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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers in 2026
Expert Tested and Sleeper Approved
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 top 10. Below are our top 10 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.
Read on to see our full list of best mattresses for side sleepers of 2026 based on performance ratings from our in-house testing team, in-depth product inspections, and verified reviews from real mattress owners.
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 Hybrid Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
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Best Value Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
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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 Cooling Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
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Best Mattress for Side Sleeper Couples
:Layla Hybrid
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Best Plush Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Endy Mattress
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Best Latex Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid
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Best Mattress Deals Happening Now
- Save $652 — Helix Midnight Luxe
$1,847(List Price $2,499) - Save $771 — WinkBed
$1,799(List Price $2,570) - Save $748 — Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
$1,719(List Price $2,467) - Save $150 — Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
$449(List Price $599) - Save $325 — Saatva Classic
$1,854(List Price $2,179) - Save $849 — Bear Elite Hybrid
$1,578(List Price $2,427) - 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
Full Bio

Jeremy Klein
Senior Product Testing Manager
Full Bio

Brad Nehring
Senior Product Analyst
Full Bio

Colin Simpson
Product Research Manager
Full Bio
Best Overall Mattress for Side Sleepers: Helix Midnight Luxe
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



What People Are Saying
Pulled the trigger on the Helix Midnight Luxe, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2025
Sleeper profile: Co-sleepers
- “Since we’ve slept on Helix, we’ve both had some of the best nights [of] sleep we’ve had in years!”
- “I’ve reviewed a few versions of the Helix Midnight Luxe over the years, and it’s always been one of my favorites. When friends sleep in different positions and want something comfy that will work for side, back, and stomach sleeping, it’s one that I usually recommend.”
Helix Midnight Luxe current experience (will update), posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2025
Sleeper profile: 110 lbs., combination sleeper
- “Laid on it for a few minutes right after it came out of the box just to test it out and compare it to my previous mattress (which was an expensive Tempurpedic that was a few years old). It felt much more supportive.”
- “Day 3: The mattress is firmer than I would like but still a major improvement over my old mattress.”
- “Day 30: The mattress has gotten softer over the last month but it’s not quite soft enough for me.”
- “Day 40: Reached out to them to process the exhange.”
- “Day 75: The exchange process was super smooth.”
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.
Most Comfortable Mattress for Side Sleepers: WinkBed
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


What People Are Saying
Winkbeds: A review (will be continuously updated), posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2023
Sleeper profile: 165 lb. combination sleeper who prefers side sleeping, sleeps solo with dog
- “It felt fairly firm out of the box, but I expected that. I didn’t have trouble sleeping, and didn’t wake up to any pain.”
- “It feels a bit softer, so it’s either softening up a bit or I’m just starting to get used to it. Not waking up to any pain.”
- “So if you do opt for the Luxury Firm, it will be firmer than you might like when you get it. But it will start to break in.”
- “I can definitely tell it’s going to be a bit harder than my old plush mattress, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing for me as a combo sleeper.”
- “Overall it feels like a solid, high quality mattress.”
WinkBed 2025 review, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2025
- “I will say, the firmness changed a lot over the first two weeks, so if it’s too firm right away, give it a little time.”
- “At my weight (215), I found that it sank under my heaviest parts (butt, lower back). The bed was perfect for a week while the foam softened, and the the initial cloudy feel was wonderful. But within 2-3 weeks, it softened too much, the pillowtop compressed, and the whole top layer felt mushy. Maybe pillowtops just aren’t for me, or maybe this would be the perfect mattress for someone who weighs 150-180 lbs.”
- “The return process was smooth, and my interactions with Winkbed were quick and polite.”
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.
Best Hybrid Mattress for Side Sleepers: Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
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
What People Are Saying
Satisfied with Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2025
Sleeper profile: 6’4″, 230 lbs. side sleeper; sleeps with partner 5’8″, 140 lbs.
- “It’s extremely comfortable and supportive.”
- “I really like it for side sleeping.”
- “I don’t think it’s that cooling but I think the temperature is comfortable.”
- “The Leesa feels like a hotel mattress.”
- “My wife likes it too.”
I made a quick buying decision and did not regret, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2025
- “…the cooling is wonderful, I never feel like I need to move out of the spot that I slept in all night.”
- “The firmness is perfect for me. My body doesn’t ache from laying in it for hours. It is so much better than my old mattress was on my spine.”
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.
Best Value Mattress for Side Sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
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
What People Are Saying
Thoughts on Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex?, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2025
Sleeper profile: co-sleepers
- “Their customer service is 10/10. We got the signature Hybrid (firm), which is honestly amazing, but when we felt like we wanted it to be a little softer, we just sent them an email explaining that and they sent us a free mattress topper. Was at the house in less than a week, and now our mattress is PERFECT. I have never had a better mattress, or a better mattress buying experience.”
Sleeper profile: 150 lb. side sleeper; co-sleepers
- “I’m at about 5 weeks into sleeping on mine and I’ve noticed serious back and neck pain issues flaring up since I got the new mattress.”
Pulled the trigger on Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Memory Foam, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2025
- “It’s a very good bed, but I will say it is extremely on the firm side so just be prepared for the break-in.”
- “Also there was some stitching issue on the side.”
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.
Best Luxury Mattress for Side Sleepers: Saatva Classic
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
What People Are Saying
Saatva Classic Review, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2024
Sleeper profile: co-sleepers
- “Delivery was a breeze, they had good communication and dropped the mattress right where it needed to be.”
- “First few nights I woke up with my back being pretty sore, primarily a side and back sleeper, but my partner had no issues. After a week in my soreness went away and so far I am really liking the mattress, although it did take some getting use to coming from a lower mattress height.”
- “So far so good and have been impressed with customer support thus far. Hoping it holds up and doesn’t sag but only time will tell!”
I bought a Saatva Classic Luxury Firm. I love it., posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2025
Sleeper profile: Sleeps in multiple positions; sleeps with a partner
- “Feels relatively soft, yet extremely supportive.”
- “Feels comfortable in any sleep position.”
- “Sleeps cool. Loving the pillow top.”
- “My old mattress, a purple hybrid, tore my back up. My back pain has dissipated.”
- “Also, the motion isolation is the weakest attribute of this mattress.”
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.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers With Back Pain: Bear Elite Hybrid
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
What People Are Saying
Bear Elite Hybrid review after 2 weeks, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2025
Sleeper profile: Couple (no weights/positions specified)
- “It was slightly firm right when we unboxed it (though that could just be that we were coming from an old mattress without much support at all).”
- “But it has already broken in a bit, and we expect it will some more. But it’s very comfortable!”
- “I’m genuinely sleeping better after the switch.”
- “It’s not slow moving like an all-foam or Tempur[-Pedic], but when you stay in one position, you can feel the foam coddle you just right.”
- “Comfortable mattress and recommend.”
Bear Elite Hybrid, will update opinion, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2025
Sleeper profile: Sleeps with spouse (no weights/positions specified)
- “So far, night one was magical. The medium was softer than I anticipated, but in a really nice way.”
- “I really love it so far! The medium is softer than I thought it would be, but I’ve grown to like it.”
- “For a bit, I still thought the medium was too soft. I feel like now, it’s perfect and I’m sleeping hard.”
- “I will say, if you’re a light sleeper and share the bed with someone, the motion isolation isn’t the best.”
- “I am now obsessed with the bed. In fact, some friends of ours just also got it and love it!”
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.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers With Hip Pain: Nolah Evolution 15
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



What People Are Saying
A Long Overdue Review of The Nolah Evolution 15″ Mattress, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2024
Sleeper profile: 6′ tall, 350 lb., predominantly side sleeper with chronic health issues including fibromyalgia and shoulder/hip pressure
- “At my size I find it very plush, but still supportive.”
- “I can just barely feel the coils when I wake up in the morning after sleeping on my side.”
- “The top layers of the mattress do a good job of ‘cradling’ me in one position for most of the night.”
- “I don’t think this would be an issue for lighter people, but the mattress may prove ‘too soft’ for someone under 200lbs.”
- “I can say the mattress sleeps cool for me, certainly much cooler than the foam toppers I was using on my old mattress.”
Nolah Evolution 15 Actual Non-Shill Review, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2023
Sleeper profile: 6′4″, 240 lb., side and back sleeper; sleeps with smaller partner
- “The initial quality of the Nolah is fantastic. The feel, the materials, the cover, even the pillows, are all very nice.”
- “The Nolah feels very much like a medium Stearns and Foster Lux Estate traditional mattress.”
- “Sleeping so far is great, I’ll update this as I get more time with it.”
- “Delivery: Got it within 5 days and that includes a weekend.”
- “Customer service pre-sale was excellent. One of the reasons I went with them.”
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.
Best Cooling Mattress for Side Sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
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
What People Are Saying
After way too much research, we purchased and have just unboxed Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Hybrid in king size., posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2021
Sleeper profile: 5’9″, 220 lb. side sleeper; sleeps with partner 5’3″, 130 lb. side‑to‑stomach sleeper
- “The mattress is still holding up pretty solid. My above response in the comments from a year ago is still pretty true.”
- “it is a very heavy mattress and not easily moved.”
- “GET NEW PILLOWS. Not from them necessarily, but if you use your old pillows with this mattress, you’re probably going to have a hard time adjusting.”
- “The mattress itself is a champ. Good in between for my wife and myself.”
- “Sorry for the late reply don’t check notifications often. But yes. Mattress still in awesome shape. No holes or sags.”
BrooklynBedding Aurora Hybrid Medium Review with Questions…, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2021
Sleeper profile: 5’8″, 170 lb. warm side/back sleeper with high movement
- “The mattress does give solid support with a cushion feel that conforms to your shoulders/hips.”
- “However, if you sleep in one place, then the mattress squishes down and that spot looses the cushion feel.”
- “Not a cold sleep, or maybe too cold by requiring more blankets and layers when awake, so I ended up sweating.”
- “Not awful, not great. I did not get a headache like I do with most chemical scents.”
- “Good bounce, medium‑poor edge support.”
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.
Best Organic Mattress for Side Sleepers: Birch Mattress
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
What People Are Saying
My Green vs Avocado vs Birch mattresses?, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2023
Sleeper profile: co-sleepers; one side sleeper with chronic neck and back pain and their husband is a warm stomach sleeper. Both move around a lot throughout the night.
- “The birch has been great for me. It does have a bounce, you can feel if someone else moves.”
- “You won’t feel like you are “sinking “ into the birch mattress.”
- “Temperature retention is just right-doesn’t sleep hot at all.”
- “Also the sleep trial period is more than adequate-the caveat being you must try it for 30 days before returning- they want you to get through the adjustment phase of changing a mattress.”
I Hate This., posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2024
Sleeper profile: co-sleepers; one side sleeper is 6’3” and 250 lbs., their wife is a side/stomach sleeper who is 5’5” and half their weight
- “I LOVE it!! It’s shockingly comfortable. It’s flexible and works well with an adjustable bed base.”
- “I’m a stomach and side sleeper. I don’t mind a totally firm mattress – but this mattress feels medium-firm, IMO.”
- “The Birch Natural mattress feels like I’m buoyantly floating on a perfectly-customized cushion of support. It’s easy to flip around into different positions.”
- “It’s comfortable when sleeping on my tummy, when sleeping on my side, or while sitting up to read in bed.”
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.
Best Mattress for Side Sleeper Couples: Layla Hybrid
Best Mattress for Couples
8.5/10Test 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
What People Are Saying
Bought a Layla Hybrid Mattress – here are my thoughts, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2024
Sleeper profile: co-sleepers; one is a side/back sleeper and their partner is a stomach sleeper
- “The mattress I have has two firmness levels (Soft & Firm). I’m a side/back sleeper and my SO is a stomach sleeper. After a few months, we are not really loving it.”
- “Our main complaint is the EDGE. It feels like it made of butter–everyday when I get up, I almost fall out. When I shift my weight over to my side to sit up and basically fall out as my weight transfers to the edge.”
My Layla Hybrid arrived! Join me on a year long journey of discovery & napping, posted on Reddit (r/mattress) in 2022
Sleeper profile: 5’9″, 170 lb., mostly stomach/side sleeper
- Night 1: “soft side you definitely sink a bit… Definitely comfortable but back did flair up depending on my position.”
- Night 2: “Switched to firm, no regrets… Super comfortable regardless, firmness at around a 7/10 I’d say.”
- Week 1: “Mattress is pretty broken in at this point, and still haven’t had any issues since switching to the firm side. Very comfortable…”
- Month 1: “So far, so good! Still super comfy, I’m definitely not regretting the purchase.”
- Month 3: “Great! I’m happy to say that … its still super comfy, still no sink‑in.”
- Year 1: “Still very comfortable, still a good temperature, and still no slumping.”
- Year 3: “It’s still great! I haven’t had any issues to date.”
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.
Best Plush Mattress for Side Sleepers: Endy Mattress
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
What People Are Saying
To help you make the best shopping decision, we scoured the web to see what other sleepers with similar needs and preferences said about their experience with this mattress. Below are some relevant posts with a few quotes summarizing their experience.
Endy Mattress, posted on Reddit (r/BuyCanadian) in 2025.
Question: “Has anyone ever ordered a mattress from Endy? Just wondering about the quality, since buying a mattress is dicey at the best of times. It’s a Canadian company so I’d like to support it if possible. Any problems with delivery/returns/etc? Would appreciate any input.”
Responses:
- “We’ve had our Endy for about 5 years now and love it! Had no issues with delivery and no trouble with it since purchasing. It was more firm than our previous mattress and took a little getting used to but was a needed change tbh. I’d buy one again.”
- “Have a king endy for 6 years. Same firmness as day 1. Best mattress we’ve had.”
- “Bought a queen Endy mattress back in early 2022 for about $850. Still have it, no complaints, but I’m a solo sleeper. 6ft male 300lbs.”
- “I ordered one back in 2019, and it is easily the most comfortable mattress I’ve owned.. I do recommend finding a place that has testers in stock so you can check out the different firmness.”
Endy Mattress Review, posted on Reddit (r/Mattress) in 2021.
Sleeper profile: 145 lbs., combination sleeper
- “The Endy is definitely more ‘bouncy’ and you don’t sink into the mattress top too much. Though I will say, it is cool and doesn’t heat up.”
- “My first few nights I woke up with pretty severe back pain. I do get lower/mid back pain quite easily, and I found myself so uncomfortable during the night I would wake up from the pain.”
- “Sadly, after a week of sleeping with the Endy on the floor, my back pain has not improved. The mattress is too soft in the middle, and my back is out of alignment when sleeping on my stomach. I feel like if I was a back and side sleeper this would be a perfect mattress though.”
“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.
Best Latex Mattress for Side Sleepers: Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid
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
What People Are Saying
To help you make the best shopping decision, we scoured the web to see what other sleepers with similar needs and preferences said about their experience with this mattress. Below are some relevant posts with a few quotes summarizing their experience.
Review: Awara Mattress (Natural Hybrid), posted on Reddit (r/awaramattress) in 2025.
Sleeper profile: Primary back sleeper / occasional side sleeper, 180lbs, sleeps with a partner
What they said:
- “First impression: it’s definitely firmer than most hybrids I tried in showrooms. The latex has more of a buoyant, springy feel compared to memory foam you don’t sink in as much, but it still has some give.”
- “The first week, I thought it was too firm. I was waking up a little stiff in the shoulders when I slept on my side. After about 2–3 weeks, it started to feel more comfortable, and I actually appreciated the support for my lower back.”
- “One thing I noticed: if you’re looking for a plush, sink-in feel, this probably isn’t it. But if you like supportive, slightly firmer mattresses with some bounce, it’s great. My partner (lighter side sleeper) thought it was a bit firm, but got used to it.”
- “Shipping was smooth and setup was easy…The company itself was easy to deal with good communication, and I didn’t have any issues.”
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.
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 | $2,570 | Most comfortable |
| Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | 9 | Medium (5), medium firm (6), firm (8) | Hybrid | $1,698 | Best Hybrid |
| Brooklyn Bedding Copperflex | 8.6 | Medium firm (6) | Foam | $466 | Best Value |
| Saatva Classic | 9.5 | Medium (5), medium firm (6), firm (8) | Hybrid | $1,795 | Best Luxury |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 8.5 | Medium (5), medium firm (6), firm (8) | Hybrid | $1,499 | 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 | $1,399 | 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 | $1,499 | Best for Couples |
| Endy Mattress | 8.9 | Medium soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7) | Foam | $695 | Best Plush |
| Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid | 8.9 | Firm (7) | Latex hybrid | $699 | 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 |
There are always exceptions, however. Maybe you have a preference for a harder or softer mattress. Or maybe you have broad shoulders that call for extra cushioning. Everyone has their own idea of what’s comfortable, but if you’re starting from scratch, these guidelines can help set you on the right path.
Are You a Hot Sleeper?
Ever tried to sleep in a sauna? Hopefully not, because it’s a terrible idea. While mattresses don’t get to sauna levels, many still trap enough of your body heat to disrupt your sleep, and you’re not going to get good rest if you’re constantly waking up in a sweat.
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?
This isn’t the section about cuddling (keep reading for that). Rather, this is about how much a mattress hugs your body, or contours, which is what happens when the mattress materials adapt to your body’s shape and weight. If you read that a mattress has a lot of contouring, you can expect a “big bear hug” feeling when lying down on it.
Why does this matter to side sleepers? As I mentioned before, we 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.
The other thing to consider is motion isolation. Ideally, your mattress won’t ripple or bounce too much when your sleep partner moves around on the other side of the bed. Certain materials, like memory foam, tend to be best for absorbing vibrations and minimizing sleep interruptions.
What Type of Bed Is Best for Side Sleepers?
I’ll start with the good news first: Most types of mattresses can work extremely well for side sleepers. So you have plenty of options to choose from. But having so many choices can be overwhelming. Here’s an overview of key things to know about each type of mattress.
Memory Foam Mattresses
- Memory foam hugs your body, which can help evenly distribute your weight. This cradling effect helps relieve pressure around your hips and shoulders.
- Couples often love memory foam because the material prevents vibrations from spreading from one side of the bed to the other.

Latex Mattresses
- Latex gently cradles your body, but it doesn’t hug like a lot of memory foam beds. That can be good or bad, depending on how much cushioning you need.
- Latex has a bouncy feel, making it easier to move on top of the mattress, but it also allows motion to transfer, which may not be good for light sleepers who share a bed.
- Latex — whether Talalay and Dunlop (the two main ways of manufacturing latex) — is durable, long-lasting, and generally more eco-friendly than foam.
Hybrid Mattresses
- Hybrids have a base made of coils (springs) and top layers made of foam or latex. The combination of materials creates a balanced feel that’s great for side sleepers.
- Many hybrids feature zoned coil systems that give extra support to key areas. Zoned support systems provide targeted lumbar support, which in turn can help promote proper spinal alignment and alleviate pressure in the shoulders, lower back, and hips.
- Because hybrids can be built in many ways (foam-over-coil, latex-over-coil, zoned coils, microcoils, and more!), I’ve found that you have to take a close look at each model’s materials and firmness level to determine whether it’s a good fit for side sleeping.
What Type of Bed Is Less Than Ideal for Side Sleepers?
If you shop the way I do, you’ll probably find it helpful to know not only what to look for but also what to avoid. Many innerspring mattresses (think: the basic mattress you probably slept on growing up) have little padding above their thick layer of metal coils. That translates to sharper impact with the hips and shoulders when you’re lying on your side.
Recent Updates
- 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
Still have questions? Ask our community!
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