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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers in 2026
Expert Tested and Sleeper Approved
Sleep Foundation
Why Trust Us
Our mission to create a healthier, more well-rested world demands that our product reviews be best-in-class. You won’t find more expertise on mattresses and sleep products anywhere else.
The Sleep Foundation product testing team uses an industry-leading evaluation process paired with real world consumer feedback to come up with objective recommendations so that you can feel confident in your product decisions.
If you’re a side sleeper like me (and more than half of adults), there’s good news: Experts say side sleeping supports spinal alignment and may reduce issues like acid reflux and snoring, making it the healthiest sleep position . But not all beds are ideal for side sleepers.
Over the last several years, our testing team has evaluated more than 2,000 mattresses. To figure out which ones really deliver for side sleepers, we selected models that scored well for spinal alignment and pressure relief. We then performed side sleeper-specific pressure pad mapping on our top 30 to narrow it down to the best. Below are our top picks, with special considerations for different needs and preferences.
Our #1 Pick: Helix Midnight Luxe
Ultimately, our Test Lab experts crowned the Helix Midnight Luxe as the best mattress for side sleepers, thanks to its ideal balance of mid-range firmness and comfortable foam layers. It’s specifically designed to cushion side sleepers’ most common pressure points—the shoulders and hips—with adaptive foam layers that relieve tension without letting the midsection sink too far.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Helix Midnight Luxe
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Most Comfortable Mattress for Side Sleepers
:WinkBed
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Best Value Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
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Best Cooling Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
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Best Luxury Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Saatva Classic
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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers With Back Pain
:Bear Elite Hybrid
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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers With Hip Pain
:Nolah Evolution 15
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Best Organic Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Birch Mattress
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Best Hybrid Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
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Best Mattress for Side Sleeper Couples
:Layla Hybrid
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Best Pressure Relief Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Endy Mattress
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Best Latex Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid
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Looking at other mattresses? Explore our Mattress Ratings Database
Browse hundreds of popular mattresses in our comprehensive ratings database. Filter and sort by your needs, compare beds side-by-side, and see hands-on ratings from our Test Lab.
Best Mattress Deals Happening Now
- Save $687 — Helix Midnight Luxe
$2,061(List Price $2,748) - Save $771 — WinkBed
$1,799(List Price $2,570) - Save $720 — Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
$1,679(List Price $2,399) - Save $150 — Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
$449(List Price $599) - Save $325 — Saatva Classic
$1,854(List Price $2,179) - Save $799 — Bear Elite Hybrid
$1,485(List Price $2,284) - Save $797 — Nolah Evolution 15
$1,480(List Price $2,277)
How We Test
How We Determine Our Best Overall Score
With each mattress we test, our team follows the same comprehensive research and evaluation methodology to ensure objective, data-based findings. The mattress testing process consists of four stages, beginning with our detailed analysis of the bed’s construction, materials, and firmness. This cursory exam allows us to calculate an expected lifespan to determine our durability score. We also review the brand’s shipping and return policies, as well as its overall reputation for customer service and satisfaction.
The second stage involves hands-on evaluations in our Seattle Test Lab. We use a wide range of tools and technology to determine how well the mattress relieves pressure, isolates motion, regulates temperature, and resists deep compression when weight is applied. Once we’ve finished the lab-based stage, our field testers take the mattresses home and sleep on them in their own bedrooms for 2 to 3 weeks. These in-home experiences capture how the mattress performs night to night in an authentic sleep environment. Lastly, we collect and read verified customer reviews of each product to make sure our findings are in line with the general public.
Throughout this four-step testing process, we record data and notes that contribute to each bed’s overall and individual performance ratings. The graph below shows how every performance metric contributes to product scores.
How We Determine the Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Our mattress database contains more than 2,000 individual models we’ve tested firsthand. To choose the best mattresses for side sleepers, our team began by narrowing down this list to beds that received an overall rating of 8.5 or higher and above-average scores during our side sleeper testing phase.
From there, we focused on factors that are specific to this sleep position and recalculated our scores to reflect this emphasis. Data points we prioritized for this best side sleeper mattress list include:
- Pressure relief: Whether they like it or not, side sleepers are more prone to pressure buildup than back or stomach sleepers. This is because their shoulders and hips dig deeper into the mattress surface, which can lead to poor spinal alignment if the bed’s support system isn’t strong enough. We made note of mattresses that nail the sweet spot of cushioning, reinforcement, and bounce.
- Comfort layer construction: Most side sleepers prefer cushy, adaptive mattresses that hug their bodies to cushion their shoulders and hips. Our team looked for beds with thick memory foam or latex layers that deliver a close contour without sinking or hindering movement. This is a tricky balancing act, but some mattresses pull it off better than others.
- Temperature control: Side sleepers typically prefer softer mattresses, but plusher models also tend to retain more heat because their top layers hug the body and cut off airflow. Many beds made today are designed with specialized cooling materials to reduce heat retention and promote surface-level airflow. We took these designs into account when choosing our final list of beds for side sleepers.
Our Testing Team
Logan Foley
Editorial Director
Full Bio
Mary Fenton
Head of Product Content
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Jeremy Klein
Senior Product Testing Manager
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Brad Nehring
Senior Product Analyst
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Colin Simpson
Product Research Manager
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Best Overall Mattress
9.7/10Test Lab Score
Helix Midnight Luxe
A premium quality, hybrid mattress created with side sleepers in mind.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers and most body types. Great option for couples who have differing mattress needs.
- Feel: The memory foam and responsive foam in the comfort layers feel very cushioning. Breathes well and reduces heat buildup over night. And when using the add-on cooling cover, our field testers have yet to wake up hot or sweaty.
- What It’s Made Of: Three layers of foam on top of a robust spring coil system.
- What We Don’t Like: Not great for people over 230 pounds.
- Why It’s Best Overall:The Midnight Luxe offers a balance of gentle cushioning on the surface and strong, multi-zone coil support around the midsection. Well-rounded performance sets it apart from the competition — during hands-on tests, the mattress demonstrated excellent pressure relief, consistent cooling, above-average motion isolation, and sturdy perimeter reinforcement.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
Many mattresses are constructed with materials that make them comfortable for side sleeping, but the Helix Midnight Luxe is one of the only mattresses on the market designed specifically with this position in mind. If you frequently switch between your right and left sides while you sleep due to shoulder pain or stiffness, the Midnight Luxe provides the balance of give and support to ensure you’ll be comfortable staying in one position.
How It Performed
Our testers felt the Helix Midnight Luxe mattress had a medium firm (6) feel with impressive pressure point relief. The adaptive foams contoured closely to our bodies, cushioning our high-impact areas and preventing aches and pains. The Midnight Luxe’s mixed-foam design provides the best combination of relief and support for side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds.
We found that edge support is another area where the Midnight Luxe performed well. The coil base has a reinforced perimeter, which kept us well-supported as we sat on and lied near the edges. This increases the sleepable surface area of the bed and works to prevent sagging along the perimeter over time.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
Because the Helix Midnight Luxe is specifically designed for side sleepers, its medium firm (6) feel strikes the right balance between cushioning and support, helping relieve pressure at the hips and shoulders without compromising spinal alignment.
The adaptive Memory Plus foam layers contour gently to the body, making it easier to stay comfortable in one position, especially if you tend to shift sides during the night due to shoulder stiffness or soreness.
Construction Breakdown
The comfort system begins with two layers of adaptive Memory Plus foam, followed by a third layer of dense polyfoam that provides transitional support. Individually wrapped coils make up the support core, reducing sagging in the midsection and bolstering the edges. A base layer of DuraDense foam works behind the scenes to enhance the overall support and durability. A polyester cover engineered to enhance cooling encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Helix offers 120 nights to try out the Midnight Luxe, with a 30-day break-in period. The mattress is covered by a lifetime warranty, and Helix ships free to customers in the contiguous U.S.
Most Comfortable Mattress
9.4/10Test Lab Score
WinkBed
High end hybrid bed providing ample support, cushion, and cool sleep.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Hot sleepers and couples. Offers an option for every sleeper and body type.
- Feel: The feel is dependent on the firmness you select. The softer make is quite pressure relieving and has a good sink, while the luxury-firm (medium-firm) is moderately plush, but has resistance. The firm version is very sturdy.
- What It’s Made Of: Euro-top with foam layers beneath and a sturdy zoned coil system in the core.
- What We Don’t Like: Luxury-firm can feel too firm, so consider the softer build if you’re on the edge. It’s also a pricier option.
- Why It’s Most Comfortable:The WinkBed’s four firmness options all but ensure any sleeper, regardless of weight or preferred position, can find a design that feels comfortable and sufficiently supportive. If you don’t like your first choice, WinkBed lets you swap for a softer or firmer design during the 120-night trial period.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
The WinkBed is an exceptionally comfortable for side sleepers, especially for those seeking a hybrid mattress that provides both plush cushioning and supported alignment. Our testing team noted its “just right” balance of softness and structure, with zoned coils that gently contour the shoulders and hips while maintaining spinal alignment.
How It Performed
The WinkBed is available in four firmness options — medium soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7), and firm (8). Regardless of firmness level, the comfort system and pocketed coils create a luxe feel that our testers described as well-balanced and welcoming. This set of features allowed the mattress to isolate motion effectively during our performance tests, while the air circulation through the coils helped the bed stay cool. The even mix of support and contouring across all four firmness options made the WinkBed an excellent pick for most testers, regardless of body type.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
Because the Helix Midnight Luxe is specifically designed for side sleepers, its medium firm (6) feel strikes the right balance between cushioning and support, helping relieve pressure at the hips and shoulders without compromising spinal alignment.
The adaptive Memory Plus foam layers contour gently to the body, making it easier to stay comfortable in one position, especially if you tend to shift sides during the night due to shoulder stiffness or soreness.
Construction Breakdown
The comfort system begins with two layers of adaptive Memory Plus foam, followed by a third layer of dense polyfoam that provides transitional support. Individually wrapped coils make up the support core, reducing sagging in the midsection and bolstering the edges. A base layer of DuraDense foam works behind the scenes to enhance the overall support and durability. A polyester cover engineered to enhance cooling encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Helix offers 120 nights to try out the Midnight Luxe, with a 30-day break-in period. The mattress is covered by a lifetime warranty, and Helix ships free to customers in the contiguous U.S.
Best Value Mattress
8.6/10Test Lab Score
Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
Hugs and soothes pressure points for restful sleep.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers looking for a good deal
- Feel: Medium firm (6) with substantial cushioning around hot spots like the low back, shoulders, and hips.
- What It’s Made Of: A foam quilted cover, Copper-infused memory foam, an supportive high density polyfoam.
- What We Don’t Like: Material quality isn’t as high as other Brooklyn Bedding mattresses
- Why It’s Best Value:The CopperFlex Memory Foam proves you don’t need to spend a small fortune on high-quality mattress construction. A sophisticated, six-layer design with cooling comfort layers and zoned transitional foam ensures a cushy, comfortable night’s sleep without bothersome heat retention or excessive sinkage beneath your midsection.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
Brooklyn Bedding’s CopperFlex Memory Foam delivers the close, even contouring you’d expect from an all-foam mattress, but it also feels exceptionally supportive beneath your torso and hips. This zoned reinforcement is a great fit for most side sleepers who need extra support beneath these areas to prevent pressure buildup along their spines.
How It Performed
Most side sleepers on our testing team were impressed with the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex, but the mattress was particularly popular among those between 130 and 230 pounds. Back sleepers up to 230 pounds and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also found the CopperFlex comfortable and adequately supportive. The medium firm (6) feel with plush surface layers and zoned support ensures a balanced design with consistent pain and pressure relief.
Our tests also show the mattress is a strong choice for couples due to its excellent motion isolation. All six foam layers absorb movement and prevent ripples of motion transfer from traveling across the surface, so you should be able to change sleep positions or get up during the night without waking your partner — and vice versa. That said, some of us had a hard time moving on the mattress and the edges didn’t feel very stable when we lied or sat along the perimeter.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
Its medium firm (6) feel is enhanced by a zoned transitional layer that reinforces the torso and hips, helping maintain healthy spinal alignment — key for side sleepers prone to pressure buildup in those areas. Meanwhile, the plush upper layers provide ample cushioning for the shoulders and knees.
Our testers found that the mattress performs especially well for side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, though its supportive yet adaptive design accommodates a wide range of body types.
Construction Breakdown
The CopperFlex features a four-layer comfort system, beginning with 1.5 inches of adaptive polyfoam quilted to the cover, which conforms to your figure and soothes sore spots. This is followed by copper-infused memory foam intended to cushion your body without retaining too much heat. Two transitional polyfoam layers provide additional contouring while pushing back against your weight. The second of these layers is divided into three “zones,” so it feels more robust beneath your midsection.
Two layers of high-density polyfoam make up the support core. These materials stabilize the mattress to help prevent you from sinking too deeply. Altogether, the CopperFlex measures 12 inches thick, so it won’t require a deep-pocket fitted sheet.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
The CopperFlex Memory Foam carries an affordable sticker price compared to many of its all-foam “mattress in a box” counterparts from other brands. Brooklyn Bedding also offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and a 120-night trial period with each order. If you decide to keep the mattress after the return period ends, your purchase is further covered under a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Cooling Mattress
8.7/10Test Lab Score
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Luxury hybrid with deep foam layers and cooling technology.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Hot sleepers who prefer a plush, cushy surface that adapts to their figure.
- Feel: Available in medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7) designs. All three options feature zoned coils for extra pushback beneath your midsection.
- What It’s Made Of: Polyfoam and memory foam comfort layers infused with cooling materials, followed by multi-zone pocketed coils in the support core.
- What We Don’t Like: The sticker price is somewhat expensive, and there’s a $99 fee if you decide to return the mattress.
- Why It’s Best Cooling:From the heat-releasing cover and cooling gel infusions to an open coil system that promotes steady internal airflow, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is loaded top to bottom with thermoregulating materials. These elements add up to deliver a comfortable sleep temperature for people who tend to run warm in bed.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe excels at temperature control compared to other memory foam hybrids we’ve tested. Copper and cooling gel infused into the top layers helps reduce heat buildup on the surface, so you can enjoy a close contour without feeling too warm or sweaty.
How It Performed
Overall, our team was impressed with the Aurora Luxe. Temperature control is a standout strength. While we noticed some light heat buildup, gel and copper infusions in the foam layers and the cooling GlacioTex cover kept the mattress at a comfortable temperature. Motion isolation was another strong performance area – there’s a mellow bounce from the coils, but the thick comfort layers muffle and isolate movement to help prevent disturbances for sleep partners.
Side sleepers on our team under 130 pounds preferred the close conforming of the medium soft (4) Aurora Luxe, as did back sleepers in the same weight group. The majority of our other testers felt most comfortable on the medium firm (6) model, which provides a soothing balance of cushioning, midsection support, and bounce. A handful of our side sleepers over 230 pounds also liked the firm (7) design for its extra reinforcement.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe offers side sleepers an impressive balance of pressure relief and temperature control — two features that don’t always go hand in hand.
The mattress is also a great choice for side sleepers because its coils are zoned, meaning they feel stronger and bouncier beneath your shoulders and hips, and three firmness options are available to accommodate different body types.
Construction Breakdown
The Aurora Luxe contains three comfort layers, beginning with adaptive polyfoam encased in a Euro-top. This material feels invitingly plush, contouring to your unique curves and angles as your body settles into the mattress. Additional polyfoam and memory foam layers deliver extra cushioning while gently pushing back against your weight to keep you on an even plane. Copper and cooling gel infusions help the surface stay cool. In the support core, three-zone pocketed coils stabilize the mattress and prevent your midsection from sinking too deeply. A cover made of cooling GlacioTex fabric encases these layers.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Each Aurora Luxe order comes with a 120-night sleep trial, during which you can test out the mattress and decide whether to return it for a refund or keep it. Those who opt for the latter are covered under a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Luxury Mattress
9.5/10Test Lab Score
Saatva Classic
Traditional innerspring with a plush euro-top and excellent breathability.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: All sleep positions, particuarly those who like a more classic innerspring feel.
- Feel: Feel depends on the firmness you select, but in general the euro-top construction gives the bed somewhat plush feel. Underneath is a more responsive, sturdier layer that doesn’t conform to the body.
- What It’s Made Of: Euro-top construction with a memory foam lumbar pad underneath. Micro-coils act as a transitional, absorbing layer, and sturdy hourglass coil system holds it all together.
- What We Don’t Like: High price point. Isn’t great at absorbing motion, so couples are often disturbed by their moving partner.
- Why It’s Best Luxury:The Saatva Classic showcases high-end materials and detailed craftsmanship, with a coil-on-coil hybrid design that feels gentle and supportive in all the right places. Shoppers seeking a high-value luxury mattress should be content with Saatva’s free White Glove delivery service and generous 365-night sleep trial.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
Side sleepers generally don’t feel comfortable on innersprings compared to other mattress types. This is because most innersprings contain thin foam layers that offer little to no cushioning for the shoulders, lower back, and hips. We’ve found that the Saatva Classic is unlike these traditional innersprings, as it uses a layer of pocketed minicoils to provide pressure relief. If you’re looking for a high-end model with a thoughtful design, we recommend the Saatva.
How It Performed
The mattress is available in three firmness levels, including a soft (3) option that was popular among our side sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds and a medium firm (6) for those who weigh more. If you sleep on your side and need extra support, you can opt for a firm (8) feel instead. You can also select a profile of 11.5 inches with 4-inch base coils or 14.5 inches with 7-inch base coils. We found that the latter offers more reinforcement and springiness on the surface, making it a better option if you need a bit more support or anyone who appreciates a little extra bounce.
The dual coil layers reinforced the perimeter to keep us from sinking when we slept near the edges or got on and off the mattress. We noted a responsive feel that was easy to move across, which should appeal to couples who prefer a bouncy feel for sex. The coils also allowed air circulation throughout the interior to keep the mattress cool, while the breathable organic cotton cover wicked moisture away from our bodies. Even by innerspring standards, we found that the Saatva Classic slept exceptionally cool.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
Unlike traditional innersprings with minimal cushioning, the Saatva features a plush Euro-top and a layer of pocketed minicoils that gently cradle the shoulders and hips—common pressure points for side sleepers. With three firmness levels to choose from, lighter side sleepers may prefer the soft (3) option for deep contouring, while those who need more support can opt for the medium firm (6) or firm (8) models.
Construction Breakdown
The mattress features a Euro-top containing polyfoam and soft fibers to give the surface a plush, comfortable feel. Underneath is a memory foam lumbar pad that cushions the lower back and hips to help alleviate pressure buildup. A transitional layer of pocketed minicoils cradle pressure points while supporting the body and adding responsiveness. A support core with sturdy, recycled-steel hourglass coils delivered excellent support regardless of which firmness level you choose. A breathable organic cotton cover encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Saatva provides free White Glove delivery throughout the contiguous U.S. This service includes scheduled delivery date and time, full mattress assembly in a room of your choosing, and complimentary haul-away for your old mattress and box spring. Each purchase comes with a generous 365-night sleep trial for testing out the Saatva Classic and deciding whether it’s right for you, as well as a lifetime warranty if you decide to keep the mattress.
Best Mattress for Back Pain
8.5/10Test Lab Score
Bear Elite Hybrid
A close-conforming memory foam hybrid offering great pressure relief.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Sleepers with back pain and hot sleepers.
- Feel: Conforms closely to your body, applying that typical memory foam feel from the comfort layers with a balanced support that has give in the right places.
- What It’s Made Of: Memory foam, transitional polyfoam, and a high gauge coil system.
- What We Don’t Like: High price-point.
- Why It’s Best for Back Pain:The Bear Elite Hybrid features adaptive comfort layers that mold to your body and zoned coils for targeted support. This helps alleviate upper and lower back pain by promoting even alignment, reducing pressure buildup along the spine, and cushioning high-impact areas like the shoulders, lumbar region, and hips.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a well-balanced mattress that combines foam’s cushioning with the strong support of pocketed coils. The mixed-foam comfort system relieves pressure, making this an ideal model if you frequently wake up with aches and pains.
How It Performed
The mattress comes in three firmness options that appeal to different sleepers, depending on your body type and sleep preference. The medium (5) has the plushest feel and appeals to side and back sleepers up to 130 pounds. The medium firm (6) strikes an even balance of cushioning and support that is most beneficial to side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds. The firm (8) model is best suited for back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds.
Hot sleepers on our team found this bed very comfortable, thanks to the strong ventilation through the coils. The cover is also engineered to wick away moisture and maintain a neutral surface temperature. As a result, our heat guns detected minimal heat retention on the surface. We also recommend the mattress to couples who prioritize responsiveness for sex. The coils create a bouncy feel that was easy for our testers to move across.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
Its medium firm (6) feel is enhanced by a zoned transitional layer that reinforces the torso and hips, helping maintain healthy spinal alignment — key for side sleepers prone to pressure buildup in those areas. Meanwhile, the plush upper layers provide ample cushioning for the shoulders and knees.
Our testers found that the mattress performs especially well for side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, though its supportive yet adaptive design accommodates a wide range of body types.
Construction Breakdown
The CopperFlex features a four-layer comfort system, beginning with 1.5 inches of adaptive polyfoam quilted to the cover, which conforms to your figure and soothes sore spots. This is followed by copper-infused memory foam intended to cushion your body without retaining too much heat. Two transitional polyfoam layers provide additional contouring while pushing back against your weight. The second of these layers is divided into three “zones,” so it feels more robust beneath your midsection.
Two layers of high-density polyfoam make up the support core. These materials stabilize the mattress to help prevent you from sinking too deeply. Altogether, the CopperFlex measures 12 inches thick, so it won’t require a deep-pocket fitted sheet.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
The CopperFlex Memory Foam carries an affordable sticker price compared to many of its all-foam “mattress in a box” counterparts from other brands. Brooklyn Bedding also offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and a 120-night trial period with each order. If you decide to keep the mattress after the return period ends, your purchase is further covered under a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Mattress for Hip Pain
8.7/10Test Lab Score
Nolah Evolution 15
A cloud-like experience with a plush euro-top in multiple firmnes options.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers.as well as other sleeper types who like a close conforming bed.
- Feel: Thick foam layers that conform close to the body while keeping your spine aligned.
- What It’s Made Of: Quilted top, a cooling foam layer, and reinforced coils for support.
- What We Don’t Like: High price point. Outside of the firm model, it’s not the easiest bed to move around on.
- Why It’s Best for Hip Pain:Deep foam layers over multi-zone coils make the Nolah Evolution a strong match for sleepers with chronic or intense hip pain. You can feel thicker coils pushing back against your midsection, allowing your entire body to lie on an even plane, and three firmness options allow most types of sleepers to find at least one design that meets their needs.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
The Nolah Evolution 15 is a hybrid mattress that alleviates pressure and provides sturdy support, making it particularly great if you have trouble maintaining healthy sleep posture. Multiple firmness options also make the mattress accessible to many body types. This mattress has high-quality materials and features that may be a worthwhile investment for those who primarily or occasionally use the side position.
How It Performed
The Evolution 15’s foam hybrid construction provides a supportive and cushioning surface that helps alleviate pressure. The mattress is available in three firmness levels: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). The side sleepers on our team weighing less than 230 pounds preferred the medium, while those over 230 pounds preferred the medium firm.
The mattress has significant edge support thanks to its reinforced perimeter. We were able to lie close to the perimeter and sit along the edge to tie our shoes without sinking. The zoned configuration also ensured our hips and shoulders didn’t sink too deeply into the mattress. Like other hybrids with cooling comfort layers, the Evolution 15 also offers excellent temperature control.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
With its multi-layered foam comfort system and zoned coil support core, the mattress cushions key areas like the hips and shoulders while keeping the spine aligned. Our testers found the medium and medium firm models especially comfortable for side sleeping, depending on body weight. Zoned coils help reduce sinkage in the midsection, while a reinforced perimeter improves edge support for full use of the mattress surface.
Construction Breakdown
The comfort system is made from four polyfoam layers that each have a different purpose, starting with a quilted polyfoam Euro-top infused with Nolah’s ArcticTex, a material intended to help you stay cool. The next layer, a proprietary foam called AirFoamICE, is infused with graphite and designed to regulate temperature. The bottommost layer is resilient and provides a comfortable transition between the core and other comfort layers. The Evolution 15’s pocketed coil support core sits atop a polyfoam base. The pocketed coils have a zoned configuration, so you’ll feel more reinforcement in pressure-prone areas like your hips.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
The Evolution comes in six standard sizes, as well as a split king for adjustable beds. Nolah ships the Evolution for free to shoppers who live in the contiguous U.S. The mattress is backed with an optional 120-night sleep trial and lifetime limited warranty.
Best Hybrid Mattress
9.0/10Test Lab Score
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
A foam hybrid that cushions your body without trapping heat.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers in any weight group – but it’s important to choose a firmness level that aligns with your body type.
- Feel: The Sapira Hybrid Chill is available in medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (7) designs.
- What It’s Made Of: The comfort system consists of polyfoam and memory foam layers encased in a Euro-top, while the support core contains multi-zone pocketed coils and high-density base foam.
- What We Don’t Like: Off-gassing odor is pretty strong for the first few nights, but the smells eventually dissipate.
- Why It’s Best Hybrid:The Leesa Sapira Chill showcases the balance of cushioning and support that hybrids are best known for, with thick foam layers over zoned coils. You can choose from three firmness levels, and the sticker price is below-average compared to other hybrids of this caliber.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid is an excellent option for side sleepers managing back pain because its combination of plush cushioning and balanced support helps maintain proper spinal alignment. The hybrid design—with zoned coils and breathable foam layers—ensures targeted reinforcement where it’s needed most while minimizing sinkage in the lower back area.
How It Performed
Our team tested all three firmness options for the Sapira Chill Hybrid. Side sleepers under 130 pounds enjoyed the medium (5) model for its close contour and gentle cradling around the midsection, while our side sleepers over 230 pounds preferred the more supportive firm (7) design. The medium firm (6) mattress was most popular with side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.
Since the comfort system is thick, the mattress provides great motion isolation and pressure relief, especially compared to other foam hybrids we’ve tested. Temperature control proved to be another major strength because the foams retain little heat and the coils promote plenty of interior airflow.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
Our team found different pros and cons for each of the Sapira Chill Hybrid’s firmness levels. Personally, I preferred the medium firm (6) model’s balance of light contouring and sturdy, multi-zone support, but other testers felt differently. Those under 130 pounds enjoyed the deep cushioning of the medium (5) design, while most side and back sleepers on our team over 230 pounds preferred the firm (7) model instead.
Construction Breakdown
The Sapira Chill Hybrid’s comfort system consists of four individual layers. Adaptive polyfoam pads the surface to make the mattress feel invitingly plush when you get into bed, while dense memory foam and transitional polyfoam push back against your weight as your body settles.
Pocketed coils make up the support core. These coils are zoned, meaning they feel stronger and bouncier beneath your torso and hips to keep your entire body in even alignment. The perimeter coils are also reinforced to deliver strong edge support when you get in and out of bed.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Leesa provides free shipping to all 50 states and backs each Sapira Chill hybrid order with a 120-night sleep trial. You must test out the mattress for at least 30 nights before initiating a return. Your purchase is covered under a lifetime warranty against structural and material defects.
Best Organic Mattress
8.8/10Test Lab Score
Birch Mattress
A latex hybrid with responsive comfort materials and a robust support system.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Hot sleepers and those who sleep or sit on the edge of the mattress.
- Feel: Has great responsiveness. You can climb into bed, move around, change positions, and crawl across the surface with ease. It has minimal sink.
- What It’s Made Of: Two layers of wool that sit on top several inches of Talalay latex. A core of pocketed coils helps keep you supported.
- What We Don’t Like: You’ll feel a partner, or a pet, move when they get in or out of bed, or change positions. Too firm for lighter-weight sleepers.
- Why It’s Best Organic:The Birch Mattress is constructed with an organic cotton cover, natural wool batting, and GOLS-certified latex, so you can rest easy knowing the bed is crafted with sustainability in mind. The sticker price is reasonable, especially compared to a lot of other eco-friendly models on the market, and the durable design should hold up well over time.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
The Birch Mattress is a latex hybrid featuring an assortment of natural and organic components. These materials make the mattress a good option for side sleepers seeking a supportive, pressure-relieving mattress that’s also sustainably produced.
How It Performed
The mattress is medium firm (6). Its highly responsive feel comes from a latex comfort layer that conforms gently, and the pocketed coil support core. The bouncy surface allowed us to get in and out of bed, change positions, and crawl across the mattress with ease. A reinforced perimeter enables you to utilize the entire surface of the bed. This zoning held up well in our testing lab, as we could easily tie our shoes while sitting on the Birch Mattress’ edges and experienced plenty of pushback lying along the perimeter.
The robust support core provided ample support for our side sleepers weighing 130 pounds or more, while the latex offered enough contouring to relieve pressure points. Our lighter testers experienced more of a floating sensation, and the bed felt a bit firmer for them. Depending on their personal preferences, side sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds may want to look for a model with more cushioning for the shoulders and hips.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
Its Talalay latex comfort layer offers a buoyant yet adaptive feel that cradles pressure points without letting you sink in too deeply. Zoned pocketed coils add targeted support and extra reinforcement along the edges, which we found especially useful when lying near the perimeter or sitting to get in and out of bed.
While side sleepers over 130 pounds experienced ideal cushioning and support, those under 130 pounds may find the mattress slightly firm — though still breathable, eco-conscious, and durable enough to be a great fit for many side sleepers who value natural materials.
Construction Breakdown
The Birch Mattress’ comfort system begins with a blend of organic wool and rayon that cushions the surface and encourages airflow. Underneath is a second layer of wool that acts as a natural fire barrier, followed by Talalay latex. The latex gently cradles your body to reduce pressure buildup while providing enough responsiveness to keep you on an even plane. A pocketed coil system makes up the support core, offering targeted support to the hips and shoulders and reinforcing the perimeter of the mattress. The coils rest on a base layer of wool and rayon for stability, and a breathable organic cotton cover encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Birch offers free shipping to customers within the contiguous U.S. The mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial to test the mattress. If you decide to keep the mattress, it comes with a lifetime warranty against structural defects.
Best Mattress for Couples
8.9/10Test Lab Score
Layla Hybrid
A close-conforming, flippable hybrid with a different firmness on each side.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers who want two firmness options in one.
- Feel: The soft side has a lovely sink-in feel. The firm side has a slight hug but with more structure. Both are great at pressure relief, just with different body profiles in mind. Bigger folks: go for the firmer side.
- What It’s Made Of: Memory foam on either side of this flippable bed sandwich a coil support core.
- What We Don’t Like: The softer foams on the bottom of the mattress can become depressed over time, which causes issues with long-term durability (6+ years).
- Why It’s Best for Couples:Consistent temperature control, a stable perimeter, above-average motion isolation and decent ease of movement all make the Layla Hybrid a fitting choice for couples. For added versatility, the flippable design lets you and your partner choose from two firmness levels each night.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
The Layla Hybrid nicely balances contouring and cooling thanks to breathable foam layers and steady air circulation through the coil system. As a flippable mattress with medium soft (4) and firm (7) surfaces, the hybrid also accommodates most side sleepers regardless of how much they weigh.
How It Performed
During our hands-on tests, we evaluated both sides of the Layla Hybrid. Side sleepers on our team weighing less than 130 pounds preferred the softer side for its close contouring and cushioning around the shoulders and hips. Those weighing more than 230 pounds received sufficient support on the firm side. For those between 130 and 230 pounds, both sides felt comfortable. Our back and stomach sleepers largely preferred the firm side.
We noticed that each surface performed well in areas where the opposite side fell short. Pressure relief and motion isolation were major strengths of the medium soft side, while the firm side earned higher ratings for edge support and ease of movement. Temperature control was one area where both sides excelled. We detected little to no heat buildup on either surface.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
The Layla Hybrid offers an uncommon level of flexibility for side sleepers by combining flippable firmness options with excellent temperature regulation. Side sleepers under 130 pounds found deep pressure relief and a plush feel on the medium soft (4) side, which closely contours the shoulders and hips. Meanwhile, those over 230 pounds received sturdier support on the firm (7) side without sacrificing comfort. The zoned transitional layers on both sides help keep the spine aligned by reducing sinkage under the midsection.
Construction Breakdown
The Layla Hybrid’s softer side begins with 2.5 inches of memory foam, followed by a 2-inch transitional polyfoam layer. This surface contours deeply to cradle your body and alleviate pressure along the spine, but the transitional layer is zoned to prevent uncomfortable sinkage beneath your midsection. The firmer side includes the same materials, but the layers are thinner to create a more supportive feel with moderate conforming. Copper infusions in the memory foam layers are intended to offset heat absorption and help you stay cool.
Pocketed coils between the foam layers provide support and stability to both sides of the mattress. Extra reinforcement along the perimeter prevents you from sinking too much when lying near the edges or getting in and out of bed. At 104 pounds in a queen size, the Layla Hybrid is fairly hefty and may require two or more people to lift and flip when you want to change the firmness. Robust carrying handles on each side aid with this process. A stretchy polyester, rayon, viscose, and poly-lycra cover encases the mattress. You can remove and machine wash this cover to keep your sleep surface hygienic.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
The Layla Hybrid is competitively priced, and standard ground shipping is free for orders in the contiguous U.S. Layla’s sleep trial runs for 120 nights. If you choose to keep the mattress, you’ll also receive a manufacturer’s warranty covering structural defects for up to 10 years.
Best Plush Mattress
8.9/10Test Lab Score
Endy Mattress
A cushy yet responsive foam mattress with three firmness options.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side and back sleepers across most body types. Three firmness options cover a wide range of sleeper needs and preferences.
- Feel: This mattress is available in medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7) designs. Each offers a unique balance of cushioning, support, and pushback – but all contour closely and evenly to create a cradle-like mold for your entire body.
- What It’s Made Of: A top layer of adaptive polyfoam, followed by denser transitional and support foam layers.
- What We Don’t Like: Stomach sleepers may struggle on all three, even the firmest option.
- Why It’s Best Plush:No matter which firmness level you choose, the Endy Mattress feels plush and adaptive to cradle your body and alleviate pressure zones along your spine. For maximum contouring and cushioning, we recommend the medium soft (4) design with extra foam padding on the surface.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
“Plush” refers to mattresses that feel adaptive and conform to your body. While many soft mattresses are plush, the term can also apply to beds with thick foam layers that cushion your body on the surface while reinforcing your body with base support. The Endy Mattress is an all-foam model available in three firmness levels, all of which are “plush” to varying degrees. Whether shoppers are looking for a close contour or a more buoyant feel, this budget-friendly option has something for almost everyone.
How It Performs
Our team tested all three versions of the Endy Mattress. The medium soft (4) model feels quite adaptive, so you’ll likely sink a bit into the surface as your body settles. Side sleepers under 130 pounds can benefit from this deep contouring. The medium firm (6) model – which was the most popular among testers – hits that sweet spot of conforming, support, and bounce. Side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds and back sleepers up to 230 pounds should find this model comfortable.
The firm (7) Endy Mattress is quite responsive to movement and conforms very little. Side and back sleepers over 230 pounds should receive the reinforcement they need. For stomach sleepers, this model may suffice, but most of the testers on our team who use the stomach position found all three a bit too plush.
In terms of performance, motion isolation and pressure relief are major strengths of the mattress. Edge support is a weak point, especially for the medium soft model, and people may notice a “stuck” feeling when moving on their mattress – a common complaint about all-foam beds.
Construction Breakdown
The Endy Mattress begins with a comfort layer of adaptive, open-cell polyfoam. This layer’s thickness varies by selected firmness, so you’ll feel the most cushioning on the medium soft model and the least on the firm. A transitional layer of denser polyfoam provides a buffer between your body and the support core, which contains high-density base foam. The cover is composed of stretch-knit polyester.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Costs for the Endy Mattress vary by firmness level, with the medium soft model carrying the highest price tag. Endy previously shipped only within Canada, but now offers free ground delivery within the contiguous U.S. Each order comes with a generous 365-night sleep trial, and those who keep their mattress after the return period ends will also be covered under a 15-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Latex Mattress
8.9/10Test Lab Score
Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid
A budget-friendly latex hybrid with strong support and excellent lasting power.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds, people who run hot in bed, and budget shoppers in search of an affordable latex hybrid.
- Feel: Firm (7) feel with light cushioning on the surface, a steady bounce in response to movement, and robust coil support with extra reinforcement along the perimeter.
- What It’s Made Of: A comfort layer of ventilated, GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex over a pocketed coil support core. The cover is a blend of organic cotton and rayon derived from bamboo.
- What We Don’t Like: The mattress is quite bouncy and may disrupt sleep for couples. Most side sleepers who weigh 230 pounds or less will need a softer, more adaptive bed.
- Why It’s Best Latex:Awara’s Natural Luxury Hybrid showcases the strong bounce, light contouring, and consistent breathability we’ve come to expect from latex mattresses — all at a sticker price that falls well below average. Back and stomach sleepers in particular should appreciate the firm feel and robust coil support.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
If you’re a side sleeper who weighs more than 230 pounds, you’ll likely need a balance of cushioning, support, and bounce from your mattress. The Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid is a firm (7) latex-over-coil model that feels remarkably stable and sturdy, with a comfort layer that provides just enough plushness to alleviate aches and pains for side sleepers without sinking too much or feeling overly stiff under the shoulders and hips.
How It Performed
While our hands-on tests indicate the Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid is best suited to back and stomach sleepers who weigh 130 pounds or more, the bed’s firmer feel and strong support system are also a good match for side sleepers over 230 pounds. The latex comfort layer doesn’t conform very much, but it should deliver adequate cushioning around the shoulders and hips for side sleepers in this weight range.
Cooling and moisture-wicking materials from top to bottom make the Natural Luxury Hybrid a comfortable option for hot sleepers and people prone to night sweats. Reinforced perimeter coils also give the mattress strong edge support. One downside is motion isolation – the Natural Luxury Hybrid is quite bouncy, so you and your sleep partner may notice ripples of movement from the other person.
What Makes It Ideal for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds are strong candidates for the Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid. While those who weigh less typically need a lot of cushioning to alleviate pressure buildup, the minimal cushioning and contouring are a better fit for people who require a mattress with ample support and pushback.
If you sleep on your side and dislike the hug of memory foam, we recommend looking into mattresses with latex comfort layers like the Natural Luxury Hybrid. Latex is a buoyant material that keeps your entire body aloft, making it ideal for people who prefer to sleep “on” – and not “in” – their mattress.
Construction Breakdown
The Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid contains a comfort layer made of ventilated Dunlop latex. This exceptionally dense and heavy material is popular for its mellow bounce, moderate contour, and exceptional longevity. A certification from the Global Organic Latex Standard ensures the latex meets the highest standards for organic growth and processing.
Pocketed coils make up the support core. The perimeter coils are reinforced to bolster edge support and make it easier for you to get in and out of bed. Latex and coils together also make this mattress very springy. A cover made of organic cotton and rayon derived from bamboo encases the mattress, and a layer of organic wool batting sits directly below the surface to serve as a fire barrier and keep you cool.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
The Natural Luxury Hybrid costs much less than the average latex hybrid model, and Awara further sweetens the deal with free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and a generous 365-night sleep trial. If you decide to keep the mattress after the return period ends, it’s also covered under a lifetime warranty against structural and material defects.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers Comparison
| Our Rating | Firmness | Mattress Type | Price (Queen) | Accolade | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Midnight Luxe | 9.7 | Medium firm (6) | Hybrid | $1,874 | Best overall |
| WinkBed | 9.4 | Medium soft (4) to firm (8) | Innerspring | $1,799 | Most comfortable |
| Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | 9 | Medium (5), medium firm (6), firm (8) | Hybrid | $1,679 | Best hybrid |
| Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex | 8.6 | Medium firm (6) | Foam | $649 | Best value |
| Saatva Classic | 9.5 | Medium (5), medium firm (6), firm (8) | Hybrid | $1,929 | Best luxury |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 8.5 | Medium (5), medium firm (6), firm (8) | Hybrid | $1,485 | Best for back pain |
| Nolah Evolution 15 | 8.7 | Medium (5), medium firm (6), firm (8) | Hybrid | $1,480 | Best for hip pain |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | 8.7 | Medium Soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7) | Hybrid | $1,499 | Best cooling |
| Birch Mattress | 8.8 | Medium firm (6) | Latex Hybrid | $1,499 | Best organic |
| Layla Hybrid | 8.5 | Reversible: medium soft (4) and firm (7) | Hybrid | $1,549 | Best for couples |
| Endy Mattress | 8.9 | Medium soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7) | Foam | $626 | Best plush |
| Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid | 8.9 | Firm (7) | Latex hybrid | $999 | Best latex mattress |
Things to Consider When Shopping for a Mattress for Side Sleepers
Like with any type of sleeper, body weight, temperature regulation, and personal preferences all play a role in whether a mattress is right for you.
I recommend thinking about the following when searching for a new bed.
How Much Do You Weigh?
Difference in body weight is one of the main reasons comfort and support are so subjective. Basic physics tells us that a person’s body weight directly influences how much they press down into a mattress (thanks, gravity!), which shapes their perception of how a mattress feels and whether it offers the right amount of cushioning without feeling too cushy.
You can generally pick the best firmness for side sleeping based on your body weight, as outlined in the table below. These are our nine-person testing team’s recommendations, based on a decade of evaluating more than 2,000 mattresses using people of all body weights and sleeping positions. We use on a 10-point firmness scale, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest.
| Weight | Firmness Recommendation | Firmness Scale Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Under 130 pounds | Soft to medium mattress | 3 to 5 |
| 130 to 230 pounds | Medium to medium-firm mattress | 5 to 6 |
| Over 230 pounds | Firm mattress | 7 to 8 |
Are You a Hot Sleeper?
Because side sleepers typically need more cushioning for their joints, many gravitate toward memory foam mattresses. They’re great for pressure relief, but they also trap heat. So if you’re someone who sleeps hot, or lives somewhere hot, pay extra attention to this issue. If this describes you, you may want to try a cooling mattress infused with gel or copper or a hybrid model with an innerspring core that allows for more airflow.
How Much of a ‘Hug’ Do You Want?
Why does this matter to side sleepers? As I mentioned before, people who prefer sleeping on their sides need more cushioning than back or stomach sleepers do. Based on my experience, that means side sleepers should look for a moderate amount of contouring and pressure relief. Your mattress shouldn’t feel like concrete or like quicksand. A happy medium can keep your joints and spine supported comfortably.
Do You Sleep With a Partner?
If you share your bed, you’ll need a mattress for you and your bed partner that lets you each get enough high-quality sleep. If you’re both side sleepers, it certainly makes things easier. If not, you’ll likely have to compromise. Or, if you may want to consider a mattress that has a split design with a different firmness level on each side.
What Type of Bed Is Best for Side Sleepers?
Here’s an overview of key things to know about each type of mattress:
- Memory Foam: These mattresses hug your body and can help evenly distribute your weight, which may be good for relieving pressuring around the hips and shoulders. Couples may prefer memory foam because it prevents vibrations from spreading from one side of the bed to the other.
- Latex: This material gently cradles the body and has a bouncy feel, making it easier to move across. It’s durable, long-lasting, and generally more eco-friendly than foam.
- Hybrid: Hybrid beds have a base of coils (springs) and top layers of foam or latex. This balanced feel is great for side sleepers since the zoned coil systems provide extra lumbar support, which can promote spinal alignment and alleviate pressure in the shoulders, lower back, and hips. They also come in a variety of firmness levels.
Recent Updates
- June 26, 2026: We’ve updated our Scoring & Reviews section for each product pick in our list. Beneath the Performance fold, you’ll find our team’s ratings for key categories, along with pictures and videos from our first-hand testing.
- June 12, 2026: We have updated information about our testing and research methodology to emphasize extra steps we took for choosing the best mattress models for side sleepers. You can find these details at the top of this guide under “How We Test.”
- March 30, 2026: In our yearly testing cycle, we changed the accolade for the Layla Hybrid from Best Mattress for Pressure Relief to Best Mattress for Couples. It tested well for motion isolation, alleviates pressure, and boasts a stable perimeter. It also has a flippable design, so you and your partner can choose between two firmness levels. The Bear Elite Hybrid continues to reign supreme for back pain thanks to its adaptive comfort layers and zoned coils that reduce pressure buildup along the spine.
- March 23, 2026: We’ve introduced Why It Won bullet points in our product cards to help shoppers get a better picture of our decision process when assigning superlatives.
- February 2, 2026: We’ve added the Endy Mattress to our list as the Best Plush Mattress for Side Sleepers. It’s an all-foam bed that adapts to your body to provide a cradling sensation and relieve pressure points. It’s available in three firmness options, but in testing, we found that the medium soft option (4) with extra foam padding offered maximum contouring and cushioning.
More Mattress Guides
For more information on how we choose the best mattresses for different types of sleepers, check out the guides listed below.
Shopping Guides by Mattress for Sleeper Types
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Logan is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a deep understanding of what it means to struggle with sleep. Her years of experience researching and testing sleep products – including mattresses, natural sleep aids, and bedding – are critical to her role helping lead the editorial team. When she’s not testing mattresses or researching CBT-I, she enjoys spending time in the sunshine with her husband and her dogs Pepper and Winston.
References1 Sources
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https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21056174/