Ever since I started working from home during the pandemic, I’ve been in search for the perfect lumbar support cushion. Effective office chairs can be very expensive (some run over $1,000!), and it’s generally just a good idea to have a lumbar support cushion around so that when you do have to sit on chairs with less support, you can maintain the proper spinal alignment and posture.
However, I tested a bunch of lumbar support cushions and had a lot of trouble finding one that I really liked. Here are the general issues that come with a lot of lumbar support cushions:
- Adjustable straps – many lumbar support cushions do not have straps that secure the cushion to the chair. Or, these straps are either too narrow or too wide, which causes a poor fit on the chair (and defeats the purpose of having them
- Too thick or too narrow – a lot of lumbar support cushions aren’t the right width. Some are too wide such that they push you forward on your chair a lot. Others are too narrow and don’t actually provide any support
- Too hot – as with any memory foam product, lumbar support cushions can tend to overheat. This is a huge option as you usually sit in your chair all day and don’t want your back to overheat
- Low quality materials – lower quality materials and foam will tend to degrade and break down over time, and are not supportive
Overall, the best lumbar support pillow I used was the Dosaze Lumbar Support cushion. Dosaze essentially solved all of the issues that I had with other lumbar support cushions. It is fully adjustable (with two straps that aren’t too wide or narrow), the perfect width (that provides support while not pushing me off the chair), stays cool with the cooling gel and ventilation, and uses premium CertiPUR-US certified memory foam and a cooling bamboo cover. We’ll get into more detail on our testing process later.
Is It Worth It To Consider Pillows Under $40?
I personally do not think it is best to consider the options under $40. You will likely save money in the long run because the manufacturers of cheaper support cushions tend to cut corners – these cushions also generally do not last as long. If you get the right cushion (even if it is more expensive), you’ll likely save money in the long run.
As an example, some cushions (especially those that are not CertiPUR certified) tend to use lower quality foam foam, which results in worse pillows. Others use air which is not supportive at all.
It is worth it to invest in a higher quality support cushion – especially when you consider how much impact a support cushion can have on your work life.
1. Best Overall Lumbar Support Cushion: Dosaze Lumbar Relief Pillow – Learn More
Complete support everywhere you need it, that’s what matters. And that’s exactly what the Dosaze Lumbar support pillow offers. Trust me, your lower back will thank you. Whether you use this on a chair or in your car, it will improve your posture. And an improved posture means less pressure and stress on your lumbosacral discs. What does that mean for you? Whether you are sitting for work or for fun, it will improve your experience. Better productivity for work, and a relaxed body and mind when it’s time to play.
This support cushion solves every major issue that most people have with other lumbar support cushions, and in my opinion, that makes it incredibly worth it. It is fully adjustable (with two straps that aren’t too wide or narrow), the perfect width (that provides support while not pushing me off the chair), stays cool with the cooling gel and ventilation, and uses premium CertiPUR-US certified memory foam and a cooling bamboo cover.
I tested this pillow on multiple chairs and it fit every single one well — the straps fit super well around narrow and wide chairs, so it is always secured to a height that works for you.
The gel memory foam layer cools your back while the support foam layer provides the support you need to maintain a healthy posture.
Finally, the lumbar support cushion is the perfect width — not too wide and not too narrow. It really is an amazing product!
Dimensions: 14.6 W x 5.1 D x 16.9 H inches
Pros:
- Two adjustable straps to adjust height
- Cooling bamboo cover
- Dual foam layer (cooling gel and high endurance support layers)
- Stays cool all day so back doesn’t overheat
- Perfect width so that doesn’t push you too far forward while also maintaining curve in back
Cons:
- Only available online
2. Best Travel Lumbar Support Cushion: Therm-a-Rest Lumbar Travel Pillow – Learn More
Need something for planes, trains, and automobiles? Maybe your doctor’s office is uncomfortable chairs. Whatever the situation, if you need something to go, this is a great choice. You can roll it up into a tight role and put it in your purse or backpack, and then use the self inflating nozzle to fill it when it’s needed.
Dimensions: 18 x 9 x 2 inches when inflated
Pros:
- Great solution for short term uses
- Auto inflates
Cons:
- Complaints that that they lose air and deflate
- Since you need to adjust inflation to get it where it will properly support, it can be problematic
3. Best Gel Lumbar Support Cushion: Everlasting Comfort Seat/Lumbar Cushion Combo – Learn More
This is Everlasting Comforts 2nd generation cushion. It was revised to add gel infusion memory foam. Ventilation and heat responsive technology mean they absorb body heat and then release it. Both lumbar and seat cushion are ergonomically designed and can be placed anywhere support is needed.
Pros:
- Lifetime replacement policy
- Gel infused
- Non–slip seat cushion
- Breathable covers
- Machine washable cover
Cons:
- Unfortunately, the heat that is initially absorbed can make you quite hot, so this isn’t recommended for people who are naturally warm
- Complaints that it is too hard for some, which could increase pain instead of reducing it
4. Best Value Lumbar Support: ACVCY Lumbar Mesh Support – Learn More
These are a little different from our other selections. Not in support but in construction. Instead of being made out of a material with give, like memory foam, these are a mesh on a frame. The benefit here is something that allows for complete airflow, meaning it is 199% breathable. It’s also quite reasonably priced.
Pros:
- Breathable
- Inexpensive
- No memory foam, so no off gassing
Cons:
- Several complaints that it only lasts a few months
- It’s hard, without much give
- Not adjustable at all
5. Best Roll Shaped Lumbar Cushion: Original McKenzie Lumbar Roll – Learn More
Probably one of the most well-known support cushions, the Original McKenzie Lumbar Roll has been around for more than 25 years. It’s simple, yet versatile, and small enough to be carried easily. It’s available in both firm and regular density foam.
Dimensions: 11 L x 4.75 inches diameter
Pros:
- Since it’s not structured it’s easier to mold to your body, but this could be a con for some
- Removable, washable cover
Cons:
- Very hard to stay in place, even with strap
- Not made with the quality they once were
6. Best Firm Support Lumbar Cushion: DMI Lumbar Support Pillow – Learn More
This Duro-Med Relax-A-Bac Lumbar Cushion includes a wooden support insert for those in need of extra support and firmness. With it’s ergonomically designed construction it will improve posture and help relieve pain.
Dimensions: 14 × 5.5 × 15 inches
available in black, burgundy, navy, and gray.
Pros:
- Extra support if necessary
- Made from highly resilient foam and will not lose its shape
- Washable cover
Cons:
- Despite being marketed for firm support there are some complaints that it lacks support
- Reports of bad chemical smell
7. Best Lumbar Support Cushion for Short Torsos: Relax Support RS1 – Learn More
If you are short and looking for a lumbar support cushion, be sure to check this one out. Customers rave about how it fits the lower back area just right. This cushion uses something called ArcContour, which is a special patented technology, and is neither too firm or too soft.
Available in black, grey, and beige.
Dimensions: 16.5 x 4 x 8.3 inches
Pros:
- 100% guaranteed
- Includes a new wider strap to hold in place
- A unique, lateral convex shape
- High quality memory foam
Cons:
- Many customers complained that the design of the buckle on the strap is defective
- May not be from enough for many people
8. Best Cooling Lumber Support Cushion: U-Are Ultimate Comfort Set – Learn More
This set includes both a lumbar cushion and a seat cushion. Both are designed with a special heat disbursement gel that will help to keep your body cooler longer. It’s constructed with 100% memory foam, and it includes a zipper bag that you can use as a carrying case.
Dimensions: 19.61 x 16.1 x 6.61 inches
Pros:
- 100% money back guarantee
- Breathable
- Rain proof carry case
- Memory Foam
Cons:
- Complaints of a strong chemical off gassing
- Very difficult to get it to stay in place
- Reports that it is too thin for comfort
Remember, if you are sitting all day, whether in a vehicle or at a desk, you likely need proper back support. Assuming the seat you sit in the most doesn’t offer that feature.
Hopefully, the above information will help you choose the right one for you, and either relieve lower back pain or stop it from happening in the first place.
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
