Good for: People needing a budget-friendly way to ease tired feet
The NekTeck Foot Massager is an affordable foot massager with a heat setting. Although many features are limited, such as not being able to adjust intensity or heat settings, it is a great option for anyone looking for a budget-friendly recovery product.
What our tester says:
“It’s nothing fancy, but it does have an infrared heating setting and is priced very low compared to other foot massagers.”
Best Massage Gun for Feet: Theragun Prime
Good for: People wanting a massage gun that’s good for their feet and other sore muscles
We recommend the Theragun Prime as the best overall massage gun for people who want powerful percussion without an exorbitant price tag. Although it’s a bulkier massage gun than most, its ergonomic handle allows you to get hard-to-reach spots on your back and other areas of your body.
What our tester says:
“The triangular multi-grip handle makes it easy to massage hard-to-reach places compared to the standard single handle on other massage guns.”
Best Foot Massager with Remote Control: MIKO Foot Massager
Good for: Those who like their foot massager controls within easy reach
The MIKO Foot Massager is a foot massager that combines deep kneading, heat, compression, and vibration to provide relief to various foot aches and pains. Although it’s a pricier foot massager, there are plenty of adjustments and functions to use on the foot massager, including five pressure settings.
What our tester says:
“It’s pretty great! It has multiple settings and intensity levels. However, it’s not super clear what the settings are or how to navigate them at first as nothing is labeled besides little icons.”
Best Foot Roller Massager: Theraflow Foot Roller
Good for: Users looking for an easy-to-use and inexpensive way to massage their feet
If you’re looking for a simple way to ease feet aches or pains, or to simply relax, the Theraflow Foot Roller is a great choice. Although it’s not electric-powered, the foot roller is effective at massage feet, with four acupressure rollers and another row of reflexology nubs. It’s under $20 as well, making it a great budget option.
What our tester says:
“This would be a good product to try if you’re interested in a foot massager but don’t want to commit several hundred dollars to an electronic one. It would also be good to keep in a home gym and use for a dynamic warmup.”
Best Foot Massager for Plantar Fasciitis: Bob and Brad Foot Massager with Heat
Good for: Those needing to relieve pain associated with inflammation
The Bob and Brad Foot Massager is a foot massaging device with multiple settings for massaging intensities, air compression, and heat settings. The massager has an optional remote, although that can increase the price of the device. While developed by actual physical therapists, there are mixed reviews on the durability and longevity of the unit.
What our tester says:
“If you have plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or neuropathy, it’s important to make sure the massage is at a comfortable intensity. These conditions may require the advice of a healthcare professional.”
Best Foot and Calf Massager: FIT KING Leg Air Massager
Good for: Runners or gym enthusiasts who are looking to relive both their feet and calves
The FIT KING Leg Air Massager is a foot and calf massager with two different massage modes and three levels of intensity for each. It claims to have a total of 10 different massage techniques between the two modes. While the materials may not be the highest quality, this can be a solid budget-friendly alternative to pricier compression boots.
What our tester says:
“While I don’t think the materials are the highest quality, I like the simplicity of this foot massager. It should cater to users of all sizes, plus it seems pretty effective at applying pressure to my calves and feet.”
Best Foot Bath Massager: Medical King Foot Spa
Good for: People looking for foot pain relief reminiscent to a spa treatment
The Medical King Foot Spa is a water-based foot massager with foot rollers, water bubbles, and a removable pumice stone.Available in a variety of colors, this foot spa and massager is collapsible and budget-friendly.
What our tester says:
“Most people can safely use a foot massager daily or a few times a week, but it’s important to listen to your body and not overdo it.”
Best Shiatsu Foot Massager: RENPHO Foot Massager Machine with Heat
Good for: These looking to trigger specific pressure points through Shiatsu massage
The RENPHO Foot Massager Machine with Heat is a pricey but functional foot massager. With kneading, compression, and heat functionality, it’s a versatile recovery product for your feet. It includes three kneading intensities and three compression levels, as well as a heating option.
What our tester says:
“This was a very pleasant foot massager overall, and I appreciated that the low settings were truly “low”—my feet didn’t feel tickled or pummeled, just gently kneaded.”
Other Foot Massagers We Researched
There are a lot of foot massagers on the market, varying by function and cost. Here are a few worth mentioning that didn’t quite make our final list.
- Snailax Shiatsu Foot Massager: This cozy foot massager is budget-friendly, but it only has one massage head for each foot—a bit less than the three each from our current budget pick.
- Lifepro Plus Foot Massager: The Lifepro massager looks like it could be a pretty robust foot massager, especially since it can be angled and situated to massage calves as well. We just haven’t had a chance to test it out yet.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Foot Massagers
Look, we take our jobs seriously at Garage Gym Reviews…and sometimes, that means taking the time to relax. That’s right; to test out the best foot massagers, our team had to unwind and try out the different functions of many of these foot massagers. As usual with our product testing, we tested these massagers over the span of a few weeks, noting any issues we came across and the overall effectiveness.
Each foot massager tested was given a score from 1 to 5 across several features:
- Price and value: Foot massagers can range from under $50 to over $300, so generally speaking, cheaper foot massagers received higher scores here. However, price wasn’t the only factor. If the massager brought a lot of functionality or features for its price, it’d earn a higher score.
- Portability: How easy could the foot massager move around? Unlike the best treadmills for a home gym, foot massagers are typically lightweight, but some are heavier than others, and also may have handles to help carry it around. We factored in this along with the cord length to see how easily it could work anywhere in a home.
- Functional settings: How many massage settings does the machine have? Can the modes vary by intensity or speed? The more functionality a massager has, the higher it scores here. We also liked the use of preset programs.
- Additional features: If the foot massager has extra features, we marked them here. Many have an optional heat setting, for example, or may convert to a calf massager, too. We also factored remote controls, washable foot sleeves, or automatic shut-off settings.
- Foot size accommodations: Not every foot massager discloses this information, so we would have to guesstimate on the accommodations based on testing. Top scores were given to massagers that fit up to men’s size 12 (women’s size 14) or that had open designs.
- Customer service: Many of the best foot massagers are available on Amazon and have similar policies on returns because of it. We also factored the ordering and delivery experience, as well as any warranties or financing options available.
- Customer reviews: This score was taken directly from the product’s website, or from an online retailer like Amazon, and is a reflection of customer’s thoughts on the product.
After averaging the scores out, we gave each product an overall score and created this list of the top foot massagers, all to cover a broad range of needs and uses.

Benefits of Foot Massagers
To discuss the various benefits people can find from foot massagers, I talked with physiologist and dietitian Chris Mohr, Ph. D., RD, and he had quite a bit to say on the myriad of benefits. “Regular use of foot massagers can improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation,” he says, adding, “They may also help alleviate foot pain, especially for those who spend long hours on their feet.”
The amount and types of benefits people may experience can vary, however. “Some people find that foot massagers help reduce stress and improve sleep quality, but every outcome is different,” Chris explains. With that in mind, let’s further discuss some of the potential benefits of foot massagers.
Improves Circulation
Massage in general has been found to help increase blood flow, as mentioned in a 2024 study3. Improved blood circulation may have more benefits, such as helping reduce heart rate or blood pressure. Although dated, a 1999 clinical trial4 used 5-minute foot massage sessions on patients in critical care. Testers were able to note a significant decrease in the patients’ heart rates, blood pressures, and respiration during and following a massage session.
As we know from the best home saunas, heat therapy can also help improve circulation and reduce blood pressure, as reported in a 2021 review5, so heated foot massagers has the potential to improve your heart health on two different fronts.

May Help Reduce Muscle Soreness
A review from the Journal of Sport Rehabilitation6 has reported that the best compression boots can help reduce or alleviate delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in endurance athletes. The same technology of using compression through air pressure is prevalent in many higher-end electric foot massagers. In this way, foot, calf, and leg massagers can help alleviate muscle soreness after a long day of being on your feet.
May Help Relieve Pain
A March 2024 randomized control trial7 performed deep-tissue massages (along with electrical stimulation, hot packs, and ultrasound) on a study group with neck pain. After treatment, the study group with deep-tissue massage had significant improvement over the control group. While this primarily focused on neck pain, this does illustrate the effect massage has on pain relief.
Another study from 20208 showed that foot massage was able to help relieve pain and anxiety of patients who had just undergone cardiac surgery, showing that massage is an effective way to reduce pain. Foot massagers replicate these types of massages using massage rollers or heads with rotating nodes.
May Reduce Stress and Anxiety
As the previous study mentioned8, foot massage also has the ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Furthermore, a 2019 study9 used aromatherapy, massage, and reflexology on patients with advanced stages of cancer. They concluded that massage and reflexology can be a way to improve mood by providing a respite or escapism from their disease.

May Improve Sleep
Reducing pain in tired muscle or sore feet can also have a positive impact on your quality of sleep. A randomized controlled trial from 202010, for example, used foot massage on patients with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and found that foot massage can reduce nerve pain in these patients—which had a positive effect on their sleep. As Chris Mohr already said, the effects you get from these wellness machines will vary, but if you struggle with sleep, it could be worth a shot.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Foot Massagers
Looking for the right foot massager for you? Here’s a few things to consider before making your purchase. First and foremost, though, it’s important to speak with a podiatrist about any special needs or circumstances you may have, as physiologist Chris Mohr outlines:
“People with certain foot or leg conditions, such as open wounds, severe varicose veins, or active infections, should avoid using a foot massager entirely. Anyone with circulatory issues, diabetes, or neuropathy should also talk with a doctor before using a foot massager—just to make sure it’s safe for them.”
With that in mind, let’s look at our foot massager buying guide.

Cost
Electric foot massagers can range from around $50 to $300 or more. Usually, more expensive massagers will have more functions and features, but it may not be the functionality you need—or the price.For those looking for ultra-budget alternatives, there are also foot rollers, which aren’t electric and rely on you rolling your feet up and down the roller with your own level of pressure.
Functionality and Features
There are tons of functions and features on premium foot massagers. Just to name a few that you can find with foot massagers:
- Adjustable massage modes
- Adjustable massage intensities
- Air compression
- Heat settings
- Preset programs
- Remote control
- Washable foot liners
- Auto shut-off timers
Other foot massagers will keep it simple, with an on/off switch. If you have sensitive feet, you may want to spend a bit more to be able to adjust the massage intensity, though. “It’s important to make sure the massager is set to a comfortable intensity, as too much could flair up any pre-existing foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or neuropathy,” adds Chris. “If you feel pain or are uncomfortable, it’s a good idea to stop using it immediately.”
Foot Size
Some foot massagers have cradles or an open design, so fitting your foot into them is hardly an issue. Others do have closed designs that allow you to insert your foot into a hole. For those massagers, it’s important to note what foot size they’re able to accommodate. Many allow for up to size 12 in men’s, so if your shoe size is larger, you may want to be careful on which foot massager you choose.
Portability
Most foot massagers are compact and won’t take up too much space, and many are lightweight and under 10 pounds. However, some can be bulkier or lack any handles, so carrying them around in the house may be more of a nuisance than other massagers. If you’re going to be moving around with this massager a lot, you may want to opt for a lighter one that’s more portable.
Also note the length of the power cord if the foot massager is electric, as that’ll impact where you can use it at home.
Experts Who Contributed To This Article
FAQs About the Best Foot Massagers
What is the best foot massager on the market?
There are quite a few foot massagers on the market, which may or not be best suited for you depending on its cost, functionality, or your needs. That said, our top pick for most people is the Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massager, as it has a ton of functionality at a premium—but competitive—price. Some may need a budget option instead, but if you can afford the price, it’s a very good choice.
What are the cons of foot massagers?
Foot massagers may be too intense of a sensation for some people, especially at first. Physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph. D. RD, recommends, “It’s best to start with shorter sessions and see how your body reacts. If it feels too intense or isn’t comfortable, it’s OK to cut it short.”#People with circulatory issues, neuropathy, or other pre-existing conditions may also want to consult a healthcare professional before using a foot massager, as it could possibly exacerbate those issues.
Should you wear socks when using a foot massager?
Using socks with your foot massager is totally up to your preference. Socks may make the massage less intense, which may be beneficial if you feel like your foot massager has a relatively high intensity. Not using socks is also fine, but if your foot massager doesn’t have removable foot liners, then maintenance may be a hassle when it comes time to clean the inside of the massager.
References
- Whatley, J., Perkins, J., & Samuel, C. (2022). ‘Reflexology: Exploring the mechanism of action’. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 48, 101606. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2022.101606
- Cabo, F., Baskwill, A., Aguaristi, I., Christophe-Tchakaloff, S., & Guichard, J. P. (2018). Shiatsu and Acupressure: Two Different and Distinct Techniques. International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork, 11(2), 4–10.
- Thadanatthaphak, Y., Kanpittaya, J., Takong, W., Chanaboon, S., & Tudpor, K. (2024). Immediate effects of Thai foot massage on renal blood flow, psychological stress, and heart rate variability in community-dwelling older adults: a randomized controlled trial. F1000Research, 13, 838. https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.148453.1
- Hayes, J., & Cox, C. (1999). Immediate effects of a five-minute foot massage on patients in critical care. Intensive & critical care nursing, 15(2), 77–82. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0964-3397(99)80003-2
- Pizzey, F. K., Smith, E. C., Ruediger, S. L., Keating, S. E., Askew, C. D., Coombes, J. S., & Bailey, T. G. (2021). The effect of heat therapy on blood pressure and peripheral vascular function: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Experimental physiology, 106(6), 1317–1334. https://doi.org/10.1113/EP089424
- Stedge, H. L., & Armstrong, K. (2021). The Effects of Intermittent Pneumatic Compression on the Reduction of Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Endurance Athletes: A Critically Appraised Topic. Journal of sport rehabilitation, 30(4), 668–671. https://doi.org/10.1123/jsr.2020-0364
- Bingölbali, Ö., Taşkaya, C., Alkan, H., & Altındağ, Ö. (2024). The effectiveness of deep tissue massage on pain, trigger point, disability, range of motion and quality of life in individuals with myofascial pain syndrome. Somatosensory & motor research, 41(1), 11–17. https://doi.org/10.1080/08990220.2023.2165054
- Alameri, R., Dean, G., Castner, J., Volpe, E., Elghoneimy, Y., & Jungquist, C. (2020). Efficacy of Precise Foot Massage Therapy on Pain and Anxiety Following Cardiac Surgery: Pilot Study. Pain management nursing : official journal of the American Society of Pain Management Nurses, 21(4), 314–322. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmn.2019.09.005
- Armstrong, M., Flemming, K., Kupeli, N., Stone, P., Wilkinson, S., & Candy, B. (2019). Aromatherapy, massage and reflexology: A systematic review and thematic synthesis of the perspectives from people with palliative care needs. Palliative medicine, 33(7), 757–769. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269216319846440
- Sarısoy, P., & Ovayolu, O. (2020). The Effect of Foot Massage on Peripheral Neuropathy-Related Pain and Sleep Quality in Patients With Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Holistic nursing practice, 34(6), 345–355. https://doi.org/10.1097/HNP.0000000000000412
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