As a physical therapist, there really is no substitute for an Airex Pad. I originally ordered one of the many cheaper, generic foam pads thinking I'd save a few bucks, only to be royally disappointed in the actual quality/"feel" of the pad.it's just not the same. That being said, for some, I would imagine that it wouldn't matter too much, but for myself, having worked with an official airex for so many years, it's hard to accept something that seems to pale in comparison (e.g. feel, moveSee full review