BEST MASSAGE CHAIR PADS BUYING GUIDE & FAQ
When looking for the perfect massage chair pad, people usually focus on the best-rated massage chair pads, or the most expensive ones, or the ones with the most massage programs. And while these are the considerations you should take into account, don’t forget that the most important thing to consider when buying a massage chair pad are your own needs.
- Do you have back problems? If so, find a massage chair pad that offers multiple massage programs and intensity levels specifically for the back: entire back, upper back, mide back and lower back. Vibration-only cushions are simply not enough for most people with back problems.
- Do you often feel stressed and tense? If you do, and all you want is a rejuvenating, de-stressing massage, don’t worry about multiple pre-programmed massage options or extra features – simple vibrating and heating massage mats will do the trick.
- Do you want to be able to use your massage mat at the office and in the car? If you do, make sure you choose a lightweight cushion with a flexible strapping system that will allow you to easily place it on any chair and sofa of your choice.
- Do you frequently fall asleep during a massage? If you do and you like massages with heating, definitely purchase one with a safety feature. A timer that automatically turns off heating after 15-20 minutes won’t allow overheating and will keep you and your massage chair pad safe.
WHAT IS A MASSAGE CHAIR PAD?
Massage chair pads could be considered the affordable cousins of massage chairs -they are a great way to get a thorough massage and relax without spending a lot of money. With different massage options, such as shiatsu, rolling and vibrating massages, and various intensity and speed levels, massage cushions also offer great versatility – most can be used at home, office and even in car while traveling.
WHY USE MASSAGE PADS?
With so many massage chairs on the market, you may be wondering why even bother with massage pads? For one, they’re really affordable – while most high-quality massage chairs cost anywhere between $1500 and $2000 and over, high-quality massage chair pads can be purchased well below $200.
There’s also the versatility factor – massage cushions are compact, lightweight and highly versatile, meaning they can not only be used at different locations (such as in the office), but can be placed at different body areas as well. For instance, with a simple vibrating back and neck massage chair pad, you can get a great foot massage – just place the cushion under your feet!
Also, massage chair pads offer great health benefits, including:
- Relief from muscle pain, stiffness and tension
- Relief from back, neck and shoulder pain
- Improved blood circulation
- Better emotional and mental state
- Improved posture
- Better sleep.
FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING MASSAGE CHAIR PADS

Before you purchase your first massage chair pad, consider the following factors:
The number of massage programs: if all you want is a simple, relaxing massage, vibration-only massage cushions are ok, but if you want more than that, make sure your massage mat provides at least one more massage program.
The number and movement of massage nodes: massage nodes in the massage pad is what provides deep, invigorating back and neck massages. In essence, the more massage nodes, the better, but even 2-3 nodes are enough for most people. Besides the number, you also want to consider the movement of the nodes – if they can move up and down and/or rotate, the massages will be better and deeper. If, on the other hand, they cannot move and are locked in one place, the massages will be simpler and less invigorating.
Massage intensity: it’s always a plus to be able to personalize your massage, so having the option to choose between low, medium and high intensity massage is pretty much a must. Some people like and need more intense and invigorating massages, while others are more sensitive and can only take light, soothing massages.
The heat function: it’s advisable that you choose a massage chair pad with a heat function simply because with it, the cushion provides more relaxing and soothing massages. Also, if you have lower back pain, poor digestive health, menstrual and/or ovarian pain, the heat feature can dramatically help by boosting blood circulation and relieving stiffness and tension.
Safety features: if you’re someone who falls asleep easily and quickly, it’s best to purchase a massage mat that has an overheating safety feature. With this feature, if you turn on the heating function of the cushion and fall asleep during a massage, the pad itself will automatically shut off to prevent overheating.
MASSAGE CHAIR PADS VS. MASSAGE CHAIRS
Similarly to massage chairs, massage cushions usually provide different massage options, intensity levels and extra features, but unlike most massage chairs, they’re actually quite affordable. They’re also easier and more convenient to use – you can use them while laying down and watching TV just the same as while you’re working or even driving. However, unlike massage chairs, massage mats cannot give you that full-body invigorating massage experience. They can also never have the zero gravity feature on their own, or the ultra-customizable features that massage chairs have.
To sum it up, here are the pros and cons of choosing a massage chair pad over a massage chair:
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to install and use
- Lightweight and portable
- Can be used almost anywhere
Cons:
- Cannot provide a full-body massage
- No zero gravity.