Kapok Zafu Meditation Cushion

This was my first purchase of a zafu, and as such I needed to take somewhat of a shot in the dark when it came to type and maker. A little online research told me that the two main fillings in zafu cushions are kapok and buckwheat, kapok being softer and buckwheat being firmer. I was considering buckwheat because my left hip is very inflexible and I assumed I would need the extra height. I also learned that a kapok zafu is the traditionally used and time-tested cushion (plus, softer sounds nicer). Checking reviews and descriptions, I saw that the kapok cushion from ZafuStore is said to have more filling than other manufacturers, attributing to a slightly higher, firmer cushion. These last two bits of information, coupled with the low price, made this my choice of zafu. So let me tell you the deets: Okay, so my main worries were that the cushion would not have enough loft to support my less-flexible leg, and that the low price might equal poorer quality construction. Neither of these are a problem, at all. The zafu is very comfortable to sit on, and once it is flattened out after a few uses settles into a firm, comfortable height. The seams are very strong and well sewn (I have a little machine sewing experience), and the outer material is a very sturdy fabric like a twill/canvas. This particular zafu even features a handle, which is sewn flush to the cushion and so is barely noticeable, aesthetically. I would suggest to anyone to get this zafu. It is one of the cheapest on the market with absolutely no noticeable drawbacks to its price. Comfortable, well made, accommodating height for flexibility issues, and the traditional-style cushion for zazen.

In 20 years of sitting meditation, I have tried all kinds of cushions of various shapes and fill-materials --- and have found that what supports me best is a very firm kapok-stuffed zafu. I used to make them at a Zen monastery and I know it's very difficult to get all that kapok in there evenly. The ZafuStore has done it better than I had imagined possible.I am only 5' 2", and the medium cushion fits me fine. It came looking like a very cute ball, so the height was a bit high for me, but it will flatten to fit with use. The cover is beautifully made. The mindfulness and care in their work is evidenced even in the "small" things like the astonishing, beautiful, meticulous way they sealed the plastic bag that protected the zafu. I've never seen anything like it.They were also really conscientious about letting me know the status of my order. My sense is it mattered to them as much as it mattered to me... which is a lot.Thank you, ZafuStore... your embodiment of your [spiritual] practice is inspiring.Postscript: 7/28/13 - After several months of using this zafu, I concluded it was still too high for me, so I removed some of the kapok, which I have kept for later use, when the old kapok gets flatter and needs replacement or supplementation. (It's almost impossible to get small amounts of kapok cost-effectively, so having some extra is fine with me.)

I ordered a Kapok-stuffed cushion, as it states in the first word of the product description, but received one filled with cotton. It still looks and feels like it would work well, but it's not what I ordered. I wanted kapok so it would hold its shape better over time. Amazon didn't give me the option to exchange it, so I'm returning it.

This thing is perfect - I was hesitant because the material looks a bit shiny in the photos, but it is not just shiny. Just nice quality cloth. Color is great, size is great, it's sturdy and comfy. And most importantly... NO BUGS. Worth every penny.

This pillow is just the right amount of cushion. It's incredibly soft but sturdy. I'm probably going to buy another one soon so that my husband and I can meditate at the same time.

I was seeking a cushion that would have some sturdiness to it, and was about to buy one from another company that promised a firm kapok cushion in the same color. I know from a friend's experience that this company can be very slow about shipping items, so I decided to check out amazon to see what was available. I was thrilled to find this cushion with the identical features as the other, but for $20 less! I was pleased that it was shipped immediately (even though I ordered late on a Saturday) and I had my cushion in no time at all. If you need a firm cushion, this is it. The carrying handle makes it easy to take to my weekly meditation group. Highly recommend this cushion and this company.

I'm greatly enjoying using this cushion every day. Excellent quality. Stuffed very full with kapok--seemed kind of like a big football when I took it out of the box, but it has definitely flattened out nicely with use. Very well made. Thanks to the Zafu Store!

This is a sturdy, high-quality and well made pillow. The Zafustore delivered the item just two days after I ordered it and kept me well informed of my order via e-mail. I was debating between this size and the larger pillow. After reading the reviews that the larger pillow was for taller individuals, I went with this size. I'm glad I did. I'm 5'4" and it fits me well. The larger pillow would have been too big. I am pleased with the quality of this product and would definitely order from the Zafustore again.