I've had a few of the U-shaped inflatable travel pillows, and inevitably they're too hard (so they put strain on the back of my neck, where they're too thick) or they're too soft, so there's no strain on the back of the neck, but they're also too soft to keep my head from tilting over to the side.
This little pillow takes a different approach, basically cushioning the natural curve of the back of the neck with just a tiny bit of support on the sides. I tried it out on a long international trip (an 8.5-hour flight followed by a 9-hour flight), and to my surprise I would have to say I suffered a lot less neck strain than on the previous trip of the same length that I took a month earlier. So for the money, I was pleased.
That said, it's not perfect: Neither this pillow nor any similar travel pillows provide any protection from the head falling forward, which is a problem in economy-class seats where even the so-called "reclined" position is nearly upright. For that, I suppose you'd need a neck collar -something I haven't tried yet. Also, this is marketed as "memory foam," but don't expect it to be anything like TempurPedic -it's basically just foam. Despite these quibbles, though, I like it. I even use it at home from time to time to relax my neck -I lie flat on my back with this pillow under the curve of my neck. And no worries that I'm going to pop it and be unable to inflate it anymore.
PROS:
Really does reduce neck strain on long flights
Velour cover feels soft and nice
Comes in plastic pouch with handle that can go over wheel-aboard bag's handle
Provides a little bit of lateral support
CONS:
Not really "memory foam" in the way that Tempur is
No way to keep the head from falling forward
CONCLUSION: RecommendedWe travel a lot and this little pillow works well in cars, airplanes, etc. The "Bucky" buckwheat pillows are o.k., but I started to get a rash when using one. This pillow is very light-weight and packs in a much smaller space than the larger bucky/horseshoe pillows. The contour foam helps with a very comfortable fit. Am planning to get another for use just at home. Also, the zip-off cover is easy to wash and seems to be holding up well.I travel a lot for work and whenever I fly I take this along with me. It saves my neck from getting cramped and makes flying more tolerable. Couldn't fly without it now.I purchased this pillow when scheduled for shoulder surgery. I was told I would need to sleep in my recliner for approximately six weeks after surgery. I already had a U-shape pillow, but I noticed the ends touch my shoulders. This pillow looked like it would be just behind the neck, and it turned out to be just the size and shape I needed. It is very comfy. There are two reasons for only 4 stars instead of 5. First, the cover is synthetic velour, when I would much prefer a cotton cover. Second, although the cover is removable for washing, I have not been able to find additional covers to use when one is in the wash. Overall, a very good purchase.Was just as advertised. The order came in a timely fashion within the stated time line. I appreciate your promptness. Thanks!
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