The 10 Best Massage Bolsters

Editor's Notes

August 28, 2020:

A set of bolsters is an essential addition to any massage therapist's table, as they provide the necessary support to ankles, knees, lower back, trapezium, and head during treatment, and relieve stress on sensitive body parts while a session is underway. The selection in this ranking are all commonly used variations, and each has its own benefits as far as different therapies are concerned.

The Saloniture Full Round, Earthlite Full Round, Earthlite Fluffy, and NRG Jumbo are all fully tubular options, which are similar to traditional bolster cushions, but are filled with high-density memory foam and have polyurethane covers that can be wiped clean of sweat and oils after a session. These are often bought in conjunction with a microfiber massage sheet, which absorbs these deposits and adds a soft layer to the cushioning beneath.

The Master Massage Tables Semi-Round, Dr. lomilomi Half-Round, and Earthlite Half Jumbo are each semicircular in profile and are ideal for placement underneath the neck, ankles, or lower back, as they do not roll on a flat surface and remain in place during a session. Another option is the hybrid Master Massage Tables Round, which is fully circular, but with one flattened edge giving the benefits of a large round bolster, but with added stability. Clients have been known to complain of headaches during therapy and these models are ideal for relieving pressure between the trapezium and the head.

Finally, we have the Earthlite Angle and the DevLon NorthWest Triangular. These are both "angle" or "peak" bolsters, and they are well-suited to propping up a client's torso as they lie on their side during a massage, enabling deeper access to the shoulders and arms. They are also useful when placed under the knees, helping to take the pressure off a patient's back and thighs.