A crash pillow is a specialized cushion designed to protect your neck and head during travel or in situations where you might need extra support. These pillows combine excellent shock absorption with ergonomic features to help prevent strain and promote proper alignment during rest.
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Reviews
The BodyHealt cervical pillow shapes itself to your neck and shoulders with medium firmness. Reviewers appreciate its supportive design, while some find it slightly stiff. Made in China, this bolster pillow offers a practical solution for those who need extra neck support during sleep or travel.
This pregnancy support cushion lives up to its promise of comfort and functionality, as evidenced by its stellar 4.6 rating from 11 reviews. The Dacron padding and urethane foam construction deliver just the right balance of support and softness, while the adjustable headrest allows for customization to each client's needs. While some users would like to see arm support added in future iterations, the current design proves particularly useful for clients who struggle to lie on their stomach or side, whether during prenatal sessions or breast surgery recovery. The sturdy Natursoft upholstery and CFC-free construction ensure lasting durability for busy massage practices.
This generously-sized body pillow provides soothing support through its shredded memory foam core, adapting to your shape while preventing those uncomfortable flattened spots you might get with other pillows. The honeycomb cooling technology keeps things comfy even during those long night sessions, and the included washable cover makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you're a side sleeper dealing with back pain or just someone who wants a hug from their pillow, this heavy-duty option delivers on its promise of full-body support.
The Pharmedoc Body Pillow transforms your sleep routine with its innovative shredded memory foam design that hugs your body like a warm embrace. Its clever air cover enhances breathability, ensuring a more comfortable night's rest. The crescent shape makes it incredibly versatile, doubling as a neck pillow, lumbar support, and travel pillow – perfect for side sleepers and expectant moms who need extra support during pregnancy and beyond.
This versatile recovery pillow combines high-tech memory foam with an ergonomic design that adapts to four different sleeping positions, from side-sleeping to back-sleeping. Its rectangular shape and cleverly placed head recess provide targeted support that helped one reviewer eliminate their neck pain completely after just one night of use. The pillow's breathable construction keeps it fresh during the night, while its compact roll-up design makes it perfect for travel - one happy customer even sleeps with it at home and travels with it hassle-free.
At just 66 cm long, this slim bolster packs a surprisingly supportive punch despite its compact size. The plush microfiber cover keeps you comfy while wicking away moisture, and its hidden zipper lets you give the bolster a good washing when needed. Whether you're relaxing in shavasana or using it for targeted support during restorative poses, this lightweight bolster delivers the comfort you'd expect from a premium Manduka product.
This firm, BPA-free eye drop-shaped pillow helps alleviate back pain through targeted stretching. Whether you're at home or at work, it provides immediate relief and promotes better posture. Machine washable and backed by positive reviews for its durability and visual appeal, it's designed to help you stay comfortable throughout your day.
This foam-filled bolster offers exceptional support for women's breasts during massage sessions, eliminating the need for specialized table designs. Its professional-grade construction effectively relieves muscle strain while providing the necessary lift and cushioning. The versatile support ensures comfort for both clients with breast implants and those seeking gentle yet effective massage therapy.
From ancient Chinese healing techniques comes this BPA-free pillow that soothes sore muscles and improves circulation with its targeted pressure points. Made from natural cork and soft cotton, it contours to your back, neck, and shoulders without the harshness some users found uncomfortable. While it may take some getting used to, many reviewers have found it incredibly effective for relieving everything from headaches to arthritis pain.
This shredded latex body pillow combines the lightweight comfort of down with the supportive structure of memory foam, keeping you cool and snug during the night. The shapeable design makes it particularly handy for those who need extra support during pregnancy, though its versatile support makes it valuable for all sleep positions.
This memory foam pillow brings much-needed support to your reading and relaxing sessions in bed, with its contoured design that wraps around your entire body. The pillow's silver gray microfiber cover is both stylish and practical, making it easy to remove for quick washing when those late-night snacks spill over. Whether you're catching up on homework, binge-watching your favorite show, or just needing a break, this backrest pillow provides the comfort you need to stay comfortable for hours.
The DeluxeComfort Microbead Body Pillow delivers blissful support with its squishy design that hugs your body as snugly as a cloud. This generously-sized pillow helps prevent pregnancy-related discomfort while giving side, back, and stomach sleepers a respite from nightly aches. Its machine-washable cover and antimicrobial filling make it practical for daily use, though some users might want to swap out the basic polyester exterior for something more premium.
The full-body pillow combines generous memory foam stuffing with a plush faux fur cover for remarkable comfort. Its 20-inch width spans most queen beds, while the removable cover allows you to adjust firmness by adding or removing foam. Users particularly appreciate its support for back and hip issues, though some find it too bulky for smaller beds.
These padded platforms provide 9kg/20lbs of impact-absorbing foam per pad, protecting your floors while protecting your ears. The sticky Velcro edges keep the pads firmly in place during intense workouts. When you're done lifting, simply roll them up and store them away to avoid any unscheduled floor exercises.
Crafted in the USA with thoughtful design, this dual-sided pillow supports your growing child from newborn to toddlerhood. Its moisture-wicking fabric keeps your little one comfortable in any season, while the adjustable design ensures it fits perfectly in your Britax car seat or stroller. The plush support helps keep your child's head and body aligned naturally, especially during those early months when they can't control their movements.
This comfortable l-shaped pillow contours to your body with its premium memory foam filling, keeping you supported whether you're reading in bed or sitting up watching TV. With plenty of storage space in its three handy pockets and a practical carrying handle for easy relocation, it's perfect for creating a cozy reading nook. Machine washable and available in a standard adult size, it's a practical addition to any bedroom.
This memory foam backrest pillow provides exceptional support for seated activities in bed, combining a soft, plush cover with high-density foam for just the right amount of firmness. Users particularly appreciate its ability to prevent slouching and its dual functionality as both a reading pillow and armrest – though some note the heavier-than-expected weight requires careful handling.
This generously sized massage bolster, available in multiple colors and styles, provides professional-grade support for both supine and prone positions. Made from eco-friendly foam and soft PU upholstery, the durable cushion helps relieve back strain during therapy sessions. The included strap handle makes it easy to move and store while taking up minimal space in your massage toolkit.
The Clara Clark Reading Pillow brings impressive comfort to your favorite reading nook or recovery time, with its 31-inch height providing generous support that wraps around your entire body. The memory foam cushioning perfectly molds to your shape, while the detachable pillows and pockets keep essentials within easy reach. Whether you're nursing an injury, working from bed, or simply relaxing with a good book, this premium back pillow delivers the support you need.
Cushion your way through massages with these hefty foam supports that double as workout buddies. Whether you're relaxing post-workout or getting therapeutic kneads during a session, these full-round bolsters hit the spot where you need it most. The durable CFC-free foam core wrapped in soft Natursoft upholstery brings professional comfort to your living room or therapy suite.
These high-density foam pads absorb the impact of dropped weights, making them perfect for home gyms where you need to keep noise levels low. The generous 30" by 24" surface lets you let your weights go without worry, while the integrated handles make them easy to move around when you're not using them. Plus, at just 20lbs each, you can stack them to create a simple foam box for box jumps and other plyometric exercises.
The original weighted pillow combines a squishy, huggably soft design with just the right amount of pressure to help calm anxiety and improve sleep. Made from recycled glass beads encased in a removable, machine-washable cover, this medium-weight option provides gentle soothing pressure without overwhelming heft. Users love how it helps manage stress, improves sleep quality, and offers the perfect weight to hold and hug – making it an elegant solution for those who need a little extra comfort in their lives.
The Rainmr full body pillow uses soft memory foam to hug your body while keeping your neck and spine aligned. The cooling ice silk exterior and bamboo interior keep you comfortable all night long, whether it's winter or summer. The adjustable shredded foam provides gentle support that adapts to your sleeping position, helping to reduce pain and promote deep relaxation.
Handcrafted in India from organic cotton, this premium acupressure pillow combines traditional Chinese medicine techniques with modern comfort features. The 41cm cushion applies gentle pressure through 66 strategically placed ABS tips, promoting relaxation and improved sleep as it helps release tension in the neck and shoulders. Users report significant pain relief and enhanced well-being after regular use, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural alternatives to manage stress and discomfort.
Ergonomically designed to alleviate lower back strain during extended periods of seated activity, this memory foam lumbar support pillow shapes itself around your contours for personalized comfort. The breathable 3D mesh cover keeps you cool while the pillowy softness helps maintain proper spinal alignment. Whether you're driving, working at your desk, or gaming, the adjustable straps ensure a secure fit on any chair.
The ProsourceFit mat provides targeted pressure on specific acupressure points to alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation. Users report significant relief from back pain, stiffness, and overall body tension after just a few minutes of use. The set includes both a regular and longer mat to accommodate different body sizes, along with a supportive neck pillow that helps maintain proper alignment during sessions.
The small MedCline Therapeutic Body Pillow has earned raving reviews from users who struggle with neck, back, and sciatic pain, transforming their sleep quality through its J-shaped design that keeps them comfortable on their side without rolling onto their back. With adjustable support through its shredded memory foam construction, the pillow has become essential for side sleepers, helping to maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure points. Whether you're recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or simply seeking better sleep, many users credit this pillow with drastically improving their nighttime comfort and overall well-being.
This memory foam body pillow contours to your shape with breathable bamboo-rayon cover, while shredded foam filling adapts to your curves for personalized support. The plush pillow helps side sleepers and pregnant women find comfortable positions, though some may need to adjust expectations regarding exact dimensions. Most reviewers praise its comfort and cool sleeping environment, though a few note the initial compressed state requires careful unpacking.
If you're dealing with back, leg, knee, ankle, or hip pain - whether it's from an injury or post-surgery - this memory foam bolster provides targeted support where you need it most. The premium foam conforms to your shape, improving blood flow while you sleep, particularly if you're a side sleeper. The durable cotton cover allows for easy cleaning, ensuring fresh comfort night after night.
This versatile memory foam and microfiber blend pillow supports expectant moms from pregnancy through postpartum, helping with nursing, bottle feeding, and bonding. Its flexible design allows you to adjust the shape for side-sleeping comfort, while the premium materials provide excellent support without overheating. The durable construction ensures lasting comfort for multiple pregnancies and beyond.
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When you're expecting, finding a comfortable way to sleep can feel like searching for the Holy Grail – which is exactly what the Bllgrass maternity pillow delivers. This ingenious O-shaped design transforms from a cozy sleeping partner into a mini crib for your growing bump, taking the stress out of pregnancy sleep. The memory cotton filling and soft construction provide much-needed relief from those pesky pregnancy aches and pains, while the double-zippered case makes it a breeze to freshen up your pillow between uses.
Buyer's Guide
A crash pillow is a specialized safety cushion designed to protect your head and neck during extreme sports or activities with a risk of impact. While similar to traditional sleeping pillows, these specialized cushions are engineered to withstand much more force and pressure.
Ergonomic Design Considerations
Look for pillows with an hourglass shape that maintains a natural curve for your head and neck. The core material should be dense enough to provide consistent support without compressing under impact. Memory foam or specialized sports foam materials offer the best balance of comfort and durability.
Size and Weight Requirements
Size matters when it comes to crash pillows - they need to be large enough to fully cradle your head and neck, typically starting at 12 to 15 inches in diameter. Weight matters too, as a heavier pillow provides better impact absorption. Most pillows weigh between 1 and 2 pounds, making them manageable yet substantial.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning is crucial for safety and hygiene, especially in high-risk environments. Check if the material is machine washable and what cleaning products are safe to use. Some pillows have removable covers that can be machine washed separately, extending their lifespan and keeping them hygienic.
Additional Features to Consider
Some crash pillows feature built-in straps or handles for easy transport, while others include storage pockets for quick access. Consider a pillow that matches your activity level - skiers and snowboarders might prefer softer material for landing, while climbers or base jumpers need firmer support.
FAQ
What is a crash pillow?
A crash pillow is a specialized piece of equipment designed to provide protection and support during martial arts training, particularly in grappling and ground fighting disciplines. It's a padded roll placed between a practitioner and the ground to reduce the impact of falls and rolls.
These pillows typically measure between 18-24 inches in length and come in varying degrees of firmness, with some featuring built-in air chambers for customizable compression. The outer fabric is usually made from durable materials like polyester or nylon, while the interior is filled with foam or memory foam.
How does a crash pillow work?
When placed beneath the body during training, a crash pillow acts as a compressible barrier between the practitioner and the ground. This significantly reduces the impact force during falls and rolls, helping to prevent injuries caused by direct ground contact.
The padded surface also allows practitioners to work on techniques that would otherwise be too dangerous on a hard surface, such as submissions and transitions, while minimizing risk to joints and soft tissues.
What are the key benefits of using a crash pillow?
The primary benefit is reduced injury risk, particularly to the spine and joints. The padded surface absorbs impact, preventing the sharp jolts that can occur during falls on a hard surface. This makes training safer and more confidence-building.
Crash pillows also allow for more advanced technique development. Practitioners can safely attempt more complex maneuvers and transitions that would be too risky without the padding, leading to improved skill and technique.
Should I use a crash pillow for all my training sessions?
While crash pillows provide excellent protection, they're not necessary for every training session. Beginners or those learning basic techniques may benefit from using them more frequently, while practitioners with more experience may only need them for advanced techniques or when working on transitions and submissions.
Always consider the specific technique being performed and the height from which you'll be rolling. For lower-risk techniques, traditional mats may suffice, but for higher-impact moves, a crash pillow is recommended.
How should I clean and maintain my crash pillow?
Clean your crash pillow regularly to prevent bacteria and odor buildup. The frequency will depend on usage, but a good rule of thumb is to wash it after every use for beginners, and once a week for regular use. Most pillows can be machine washed on a gentle cycle, although air drying is recommended to maintain their shape and support.
If your pillow uses air chambers, follow the manufacturer's specific cleaning instructions. Some may require extra care to prevent damage to the internal components during washing and drying.
Can crash pillows be used in all types of grappling disciplines?
Crash pillows are valuable in most grappling disciplines, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, submission wrestling, and mixed martial arts. They're particularly beneficial in situations where you'll be rolling on your back or performing high-impact techniques.
However, they may not be suitable for disciplines that emphasize top control or where practitioners remain in high positions, as the increased height reduces their protective effectiveness. Always use them in conjunction with proper training partners and communication to ensure safety.
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