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Brooklyn Bedding is one of the biggest names in the direct-to-consumer mattress industry. The company started selling mattresses in 1995 and has since grown to include pillows, sheets, blankets, foundations, and more in its product line.
It produces several popular mattress models, including the Aurora Hybrid, the Signature Hybrid, the Bowery, the Bowery Hybrid, the Spartan Hybrid, and the Bloom Hybrid. It also produces a number of models that have separate websites and are not sold through the main Brooklyn Bedding page. These include the Rubix, the Titan, the Wanderlust, the Dreamfoam Arctic Dreams, the EcoSleep Hybrid, the Freya, the Plank, and the Propel.
The Propel Mattress is one of Brooklyn Bedding’s most affordable models. It uses a hybrid design that pairs several layers of foam with a coil core. This medium-firm model rates around 6 on the 10-point firmness scale.
We will examine the Propel Mattress in-depth in this review. First, we’ll detail its construction and performance, and then give you an idea of who may find the mattress most comfortable. Finally, we’ll summarize customer reviews and company policies.
The Propel Mattress comes in one firmness, which comes in at 6 on the 10-point firmness scale. This medium-firm feel falls into the range that most sleepers tend to prefer.
A cover of proprietary Upcycle fabric encases the mattress. This material is engineered to convert the sleeper’s heat into far infrared rays and reflect them back towards the body, which is thought to stimulate blood flow and promote quality sleep.
The comfort system consists of two distinct layers: a 1.5-inch layer of proprietary CopperFlex polyfoam and a 2-inch layer of Energex polyfoam. Both materials aim to combine the contouring and pressure relief of memory foam with the responsiveness of latex. The CopperFlex layer also has infusions of copper and a phase change molecule. Copper is antimicrobial, and its high conductivity helps pull excess heat away from the sleeper’s body. The phase change molecule is designed to keep the sleeper’s skin temperature at 88 degrees.
A 1-inch transition layer of memory foam gives deep compression support, while a gel infusion helps enhance the mattress’s cooling. The mattress core is made up of 6 inches of coils, which give the bed bounce while allowing ample air circulation. Each coil is individually encased for extra motion isolation. Finally, a 1-inch layer of polyfoam serves as a base for the coils.
The Propel Mattress is constructed of five layers. Both comfort layers are polyfoam. The transition layer uses memory foam. Pocketed coils and a final layer of polyfoam combine to form the support core.
Upcycle Fabric (Infrared)
1.5″ Polyfoam (Copper-Infused, with PCM)
2″ Latex-Like Polyfoam (Energex)
1″ Memory Foam (Gel-Infused)
6″ Pocketed Coils
1″ Polyfoam
The Propel Mattress is an exceptional value for a hybrid model, coming in at a lower price point than average. It is also more budget-friendly than most of Brooklyn Bedding’s other models. Frequent promotions offer additional savings off the list price. The Propel Mattress comes in the six standard mattress sizes. Custom sizes are also available, but they may incur shipping charges.
| Sizes | Dimensions | Height | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | 39" x 75" | 11.5" | 50 lbs. | $499 |
| Twin XL | 39" x 80" | 11.5" | 52 lbs. | $749 |
| Full | 54" x 75" | 11.5" | 70 lbs. | $799 |
| Queen | 60" x 80" | 11.5" | 80 lbs. | $999 |
| King | 76" x 80" | 11.5" | 90 lbs. | $1249 |
| California King | 72" x 84" | 11.5" | 90 lbs. | $1249 |
The three layers of foam that top the Propel Mattress absorb much of the motion associated with changing positions during the night. Two layers of polyfoam in the comfort system balance motion isolation and responsiveness, while the memory foam transition layer dampens motion more significantly. Bounce from the coil core could contribute to some motion transfer, but the coils are pocketed to limit the spread of vibrations.
This motion isolation is on par with many hybrid models. Most sleepers are unlikely to notice when their partner moves during the night. However, people who wake up more easily or who share the bed with partners who toss and turn more aggressively could experience slight motion transfer.
The Propel Mattress’s two polyfoam comfort layers and memory foam transition layer adjust to the shape of the sleeper’s body to provide a pressure-relieving cradling. These layers redistribute the sleeper’s weight so it is more evenly spread across the surface of the mattress. For most individuals, this will result in less pressure buildup around the shoulders and hips.
Because of its medium-firm feel and conforming foam layers, the Propel Mattress may relieve more pressure than some hybrid models, especially those with firmer feels or thinner comfort systems.
Like many hybrid models, the Propel Mattress excels in terms of temperature regulation. Air circulates well through the coil core, so heat can dissipate away from the mattress. The top layer of the mattress is also infused with copper and a phase change molecule to keep the sleep surface cooler. The copper transfers heat away from the sleeper’s body, while the phase change molecule is engineered to help the sleeper maintain a skin temperature of 88 degrees. This material also has an open-cell structure that allows enough airflow to wick away excess heat and moisture. Additionally, a gel infusion in the memory foam transition layer adds to the mattress’s cooling.
The Propel Mattress’s edge support comes from its coil core, which uses sturdy springs that move independently of each other. When sitting or sleeping near the perimeter of the mattress, the foam top layers will compress and the bulk of the support will come from the springs. Most individuals are likely to feel secure enough to sit or sleep close to the edge of the Propel Mattress, but those who weigh more could experience some sinkage when they near the perimeter. This is similar to many hybrid models on the market.
Because of its ease of movement, most sleepers should be able to change positions or move across the surface of the Propel Mattress without any trouble. Many other hybrid models perform similarly in this area.
The Propel’s comfort system uses two layers of polyfoam. Both of these layers are engineered to have latex-like responsiveness. While they adjust to the sleeper’s body, they regain their shape quickly when the sleeper moves to prevent the “trapped in the bed” feeling sometimes associated with foam. The springiness of the coil core further adds to the ease of movement.
Hybrid mattresses usually combine bounce and contouring, which many couples find conducive to sex. The Propel Mattress also balances these two features. Its coil core gives it a springy, responsive feel. The foam comfort layers shape to the body, providing traction without limiting motion.
Like most new mattresses, the Propel may emit a slight smell. Manufacturing odors could linger in the foam. Since the Propel ships compressed, these odors may not finish airing out until the mattress decompresses in your home. While these smells are generally considered harmless for most people, some choose to leave their new mattress in a separate room to air out. Most smells should dissipate within a day or two. Because of its breathable build, we would expect the Propel Mattress to air out fairly quickly.
Side Sleepers:
The Propel Mattress’s two polyfoam comfort layers let a side sleeper’s hips and shoulders sink in while redistributing their body weight to reduce pressure buildup in these key areas. Its memory foam transition layer gives deep compression support and reduces the likelihood that a side sleeper’s curves will press against the firmer mattress core.
Side sleepers from all weight groups should enjoy a good combination of cradling and support. This balance will likely be best for those who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds. The Propel’s medium-firm feel may be slightly firmer than ideal for side sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds. While these individuals should get plenty of support, they might not sink in enough to enjoy as much pressure relief as heavier individuals. Side sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds could sink in a little too deeply, which may make it harder to maintain optimal spinal alignment.
Back Sleepers:
Regardless of their weight, the Propel Mattress should be supportive enough for most back sleepers. The polyfoam comfort layers have enough give to let the hips sink in for added comfort, while the memory foam transition layer and coil core limit excessive sinkage.
Back sleepers who weigh under 130 pounds exert less force on the mattress, but they should still sink in enough for some cushioning. Those who weigh over 130 pounds will sink in a little more deeply. However, the memory foam transition layer and coil core should be supportive enough to limit sagging and promote good spinal alignment.
Stomach Sleepers:
Extra weight around a stomach sleeper’s hips and belly can drag their midsection too deeply into the mattress and put a strain on their spine. Since many individuals carry much of their weight near their middle, this is a common issue.
The Propel’s two-layer comfort system gives cushioning, which many stomach sleepers will enjoy. While the memory foam transition layer and the coil core give support, the mattress’s medium-firm feel may allow more midsection sagging than ideal for some heavier stomach sleepers. The hips of individuals who weigh more than 130 pounds may dip into the mattress and make it difficult to maintain proper spinal alignment. However, stomach sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds should get the support they need to keep their spines well aligned.
| Under 130 lbs. | 130-230 lbs. | Above 230 lbs. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side Sleepers | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Back Sleepers | Good | Good | Good |
| Stomach Sleepers | Good | Good | Fair |
Brooklyn Bedding ships within the United States and Canada. The Propel Mattress is available through the Propel website and Amazon.
The Propel Mattress ships for free within the contiguous United States. Shipping to Alaska and Hawaii starts at $125 per mattress, and shipping to Canada starts at $250 per mattress.
In the contiguous United States, the Propel Mattress ships via FedEx. The buyer receives a tracking number when their mattress ships. Most orders are processed in 1 to 4 business days and arrive in 3 to 5 business days.
Each mattress is tightly compressed in plastic and shipped in a box. The mattress owner is responsible for moving it into their room and setting it up. While most decompression occurs within a few minutes of removing the plastic cover, some decompression could continue for the first 24 hours. Brooklyn Bedding recommends unboxing your new mattress within three weeks to ensure it expands properly.
Brooklyn Bedding does not currently offer White Glove delivery for the Propel Mattress.
When ordered through Brooklyn Bedding, the Propel Mattress comes with a 120-night trial period. Customers must try the mattress for at least 30 days before initiating a return. If the customer chooses to return their mattress, they can receive a full refund of the purchase price. Generally, returned mattresses are donated and a local charity picks it up. Trials are limited to one per customer per calendar year.
If your mattress feels too firm after the first 30 days, you can also request a free mattress topper to soften the surface.
The Propel Mattress has a 10-year warranty when purchased through Brooklyn Bedding. This warranty covers impressions of 1 inch or more and defects or deterioration of the foam. Brooklyn Bedding will elect to either repair or replace defective mattresses.
This warranty applies to the original owner of the mattress. To be eligible, mattresses must have been used on a proper foundation and must not have remained compressed for 60 days or more. The warranty does not apply to mattresses that have been burned, stained, abused, or otherwise damaged.
Additional terms and conditions apply.
