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The Sun
6 days ago
- General
- The Sun
Origin Coolmax Pillow review: super cool, but there's a catch
WE all know how evasive sleep can be on a warm night. It's too hard to sleep with a duvet, but somehow, it doesn't feel right to sleep without one; having the window open makes it cool, but occasionally noisy; a fan somehow makes some body parts too cold while others gently roast. Origin's Coolmax Latex Pillow claims to "keep you cool and supported all night" at a lower price than its biggest rivals, so I've put it to the test to see if it can deliver on its promises. Coolmax Latex Pillow, £98 from Origin Pros Noticeably cooler than a traditional pillow Really supportive — you won't need any extra pillows Slightly cheaper than the priciest options on the market 30-day trial period Cons It might be too firm and bulky for some people At this price point, it'd be nice to have adjustable height It's not as much of a bargain as Origin claims Rating: 6.5/10 How I tested the Origin Pillow As a product reviewer, it's jackpot territory when you can quite literally get your job done in your sleep. I traded my ride-or-die Simba pillow for the Origin Coolmax at the start of April, and for the last six weeks or so — which have, conveniently, been defined by scorching weather — have been testing whether it delivers on its promises. Origin Pillow review: Quickfire Q&A How much is the Origin Pillow? It's £98, which Origin claims is an £80 saving on rival brands. I'm not convinced by that claim, though — while Simba's most premium pillow is £159, Emma, one of Origin's biggest competitors, sells its most expensive pillow for £82. Who's it best for? Back sleepers who like a big, bulky, supportive pillow. It's on the firmer side, so if you like sinking into a soft, mallowy pillow, you might want to look elsewhere. It's also not ideal for side or stomach sleepers. What we loved: Origin has thrown everything at making sure this pillow delivers on its cooling promises, and it is noticeably cool to the touch. It's also super supportive — I'm usually a two-pillow guy, but the Coolmax is the only pillow you'll need. What we didn't: It is quite a big piece of kit, and some people might be put off by its bulkiness. It's also not quite as much of a bargain as Origin claims, and while it might sound obvious, this is not going to solve all of your problems if you're a warm sleeper. Origin Pillow review: The Nitty Gritty First impressions Coolmax Latex Pillow, £98 from Origin This thing is a unit. It comes neatly rolled up in a fairly small box, but as soon as I unravelled it, I could tell that you get a lot of pillow for your money. So much so, in fact, that it's quite tough (but not impossible) to fit it into a regular pillowcase. While stuffing it into a pillowcase, I did notice that it's noticeably less floppy than a standard pillow; if you've used a memory foam pillow before, you'll be used to this, but it's also harder than the Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow that I'd been using before. Aesthetically, there isn't too much to remark on — it's got a cool stitched geometric design, but it'll obviously be getting covered by a pillowcase. Does it deliver? The answer to this question depends on your expectations, as well as the sort of sleeper you are. In terms of its cooling abilities, I was surprised and impressed. Origin has thrown a lot at making sure it delivers in this sense; it's made using latex (which has natural cooling properties) infused with a cooling gel and generally designed to be super breathable. The result is a pillow that doesn't necessarily feel cool to the touch, but stays cool during the night. I find that normal pillows — especially in warm weather — become really stuffy while I sleep, which isn't an issue the Origin Pillow suffers from. However, don't expect any magic results; you won't feel an overwhelming sense of refreshment when you climb into bed, but if you find yourself overheating in the middle of the night, this could certainly help to remedy that. Coolmax Latex Pillow, £98 from Origin BUY HERE I alternate between my back and my side when I sleep, and when I was on my back, I found the Coolmax Pillow super supportive. However, on nights when I spent most of my time on my side, I often woke up with a neckache; what felt supportive when I was on my back simply became uncomfortable when I was on my side. I tried adding an extra pillow beneath, but I struggled to replicate the comfort of my Simba Hybrid Firm pillow. I'm not sure if it was something to do with its height or the use of latex, which helps the pillow's cooling abilities but has a little less give and, well... memory than memory foam. Latex is a form of rubber, and unsurprisingly, you get a few of its properties when you use it in a pillow. What I like about memory foam is that, while it's initially firm, you slowly sink into it, making for a supportive but comfortable sleep. With latex, there's none of that; my head just sort of rests on top of the pillow, rather than sinking into it. Having said that, 143 reviews on the Origin website (at the time of writing) have given the Coolmax Pillow a very respectable 4.3 star rating, with customers praising it for being comfy, cooling and supportive. How much is the Origin Coolmax Latex Pillow? The Coolmax Pillow is £98 at the time of writing. Origin claims that price makes it £80 cheaper than similar products sold by rival brands. It's reached that conclusion using a "Total Value" system, which it explains on its website: "We identify three or more comparably built products and periodically track the actual prices they are sold for – not the price 'they' claim they are worth." I'm not sure which "comparably built products" it's used for this calculation, but it's tough to find one pillow costing £178, never mind three. The Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow I've been using for a couple of years comes close at £159, but it has adjustable firmness, which the Coolmax can't compete with, and in my opinion, it's generally comfier. But other than that, you'll find that the Origin is actually one of the more expensive options on the market. Where to buy the Origin Coolmax Latex Pillow As far as I can tell, the Coolmax Latex Pillow is available exclusively from Origin's website. Origin Coolmax Latex Pillow alternatives Most big sleep brands worth their salt have a pillow available these days, meaning there's no shortage of choice. However, few place as much emphasis on cooling as the Origin Coolmax. Silentnight's Cool Touch Pillow also features cooling gel and is currently on sale for £26.25 on Amazon. I've not tried it myself, but Amazon reviewers have given it a pretty decent 4.1-star rating, with one writing that it "stays so much cooler than a standard pillow". Emma has a couple of pillows with cooling properties. They're also on sale, offering a decent saving on the Origin pillow. The Premium Foam Pillow is designed for people who prefer medium-to-firm support, while the Premium Cloud Pillow is better for people who want something softer. We're big fans of Simba at Sun Shopping, and have tested out two of the brand's pillows. You can read our thoughts in our Simba Hybrid Pillow review and Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow review.
Forbes
14-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
Our Gear Editor And Vascular Experts Pick The Best Compression Socks
Compression socks are a simple yet effective way to boost circulation, reduce swelling and fight fatigue, whether you're recovering from a tough workout or managing poor circulation. The best compression socks gently squeeze your legs to help blood flow back up to your heart and prevent it from pooling in your lower body. We looked over dozens of styles and spoke with vascular health experts to find the most supportive and comfortable options. Based on our findings, the Bombas Everyday Compression Socks are the best for most people because they're comfortable and versatile, offering moderate compression in multiple sizes and colors. Toss on a pair of the best compression socks for support and relief. 'Compression socks are used to gently apply external pressure to the legs to reduce swelling, reduce inflammation and thereby improve circulation,' says Tonie Reincke, MD and owner of Reincke Vein Center. 'They are used for sports recovery, medical treatments and even daily use.' To assess compression socks and compare styles against one another, we broke them down into their key components, including compression level, length, materials, fit and intended use. Below, our recommendations for the best compression socks, and what you need to know to buy an effective pair. Bombas Sizes: S to L (women's); M to XL (men's) | Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane, nylon | Compression level: 15 to 20mmHg Bombas has come a long way in a little over a decade. What began as a small sock startup back in 2013 with a mission to donate a pair of socks for every pair sold has since become one of those household brands everyone knows. And while its line of apparel has grown, socks are still the bread and butter of the operation. The Everyday Compression Sock tops this guide because it offers just the right amount of compression (15 to 20mmHg), feels soft and eliminates the annoying toe seam that often causes irritation. The Honeycomb Arch Support wraps your foot in a gentle hug, and there are lots of sizes and colors to choose from, so you're not stuck with a plain, boring sock that looks like all the others. Granted, $28 per pair is expensive, but they hold up really well (I've used the same pairs for running for years), and Bombas will let you exchange your socks any time, no questions asked. Ultimately, if you need a compression sock that keeps up whether you're running, traveling or just trying to stay comfortable on your feet, this is the one to get. Trtl Sizes: S to L | Materials: Coolmax, Lycra | Compression level: 15 to 21mmHg Trtl's Compression Socks are an excellent choice for travel, offering moderate 15 to 21mmHg compression that promotes circulation during long flights or extended periods of sitting. Made with a blend of Coolmax fabric and Lycra, these socks help prevent overheating and manage moisture while delivering a comfortable stretch that doesn't feel restrictive. They're available in multiple sizes and come in a variety of fun prints that add some personality to your travel attire. However, it's worth noting that Trtl doesn't offer any solid colors, which may be a drawback if you travel for work or want something a bit more muted. Still, for a blend of function, comfort and flair, these socks are a great addition to any travel kit. Figs Sizes: S to L | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Compression level: N/A Figs has earned its reputation as the go-to brand for healthcare professionals who want to feel comfortable without sacrificing functionality or style, so it's no surprise their compression socks follow suit. Designed for long shifts and nonstop movement, these socks are made from a durable blend of nylon and elastane that offers breathability, stretch and support—perfect for those who spend hours on their feet each day. They're available in both men's and women's styles and in a variety of colors, including solids and prints that match your Figs scrubs. While the brand doesn't list the exact amount of compression (a strange omission to be sure), you can expect mild to moderate compression for everyday wear and relief. They're comfortable, stylish and functional, which makes them a great choice for anyone who works in a demanding clinical setting. Duluth Trading Co. Sizes: M to L | Materials: Polyester, nylon, spandex, NanoGlide | Compression level: 15 to 20mmHg Pregnancy can bring a lot of physical changes, which is why Duluth's Stay-Put Performance Wide-Calf Compression Socks are a such a smart choice. Designed with a wider calf fit, they offer comfort and flexibility that adapts as your body does, which is especially important when what fit in the first trimester might not by the third. These socks provide moderate compression to support circulation and help reduce swelling, fatigue and even varicose veins, and the polyester blend feels soft, like cotton, but delivers better moisture management and long-term durability. Of course, a 'wide calf' sock isn't going to fit the same from one person to the next, so keep in mind that these are for calf circumferences of about 15 to 20 inches. If your calves fall within that range, consider these to help with swelling and fatigue as your due date nears. Amazon Sizes: 2, 3, 4 (women's); 3, 4, 5 (men's) | Materials: Polyamide, spandex | Compression level: 20 to 30mmHg If you're a runner looking for serious support, CEP's Tall Running Compression Sock 4.0 is a standout option. Designed with graduated compression that targets the arch, ankle and calf, it helps boost circulation and ease common running-related issues like shin splints, plantar fasciitis and Achilles pain. The blend of polyamide and spandex is breathable and moisture-wicking, and ventilation channels help keep your feet cool. Additionally, the material includes a silver treatment that fights $60, this is far and away the most expensive option in this guide, and one of the more expensive on the market for that matter, but because it boasts a technical design and lasting comfort, we consider it a smart pick for high-mileage runners who want performance that truly goes the distance. The Forbes Vetted gear team spends countless hours testing, evaluating and recommending a variety of health and wellness products. In addition to compression socks, we've also covered massage guns, compression boots and shoes for standing all day, all of which can help manage sore, tired legs. Compression socks help people in different ways, but no matter why you wear them, we can compare styles based on a set of key variables. Here's how we made our picks: Compression socks come in different compression levels, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), which is the same unit we use to measure blood pressure. The levels indicate how tightly the socks squeeze your legs and ankles, which helps improve circulation and reduce swelling. Here are the common compression levels, and who they're best for: Like traditional socks, compression socks come in different lengths, from short styles that sit below the ankle to full-leg styles that rise above the knee. The right length depends on the condition being treated, or how you want the compression to help based on your needs. Here are the most common sock lengths, and who they're best for: Compression socks are usually made with a blend of fabrics to ensure they're stretchy, durable and breathable. The most common fabrics include: nylon, which makes the sock strong and soft; elastane, which helps with stretch and compression; polyester, for breathability; and natural materials like bamboo or merino wool that boost comfort and fight odors due to their anti-microbial properties. Compression socks are designed to be tighter than traditional socks, but the compression should feel firm as opposed to painful. Normally, it's tightest at the ankle and gradually loosens as it travels up the leg to promote blood flow back to the heart. Struggling to put on compression socks is normal, especially if you're wearing socks with higher compression levels, but they should feel supportive once they're on. 'Turning the socks inside out, applying baby powder to the feet and pulling the sock on by gripping the heel of the sock are useful tools to apply the socks,' says Reincke. With that said, compression socks can in fact be too tight. If you feel numbness, tingling, pinching or pain, consider a different pair or move down to a lighter compression. Your socks shouldn't leave deep red marks or painful indentations. How you intend to use your compression socks dictates which pair is right for you. While styles are versatile enough for different needs or activities, here are the most common reasons to wear them:
Scottish Sun
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Four tips to save on your monthly music streaming subscription
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) STREAMING means you can listen to your favourite music whenever you like. But a premium subscription can take a chunk out of your monthly budget. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 8 We have four tips to save on your monthly music streaming subscription Credit: Getty Here's how to save . . . CHECK SUBSCRIPTIONS: If you are already signed up to Amazon Prime, you may not realise you can access Amazon Music Prime as part of your membership. This allows you to create playlists and stream songs and podcasts from a vast catalogue without additional cost. ACCEPT ADS: Spotify is one of the biggest music streaming platforms. You can open an account for free if you don't mind hearing ads periodically between tracks. It's a similar set-up with Amazon Music, you can open a free account and listen to tracks, if you can live with ads. FREE TRIAL: Take advantage of offers to stream music on no-advert plans. You can set up an Amazon Music Unlimited account on a free 30-day trial. Set a calendar reminder to cancel before the free period ends to avoid a charge. If you buy selected Apple products such as iPhones, you can claim a free three-month trial of Apple Music, which also allows you to set up playlists and play music from a huge catalogue. Secret ways to cut costs of your streaming subscriptions Spotify premium allows you to download music so you can listen offline, as well as listening without ads and you won't have to shuffle songs as you do on the free plan. The upgrade typically costs £11.99 a month but you can enjoy three months for free if you sign up before May 19. Or if you have had Premium before, you can get two months for £5.99 before it reverts back to £11.99 a month. TEAM UP: If you live with a friend or family member who wants to stream music, check if you can get a discount. For example, if you live at the same address with a friend or family member you can get a Spotify duo account for £16.99 a month, working out at just under £7 each. 8 A premium music subscription can take a chunk out of your monthly budget Credit: Getty All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability Deal of the day 8 This Weber charcoal barbecue is down from £119 to £89 at Currys Credit: Supplied GET set for garden entertaining with this Weber charcoal barbecue down from £119 to £89 at Currys. SAVE: £30 Cheap treat 8 This Coolmax blend nightshirt is £10 from Tu at Sainsbury's Credit: Supplied STAY comfy at night in the warmer weather with this Coolmax blend nightshirt, £10, from Tu at Sainsbury's. What's new? HEINZ has launched a new take on its ketchup with this sweet sriracha flavour, £3.39, available at Asda and Morrisons from this week. Top swap 8 This No7 instant cooling mist is £13.45 from Boots Credit: Supplied 8 This Menopause skincare hydro mist is £2.49 from B&M Credit: Supplied MANAGE flushed skin in an instant with No7 instant cooling mist, £13.45 from Boots. Or try Menopause skincare hydro mist, below, £2.49 from B&M for a similar effect. SAVE: £10.96 Little helper BIG test or exam coming up? Help information sink in with these study flash cards, £2.50, from Flying Tiger. Shop & Save 8 Get Johnstone's soft sheen paint in selected shades for £10.99 at Wilko Credit: Supplied GIVE your walls a refresh with Johnstone's soft sheen paint in selected shades, down from £14.99 to £10.99 at Wilko. SAVE: £4 Hot Right Now PICK up three packs of seafood for £10 with a Morrisons More card, saving up to £3.50. Options include salmon and sea bass fillets. PLAY NOW TO WIN £200 8 Join thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle. Every month we're giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers - whether you're saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered. Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket. The more codes you enter, the mor
