This may be minimal help, but I sat in a 5'6" Mariposa at Expo Design and really liked it. Don't know if the 6' is the same. I like to read in the tub, and the armrests seemed perfect. I am not slim, and I didn't find the tub too narrow at all.

I have to say first off that this is my first post where I'm actually offering someone help instead of asking for advice, and it feels good for a change!!

Jane4444, I just went through the exact same dilemma with the 2 tubs you're deciding between. The only difference is that we were debating the jetted version of those tubs. The one we decided on was the Mariposa based on the more reclined slant.

We literally just had it roughed in at our new construction home 2 days ago, so the only thing I've done is lay in it with no water and lots of dust and dirt surrounding me! Here are my observations:

1. The slant in the back was nice--the jacuzzi tub in our current home doesn't have as much of a slant and so that's what I'm used so this one felt a little strange. Not bad strange, just different strange, if that makes any sense. I think it will be a WONDERFUL angle when I'm just wanting to close my eyes and soak. Most of the time though, I like to read in the tub and so only time will tell if it's too much slope to comfortably hold a book. I think I'll definitely invest in one of those things that drapes across the tub to hold a book for me.

2. I honestly don't remember the lumbar support when I sat in it, which says to me that it's not uncomfortable. I'll check it out again tomorrow though and try to remember to report back. The thing I did notice was the head rest "bump"--you had to put your head in just the right position for it to mold to your neck, and it's hard to say if it will be the "right" position for me once I'm taking a real bath. Plus, it's made out of acrylic so it wasn't something I thought would ever be extremely comfortable! Another investment will be an inflatable pillow so I can place it where it feels the best on my head!

3. The length was absolutely fine. I am 5'6" in a normal weight range and it didn't feel too short or too narrow. I could stretch my legs out completely and still have a little room leftover before touching the front of the tub with my toes. Definitely a 1-person tub but more than enough space for one person in width and definitely enough for me in length.

That's all I can remember to really report on. I'll sit in it again tomorrow so I can answer any other questions you have. I don't regret the decision at all over the 7236 Proflex, because I think the increased slant in the back will be worth it.

Good luck and hope that helps!

Wow--thanks to Astridh--I tried to find this tub at an Expo location to no avail but I appreciate your input! And, Nancy, thank you so much for all your great information--it was the next best thing to being in the tub! You addressed all my concerns--if the tub didn't feel too confining and the lumbar wasn't uncomfortable (you and I sound like we're about the same size) then your other thought about the head rest is easily remedied by a rolled towel or pillow. I'll watch this site to see if you update it with any different info but I think I'll go ahead and go for the Mariposa! Happy soaking! Thanks for all your advice!!!! Jane

The Expo Design Center that had the Mariposa was in San Jose, California. If you get it, please post a reply after you actually have tried it out. I'd love to hear your opinion. We are doing our kitchen now and the master bath is planned for about a year from now.

Astridh....I have ordered the Mariposa and will have it by next week and should be soaking in it the following week! I'll post my conclusions then. I'm in Georgia so the San Jose Expo won't work for me! Jane

We just installed a 6' Mariposa and I love it. I love the way it looks (curves in just the right places, lol) and it has a nice reclining position, with good lumbar support and a nice elevated head rest.

I've been researching tubs here on the forum and about come to the conclusion to buy the Mariposa. Jane, do you have an update for us as to the comfort of your new tub? I'm also debating between the 5.5 and the 6'. I am 5'3" and my husband is 6'.
Thanks, Jane, or anyone else who has anything to add about the Mariposa. Jeanie