It’s every buyer’s dilemma. Some buyers don’t understand the track type for them. And that makes buying confusing… After all, a massage chair is an expensive investment. And it’s not one you make often… Basically, you buy a massage chair once a decade – if it all. So when picking one, you need the right specs. And part of that is knowing the difference between S and L Track Chairs.
What Are Those?
Tracks (plus rollers) are the mechanisms that give you a massage. They activate when you power up the chair. And they vibrate at different intensities, giving you that pressuring effect. However, tracks differ in shape and length. And this is why you get the “L” and ‘S” classifications. We’ll look at the basics of each. Then we’ll look at reasons to buy (or not buy) each model!
S – Tracks.
The most basic type of massage chair. This track extend all the way from the neck, to the bottom of the back. And it conforms to the shape of your spine… It’s the reason why it’s called an “S” track.
L – Track.
Those tracks are a bit longer. Instead of stopping at your back, they also extend to your buttocks and hamstrings. As a result, the track looks like an “L” when you sit down to use it. And that’s where it gets its name from. Now, do note that L-tracks are a recent invention. In a sense, they’re considered an evolution in length over “S” tracks. However, it doesn’t mean that they’re better. That’s something that comes down to your tastes!
So How Do I Pick One?
That’s what we’ll help you figure out. And we’ll do this in two ways. First, we’ll give you a realistic picture on what using each track is like, and who it suits. Then, we’ll compare a few chairs of each type! So to start…
Why Use an L-Track?
Because it gives you more options than an S-Track? That is true. The range of the massage is longer. And it includes both your upper legs and back… However, do note that is might not suit some. After all, massage rollers vibrate intensely for a good effect… And having a vibrating motion under your legs might not be a great experience.
Restricts Your Activity.
With al L-Track, practically your whole body is vibrating. So what can you do in that position? You can’t read, drink something hot, or even use your smartphone properly. And yes, you should be able to do all the previous. Because why not? Sitting in silence is unnerving to many. It’s best to have something to soak your senses with – whether it be people or information.
Also – Add Roller Dimensionality to the Mix.
In the massage chair world, roller dimensions matter. Dimensions define how roller moves. There are up/down, sideways, front/back, and high speed motions. Thus, you get classifications like 2D, 3D, or 4D. (source) But not to go off topic, you can’t use higher dimensions comfortably with an L-Track. After all, that’s pressure all over your body. And it makes multi-tasking during a massage difficult.
Basically.
An L- Track is best for people who want a holistic massage experience. It’s for intense therapeutic benefits. And that’s because it encompasses your whole back body.
Product Review – Best Massage L-Track.
Currently, it’s priced at about $3500. It’s not that expensive by market standards. After all, there are chairs that cost x3 as much! But this chair is quite basic in looks and color. And if you check the diagram, you’ll see that the track is extremely long… It goes all the way to your mid-thighs! Add to that calve and feet massage, and you have a full experience! Also, we should mention that this chair comes with voice call and Bluetooth features. And it makes it suitable for private offices. So at least, you can multi-task with this chair. If you want, you can substitute your regular desk chair for this!
Next Type: S-Track.
They’re much simpler to use. Your legs don’t get affected by the rollers. So you can sit tight, and enjoy the cushioning of the chair… The obvious drawback of this chair is it lacks options. You’re paying thousands of dollars, knowing full well that you can get more… So there’s a regret factor. But beyond that, an S-Track is easier to maintain. There are less rollers on average per chair. And the track is short (and not as modifiable as an L-Track). So there’s a reduced likelihood of rollers malfunctioning. And over the long-run, there’s less to maintain.
More Importantly.
It’s basic. Most people get massage chairs for their backs, not their buttocks. At a private consumer level, this is what you want. This is what you put in a living room, or your own recreational/gaming room.
Product Review – Ideal Massage Chair.
This chair is much cheaper than the previous. It only costs $1280. That’s about a 66% discount. However, that’s what to expect from a roller that’s slightly shorter in length. After all, you’re not getting a full experience. Regardless, this chair’s cheapness is best for average Joes. Because now, you don’t need to spend $3000 - $9000 on a new chair! Heck, that’s almost a used car’s price tag! So it’s perfect for private consumers, but not so much for businesses…
Wait – Private Consumers?
That’s right. L and S track chairs suit different markets. That’ll be the next comparison point actually…
Who Should Buy Each Chair?
We mentioned that S Tracks work best for private consumers. Alternatively, we believe that L Tracks are best for businesses – specifically recreational ones… This includes anything from a salon, to a spa, or even a luxury recreational club. There, you want a chair that maximizes the options at your disposal. Because you want clients to enjoy more options. It’s a better branding tactic. And it’s more profitable for your business.
I Feel I’m Still Stuck…
No worries. There’s still a saving grace in the massage chair market. Did you know that some chairs combine “S” and “L” track features? That’s right. You can get the best of both in a chair, and switch options to suit your tastes! Those are called “SL” tracks. We recommend this as an option to consumers who don’t know what to get. And some are even more affordable than the standard models. That combination of affordability and options has made them a fast-rising massage chair trend!
Product Review – Kahuna Superior Massage Chair.
This chair only costs $2600. And that’s double the price for the S-Track model mentioned (which is expected). However, it’s $1000 cheaper than the L-Track model. And, it’s highly reviewed (with 120+ on Amazon)… In fact, it’s much more reviewed than the L-Track chair we mentioned! This chair is rated at 90%, which is a testament of quality. And it gives you the ability to switch from “S” to “L” style massaging, and with ease! It also comes with 6 wheels per roller. And that’s a lot for a massage chair. It’s an excellent fusion of quality and pricing. Kahuna is a brand known to provide chairs that last long!
If You’re a Business – Buy It.
It’s the best compromise for your recreational needs. You now give clients options. And you do so with a somewhat affordable (hybrid) chair… It’s also constantly “in-stock.” This is unlike many massage chair models, which run low occasionally. And if you’re worried about the capital, then worry less. This chair comes with a 2-year labor and parts warranty. That’s more than most new cars on the market today! Throughout that time, you can get malfunctions fixed in your chair (at low cost). By then, you should’ve gotten your ROI on that chair!
Important Note.
Do understand that there are many more options on the market. There are much cheaper models. And then there are the more expensive ones (geared to rich folk). But the previous we mentioned are some of the best. And they serve to explain each track type well. We recommend taking the time to explore many massage chairs. Because there are other specifications to look at as well! You have the seat material, heating and cooling options, massage pre-programs, and much more! Also, each spec will shape your experience differently. And who knows, some specs might drastically improve your business or recreational life!
