Running is one of the best forms of exercise out there, but it can be hard on your feet! Pounding into the pavement with each step on your journey to log more miles does take its toll.
The physical demands of running help to keep you in shape and build strength. It also reduces your stress. You may want to run more but your feet argue otherwise.
Don’t let this stop you! Adding regular foot massage can help you run more, but what is the best foot massager for runners?
Let’s take a look at why foot massage is important and what to look for when choosing a foot massager.
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Benefits of Foot Massage for Runners
Like other types of massage, the benefits of foot massage are both physical and mental. It can reduce depression and anxiety, lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and more.
Regular foot massage can help prevent injuries because it can break down small bundles of collegen fibers (called adhesions) that restrict movement and increase muscle tightness. For runners that have plantar fasciitis or have issues with other injuries it can help relieve pain.
Note: If you have an injury or other medical condition, please speak with your healthcare provider before starting a massage program.
RELATED: The Best Calf Massager for Runners
What to Look for in a Foot Massager for Runners
When you are a runner, you need a foot massager that will help your feet handle all the running you do. It needs to be able to work out knots and help with recovery time.
Manual vs. Electric
There are two main types of foot massagers: manual and electric. Both can be effective massage tools for runners, it depends on your personal preferences as to which one is best.
A manual massager uses your body weight as pressure on rollers to work the muscles. It is possible to get a very deep massage using just a manual massager. This will be a much cheaper option than an electric foot massager, but it might not provide as relaxing an experience.
An electric foot massager does all the work for you. Just sit back and relax while the device gets rid of the knots and tension. These foot massager machines can use different massage techniques like shiatsu, rollers, air pressure, and vibration.
You could also consider a foot spa massager. It a relaxing way to pamper tired feet but it doesn’t have the deep massage power needed to target knots, so those are not included on this list.
Heat
Heat will help relax your muscles and make it easier to get deep into the tissue. It’s a valuable feature that you will find in most top-rated electric foot massagers. Most manual options do not offer heat.
Easy to Use & Clean
Like any gadget, you want it to be easier to use. Almost by definition, manual massager will be simple to operate. For electric massagers, look for ones that have lots of options of built in programs to get started.
Since you will be using the massager for your feet, it is bound to get dirty. This is especially true for runners. You want something that is quick and easy to clean.
Portability
Think about where you will be using your massager. If you want to take your massager along when you travel, it needs to be portable. While most foot massagers aren’t very heavy, they will take up a fair amount of room in your suitcase. If portability is your priority, a manual foot massager or massage ball may be your best option.
Versatility
Some foot massagers can also be used to target other body parts. For example, there are those designed to massage the calf and foot like this Cloud Massage machine. Also, some manual massagers can be used on other parts of the body.
Top Foot Massagers for Runners
Now that you understand the benefits of foot massagers for runners, let’s take a look at some of the most popular options. The table provides a summary of the top-rated foot massagers for runners and more detailed reviews of each one are below.
Brand |
Key Features |
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Cloud Massage |
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trumedic |
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RENPHO |
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Human Touch |
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Simple Spectra |
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TheraFlow |
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Best Electric Foot Massagers for Runners
Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massage Machine
This foot massager uses heat to get into your muscles and boost your circulation. Stimulated blood flow means healthier muscles and a healthier body. The massager also uses rolling ball massagers to provide a high-pressure massage that gives you stress-free muscles and tension release.
We like how flexible this massager is. With a simple adjustment, the massager is perfectly suited for massaging your calves too. It also offers multiple settings for heat, air compression pressure, and vibration to customize the experience.
Even at the lowest setting, this calf and foot massager is intense. If you can handle the pressure, you will quickly notice improvement in pain from plantar fasciitis and other ailments. (You may also like to read about the best foot massagers for plantar fasciitis.)
When the air pressure cuffs are deflated the calf area is 5 inches wide and 11 inches long. The toe area is open so it fits most foot sizes for men and women.
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
truMedic IS-4000pro InstaShiatsu Heated Foot Massager
When your tired feet demand a spa-quality foot massage, this massager will deliver using heated Shiatsu massage rollers and airbags that mimic the feeling of human hands. You get a professional-quality foot massage at a fraction of the cost in the comfort and convenience of your own home.
It’s ergonomically designed to complement the structure of the human foot for the maximum comfort, relaxation, and pain relief. Use the control panel to choose one of three shiatsu massage intensities, control the air pressure, and infrared heat.
It’s easy to keep clean as there are detachable, machine washable foot liners
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
RENPHO Foot Massager Machine with Heat
When you massage your feet, you help to relax the whole body. This RENPHO foot massager has a rotation ball, rolling stick, heat, and air compression to give you a deep kneading Shiatsu foot massage.
The ergonomic design makes the experience more comfortable and helps it feel like a professional foot massage. You can choose from three kneading and three squeeze intensities based on your personal preference and the soothing heat function can be controlled independently.
All the settings can be managed using the remote control or touch panel which can be controlled effortlessly using your foot. There is a removable washable cloth in the foot chambers, so it is easy to clean.
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
Human Touch Reflex5s Foot and Calf Massager
Human Touch’s has released a new model in its popular Reflex massager line. This machine delivers an even more powerful reflexology massage using its patented CirQlation figure-eight technology.
Massage rollers under the feet to provide relief to the soles and heels, while the calves are massaged in an upward, rolling motion. This helps to draw blood away from the feet which will help improve circulation and overall wellness.
It has two intensity settings so you can get the perfect amount of pressure. The base can be tilted so that you can be massaged at an angle that feels comfortable. The sleeves are removeable to make it easy to keep this massager clean.
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
Best Manual Foot Massagers for Runners
Foot Massager Roller & Spiky Ball Therapy Set
This massage therapy set comes with a soft spiky ball, a firm spiky ball, and a hard foam foot roller. It’s perfect for targeting all areas of the foot, calves, and hamstring where runners need it most. Regular use will help to relieve muscle aches, soreness, tightness by loosening those tough knots and increasing mobility in your feet.
It comes with a sleek carrying bag, so that you can take your self massaging tool set anywhere. It’s perfect for home, office, and travel. All you need is a few minutes to make a difference. An Ebook with detailed instructions and tips is also included with the set.
Both the massage balls and the roller are safe non-toxic, washable, and built to last. They are made out of 100% rubber and phthalates free PVC.
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
TheraFlow Large Dual Foot Massager Roller
This foot massage roller may look simple but a lot of research has gone into making it an effective tool for runners. Every detail like the number of acupressure nubs and arch has been painstakingly configured to suit a range of feet types.
You will be impressed by how the 10 independently-moving rollers can measure up to more expensive electric massagers when it comes to stimulating and soothing your feet. Just glide your feet on the TheraFlow and feel the warmth of reflexology radiate from your feet to the rest of your body. It will melt the arches and stresses away.
It doesn’t matter how big your feet are. This foot roller will relieve your tired and sore feet after a long run. It will can also help with conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and neuropathy.
Since this manual foot massager only weighs 1.5 lbs, you can take it with you wherever you go. Use it when you are travelling, at work, or watching TV. No batteries or wires are required. Instructions and tips on proper usage will be provided.
If you’re unhappy with your Theraflow Foot Massager for any reason, they will replace it or give you a refund, no questions asked.
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
What is the Best Foot Massager for Runners?
The Best Overall Foot Massager for Runners
This Cloud Massage machine is more than just a foot massager. It can also do an excellent job of massaging your calves. Keep in mind it is powerful even on the lowest setting, but it does yield excellent results.
The Best Foot Massage for Runners for the Money
You don’t necessarily need something fancy, but want something that works! This manual foot roller can get similar results to the more expensive massage machines. Additionally, since it’s lightweight and doesn’t need cables or a battery, you can take it with you anywhere.
Foot Massage Techniques for Runners
There is no one “right” massage technique to use for runners. You can use an electric foot massager, a manual foot massager, a foot massager spa, or just your own hands. If it works for you, that is what matters!
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