The Best Acupressure Mats You’ll Ever Try

By Brian Price

Updated November 5, 2024
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Thinking About Trying An Acupressure Mat?

Acupressure mats have become increasingly popular in recent years as a natural way to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. These mats are covered in thousands of small plastic spikes that apply pressure to specific points on the body, similar to the principles of acupuncture. 

With so many acupressure mats on the market, it can be challenging to know which is best for your needs. In this buying guide, we’ll explore the 4 best acupressure mats out there, considering factors such as comfort, durability, and overall effectiveness.

4 Best Acupressure Mats

#1 Shakti Mat Original

9.8/10 4485 reviews

#2 Pranamat Classic Set

8.6/10

#3 Calm Elephant Acupressure Set

8.5/10 43 reviews

#4 BACKLAXX

7.5/10 1005 reviews

#1 Shakti Mat Original

9.8/10 4485 reviews

Overall Quality
9.9/10
Effectiveness
9.8/10
Materials
9.8/10
Manufacturing Standards
9.9/10
Value for Money
9.7/10
Customer Satisfaction
9.8/10

Pros

  • Ethical business practices from top to bottom
  • Helps relieve muscle tension and pain
  • Made from natural materials like cotton and recycled plastic
  • Portable and easy to use at home or while traveling
  • Can be used on various parts of the body, including the back, neck, and feet

Cons

As our top pick, the Original Shakti Mat has truly made a mark as the leading acupressure mat out there, boasting an impressively growing number of loyal users. We think a lot of their success has to do with how their mats are made, as well as the philosophy of the brand’s founders.

What sets the Shakti Mat apart for us is its premium construction and thoughtful design. One of the key highlights of the Shakti Mat is its innovative design, featuring 6,210 spikes meticulously crafted from medical-grade ABS1 plastic, which is actually quite expensive to produce. The reason they put so much into using that particular plastic, is because it is much more durable and retains a level of sharpness none of the other brands can match. Shakti literally has the sharpest and most effective spikes available, even much sharper than PranaMat’s.

We also love the way their spikes are attached to the mats. They use a proprietary technology they call “Clip Disk Tech”. The spikes are attached by disks that are clipped directly through the mat. The reason this matters so much is because the glues and adhesives that other brands use contain harmful chemicals. Shakti is the only company not gluing their spikes. As an added advantage, their Cip Disk process actually makes the spikes more responsive to body contours than other mats.

The mat itself is made with 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton and filled with recycled foam, which shows us they’re focused on sustainability. We also noticed that Shakti received the Green Product Award for the materials they use and the ethical standards they follow to make their mats.

If you’re new to acupressure, this is the only brand that allows you to “Choose Your Level“. Depending on your body type, and how comfortable you are with acupressure, you can choose between beginner, intermediate, or advanced levels. On their website, they say they are the only brand offering these different levels, so we did our research and found that is actually true. No other brand has the option to choose between different levels.

The brand takes its commitment to ethical production practices a step further through its social initiatives, starting at the factory where its product is made. They seem to really stand behind “Female Empowerment” with their female-operated factory in India, to their initiative to send their craft-women’s daughters through private education. If ever there was a brand you would label as a Social Impact Brand, this is definitely it.

In all, the Shakti Mat made our top pick because they have a meticulously thought-out acupressure solution that emphasizes user comfort, effectiveness, and environmental and social consciousness. These are all points we’re looking at. So for all those reasons, if you’re serious about getting into acupressure at home, this is the mat we recommend the most.

#2 Pranamat Classic Set

8.6/10

Overall Quality
9.2/10
Effectiveness
9.3/10
Materials
9.0/10
Manufacturing Standards
8.7/10
Value for Money
7.2/10
Customer Satisfaction
8.7/10

Pros

  • Made from natural materials like linen, cotton, and buckwheat hulls
  • Lightweight and easily portable
  • Helps alleviate symptoms like back pain, headaches, and insomnia

Cons

After taking a closer look at Pranamat’s Classic Massage Set, it’s clear that this one takes a comprehensive approach to target key areas of the body for relaxation and well-being. The set features the Pranamat Mat and Pillow, specifically designed to address the head, neck, shoulders, back, and sacral region with precision.

This massage set is purposefully crafted to alleviate back pain, and migraines, and enhance energy levels, ultimately aiming to elevate both physical and mental wellness. With the use of natural materials like HIPS plastic, cotton, linen, and buckwheat hulls, users can enjoy a secure and soothing experience.

Measuring at 28.7 x 17.7 inches, the Pranamat ECO Mat provides extensive coverage for the back, while the pillow focuses on the neck and collar area. The brand stand behind their products with a 5-year warranty and a 30-day trial period, which shows that they’re confident in their product, and rightfully so.

For anyone on the lookout for a reliable and versatile massage set to address common discomforts and promote relaxation effectively, the Classic Massage Set from Pranamat ECO is absolutely a solid choice that definitely deserves serious consideration.

While Pranamat is a well known brand, there were a few things that kept their mat in second place for us. The first is the price. That price tag unfortunately isn’t affordable for everyone, especially people just getting into acupressure Therapy. The second is the commitment our top choice has made to larger community issues such as ethical labor. Those are points that mean a lot to us. The third reason, and probably the most important as far as effectiveness goes, their spikes just aren’t as good as what we found on the Shakti Mat. They just couldn’t match the sharpness Shakti has on their mats.

#3 Calm Elephant Acupressure Set

8.5/10 43 reviews

Overall Quality
8.9/10
Effectiveness
9.1/10
Materials
8.9/10
Manufacturing Standards
8.4/10
Value for Money
7.3/10
Customer Satisfaction
8.9/10

Pros

  • Made with skin friendly materials
  • Includes a 3-Year Warranty
  • Multi-piece set

Cons

Calm Elephant’s Akupressurmatte set stands out as a well made acupressure mat designed to enhance relaxation and alleviate various physical discomforts. Each of their mats boast an ergonomic design with premium materials and a comforting 3-year warranty.

This is actually a five-piece  set, which includes a generously sized back mat for comprehensive shoulder-to-tailbone care, a clever lumbar cushion for lower back support, an adaptable head pillow for neck comfort, a versatile foot reflex zone mat, and a handy carrying bag.

Crafted from a blend of 55% linen and 45% cotton for the cover, natural coconut fiber for the mats, and sustainable buckwheat hulls for the pillows, the materials are hypoallergenic and free from toxins. The durable acupressure points are easy to keep clean for daily use.

This set is tailored to target stress reduction, pain relief, enhanced sleep, and overall well-being. For those looking for additional features such as exclusive leg relief, aid with arthritis symptoms, and heightened relaxation benefits, their Ultimate Set may be a better option.

Backed by a risk-free 100-day trial, hassle-free returns, and swift shipping alternatives, the Calm Elephant is clearly dedicated to offering a comprehensive approach to self-care and relaxation, making it a reliable choice.

There was one thing that kept Calm Elephant’s mat from a higher place on our list, and that was how the spikes are attached. They use a heat-welding process to attach the spikes without the use of toxic glues or chemicals, which is great. However, Shakti Mat uses a different approach they call Clip-Disk Tech. This means the spike disks are clipped through the mat, giving them a more durable attachment point. This equals longer-lasting use.

#4 BACKLAXX

7.5/10 1005 reviews

Overall Quality
7.2/10
Effectiveness
8.8/10
Materials
8.4/10
Manufacturing Standards
7.7/10
Value for Money
6.5/10
Customer Satisfaction
7.4/10

Pros

  • Produced with eco-friendly materials
  • Fairly affordable price point when compared to others

Cons

The Original Acupressure mat Set  from BACKLAXX offers gentle support for improving overall quality of life, and has gained popularity among many people looking for pain relief through acupressure therapy. The brand actually has quite a large following.

This set includes an acupressure mat with 6,960 stimulation points made of impact-resistant HIPS plastic, known for its medical-grade quality. The mat itself, filled with pressed natural coconut fibers, has natural antibacterial properties and is resistant to moisture and fungi, making it durable and hygienic for regular daily use.

Like the other mats and sets we’ve shared, this set also comes in several colors to choose from, such as Slate Grey, Ocean Turquoise, and Pastel Pink. The one big feature that we really likes was that the set comes with a free video course, eBook, and audio book. This gives a brand new user the opportunity to get the most from this mat set, especially if they’re new to acupressure.

Of course we also like their 100% satisfaction guarantee, allowing customers to return the product within 100 days for a full refund if not completely satisfied. This shows the company’s confidence in their product’s effectiveness and quality.

While BACKLAXX didn’t make our top choice, we don’t have anything bad to say about this set. In fact, it’s a solid option if you’re looking for a multipiece set that is reasonably priced.

With all of that said, there is a reason that kept BACKLAXX from the top of our list. While the brand does operate sustainably, helping to remove plastics from the ocean to use in their production, Shakti operates sustainably, while also operating in a way that responsibly gives back to the world community, including their ethical labour initiatives. That was a big part of the brand for us.

We’re committed to providing you with the most accurate and helpful information to guide your purchase decisions, providing you with the most up-to-date information on a product range. Here’s how we conduct our reviews:

  • Market Research: We identify the most popular and highly-rated acupressure mat brands.
  • Product Analysis: Our team carefully examines the design, manufacturing standards, and quality of each product.
  • Customer Feedback: We analyze thousands of verified customer reviews to understand real-world experiences with each brand.
  • Expert Consultation: We consult with subject matter experts to ensure our assessments align with current scientific understanding.
  • Comparative Analysis: We compare brands across key factors like material quality, Ethical operations, manufacturing and sourcing standards, and of course consumer value.
  • Continuous Monitoring: We regularly update our reviews to reflect new products, design changes, and emerging research in health science.

This rigorous process allows us to provide you with the most accurate, up-to-date, and helpful information to make the best choice for your healthy living goals.

Acupressure mats have been gaining popularity as a natural and non-invasive way to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. These mats are designed with thousands of acupressure points that stimulate the body’s pressure points, similar to the principles of acupuncture but without the use of needles. Here are some reasons why you should consider using an acupressure mat:

  • Pain Relief: Acupressure mats can help alleviate various types of pain, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and muscle tension. The pressure points on the mat stimulate blood flow and release endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers.
  • Stress Reduction: By lying on an acupressure mat, you can experience deep relaxation and stress relief. The gentle pressure on the acupressure points triggers the body’s relaxation response, helping to calm the mind and reduce anxiety.
  • Improved Sleep: Using an acupressure mat before bedtime can promote better sleep quality. The relaxation induced by the mat can help you unwind and prepare your body for a restful night’s sleep.
  • Energy Boost: Many users report feeling more energized and rejuvenated after using an acupressure mat. The stimulation of pressure points can help increase circulation and invigorate the body.
  • Affordable and Convenient: Acupressure mats offer a cost-effective and convenient way to experience the benefits of acupressure therapy at home. They can be used anytime, anywhere, making them a practical tool for self-care.

Overall, incorporating an acupressure mat into your wellness routine can provide a range of physical and mental health benefits. Whether you are looking to alleviate pain, reduce stress, improve sleep, boost energy, or simply relax, an acupressure mat can be a valuable addition to your self-care practices.

Acupressure is an ancient healing technique rooted in traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to promote health and well-being. The science behind acupressure lies in its ability to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and regulate energy flow, known as qi or chi, through the body’s meridians or energy pathways.

When pressure is applied to these acupressure points, it is believed to release tension, improve circulation, and trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. This stimulation of pressure points can help rebalance the body’s energy flow, promoting physical and emotional healing.

Research on acupressure has shown promising results in various areas such as:

Studies have indicated that acupressure may help alleviate chronic pain conditions such as:

Furthermore, acupressure has been found to have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety levels. By activating pressure points related to relaxation and tranquility, acupressure can help induce a state of deep relaxation and promote mental well-being.

Best Overall Product