The best foot massagers to help you relax

With winter approaching, our skin is crying out for some much-needed TLC... including our feet. Even if you’ve been embarking upon your daily exercise in some of the best walking boots on offer, there’s still a good chance you’re experiencing a bout of dryness and aches. There’s no taboo here.

The good news is that it’s a problem that can certainly be solved in time for what promises to be a chilly winter by getting ahead now. Your secret weapon? A foot massager.

The best foot massagers will be well-equipped to vibrate, knead and massage you into pure bliss - but as with most things, they come in all shapes and sizes. And that’s because they’re not just for pain relief.

Foot massagers can help improve circulation and stimulate your muscles, too, so there’s a lot of options out there, and it’s about knowing which one is best for you. Plus, they make for a great at-home spa night.

The best foot massagers:

The Snailax 2-in-1 is a great budget option for anyone looking for relaxation. Its versatile design means that it acts not only as a foot massager but also as a foot heater, a back-heating cushion or a back massager. In terms of massaging capabilities, it has eight shiatsu rollers to combat tension, as well as heated shiatsu balls to stimulate circulation in your feet. It’s not designed for anything too strenuous and only offers a basic massage, but is definitely a great pick-me-up after a long walk.

Pros:

• Well-priced

• Can be used on other parts of your body

Cons:

• No kneading function

This panel-controlled massager from RENPHO has arguably the sleekest design of all. With the touch of a button, you can get a foot massage with a 15 or 30-minute timer, combining air compression, foot reflexology and soothing heat therapy. It has a number of different options and intensities so that every massage can be personalised, and suits people looking for relaxation, all the way through to training athletes. Best of all, the RENPHO suits feet up to a UK size 12, which is also larger than most.

Pros:

• Sleek design

• Air compression

• Multiple kneading intensities

• Touch button which can be controlled by your feet

Cons:

• Higher price point

A slightly more industrial style of foot massager, the HoMedics device offers six rotating massage nodes and 18 massage heads on a portable board, which is big enough for up to size 12 feet. You can also add a touch of heat to your massage using the hands-free controls, and it’s the perfect size for storing away when you’re done. It’s on an automatic 20-minute timer, so you don’t need to worry about being sat there for too long either, as tempting as it may be.

Pros:

• Hands-free

• Suited for up to size 12 feet

Cons:

• Not particularly stylish

The biggest selling point of the Nekteck foot massager is being able to adjust its height – something most other devices don’t have included. And despite its added extra (making its affordable price tag even more worthwhile), it doesn’t compromise on ability. It has three massage settings with varying intensities, as well as heat functions, a timer, and 18 rotating massager nodes. The only slight downside here is that it’s not so great for smaller feet, and for users who usually wear a size four shoe, it may be slightly too big for them to reap all of its many benefits.

Pros:

• Adjustable height

• Portable

• Heat function

Cons:

• Not great for smaller feet

For a more spa night-friendly option, an all-in-one massager is the way to go. The Turejo foot spa combines the soothing bubble of water with four manual massage rollers for acupressure points and comforting vibrations. This particular model also has infrared lighting to improve blood circulation and is big enough to fit feet up to a size 16. While it’s not a specialist device by any means, it’s the perfect option for anyone seeking some recuperation.

Pros:

• Good price point

• Has everything a casual user would need

Cons:

• Not suitable for professional use

This electric-free choice is super popular with athletes, with its patented technology and lightweight structure. The Moji Foot Massager contains six unique, plastic spheres, and covers all essential areas of the foot. Just by rolling your foot over the device, you’ll instantly feel the benefits of stretching and massaging your muscles, from heel to toe.

Pros:

• Lightweight

• Well-priced

Cons:

• Not suited for relaxation as you have to put in the work!

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