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Back in the day, before memory foam beds gained popularity and prior to the mattress-in-a-box craze, innerspring mattresses were practically your only option. Traditional innerspring mattresses are still available today, though they’re less commonly sold online because they typically can’t be compressed for shipping. For this reason, some of the best online mattresses that are marketed as innersprings are actually closer in spirit to hybrid mattresses, with steel coils that are wrapped in fabric to cut down on motion transfer and thick comfort systems with foam or latex layers.

Check out our guide to the best mattresses of 2025 to learn about our top picks and how we select them. We also cover beds geared toward certain types of sleepers, such as the best mattresses for side sleepers.

Our Top Picks

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Best Mattress Overall

9.4 /10 Test Lab Score

WinkBed

High end hybrid bed providing ample support, cushion, and cool sleep.

30% off all WinkBeds mattresses Shop At WinkBeds
Price: $2,570
Mattress Type: Innerspring
Firmness Options: Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30 night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Just about every sleeper.
  • Feel: Firmness levels ranging from medium soft (4) to firm (8). All have responsiveness, lumbar support, and edge support.
  • What It’s Made Of: A core of pocketed innerspring coils. Most versions have top layers made of polyfoam and a layer of natural latex.
  • What We Don’t Like: Some vibrations from a bed partner’s movement. May not suit sleepers who want to be closely hugged by their mattress.
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.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9.5/10

130-230 lbs

10/10

Above 230 lbs

9.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

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.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

All four firmness options offer above-average motion isolation compared to other hybrids we’ve tested. The Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer models have polyfoam layers that significantly absorb vibrations, preventing motion from traveling across the surface. The Plus features latex, and does not isolate as much motion – though it still received high marks from our team. Although the coil core gives the mattress some bounce, the foam layers are substantial enough to dampen motion transfer.

Motion Isolation

Pressure Relief

8 /10
8 /10

Like with many hybrid models, the WinkBed’s strong contouring can help relieve painful pressure points. Using pressure-mapping sensors, we found the Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer versions of the mattress generously cradle your body and ease pressure off sensitive joints, thanks largely to the multiple foam layers. The Plus version uses polyfoam and latex layers, which offer gentle contouring as well.

Pressure Relief

Temperature Control

9 /10
9 /10

The WinkBed’s Tencel cover wicks heat and moisture away from the sleeper’s body. In the Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer models, polyfoam infused with cooling gel helps to minimize heat retention. The Plus version uses latex, a naturally breathable material that resists heat buildup.The coil core also promotes significant air circulation. All of these components make the WinkBed one of the best cooling mattresses on the market.

Temperature Control

Edge Support

9.5 /10
9.5 /10

While many hybrid models have sturdy edges, the WinkBed’s perimeter is exceptionally strong . Thanks to extra reinforcement along the edges, our testers noticed minimal compression when sitting along the edge. Most sleepers should feel secure enough to sleep or sit on the full surface of the mattress without worrying about rolling off.The edge of the Softer model may not seem quite as sturdy as the Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus versions, due to its plusher design.

Edge Support

Ease of Movement

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

The three softest versions of the WinkBed Mattress feature polyfoam comfort layers. Polyfoam is more responsive than memory foam, so the WinkBed won’t hug your body as closely as hybrid mattresses made with close-conforming memory foam. The result is strong ease of movement across the surface.The Plus model features a very responsive latex layer, so this option shines when it comes to ease of movement.

Ease of Movement

Durability

8 /10
8 /10

As a hybrid mattress with a polyfoam comfort layer, the Winkbed should last slightly longer than the average bed. Hybrids tend to be durable because the inner coils last a long time, and polyfoam is more durable than memory foam. That being said, the foam comfort layer isn’t too thick on the Winkbed (2 to 2.5 inches, depending on the firmness you choose), so you might find the bed getting less comfortable after around eight or nine years when impressions and sagging start to set in.

Full Breakdown

As a hybrid mattress, the WinkBed combines the sturdy support of traditional innersprings with the deep cushioning of an all-foam model. The result is an exceptionally balanced design that excelled at pressure relief, edge support, and temperature control during our tests. You can choose from four firmness levels based on your body type and sleep position, and WinkBeds’ generous return policy allows you to exchange the mattress for a softer or firmer model if your first choice isn’t quite right.

How It Performs

Our team tested all four firmness levels and found that each one can accommodate different types of sleepers. Side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds should appreciate the close contouring and cradling of the Softer WinkBed, which rates as a 4 on our 10-point firmness scale. The Luxury Firm (6) and Firmer (7) designs offer more support for back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds. If you weigh more than 230 pounds and need maximum support, we recommend the WinkBed Plus (8), a model specifically designed with this weight group in mind.

We found that pressure relief and motion isolation were two major strengths of the Softer WinkBed. While many hybrids are firmer and more responsive, this design’s close conforming is more akin to an all-foam mattress. The three other designs earned higher marks in performance categories like temperature control, edge support, and ease of movement.

Construction Breakdown

The Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer models begin with adaptive foam layers encased in a Euro-top cover. Contouring level varies by firmness, but all three mold to your figure to distribute your weight and align your spine. None of these models felt very responsive, which is a plus for couples due to the lack of motion transfer, but may be a downside if you prefer an exceptionally bouncy mattress. The WinkBed Plus’ top layer consists of latex, rather than foam, so this model should provide the springiness you need to sleep comfortably.

All WinkBed models feature pocketed coil support cores divided into three zones: thicker coils beneath your midsection to push back against the weight in your torso and hips, thinner coils cradle the head and legs, and perimeter coils reinforced to minimize sinkage when you get in and out of bed. A breathable, moisture-wicking Tencel cover encases the mattress.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Ground shipping is free for customers in the contiguous U.S. Your order includes a 120-night trial period. If you opt for an exchange, the replacement model comes with a 60-night trial. WinkBeds also backs each mattress with a lifetime warranty.

Read Our Full WinkBed Review

Best Value Mattress

8.4 /10 Test Lab Score

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

A high-quality, affordable hybrid with multiple firmness options.

30% off sitewide with code: BFRIDAY30 Shop At Brooklyn Bedding
Price: $999
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Side and back sleepers.
  • Feel: Responsive surface with a degree of bounciness and light cushioning. Firmness levels include medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8).
  • What It’s Made Of: Soft quilted cover, two top layers of polyfoam, and pocketed innerspring coils in the support core.
  • What We Don’t Like: Return fee of $99. Foam materials can make it harder to move on top of the mattress.
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.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

6.5/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

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.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

The Signature isolates motion fairly well. Many hybrid models feel more responsive on the surface, and this can generate more motion transfer when someone changes positions or gets in and out of bed.The Signature’s thick foam layers absorb movement to eliminate a great deal of transfer. You may still notice some ripples of transfer across the surface on the medium soft and medium firm models. For the firm Signature, the transfer will be more noticeable.

Motion Isolation

Pressure Relief

7 /10
7 /10

All three of the Signature’s firmness levels offer great pressure relief. The most comfortable option for you depends on your sleep position and body type.The medium soft model reduces pressure for side sleepers with extra cushioning the shoulders and hips. The medium firm feel is more supportive for back sleepers up to 230 pounds. You won’t sink too much, but the foam still conforms and relieves pressure. Those over 230 pounds and stomach sleepers should consider the firm model.

Pressure Relief

Temperature Control

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

The Signature’s coil system promotes airflow to maintain a comfortable temperature. The TitanFlex foam is also quite breathable compared to foams found in other hybrids.The firm model provides the best temperature control because it sinks very little and you’ll feel more surface airflow. The medium soft and medium firm models conform more closely. Hot sleepers may feel a bit too warm on these models – but for most, the mattress should sleep cool regardless of selected firmness.

Temperature Control

Edge Support

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

Hybrids generally excel at edge support, and the Signature is no exception. Coil support cores reinforce the perimeter better than latex or foam. This means less sinkage when you get on and off the mattress, and more stability if you like sleeping near the edges.The medium soft and medium firm models sink more than the firm because the foam conforms more closely, but they still maintain good overall stability if you weigh 230 pounds or less.

Ease of Movement

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

Polyfoam can be a responsive material, but the Signature’s latex-like TitanFlex foam is exceptionally bouncy. This allows you to move across the mattress rather easily. You won’t sink into the bed as you might on a mattress with memory foam.That said, the medium soft Signature can hinder movement on the surface. This model conforms the closest, so you’ll feel more sinkage when moving between the bed’s edges and interior. The medium firm and firm models provide more bounce-back.

Ease of Movement

Durability

7 /10
7 /10

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has an estimated lifespan of six to seven years. As with other hybrids, the pocketed coils provide a solid base that evenly distributes pressure to prevent excessive strain on any one area. The most vulnerable part of the mattress is the comfort system, particularly the quilted top. The softer foams used in the mattress’ top layers may eventually develop imprints that affect the cushioning, something that’s more prominent in the softer model.

Full Breakdown

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is both affordable and high-quality, constructed with quality materials and optimized performance features.

How It Performs

The Signature Hybrid is available in three firmness levels: medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (8). The medium-soft model was most popular with our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. This design provides the deepest body contouring to alleviate aches and pains along the spine. The medium-firm design was most popular among our testers, earning favorable ratings from side and back sleepers across different weight groups, as well as stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds also found the firm model comfortable.

Thermoregulation is a major strength of the Signature Hybrid. Cooling infusions in the foam layers and steady air circulation throughout the coil layer help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature. Our team was also impressed by the support system. We felt generous pushback from the coils when lying near and sitting along the edges, and none of us had trouble moving across the surface — even when testing the medium soft model.

Construction Breakdown

The Signature Hybrid’s comfort system slightly changes depending on the firmness level. The two softer models feature a top polyfoam layer quilted into the cover, giving the surface a plush initial feel. Underneath is a layer of adaptive, gel-infused memory foam that helps relieve pressure. Meanwhile, the firm model features a thin layer of quilted cotton over gel-infused TitanFlex foam, which is engineered for more responsiveness. All models feature transitional polyfoam that rounds out the comfort system and prevents your body from sinking too deeply into the coils.

Pocketed coils over a high-density polyfoam base layer make up the Signature Hybrid’s support core. Thicker coils line the perimeter to minimize sinkage and help you get in and out of bed with relative ease. The coils rest on a base layer of polyfoam for stability, and a breathable cotton cover encases the mattress. For more cushioning, you can upgrade the mattress with an extra foam layer known as the “Cloud” pillow-top that makes the surface feel noticeably softer.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Brooklyn Bedding offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S., a 120-night sleep trial, and a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.

Read Our Full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Review

Most Comfortable Mattress

9.7 /10 Test Lab Score

Helix Midnight Luxe

A premium quality, hybrid mattress created with side sleepers in mind.

27% off sitewide with code: SF27 Shop At Helix
Price: $1,799
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Side and back sleepers who weigh under 230 pounds.
  • Feel: Medium firm (6) with substantial cushioning around hot spots like the low back, shoulders, and hips.
  • What It’s Made Of: Memory foam top layers, followed by a responsive polyfoam. The tallest layer is pocketed innerspring coils supported by a dense polyfoam. Covered with a breathable Tencel exterior and optional cooling cover.
  • What We Don’t Like: Firmness level may limit support for stomach sleepers, especially those over 230 pounds. Can emit a slight odor for a brief period after unboxing.
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.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9.5/10

130-230 lbs

10/10

Above 230 lbs

9.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

8/10

Above 230 lbs

7/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

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.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

As a medium firm mattress with thick foam comfort layers, it’s no surprise that the Midnight Luxe tested very well for motion isolation. Our testers could barely feel any movement across the surface of the mattress when fellow testers rolled around on it.

Motion Isolation

Pressure Relief

9.5 /10
9.5 /10

All of the Helix Luxe models have thick foam comfort layers and conform fairly close to the body. Consequently, they’ve all performed well in our pressure mapping tests, with notably less pressure in the hips and shoulders than many hybrids. With it’s 6 out of 10 firmness, The Midnight Luxe in particular performs average among other Helix Luxe beds.

Pressure Relief

Temperature Control

8 /10
8 /10

The Helix mattresses perform about average for hybrids when it comes to sleeping cool. Memory foam is well-known for its tendency to sleep hot, as it often traps and retains heat through the night, but the coil cores of these beds promote airflow to help balance out heat retention.

Temperature Control

Edge Support

9.5 /10
9.5 /10

All Helix mattresses feature a reinforced perimeter, meaning the coils on the edges are thicker than the coils in the middle of the bed. When putting this to the test, we found significantly less sinkage on the edge than the middle while applying weight.

Edge Support

Ease of Movement

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

Helix Luxe mattresses tend to be somewhat responsive and bouncy, and all tested pretty well for ease of movement. The Midnight Luxe in particular had a middle-of-the-road performance in our tests, as the medium firm surface conforms a bit to the body, but doesn’t fully provide that ‘stuck’ feeling and inhibit motion.

Ease of Movement

Durability

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

The Helix Luxe collection of hybrid mattresses is built for durability, and the firmer options will likely extend the life even further. Each model is 14 inches thick and features three layers of foam (memory and poly), plus has 1,000 individually wrapped coils, including zone and perimeter support. It’s likely that you’ll be able to enjoy this mattress for close to a decade.

Full Breakdown

The Helix Midnight Luxe is specifically geared toward side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, but our tests show the mattress can accommodate people who use this position across a wide range of body types.

How It Performs

The medium firm (6) Midnight Luxe is one of the most balanced Helix hybrid mattresses we’ve tested. It earned solid ratings from side and back sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Anyone who weighs more should consider one of Helix’s firmer models, such as the Twilight (7) or Dawn (8).

The foam layers absorb a fair amount of movement and reduce motion transfer well, so the Midnight Luxe is a good option for couples — especially those who have found other hybrids and innersprings too disruptive.

Edge support was another testing highlight. Although our testers over 230 pounds noticed some sinkage, most of us felt decent pushback when getting on and off the mattress. Hot sleepers should consider the cooling cover option, as some of our testers found the mattress warm during our temperature control tests.

Construction Breakdown

Three foam layers — including two layers of memory foam — make the Midnight Luxe’s surface adaptive, with an invitingly plush feel when you get into bed and deeper cradling as your body settles.

The third layer is fairly dense and acts as a buffer between you and the support core. Individually pocketed coils with a reinforced perimeter and zoned support stabilize the mattress and minimize sinkage from edge to edge. For the cover, you can choose between a Tencel fabric or GlacioTex, which is a heat-dissipating phase change material.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

The Midnight Luxe ships free to all 50 states. You’ll also receive two pillows at no extra charge. Helix’s sleep trial runs for 120 nights. If you decide to keep your mattress, you’ll also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

Read Our Full Helix Midnight Luxe Review

Best Luxury Mattress

9.5 /10 Test Lab Score

Saatva Classic

Traditional innerspring with a plush euro-top and excellent breathability.

$300 off orders of $1,000 or more Shop At Saatva
Price: $1,795
Mattress Type: Innerspring
Firmness Options: Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period: 365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Almost any sleeper, depending on firmness level.
  • Feel: Firmness levels: plush soft (3), luxury firm (6) or firm (8) model, all with cushioning comfort, moderate bounce, and solid edge support.
  • What It’s Made Of: Polyfoam top layers, supplemented by memory foam lumbar support. Features a layer of micro-coils and a tall layer of innerspring coils in the support core.
  • What We Don’t Like: Firmest model may be too hard for sleepers under 130 pounds, while the plush model may not be firm enough for people over 130 pounds. Return fee of $99.
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.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9.5/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

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.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

Motion isolation is one of the Saatva Classic’s weaker performance areas. The dual-coil design makes the surface responsive to movement, resulting in a noticeable bounce when you switch sleep positions or get in and out of bed. This can be problematic if you share your bed with a partner, as their movements can disrupt your sleep and vice versa.

Motion Isolation

Pressure Relief

8 /10
8 /10

While all of the Saatva firmness options have pressure-relieving potential, the amount of pressure relief that an individual experiences on the mattress will vary based partially on their weight and sleep position. Individuals who weigh under 130 pounds will likely experience the most pressure relief on the Plush Soft version of the mattress, while sleepers over 230 pounds will likely get the best balance of contouring and support from the Firm version.

Pressure Relief

Temperature Control

10 /10
10 /10

While hybrid mattresses tend to sleep cool, the Saatva Classic’s construction may help it sleep even cooler than many other hybrid models. While all the firmness options may help promote a cooler night’s sleep, the Plush Soft version has more conforming that could lead to slightly more heat retention.

Temperature Control

Edge Support

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

The Saatva Classic has a sturdy enough edge to allow almost all individuals to sit or sleep near the perimeter without excessive sinkage. This reinforcement is excellent even compared to most hybrid models.Because the Plush Soft version of the Saatva allows individuals to sink in more, its edges may not feel quite as secure as those of the Luxury Firm and Firm versions of the mattress.

Edge Support

Ease of Movement

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

The Saatva Classic’s comfort system consists of polyfoam and minicoils. While these materials conform to your body, they regain their shape more quickly than memory foam. This prevents sleepers from feeling “trapped” in the bed.All three designs are relatively easy for sleepers to move across and change positions on. However, most individuals will probably find the firmer versions of the mattress easier to move on, since they conform less than the Plush Soft version.

Ease of Movement

Durability

8 /10
8 /10

The Saatva Classic is stacked with features that help ensure durability. It’s constructed with both pocketed and support coils, plus polyfoam and memory foam comfort layers for additional comfort and support. Shoppers have a choice of thickness and firmness levels, and in general, going with thicker and firmer options can help add to the longevity. With its thick, 13-gauge coils in the bottom layer providing a sturdy base, this mattress should easily make it to the 10-year mark.

Full Breakdown

The Saatva Classic is a luxury hybrid constructed with comfort in mind. The plush pillow-top and pressure-relieving foam greatly alleviate pressure-induced pain in your joints. The Classic also doubles down on the benefits of coils, employing a supportive coil-on-coil construction that you won’t find in many other mattresses.

How It Performs

The mattress is available in a 11.5-inch and 14.5-inch option. For both models, you can select between a soft (3), medium firm (6), and firm (8) feel. During performance tests, the bed appealed especially to side and back sleepers on our team. The cushioning from the pillow-top coupled with the pushback from the coils was ideally suited to these sleep positions, which require contouring as well as support for healthy sleep posture. While helping with spinal alignment, the micro-coils also generated bounce to make moving around a cinch on top of the surface.

Construction Breakdown

The two coil layers in the Saatva Classic have distinct build styles. The bottom layer, which is either 4 or 7 inches thick, depending on the model you choose, utilizes Bonnell coils. With 13-gauge steel, these coils are strong and offer a reliable support core and meaningful edge support. Above those coils is a 4-inch layer of micro-coils. These are individually wrapped, letting each coil compress in a way that’s more tailored to the weight applied to the bed. The pillow-top contains polyfoam as well as a memory foam lumbar pad. A breathable organic cotton cover rounds out the overall construction.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

The Saatva comes with free installation and removal of an old mattress, as well as a 365-night sleep trial. However, if you choose to return the bed, Saatva does charge $99 for return shipping. The mattress has a lifetime warranty against defects.

Read Our Full Saatva Classic Review

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

9.2 /10 Test Lab Score

Nolah Evolution 15

A cloud-like experience with a plush euro-top in multiple firmnes options.

35% off sitewide + extra $100 off with code: SF100 Shop At Nolah Sleep
Price: $1,624
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement), $99 return pickup fee
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Most sleepers, depending on firmness level.
  • Feel: Superbly comfortable, supportive around the joints and lumbar spine. Firmness options: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8).
  • What It’s Made Of: Four separate layers of resilient polyfoam on top and zoned, pocketed innerspring coils in the base layer.
  • What We Don’t Like: Height may require a fitted sheet with deep pockets. Return fee of $99.
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.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

9/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

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.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

8 /10
8 /10

Thanks to its thick polyfoam layers, the Nolah Evolution 15 Hybrid absorbs enough movement to prevent most sleep disruptions. However, there is still some motion transfer because of the bounciness of the coils. You can expect the most motion transfer on the firm (8) model and the least on the plush (5) option. Across the board, though, our testers noticed only light motion transfer across all three firmness levels.

Motion Isolation

Pressure Relief

9 /10
9 /10

The combination of zoned coils and multiple polyfoam layers, including zoned AirFoam, enable the Nolah Evolution Hybrid to cushion pain points and provide above-average pressure relief. Choosing the right firmness option can optimize pressure relief. While individual preferences vary, a plush (5) or luxury firm (6) model works best for most side sleepers under 230 pounds, while the luxury firm (6) or firm (8) are better suited to the majority of back and stomach sleepers.

Pressure Relief

Temperature Control

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

Like many hybrids, the Nolah Evolution 15 excels at temperature regulation. Cooling fibers in the cover are engineered to draw heat away from the body, and the aerated polyfoam layers help reduce heat retention. The coil layer also promotes steady ventilation.In our testing, all three models resisted heat retention. That said, compared to the firm (8) model, the plush (5) and luxury firm (6) permit more sink and allow slightly less cooling airflow around the skin.

Temperature Control

Edge Support

9 /10
9 /10

The sturdy 8-inch coils gives the Nolah Evolution Hybrid a reliable level of edge support. While there can be some sink from the foam layers, resilient polyfoam prevents instability around the perimeter of the bed.Edge support does vary based on the firmness level. Our team noticed a reduction in edge support between the firm (8) and the luxury firm (6) and plush (5) models. Even on the softer models, though, you get solid edge support from this mattress.

Edge Support

Ease of Movement

7 /10
7 /10

The Nolah Evolution 15’s foam layers don’t sink or hug excessively, and the bounce of the coils facilitates movement on the surface. This makes this mattress a solid fit for combination sleepers or anyone who hates feeling stuck in place when lying in bed. With its softer surface, the plush (5) model restricts movement a bit more than the other two. The firm (8) model provided standout ease of movement to all of our sleepers.

Ease of Movement

Durability

8 /10
8 /10

With a stunning 15-inch profile, seven inches of which are polyfoam found in the comfort layer, the Nolah Evolution 15 is a highly durable mattress. Beneath that are 8-inch coils to give the bed more support. If longevity is your main concern, going with the firmer of the three options may extend the life a bit more. Otherwise, you can generally expect around eight or nine years of comfort.

Full Breakdown

The Nolah Evolution 15 is a luxury Euro-top hybrid with a balanced feel we found extremely effective at reducing back pain. The thick foam comfort system has an adaptive feel that closely contours to the body to alleviate pressure-prone areas, while the robust coil system helps you maintain healthy sleep posture.

How It Performs

The mattress is available in three firmness levels, each one suited to different types of sleepers. The medium (5) feel conformed closely to the body during our tests and appealed to side sleepers. The other two options, medium firm (6) and firm (8), felt more supportive and were most comfortable for back and stomach sleepers — especially those who weigh at least 130 pounds.

With pocketed coils and foam layers that are engineered to minimize heat retention, the bed should feel comfortable for hot sleepers compared to other foam hybrids we’ve tested. The coil system is also zoned to create added stability along the perimeter, so our testers felt relatively secure when they lay near the edges or got on and off the mattress.

Construction Breakdown

The foam layers that make up the comfort system have an open-cell composition that helps reduce heat retention, while the support core contains pocketed coils that circulate air throughout the interior. The entire mattress is also wrapped in proprietary ArcticTex fabric designed to offer instant cooling for those who sleep hot or sweat during the night.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Nolah offers free ground delivery throughout the contiguous U.S. The company’s sleep trial spans 120 nights and includes free return shipping. However, you may opt out of the trial period to decrease upfront costs. All purchases are backed by a lifetime warranty that covers structural defects for as long as you retain ownership.

Read Our Full Nolah Evolution 15 Review

Best Mattress for Couples

9.0 /10 Test Lab Score

Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid

A foam hybrid that cushions your body without trapping heat.

30% off select mattresses Shop At Leesa
Price: $1,698
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Side and back sleepers who sleep hot and need pressure relief from their sleep surface.
  • Feel: Available in medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (7) designs to accommodate different sleeper types.
  • What It’s Made Of: Four foam comfort layers, followed by multi-zone pocketed coils with perimeter reinforcement and dense base foam.
  • What We Don’t Like: Thick profile requires a deep-pocket fitted sheet, and initial off-gassing odor can be strong for up to 72 hours after unboxing.
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.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9/10

130-230 lbs

9.5/10

Above 230 lbs

9/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

7.5/10

Above 230 lbs

6.5/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

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.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

In our tests, the Sapira Chill Hybrid’s foam-heavy comfort system absorbed most motion with ease. Even when one tester shifted positions or got up, the other hardly noticed — especially on the medium and medium firm models. For couples, this mattress is a standout in motion isolation for a hybrid.

Pressure Relief

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

Pressure relief was a top-scoring category across the board. Our side sleepers noted significant cushioning in the hips and shoulders, and even our back sleepers experienced a nice balance of support and contouring. The plush top layers adapted closely without making us feel stuck.

Temperature Control

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

Though it contains multiple foam layers, the Sapira Chill didn’t trap as much heat as we expected. The open-cell construction and airflow from the coil core helped maintain a neutral sleep temperature for most of our testers — particularly on the firmer options where we didn’t sink in as deeply.

Edge Support

7 /10
7 /10

We were impressed with how well the Sapira Chill held up around the edges. The reinforced perimeter coils gave us a stable feel when sitting or lying near the sides of the bed, which is especially helpful for co-sleepers or anyone who likes to spread out.

Ease of Movement

8 /10
8 /10

Movement on the Sapira Chill felt smooth, especially for a hybrid with four foam layers. While the softer model had a bit of a “sink-in” feel, the underlying coil support and responsive transition foam made it easy to shift positions or get in and out of bed on all three firmness levels.

Durability

8 /10
8 /10

The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid earns high marks for durability. As a hybrid mattress that uses four distinct foam layers, two of which are high-density polyfoam, sleepers can rely on cradling support without sinkage. Add to that the pocketed coil layer with individually wrapped springs, and the mattress should provide at least eight years of comfort.

Full Breakdown

The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid stands out from traditional innersprings thanks to its cushy comfort system. Four individual layers create a plush surface that conforms to your body without sinking too much and isolating motion exceptionally well. These qualities, along with strong edge support and decent temperature control, make the mattress a great option for couples.

How It Performs

The Sapira Chill Hybrid is available in three firmness levels. During hands-on tests, we found the medium (5) model was a good fit for side and back sleepers under 130 pounds. This design provides a close contour and may buckle beneath your body if you weigh 130 pounds or more. The medium firm (6) model earned high marks from most of our side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds, as well as some of our stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. If you weigh more than 230 pounds and sleep on your back or stomach, you’ll probably need the firm (7) design to ensure adequate support.

Given the Sapira Chill Hybrid’s thick comfort layers, the mattress regulates temperature quite well. The foams have an open-cell composition, so they don’t retain too much heat, and the topmost layer is infused with cooling gel to help maintain a comfortable surface. At the same time, the foam layers prevent movement from transferring across the bed – a major bonus for couples – and cradle the body to prevent pain and pressure buildup in sensitive areas.

Construction Breakdown

The Sapira Chill Hybrid’s comfort system includes four individual layers, beginning with 2 inches of adaptive polyfoam sewn to the Euro-top cover. Memory foam and polyfoam layers add to the cushy feel, and dense transitional foam creates a barrier between your body and the support core. Pocketed coils and high-density base foam give the mattress a sturdy, robust feel. Thicker springs lie beneath your torso and hips for zoned support, and the perimeter is reinforced to ensure strong edge support.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Leesa is one of the few online mattress companies that offers free ground shipping to all 50 states. Select locations in Canada also qualify for free delivery. The Sapira Chill Hybrid’s sleep trial spans 120 nights in length, giving you plenty of time to decide whether the mattress is right for you and your partner. Should you decide to keep it, your purchase is further backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.

Read Our Full Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Review

Best Mattress for Back Pain

8.5 /10 Test Lab Score

Bear Elite Hybrid

A close-conforming memory foam hybrid offering great pressure relief.

40% sitewide with code: SF40 Shop At Bear
Price: $1,499
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: Sleepers looking for spinal support, as well as hot sleepers.
  • Feel: Firmness options: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8), all with coil support core for a sturdy, responsive feel and memory foam to gently cradles pressure points.
  • What It’s Made Of: Copper-infused memory foam on top of polyfoam with specific zones for spinal support. Support core is made of dense polyfoam and thick innerspring coils. Cover is Celliant fabric.
  • What We Don’t Like: Height requires a fitted sheet with deep pockets. Can give off “new mattress smell” for a few days after unboxing.
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.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

8.5/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

7/10

Above 230 lbs

6/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

7.5/10

130-230 lbs

6.5/10

Above 230 lbs

5.5/10

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.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

7 /10
7 /10

The Bear Elite Hybrid shows considerable ability to prevent vibrations from traveling across the surface of the mattress. Its memory foam layer only reacts where weight is directly applied, which helps keep movement from causing ripple effects that spread to the other side of the bed.However, the bounce of the coils can cause some motion transfer, especially on the firm model that has a reduced amount of contouring.

Pressure Relief

8 /10
8 /10

The Bear Elite Hybrid offers excellent pressure relief that stems from its comfort system and the zoned, pocketed coils in its support core. In our testing, it was side and back sleepers who tended to get the best pressure relief and support. That said, stomach sleepers liked the firm (8) model that maintained a flat, stable surface with just enough cushioning for the midsection.

Temperature Control

7 /10
7 /10

This mattress doesn’t feel overwhelmingly hot, but it also probably shouldn’t be the top choice for hot sleepers. The copper-infused foam makes it slightly cooler than some other memory foam mattresses, but heat can still collect in and around the foam. The risk of overheating is highest on the Luxury Plush model because it has the closest contouring around the skin, which may make it harder for heat around the body to dissipate during the night.

Edge Support

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

Reinforced edges in the support core help give this mattress a solid rating for edge support. While you’ll notice foam compression around the perimeter, it’s not so significant that you’ll feel like the mattress is giving out beneath you.Of the three different firmness options, edge support is clearly strongest in the firm (8) model and weakest in the one with a firmness level of medium (5).

Ease of Movement

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

When you need to switch your sleeping position or adjust your body’s alignment on the mattress, you generally won’t encounter much resistance. Sleepers over 230 pounds may find that there’s less ease of movement, especially on the softer models. But in most cases, the springiness from the thick layer of pocketed coils enables relatively easy movement on the surface of the Bear Elite Hybrid.

Durability

7.5 /10
7.5 /10

The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress scores above average for durability thanks to its pocketed coils, reinforced perimeter, and memory foam and polyfoam layers. The mattress comes in three firmness levels, and going firmer will typically extend the life of the mattress a bit more. Overall, you should expect around seven to eight years of use.

Full Breakdown

Couples who value both motion isolation and responsiveness for sex can have difficulty finding a mattress that meets both of these criteria. The Bear Elite Hybrid is a quintessential foam hybrid that absorbs most movement and noise, while coils create a bouncy feel that’s easy to move across.

How It Performs

The mattress comes in three firmness options — medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). Our team’s side and back sleepers under 130 pounds enjoyed the softest feel’s extra cushioning. We found the medium firm model to be the most versatile. Side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds and back sleepers up to 230 pounds awarded this model the highest ratings. Our side sleepers over 230 pounds, back sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds, and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds enjoyed the firmest model’s supportive surface.

Motion isolation, responsiveness, and ease of movement were the Elite Hybrid’s standout features, but it also earned high marks in other key categories. All three firmness levels performed well in our temperature regulation tests, thanks to the cooling cover, aerated foams, and breathable support core. However, the hot sleepers on our team noted that the two firmer models ran slightly cooler than the softer one.

Construction Breakdown

The Elite Hybrid’s comfort system begins with a top layer of copper-infused memory foam that adapts to the body to relieve pressure points. The copper infusion in this layer is engineered to conduct heat away from the body and dissipate it. Next is a polyfoam transitional layer with five zones meant to reduce sagging in the shoulders and midsection, while cradling the legs. This layer is aerated with small perforations to increase airflow.

Pocketed coils make up the support core, which created pushback for the hips and shoulders to prevent excessive sinkage during our tests. The coils rest on a polyfoam base layer to prevent shifting. The Celliant and polyester cover is infused with phase change material for enhanced cooling.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Bear ships free to the contiguous U.S. and offers a 365-night sleep trial. You can return a mattress for a full refund anytime after the 30-night break-in period. If you decide to keep the Bear Elite Hybrid, it’s backed by a generous lifetime warranty.

Read Our Full Bear Elite Hybrid Review

Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers

9.3 /10 Test Lab Score

Birch Luxe

Luxury latex hybrid with a medium firm feel.

27% off sitewide with code: SF27 Shop At Birch
Price: $2,099
Mattress Type: Latex Hybrid
Firmness Options: Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Key Details
  • Who It’s Best For: People with sustainability in mind, as well as combination.
  • Feel: Medium firm (6) with light cushioning around joints and enhanced support for the lower back. Dependable edge support and sleeps exceptionally cool.
  • What It’s Made Of: Multiple layers of organic wool on top of two separate layers of responsive organic latex. Support core is made with pocketed innerspring coils that rest on a layer of wool batting. Cover is quilted with organic cotton and organic wool.
  • What We Don’t Like: Some vibration spreads to the other side when switching positions.
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.

Side Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

8/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Back Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9.5/10

130-230 lbs

9/10

Above 230 lbs

8/10

Stomach Sleepers

Under 130 lbs

9.5/10

130-230 lbs

8.5/10

Above 230 lbs

7.5/10

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.

SELECT AN ICON TO VIEW DETAILS:

Motion Isolation

6.5 /10
6.5 /10

Any mattress with springs inevitably transfers some motion, which is why all-foam models typically outperform hybrids in this category. Latex is bouncier than foam, so the Birch Luxe Mattress isn’t as effective at curbing movement when compared to hybrids with foam comfort systems.

Pressure Relief

7 /10
7 /10

The Birch Luxe offers a moderate amount of pressure relief. The latex contours somewhat, but the mattress is firm enough to help evenly distribute body weight and encourage a straighter spine. Side sleepers and those who weigh less than 130 pounds might prefer a softer model with more cushioning. People over 130 pounds of any sleep position should experience notable contouring and adequate support.

Temperature Control

9 /10
9 /10

Hybrids are typically better at regulating temperature than all-foam mattresses, as foam tends to trap heat. The Birch Luxe regulates temperature exceptionally well. The cover and comfort system use naturally breathable materials, including cotton and wool, to help draw heat and moisture away from the body. When compared to memory foam, natural latex has an airier structure that resists heat buildup. Plus, the pocketed spring support core also offers space for air to circulate.

Edge Support

9 /10
9 /10

The Birch Luxe features a hefty coil core that’s designed to minimize sagging throughout the mattress. Heavier gauge coils along the perimeter provide extra reinforcement, delivering above-average edge support.

Ease of Movement

9 /10
9 /10

The Birch Luxe’s construction makes it easy for sleepers to move around on its surface. Latex is notable for its responsiveness, which is helpful when changing sleeping positions. The coil support system also makes getting in and out of bed easier. The medium firm (6) feel of the bed doesn’t compress significantly, preventing the feeling of being trapped in the bed.

Durability

8.5 /10
8.5 /10

Thanks to its use of natural, durable materials, the Birch Luxe should perform for at least nine to 10 years, which is considerably longer than the average bed. Unlike foam, latex resists impressions and sagging, and the wool and cotton used throughout the construction should prove sturdy, too. Coils are generally more durable than polyfoam for support and should maintain their performance over time.

Full Breakdown

The Birch Luxe is a hybrid model that pairs luxurious layers of wool and latex with a sturdy coil base. The result is a bed that gently cushions your body while maintaining ample support to ensure proper spinal alignment.

How It Performs

The mattress has a medium firm (6) feel that suited an impressive range of body types and personal preferences during testing. The moderate cushioning and responsive feel made it especially compatible for back and side sleepers over 130 pounds. Stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds also gave the bed high marks.

The plush surface helps relieve areas prone to pressure buildup, such as the shoulders and hips. Meanwhile, the responsive feel ensures against too much sinkage, making the surface easy to roll around on. The mattress is made with naturally cool materials that retain little heat and coils that enable strong ventilation, so the bed performed exceptionally well during our temperature neutrality tests.

Construction Breakdown

The Birch Luxe has a quilted cotton cover followed by plush layers of breathable wool. A latex layer produces a slightly bouncy feel that lightly cradles your body but also pushes back to keep you well-supported. A thick layer of pocketed coils stabilizes the entire bed. The coils are zoned to provide enhanced support to heavier areas of the body such as your lumbar area and lighter support to your head and feet. The perimeter is lined with reinforced coils to boost support along the edges.

Trial, Shipping, and Warranty

Birch offers free shipping throughout all 50 states, and you’ll receive a 120-night sleep trial to try out the mattress at home. The bed is also backed by a lifetime warranty.

Read Our Full Birch Luxe Review
Comparison
2 Added

Video: We Tested the Best Innerspring Mattresses of 2025 – Here Are Our Favorites

Watch the video below to get a close-up look at some of our top picks for best innerspring mattress.

What Is an Innerspring Mattress?

A traditional innerspring mattress consists primarily of a layer of interconnected steel coils with a thin layer of cushioning beneath the cover. This results in a supportive, breathable, and bouncy sleep surface that makes it easy to move around and change positions. At the same time, traditional innersprings lack significant pressure relief and tend to transfer a significant amount of motion since the coils are connected to one another.

Modern hybrid mattresses, by contrast, typically use pocketed coils that are individually wrapped in fabric. This design helps limit motion transfer while still maintaining a responsive feel. Hybrids also feature thicker comfort systems with foam or latex layers that add cushioning and contouring for greater pressure relief.

Confusingly, some manufacturers use the term innerspring to refer to any mattress that contains steel coils. However, we’ve found that many of the best innerspring mattresses are innerspring in name only and have designs closer to the best hybrid mattresses, with pocketed coil support cores and comfort layers made from premium materials like memory foam, polyfoam, and natural latex.

“I sleep on a bed that’s got not one but two coil layers. I really appreciate the bounce and the airflow those layers provide. I’m a hot sleeper, and anything that can help with that is welcome.”
Lauren Fountain
Lauren Fountain
Senior Product Editor

Who Should Buy an Innerspring Mattress?

Innerspring mattresses are a good fit for anyone who enjoys a mattress with a more “traditional” feel. While many innerspring mattresses have robust cushioning in their top layers, they don’t provide the same hug that an all-foam mattress does.

Innersprings Are Best For:

Shoppers Who Appreciate a Supportive Feel

  • Because of their coils, innerspring mattresses offer a good deal of push back and a solid, supportive feel. 
  • Choose an innerspring if you like the sensation of sleeping “on” your mattress rather than “in” it. If you need more cushioning, a hybrid might be a better fit.

Those Who Sleep Hot

  • Because your body won’t sink deeply into an innerspring mattress, you won’t experience as much heat buildup as you sleep, as is common with memory foam.
  • Coil systems are also great at promoting airflow, so innerspring mattresses are a good fit for hot sleepers.

Sleepers With Mobility Challenges

  • Innersprings tend to have responsive surfaces, meaning it’s easier to move around on them.
  • Anyone who has trouble getting in or out of bed will also appreciate an innerspring’s strong edge support.
“People with mobility limitations or sleepers who change positions throughout the night tend to appreciate the ease of moving on an innerspring mattress.

Bed partners should be aware that motion from one person during sleep may wake up the other. On the other hand, couples often appreciate the responsiveness of innerspring mattresses as well-suited for intimate activities.”
Audrey Wells, MD
Audrey Wells, MD
Sleep Medicine Physician, CPAP Expert, MD

Innersprings Are Less Than Ideal For:

Sleepers Who Enjoy Deep Contouring

  • If you need deep pressure relief, you might opt for a foam mattress rather than an innerspring.
  • If you do like the solid feel of innerspring mattresses but want more cushioning, look for a model that’s on the softer side.

Some Couples

  • Innersprings don’t isolate motion as well as other mattress types, so some couples might feel their partner’s movements.

What to Look For in an Innerspring Mattress

As with any new mattress, there are a few important factors to take into account when choosing an innerspring.

Quality and Durability

Traditional innersprings are less durable than other mattress types, with an average lifespan of about six years. The coils in an innerspring mattress can wear down over time and lose their ability to spring back to their full, original height. When this happens, the mattress begins to sag and falter in supporting your body. Hybrid mattresses — innersprings with thicker comfort layers and pocketed coils — tend to last longer and have an average lifespan of six to eight years.

“In the absence of sleep symptoms related to a medical disorder, consider that your mattress may be beyond its useful lifetime. This can affect your sleep quality or cause you to wake up with muscle stiffness or joint pain. Visible sagging or indentations, noisy springs, or a mattress that is in the 6-8 year age range are all signs that an innerspring bed is due for replacement.”
Audrey Wells, MD
Audrey Wells, MD
Sleep Medicine Physician, CPAP Expert, MD

Temperature Control

For many innersprings, cooling is a major strength, with air circulating throughout the coil system to help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature. Since traditional innersprings have thin comfort layers or just a thin layer of padding beneath the cover, there isn’t much heat retention on the surface. As a result, hot sleepers often find innersprings to be the most comfortable mattress type.

“Overheating and even sweating during sleep is linked to poor sleep quality and nighttime awakenings. This can negatively impact your metabolism, hormone regulation, and even your weight. Maintaining a cooler, comfortable sleep environment supports sleep stability and efficient transitioning through important sleep stages.”
Audrey Wells, MD
Audrey Wells, MD
Sleep Medicine Physician, CPAP Expert, MD

Coil Gauge and Count

Gauge refers to the coil’s thickness. Most innerspring coils fall between a gauge of 12.5 (thickest) to 17 (thinnest). The lower the gauge, the more robust and supportive the mattress will feel.

Most traditional innersprings contain between 400 and 1,200 individual coils in a queen size. Mattress brands often advertise the coil count of their innersprings, but we’ve found that the total number of coils does not play a significant role in how supportive a mattress feels, or how well it performs during tests.

Types of Coils

Although various coil designs are available, most traditional innersprings and hybrids sold today contain one or more of the following four mattress coil types. Here’s a quick breakdown of each:

Coil TypeDescription
Bonnell CoilsBonnell coils are molded into an hourglass shape and joined together with wires. This creates a strong support system that withstands compression well, but innersprings with Bonnell coils tend to feel very bouncy and may be disruptive for couples.
Continuous CoilsContinuous coils consist of thin wires running parallel to one another that are joined together on both sides by helical wires. Innersprings with this coil type tend to be quite durable and supportive, but contouring and pressure relief is limited. They’re also typically bouncier and creakier than offset coils.
Offset CoilsLike Bonnell coils, offset coils resemble an hourglass, but the top and bottom are flattened into a square shape to create a hinged effect when the mattress bears weight, making them both quieter and more responsive when pressure is applied. Offset coils are generally more expensive than Bonnell or continuous coils but cheaper than pocketed coils.
Pocketed CoilsPocketed coils are encased in fabric and are designed to move independently from one another, resulting in strong support without much motion transfer. Most hybrids contain pocketed coils, but they are also found in some luxury innerspring models.

Cushioning and Pressure Relief

Traditional innersprings contain thin cushioning layers and tend to be fairly firm, so contouring and pressure relief are not their strong suits. Hybrids with thicker comfort layers are a better option for people with pressure points who want more cushioning and a closer hug from their mattress.

“I generally recommend more cushioning for people who prefer side sleeping. This helps to relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips, and can keep the neck and spine in better alignment. Those who have pain worsening with pressure or staying in one position will appreciate the balance hybrid mattress can provide.”
Audrey Wells, MD
Audrey Wells, MD
Sleep Medicine Physician, CPAP Expert, MD

Edge Support and Motion Isolation

Many innersprings excel at edge support because their thick, sturdy coils push back against your weight when you get in and out of bed. Those with low-gauge perimeter coils feel especially robust along the edges.

Innerspring coils tend to make the mattress feel quite bouncy, and their thin comfort layers don’t absorb movement well. As a result, motion isolation for most traditional innersprings is fair at best.

How We Test: Your Comfort Is Our Science

Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Having a holistic understanding of a mattress’s role as part of a sleep system is paramount to our testing process. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on body weight and sleeping position, our testing team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.

In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses across performance categories. The following are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best purchase decision for you.

Construction analysis: We begin testing each mattress by analyzing its design and making note firmness, height, individual layer composition, and sticker price. This allows us to evaluate qualities like support, durability, and value.

Product testing: Firsthand testing is crucial to our evaluation and ratings system. We use a wide range of tools and technology to test mattresses in six performance categories: motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature control, ease of movement, edge support, and odor potential.

Field testing: In addition to lab-based tests, we base our ratings on feedback from field testers who use the mattresses in their own homes. They spend several weeks collecting data — this gives us insights into how the mattress performs night after night for an extended period.

User testing: We curate feedback verified owners have provided in surveys, sleep stories, and product reviews. This helps us evaluate our initial findings and, if needed, tweak our ratings to reflect real-world experiences.

How We Determine Our Overall Scores

To determine a mattress’s overall score, we assign weighted percentages to performance categories based on how important they are to the individual sleep experience. For instance, areas like pressure relief and temperature control tend to matter more to people than something like off-gassing, and because more people sleep on their side and back than on their stomach, we weigh those positions more heavily.

Performance Categories

Motion Isolation

This criteria alludes to the amount of motion a mattress absorbs when a sleeper moves on the surface. We use two testers lying side by side to evaluate motion isolation, who each feel for transfer while the other person moves on the mattress.

Temperature Control

To determine how well a mattress regulates temperature, we perform temperature tests and look closely at its materials and construction. Many mattresses are designed with cooling components meant to reduce heat retention.

Pressure Relief

A bed with strong pressure relief excels at preventing pressure from building up in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beds with even contouring and weight distribution are top performers when it comes to pressure relief.

Off-Gassing

A mattress in a box may release unpleasant chemical odors for a short period after you’ve unboxed it. The initial smell may be strong but typically fades within 2 or 3 days.

Ease of Movement

This criteria reflects how easily a sleeper can move across a bed’s surface. Responsive surfaces made of latex typically perform better than foam surfaces, which can inhibit movement.

Edge Support

We perform sit tests along a bed’s perimeter to measure how well the edges push back against weight. Mattresses with strong edge support have minimal sagging when sleepers sit on or lie close to the perimeter.

Dive Deeper – Mattress Guides

Still having a hard time deciding on a mattress model? Check out some of our other mattress picks selected by our team of product testers and sleep experts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an innerspring mattress cost?

The average traditional innerspring costs between $500 and $1,200 in a queen size. Hybrids cost a bit more, with the average queen model priced between $1,000 and $3,000. Buying online tends to be cheaper than purchasing a mattress at a brick-and-mortar store.

Do you need to use a box spring with an innerspring mattress?

Historically, innerspring mattresses were designed to be paired with a box spring, which consists of a fabric-wrapped wooden frame filled with springs. Today, many mattresses containing innersprings can be used with any supportive bed frame or foundation. Always check the mattress warranty, as some models stipulate that only certain types of bases are acceptable.

How long does an innerspring mattress last?

Most traditional innersprings begin to sag after five or six years of continuous use, making them the least durable mattress type on average. Hybrids tend to last longer because of the extra cushioning layers between your body and the support core. Latex hybrids are especially long-lasting and can perform for eight years or longer if properly maintained.

What sleeping position is best for an innerspring mattress?

Since traditional innersprings don’t contain much cushioning material, they may not feel soft and adaptive enough for side sleepers. If you sleep on your side and own an innerspring, a mattress topper may provide the extra cushioning you need. Back and stomach sleepers typically don’t need as much padding and may find innersprings more comfortable as a result.

Are innerspring mattresses good for back pain?

Most innersprings are supportive enough to keep your body on an even plane, so pressure along the spine due to sinking into the mattress is less likely. However, most traditional innerspring comfort layers consist of thin padding material that may not provide enough cushioning and contouring for people with aches and pains in their shoulders, lower back, or hips.

“If pain in your lower back bothers you during the night or in the morning, your mattress could be to blame. Consider replacing it with a hybrid model or a mattress with zoned support so weight and pressure can be distributed more evenly.” – Dr. Audrey Wells, MD

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