If you suffer from tired, aching feet, a good foot massager can provide relief and rejuvenation. Two popular options are the Human Touch Reflex SOL and the Reflex5s.
But which one is better? Here’s an in-depth comparison of the key features, pros and cons of each to help you decide.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Reflex SOL | Reflex5s |
| Massage Techniques | Compression + Vibration | Kneading + Compression |
| Programs | 3 auto (Relax, Refresh, Energize) + Manual | 2 auto (Refresh, Relax) |
| Heat Settings | 3 temperature levels | 1 temperature setting |
| Calf Massage | Adjustable air compression | Stationary air cuffs |
| Footbed Design | Ergonomic, contouring | Textured with nodes |
| Noise Level | Very quiet | Moderate noise |
| Ease of Use | Simple display with auto inflation | Manual height adjustment |
| Warranty | 3 years | 1 year |
| Price | $499.99 | $249.99 |
Overview Of The Human Touch Reflex SOL
The Human Touch Reflex SOL is a high-end foot and calf massager that uses patented Figure-8 Technology to deliver a kneading massage. It combines compression, vibration and heat to relax muscles and improve circulation in your lower legs and feet.
Some key features of the Reflex SOL include:
- Underfoot vibration massage
- Adjustable calf compression intensity
- Soothing heat for feet and calves
- Ergonomic footbed follows contours of feet
- Simple controls with auto programs
- Swivel base for easy positioning
Overview Of The Reflex5s
The Reflex5s is a more affordable foot massager that uses a combination of compression, vibration and heat. It has multiple massage techniques to choose from, including kneading, scrapping and heat.
Some key features of the Reflex5s:
- Kneading massage for feet
- Scrapping massage
- Adjustable height settings
- Soothing heat function
- Easy touch buttons
- Comfortable, ergonomic design
Now let’s compare the two massagers in more detail across some key factors:
Massage Techniques
The Reflex SOL focuses on compression and vibration to deliver a deep, Shiatsu-style massage. The adjustable air pressure intensely squeezes and releases the feet and calves to improve circulation. The underfoot vibration adds soothing stimulation to the soles.
The Reflex5s uses a combination of kneading, compression and heat. The kneading massage nodes work to relax muscles and relieve tension. It also has a scrapping technique that provides a more vigorous massage to the soles.
Verdict: The Reflex SOL wins for massage techniques with its compression/vibration approach optimized for circulation and deep muscle relief. The Reflex5s still provides an invigorating massage though.
Also watch the review video of Human Touch Reflex SOL!
Program Options
The Reflex SOL has 3 auto massage programs you can choose from: Relax, Refresh and Energize. Each delivers a different massage intensity and duration. There is also a manual mode to customize the calves and feet massage.
The Reflex5s has 2 auto programs: Refresh and Relax. Refresh provides a more vigorous 15 minute massage while Relax is light massage for 30 minutes. There are no customization options.
Verdict: The Reflex SOL offers better customization for targeting specific needs with auto programs and manual mode.
Heat Function
Both massagers provide soothing heat to relax muscles and increase blood flow. The Reflex SOL has 3 temperature settings to choose from. Heat focuses on the feet but also warms the calves.
The Reflex5s has just 1 heat setting but it evenly warms both the feet and calves during the massage.
Verdict: The Reflex SOL wins for having adjustable heat intensity but the Reflex5s also provides therapeutic warmth.
Also Read: Is Theragun Better Than Magic Wand?
Design & Comfort
The Reflex SOL has an ergonomic footbed optimized to match the contours of your feet. This allows it to deliver an all-over massage. The calves are massaged with adjustable air compression sleeves.
The Reflex5s uses a textured footbed with acupressure nodes. The height is adjustable to accommodate different leg lengths. The calves are massaged by air pressure cuffs inside the chamber.
Verdict: Draw – both massagers are designed for comfort and customized fit. The Reflex SOL footbed is more ergonomic while the Reflex5s may fit more leg sizes.
Noise Level
The Reflex SOL operates very quietly, even on the highest setting. You can relax while using it without bothersome noise.
The Reflex5s tends to be a little louder, especially the kneading massage nodes. It’s not overly noisy but you will hear the motor working.
Verdict: The Reflex SOL is the quieter model, making it better for relaxation.
Ease Of Use
Both massagers are very easy to operate. The Reflex SOL has a simple display with buttons to select auto programs, heat and intensity. The calf chambers inflate automatically.
The Reflex5s also has buttons to choose massage mode, heat, intensity. The height is adjusted via a manual wheel.
Verdict: The operation is streamlined on both models but the Reflex SOL requires less adjustment to fit your legs.
Cost Comparison
The Reflex SOL retails for $499.99 while the Reflex5s has a list price of $249.99. So the Reflex SOL is a more significant investment.
However, the Reflex SOL features more massage techniques and customization. If your budget allows, it may be worthwhile for advanced relief.
Verdict: The Reflex5s provides better value for the price but the Reflex SOL is the premium option.
Warranty
Human Touch provides a 3 year warranty on the Reflex SOL if purchased from an authorized dealer.
The Reflex5s warranty spans 1 year for defects.
Verdict: The longer warranty coverage makes the Reflex SOL a better long term investment.
Also Read: Choose Between Hand And Stone And Massage Envy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Based on expert reviews and customer feedback, the Human Touch Reflex SOL is considered one of the best high-end foot massagers available now. Its patented Figure-8 massage technology delivers targeted relief through compression and vibration.
Massagers that combine heating elements with compression and vibration are recommended for alleviating neuropathy pain and tingling. The Human Touch Reflex SOL is an excellent option with these features. The truMedic InstaShiatsu is another top choice for nerve pain.
The number 1 foot massager according to reviews is the Human Touch Reflex SOL. It consistently earns top ratings for its intense massage, adjustable heat, and comfortable design. The Brookstone Shiatsu Foot Massager is another best seller.
Vibration massagers with heat work best to increase circulation and reduce neuropathy discomfort. Look for products like the Quinear Leg Massager or HoMedics Deep Kneading Shiatsu Foot Massager that offer these features. Also ensure the massager fits your feet ergonomically.
Final Verdict
For advanced foot and calf massage, the Human Touch Reflex SOL is the winner in this comparison. With its compression massage, adjustable heat and programs, it delivers more intensive relief. It operates quietly and has a longer warranty too.
Also Read: Comparison Between the Renpho and Miko Foot Massagers
However, the Reflex5s is still an excellent massager, especially for the affordable price. It provides a satisfying foot massage and heat therapy. The design comfortably accommodates most users.
So the Reflex SOL is the way to go if you want the highest quality massage with all the bells and whistles. But the Reflex5s is ideal for buyers on a tighter budget looking for an easy-to-use model. Both are quality products that will rejuvenate your feet.