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Best Memory Foam Mattress of 2026
Top Picks From Our Product Experts
Sleep Foundation
Why Trust Us
Our mission to create a healthier, more well-rested world demands that our product reviews be best-in-class. You won’t find more expertise on mattresses and sleep products anywhere else.
The Sleep Foundation product testing team uses an industry-leading evaluation process paired with real world consumer feedback to come up with objective recommendations so that you can feel confident in your product decisions.
Memory foam was first created by NASA contractors to cushion and protect pilots during test flights . Back on Earth, it quickly became a favorite for mattresses thanks to its ability to conform to the body, relieve pressure, and absorb motion.
As someone who’s slept on all kinds of different mattresses, I can tell you that memory foam has a very specific feel. No other material hugs the body in the same way. And there’s a lot of variation in foam beds. But after nearly a decade of testing more than 600 foam mattresses, I’ve learned a lot about what makes a good memory foam bed — and who they’re best for. Below, I’ll share what to look for, as well as our team’s top picks based on hands-on testing.
Our Top Picks
Best Memory Foam Mattress Overall
:WinkBeds GravityLux
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Most Comfortable Memory Foam Mattress
:Leesa Original
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Best Value Memory Foam Mattress
:Nectar Classic
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Memory Foam
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Pressure Relief
:Nolah Signature 12
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Couples
:Lull Original Mattress
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Back Pain
:Bear Original
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Motion Isolation
:Endy Mattress
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Best Luxury Memory Foam Mattress
:Saatva Contour5
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Hot Sleepers
:Silk & Snow Mattress
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Combo Sleepers
:Layla Memory Foam Mattress
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Best Memory Foam Mattress Deals Happening Now
- Save $771 — WinkBeds GravityLux
$1,799(List Price $2,570) - Save $333 — Leesa Original
$999(List Price $1,332) - Save $450 — Nectar Classic
$649(List Price $1,099) - Save $167 — Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Memory Foam
$498(List Price $665) - Save $630 — Nolah Signature 12
$1,169(List Price $1,799)
How We Test
How We Determine Our Overall Scores
When it comes to our methodology, our team thoroughly tests and researches each mattress that lands on our lists. We use a four-step evaluation process that analyzes the bed’s construction and materials, firmness options, and expected lifespan. We also look at real-life user reviews and ratings to get a better understanding of the company’s reputation and customer service.
In terms of hands-on testing, we use special tools and technology to get data on key performance categories like motion isolation, temperature regulation, and pressure relief. Once our labwork is finished, we have members of our testing team take home the mattresses for 2 to 3 weeks so we can get a better idea of how the bed performs long-term and with different sleeper profiles.
The overall test lab score and individual ratings you see for each mattress are determined using calculated data and notes we’ve taken throughout an in-depth testing process. Learn more about our those performance categories below, with each metric taking up a certain percentage of our overall ratings.
How We Determine the Best Memory Foam Beds
There were a few key factors we kept in mind when finding the best memory foam mattresses (besides material, of course):
- Firmness: Different sleeping positions and preferences tend to have different firmness needs, so we made sure to include a variety of feels, ranging from medium soft to firm. Memory foam is known for its ability to contour to your body, offering pressure relief and a “sinking” like feeling.
- Temperature Control: Memory foam isn’t the most breathable material. It’s on the denser side, though there have been solutions to this, like gel and open-cell memory foam beds.
- Spinal Alignment: Since memory foam offers that comfortable contouring sensation, it may not always provide the support needed for proper spinal alignment. It can depend on materials and construction, but we made sure to source out mattresses that have proper support cores to ensure all types of sleepers receive essential lumbar support.
- Pressure Relief: Like I mentioned above, memory foam tends to do an excellent job of providing relief at key pressure points, like the shoulders, hips, and neck.
Our Testing Team
Logan Foley
Editorial Director
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Mary Fenton
Head of Product Content
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Jeremy Klein
Senior Product Testing Manager
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Brad Nehring
Senior Product Analyst
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Colin Simpson
Product Research Manager
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Best Memory Foam Mattress Overall: Winkbeds GravityLux
Best Overall
8.4/10Test Lab Score
WinkBeds GravityLux
An all-around performer offered in a range of firmness options.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: A truly versatile option with three firmness levels, sleepers across weight ranges who sleep on their side, back, or stomach can find a model that works well for them. People with back pain rave about this mattress’s pressure relief capabilities.
- Feel: Compared to other all-foam mattresses, the WinkBed GravityLux feels luxurious. It’s plush and cradles your body well but not too well, comfortable yet supportive enough to relieve pressure, stays cool, and isolates motion well.
- What It’s Made Of: The mattress has a breathable Tencel cover, polyfoam layers, AirCell memory foam, a transition layer, and a high-density polyfoam support core.
- What We Don’t Like: As a memory-foam model, it does emit strong off-gassing odors upon unboxing. Its edge support could be stronger, and the price point is in line with other premium options but starts high.
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
The GravityLux by WinkBeds is a memory foam mattress that comes in three firmness levels: medium soft (4), medium (5), and firm (8). Our testers found that the bed optimizes comfort for many body types and sleep positions regardless of firmness level, which should suit couples with different preferences.
How It Performs
After performing numerous tests on the GravityLux, our testers gave it high marks in the pressure relief and motion isolation categories. This makes it great for people who experience back, shoulder, or hip pain, as well as couples and light sleepers. Since the bed is available in three different firmness options, we think sleepers of all weights and sleeping positions should be able to find a GravityLux model that works for them. While all-foam mattresses inevitably will sleep somewhat hot at night, the open-celled foam makes the GravityLux more temperature neutral than other memory foam beds we’ve tested.
Construction Breakdown
The mattress has a Tencel cover, a eucalyptus-derived fabric known for its breathability and durability. The comfort system consists of polyfoam layers and a proprietary AirCell memory foam, which has an open-cell composition to prevent the foam from trapping excessive body heat throughout the night. Under this is a zoned transition layer. We found that the zoned design supports the midsection while conforming to the shoulder and hips. It all sits on top of a high-density polyfoam support core.
As a luxury option, the GravityLux comes at a slightly higher price-point than the average all-foam mattress, but it also stands out due to its quality construction and materials. WinkBeds offers a 120-night sleep trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping within the contiguous U.S.
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Most Comfortable Memory Foam Mattress: Leesa Origial
Most Comfortable
8.2/10Test Lab Score
Leesa Original
High-quality all-foam bed that appeals to most sleepers.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: The Original is an an excellent choice for side sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds and back-sleepers weighing 130 pounds or less. Those looking for pressure relief will find it in its memory foam comfort layer and support core.
- Feel: The 10-inch Leesa Original is soft yet supportive and its thick comfort system appeals to people who prioritize cushioning in high pressure areas like hips and shoulders.
- What It’s Made Of: The Original’s four-layer construction starts with a memory foam top and soft polyfoam layer followed by contouring memory foam that relieves joint pressure. The core is made of high-density polyfoam core for spinal-alignment support, and it also minimizes sagging.
- What We Don’t Like: It might not be supportive enough for heavier individuals, and its firmer feel may not suit all sleep preferences. Additionally, some users noted initial off-gassing odors and minimal edge 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
The Leesa Original has a medium (5) feel and a thick comfort system that may appeal to people who prioritize cushioning when it comes to comfortable mattresses. Our tests showed that the combination of adaptive and responsive foams evenly balanced pressure relief and support to help prevent aches and pains.
How It Performs
Our testers found the Leesa’s mid-range feel and all-foam construction made it an excellent choice for side sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. Back-sleeping testers who weigh under 130 pounds also found the mattress comfortable. Thanks to the thick memory foam comfort layer, the Leesa scored high marks in pressure relief. This layer has an adaptive feel that helped reduce pain in pressure-prone areas among our testers. The comfort layers also absorbed most motion transfer and noise, so couples and co-sleepers should notice very few sleep disturbances when their partner changes positions at night.
Construction Breakdown
Underneath the soft and stretchy knit cover is a layer of responsive polyfoam that gently cradled the body when we laid on the mattress. Next is a layer of memory foam that closely contoured to the body to alleviate pressure buildup in the joints. These layers helped evenly distribute weight across the mattress during our tests, promoting spinal alignment. The support core is composed of high-density polyfoam that provided enough pushback to support the midsection and limit sagging for our testers.
The Leesa Original comes at an affordable price, and the company ships free to customers in all 50 states. Purchases come with a 120-night sleep trial, where you can return the mattress after a 30-night break-in period. Leesa backs the mattress with a 10-year warranty.
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Best Value Memory Foam Mattress: Nectar Classic
Best Value
8.7/10Test Lab Score
Nectar Classic
A pressure relieving memory foam bed at an amazing value.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: The Nectar’s moderate contouring and cushioning is a great match for side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. Superior motion isolation also makes the mattress suitable for couples, while the cushy top layer is a major selling point for people living with chronic or frequent pain.
- Feel: The Nectar is medium firm (6). Although the topmost layer is plush and adaptive, the underlying transitional and base foams provide good overall stability — this means most people won’t sink too much into the mattress.
- What It’s Made Of: The Nectar’s top layer consists of memory foam infused with cooling gel, which is intended to reduce heat buildup. Dense foam makes up the transitional and support layers, and the cover is composed of a breathable polyester-nylon blend.
- What We Don’t Like: Heat buildup may occur despite the top layer’s cooling gel. You’ll also notice strong off-gassing for the first few nights — we recommend airing out the mattress in a well-ventilated room until the smells completely dissipate.
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
The Nectar Classic is a firmer-than-average memory foam model that excelled during our pressure relief tests. The mattress also has an approachable price-point that should appeal to shoppers on a budget.
How It Performs
Memory foam is known for trapping heat and feeling uncomfortably warm, but we found the Nectar Classic mitigates bothersome heat retention thanks to the phase change material layer. Motion isolation is another strong point. The bed’s three foam layers reduced movement transfer significantly during our motion isolation tests. You and your partner should sleep soundly without disruptions when one of you changes positions or gets up in the middle of the night.
Construction Breakdown
A memory foam comfort layer ensures even contouring from head to toe, which our side-sleeping testers found improved spinal alignment and alleviated pressure points in the process. Meanwhile, the medium firm (6) feel was not too soft for testers who weigh under 230 pounds. Beneath the comfort layer is a transitional layer made of polyfoam, followed by a support core of high-density polyfoam. A cover containing cooling fibers encases the mattress.
In addition to the affordable pricing, Nectar further incentivizes value seekers with free shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. and a sleep trial that spans 365 nights in length. The mattress is backed by a lifetime warranty covering structural and manufacturing defects for as long as you retain full ownership.
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro
Best for Side Sleepers
8.3/10Test Lab Score
Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Memory Foam
Deep cushioning and contouring to soothe your sensitive areas
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds, couples, and people with lower back pain.
- Feel: Medium firm (6) design with plush comfort layers, zoned transitional foam, and a stable base.
- What It’s Made Of: A Euro-top comfort system with four individual foam layers, followed by three-zone transitional foam and a high-density foam base.
- What We Don’t Like: Initial off-gassing odor can persist for several nights after unboxing, and edge support is limited.
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
Side sleepers often enjoy the deep contouring of memory foam – but for many, the material doesn’t provide enough support for their shoulders and hips. The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Memory Foam remedies this issue with a transitional layer of zoned polyfoam, which feels firmer and more supportive around the midsection. This helps keep your entire body on the same level while you sleep, reducing pressure buildup in the process.
How It Performs
Side sleepers on our team gave the CopperFlex Pro favorable ratings. Those who weigh 130 pounds or more were particularly impressed with the balanced, medium firm (6) feel. Back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also enjoyed the mattress during our tests, but those weighing more noticed a bit more sinkage despite the zoned transitional foam. People who use these positions and weigh 130 pounds or more may want to consider a hybrid model with sturdier coil support.
Motion isolation is one testing area where the CopperFlex Pro shined. All six foam layers work together to absorb movement and prevent disruptive motion transfer, allowing you to sleep through your partner’s movements and position changes – and vice versa. Pressure-mapping tools also revealed the mattress supports the spine and minimizes pressure buildup along the spine, even for testers who generally thought it felt too soft.
Construction Breakdown
The CopperFlex Pro features a comfort system with four individual layers, beginning with a thin layer of adaptive polyfoam quilted to the Euro-top cover. Layers of copper-infused memory foam, polyfoam, and responsive VariFlex foam provide additional cushioning, but each of these layers is progressively denser from top to bottom to prevent you from sinking too deeply into the mattress.
Zoned transitional foam is firmer beneath your torso and hips for added support, while the base layer consists of robust high-density foam. A quilted cover encases the mattress. At 14 inches thick, the CopperFlex Pro is on the taller side and you’ll need to use a fitted sheet with deep pockets.
The sticker price is reasonable, and Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping to shoppers in the contiguous U.S. Each order includes a 120-night sleep trial. If you decide to keep the CopperFlex Pro Memory Foam after the return period ends, your purchase is also backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Pressure Relief: Nolah Signature 12
Best Pressure Relief
8.1/10Test Lab Score
Nolah Signature 12
A close-conforming foam bed with a medium firmness.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: The Nolah Signature 12 works best for side-sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds but also adequately supports back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. It’s also good for hot sleepers and people drawn to a lifetime warranty.
- Feel: The presence of adaptive “AirFoam” polyfoam instead of memory foam prevents sinkage and curbs heat retention. Its medium feel (5/10) balances cushioning and support and provides top-notch pressure relief in the shoulders and hips.
- What It’s Made Of: The five layer Signature 12 comes with a cooling AirFoam top layer, high-resilience polyfoam, a denser AirFoam layer for support, a high-density polyfoam core, and a cover made of organic cotton.
- What We Don’t Like: Back, stomach, and heavier sleepers over 230 pounds might experience some sinkage. The edges might feel a bit unstable due to limited perimeter support. The base price is also higher than similar all-foam mattresses.
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
The Nolah Signature 12 is slightly different from the other entries we included on this list. The mattress contains layers of adaptive polyfoam rather than traditional memory foam. This ensures comparable levels of pressure relief without the deep sinkage or excessive heat retention many people dislike about memory foam. Thanks to the polyfoam design, we recommend the Signature 12 for side sleepers and those who tend to sleep hot.
How It Performs
Since the Signature 12 has a medium (5) feel and thick comfort system, we found it best suited to side sleepers – particularly those who weigh up to 230 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds may also feel adequately supported. The foam layers contoured closely enough to cradle the spine and alleviate pressure caused by uneven alignment. These layers also absorbed motion well to help reduce sleep disruptions for people who share their bed with a partner.
We noticed minimal heat buildup on the surface. The AirFoam’s open-cell design, coupled with a breathable cover, should make the Signature 12 a good option for people who typically sleep hot on traditional memory foam mattresses.
Construction Breakdown
The Signature 12’s top layer consists of AirFoam, a proprietary open-cell material designed to contour evenly without trapping too much heat. A second comfort layer of high-resilience polyfoam cushioned the body and prevented our testers from sinking too deeply. This is followed by a denser AirFoam layer, which we found boosted support. The support core is composed of high-density polyfoam, and an organic cotton cover encases the entire mattress.
The mattress comes in six standard sizes, as well as a split king for adjustable beds. All customers in the contiguous U.S. qualify for free ground shipping with their Signature 12 order. Nolah offers a 120-night sleep trial, but you may opt out of the return period and save some money on your purchase. The mattress is also backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Couples: Lull Original Mattress
Best for Couples
8.6/10Test Lab Score
Lull Original Mattress
Medium firm all-foam mattress with a close-conforming feel.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Since the Lull Original is medium firm, the mattress should hit the sweet spot for people who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds. Superior motion isolation makes the Original a solid choice for couples and co-sleepers, while the foam’s deep cushioning should also appeal to people with frequent or chronic back pain.
- Feel: The Lull Original offers moderate contouring. You’ll feel the foam forming a cradle around your body’s unique curves, but the mattress shouldn’t hug you too closely. Dense transitional and base foam layers push back against your weight for added support.
- What It’s Made Of: The Original’s top layer is composed of memory foam infused with cooling gel intended to reduce heat buildup. Transitional and support layers of dense foam help prevent sinkage to keep your body on an even plane. The cover is made of stretchy knit polyester.
- What We Don’t Like: Back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds will probably find the Lull Original a bit too soft. You’ll also notice some strong off-gassing smells for up to 72 hours after the mattress is unboxed — the odors eventually dissipate, but can make sleeping on the mattress unpleasant for the first few nights.
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
If you normally sleep with a partner, you should take their needs into account along with your own when choosing a new mattress. The Lull Original checks a lot of important boxes for co-sleepers — foam layers that absorb movement and isolate motion transfer, a surface that remains relatively cool, and decent perimeter support. An agreeable sticker price should also appeal to shoppers with limited budgets.
How It Performs
Our hands-on tests show the Lull Original should provide the right balance of cushioning and support for most side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds. Stomach sleepers under 130 pounds should also get the reinforcement they need. Those who weigh more may feel more comfortable on a firmer mattress.
Motion isolation and pressure relief were two of the Original’s biggest strengths we observed during testing. Both of these qualities can be attributed to the all-foam design. Cushy memory foam gives the Original a plush, adaptive surface and limits how much motion transfers when you or your partner move in bed. The foam also forms a nice cradle around your figure and alleviates sore spots in the process.
Construction Breakdown
The Original’s three-layer design begins with 1.5 inches of memory foam. Cooling gel infused into the foam is intended to keep the mattress cool, though hot sleepers may still notice some heat retention. Transitional and base layers of dense polyfoam provide a sturdy support system for the mattress. The cover is made of knit polyester. After concluding our tests, we’ve given the Original a medium firm (6) rating.
The Lull Original is reasonably priced compared to the competition and ground shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S. Your order comes with a generous sleep trial that runs for an entire year. If you decide to keep the mattress after the trial ends, your purchase is also covered under a lifetime warranty.
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Back Pain: Bear Original
Best for Back Pain
7.8/10Test Lab Score
Bear Original
An affordable foam bed designed for those with an active lifestyle.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Its balance between support and cushioning appeals to side and back sleepers across weight ranges, but it may not be quite firm enough for some stomach sleepers.
- Feel: Some sleepers may need an adjustment period to get used to the firmness level, but once the bed is broken in, sleepers across positions find it to have just the right amount of support and cushioning.
- What It’s Made Of: The 10-inch Bear Original is made of three types of foam: gel-infused memory foam to help keep you cool, a transitional layer of polyfoam, and a core of high-density foam that provides a sturdy and durable base.
- What We Don’t Like: While it’s designed to prevent overheating for an average sleeper, you might need to purchase an Celliant (cooling) cover separately if you tend to sleep hot.
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
The Bear Original offers proprietary cooling technology and high-quality performance at an affordable price-point. We’ve tested many foam beds, and this model had a distinctly firm feel that is somewhat rare for an all-foam mattress. If you’re a back or stomach sleeper, or simply prefer a more supportive mattress, you may want to consider this pick.
How It Performs
We found the Bear’s firmer feel and foam design made it a strong choice for back-sleeping testers who weigh at least 130 pounds. Side sleepers over 230 pounds and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also appreciated this combination.
Thanks to the thick memory foam comfort layer, this bed excelled in pressure relief. If you frequently experience pressure-induced pain in your joints, you’ll appreciate the close contouring. These foam layers were also excellent at isolating motion. When two testers shared the bed surface, they barely felt each other’s movements. This may appeal to co-sleepers who are frequently disturbed by a partner’s movement.
Construction Breakdown
A breathable cover made from a Celliant and polyester blend encases the mattress. During testing, the top memory foam layer evenly contoured to our testers’ bodies to relieve pressure-prone areas. The graphite and gel infusions in this layer are meant to conduct heat away from the body and dissipate it to keep you cool. Underneath is a layer of responsive polyfoam that evenly distributed weight and kept the spine aligned during our tests. The support core features high-density polyfoam, providing stability and limiting excessive sinkage.
Bear ships free to the contiguous U.S. Mattress purchases come with a 120-night sleep trial where you can return the mattress after the 30-night break-in period. The company backs the mattress with a lifetime warranty, covering structural defects.
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Motion Isolation: Endy Mattress
Best Motion Isolation
8.9/10Test Lab Score
Endy Mattress
A cushy yet responsive foam mattress with three firmness options.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Available in three firmness levels, the Endy can accommodate most people across different body types and sleep positions. Its all-foam construction also ensures consistent motion isolation for couples and excellent pressure relief.
- Feel: Each of the Endy’s firmness levels feels distinct, but all three provide a close, even contour that cradles your body and promotes even alignment. This mattress contains adaptive polyfoam, so it won’t “hug” you as closely as a model with memory foam layers.
- What It’s Made Of: The mattress contains a comfort system with adaptive polyfoam layers. Each firmness has a different profile, so the thickness of these layers depends on the firmness level you choose. A base layer of high-density polyfoam stabilizes the mattress, which is encased in a polyester cover.
- What We Don’t Like: People who sleep on their stomach and weigh more than 230 pounds may not receive enough support from any of the three designs.
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
For many couples and co-sleepers, motion transfer — or ripples of movement from a partner’s position changes that ripple to the other side of the bed — can be a nightly nuisance. If motion isolation is a top priority, the Endy Mattress is a top performer in this category according to our in-house testing team. Thick foam layers absorb movement to all but eliminate transfer, allowing couples to sleep together without regular disturbances.
How It Performs
After testing all three of the Endy’s firmness levels, we’ve determined that the medium soft (4) design is a solid match for side sleepers under 130 pounds. This model contours very closely to reduce pressure and pain along the spine for lighter individuals who prefer the side position. Heavier side sleepers, as well as back and stomach sleepers across all weights, will probably prefer the extra support and stronger pushback of the medium firm (6) and firm (7) designs.
Each design differs in terms of performance, but all three Endy models earned top marks for motion isolation with the medium soft having a slight edge over the other two. Pressure relief was another major strength we observed during our tests. The foam contours without hugging too closely, so the mattress may be a more comfortable option for people with chronic pain and pressure buildup who dislike the close contact of memory foam.
Construction Breakdown
The Endy Mattress contains the same materials regardless of firmness level, but the three designs differ in terms of overall height. Three layers of adaptive polyfoam make up their comfort systems. These layers are progressively denser, resulting in plush cushioning on top and sturdy underlying support. A thick layer of high-density base foam gives the mattress a solid support system.
The Endy Mattress carries a below-average sticker price compared to other foam models on the market. Endy’s generous sleep trial also allows you to test out the bed at home for up to one year before deciding whether to keep it or return it for a refund. The mattress is covered under a 15-year manufacturer’s warranty.
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Best Luxury Memory Foam Mattress: Saatva Contour5
Best Luxury
8.5/10Test Lab Score
Saatva Contour5
Premium all-foam mattress that comes in medium and firm options.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Our tests show the medium firm (6) Contour5 provides the right balance of cushioning and support for side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds. The firm (8) model delivers extra reinforcement for heavier people who use these positions, along with most stomach sleepers. Channeled construction in the top layer and a breathable cover also ensure above-average airflow and cooling for hot sleepers.
- Feel: The Contour5 feels plush and adaptive on the surface, resulting in a close cradle for your body, but the underlying memory foam and polyfoam layers are quite dense — this ensures extra pushback and less sink. Those seeking maximum support should opt for the firm model.
- What It’s Made Of: Four individual layers make up the Contour5’s comfort system, beginning with ventilated polyfoam for a cool and cushy surface. Two memory foam layers — the top infused with cooling gel — provide extra cushioning, while the transitional and base layers are composed of dense polyfoam for sturdy support.
- What We Don’t Like: Like other all-foam beds, the Contour5 can sink in response to weight and be difficult to move on. This is especially true of the medium firm model for people over 230 pounds. Also, expect some strong off-gassing odor for the first few nights.
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
The Saatva Contour5 boasts all the hallmarks of a high-end all-foam mattress. Dense comfort layers ensure close, even conforming for your entire body, and two firmness options are available depending on how much cushioning you need to sleep comfortably.
How It Performs
Back and stomach sleepers on our testing team were impressed with how supportive the Contour5 felt, especially the firm model. Many people who use these positions don’t get enough support from softer memory foam mattresses, but excessive sinkage wasn’t an issue with the Contour5.
Other strengths our testers observed include strong motion isolation, consistent pain and pressure relief, and above-average temperature control. The firm model also provides sturdy edge support.
Construction Breakdown
The comfort system consists of four individual layers, beginning with ventilated polyfoam and memory foam infused with cooling gel. These materials are meant to offset some of the foam’s heat-absorbing qualities and helps the surface stay relatively cool. Layers of high-density memory foam and transitional polyfoam reinforce the top layer to prevent you from sinking too much. Both of these layers are highly durable, making the Contour5 a long-lasting option if you’re in the market for an all-foam bed.
Customers can choose from two firmness levels. The medium firm (6) model provides moderate body-contouring, and is best suited to side and back sleepers in the range of 130 to 230 pounds. The firm (8) feel conforms much less and offers more support, making it the most comfortable option for people who weigh at least 130 pounds and sleep on their backs or stomachs.
The Contour5’s above-average price-point reflects its luxurious construction, but Saatva offers a few perks to incentivize shoppers. White Glove delivery – which includes full in-shome setup and old mattress removal – is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S., and each purchase is backed by a 365-night sleep trial. The mattress also comes with a 15-year warranty.
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Hot Sleepers: Silk & Snow Mattress
Best for Hot Sleepers
7.6/10Test Lab Score
Silk & Snow Mattress
A foam mattress that conforms close to your body for pressure relief.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: The Silk & Snow’s softer feel and close contour are ideal for side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Great motion isolation also makes the mattress a solid match for couples.
- Feel: Since the mattress is medium (5), expect deep cushioning from the topmost layer. The underlying transitional and base layers provide some pushback, but this mattress is designed to hug and cradle the body.
- What It’s Made Of: The top layer is constructed from memory foam infused with gel meant to keep the surface cool. Transitional and base layers made of high-density foam provide the support system.
- What We Don’t Like: This mattress may feel too soft if you sleep on your back or stomach and weigh 130 pounds or more. We also noticed minimal edge support during our hands-on tests, and many of us found the surface difficult to move on.
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
If your mattress feels either too soft or too stiff, you may not receive sufficient support and experience excessive pressure buildup. The Silk & Snow Mattress strikes an even balance with three foam layers, each offering a dense composition to provide even contouring without sinking excessively. A medium (5) feel ensures a nice mix of cushioning and reinforcement, and our hands-on tests show the mattress is particularly well suited to side sleepers.
How It Performs
Side sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds found the Silk & Snow Mattress comfortable and sufficiently supportive. The same was true of our back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Those who weigh more may need a firmer mattress that pushes back more against bodily compression.
During our tests, the Silk & Snow Mattress excelled at pressure relief. Body-mapping sensors detected little to no pressure buildup for most of our testers. Motion isolation was another strong performance category for the mattress. None of our testers noticed significant motion transfer when lying side by side, and they observed minimal movement when dropping weights across the surface.
Construction Breakdown
The Silk & Snow Mattress begins with a memory foam comfort layer. This material has a density of 4 pounds per cubic feet (PCF), making it denser and more durable than the memory foams used in many competing models. The transitional and support polyfoam layers are also high-density. The result is a mattress that contours evenly from head to toe and resists sinkage beneath your midsection. A stretch-polyester cover encases the foam layers.
The mattress has a below-average sticker price compared to other all-foam models on the market today. Silk & Snow also offers free ground shipping to customers in the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. Your order comes with a 100-night sleep trial. The mattress is further backed by a 15-year warranty if you choose to keep it.
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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Combo Sleepers: Layla Memory Foam Mattress
Best for Combo Sleepers
8.4/10Test Lab Score
Layla Memory Foam Mattress
The gold standard of dual-sided mattresses with a pleasant memory foam feel.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: The soft side appeals to those who sleep on their side and some back sleepers who weigh less than 230 pounds. The firm side works well for back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds. Good for hot sleepers as well — the copper gel helps distribute body heat across the surface.
- Feel: The softer side gives the sensation of a gentle hug, while the firmer side offers more support (potentially too much for lightweight sleepers). The gel-infused memory foam provides pressure relief for areas that need it.
- What It’s Made Of: Both sides feature copper-infused memory foam for pressure relief and cooling, along with a high-density polyfoam support core. Its cover blends breathable materials with copper to combat heat retention.
- What We Don’t Like: Those seeking a medium-firm feel are left wanting since one side is too soft and the other too hard. There have also been reports of deep sinkage on both sides of the 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
The Layla Memory Foam Mattress has an innovative flippable design, quality construction, and competitive price-point compared to other foam beds we’ve tested. The two-sided construction offers a medium (4 out of 10) firmness on one side and a firm (7) feel on the other. We recommend the bed, especially the softer side, for people who need ample pressure relief for sensitive joints.
How It Performs
During our in-house testing, we found that the Layla’s two-sided design had something to offer sleepers of different body types and sleeping positions. The soft side appealed to testers who sleep on their side and some back sleepers who weigh less than 230 pounds. The firm side appealed most to back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds. This mattress performed very well when tested for pressure relief, motion isolation, and durability, making it a good long-lasting option for couples and those with pain issues.
Construction Breakdown
The Layla has a copper-infused memory foam comfort layer on each side. These layers conform closely to your body to relieve pressure — this is especially true of the softer side, which has a thicker memory foam layer than the firmer side. The softer surface also has an additional foam layer that we found enhances cushioning. Both sides share a support core of high-density polyfoam. The cover is composed of a breathable polyester, rayon, viscose, and poly-lycra blend fabric, and the copper infusion in the memory foam is designed to prevent excessive heat retention.
Layla guarantees their mattress with a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. The bed ships free to the contiguous U.S.
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Video: We Tested the Best Memory Foam Mattresses — Here Are Our Favorites
What Is a Memory Foam Mattress?
A memory foam mattress includes at least one top layer of a special type of polyurethane foam (that’s the memory foam) that softens and molds to your body as you lie on it, then slowly bounces back when you get up. In fact, it got its name because it temporarily shows a “memory” of your body’s imprint, even after you’ve gotten up .
Most are made entirely of foam layers, with some featuring a base made of a higher density foam called polyfoam. Because of differences in manufacturing, not every memory foam mattress feels the same. Foam density and thickness, additional materials, and mattress firmness dramatically change how much comfort and support you feel.
In general, here’s what I’ve learned to expect from a memory foam mattress:
- Significant “hug,” contouring to your shape and weight and cradling your body
- Minimal bounce
- Virtually no ripple effect from movement on one side of the mattress
- Quiet performance
- A greater tendency for heat buildup than other materials
Because of that last point, many modern mattresses include cooling features like gel infusions, copper, graphite, or breathable covers to help dissipate heat. But does cooling tech actually work? That depends on how it’s constructed. Our testing team evaluated how well gel memory foam works.
Who Should Buy a Memory Foam Mattress?
Close your eyes and imagine you’re lying on the most comfortable mattress in the world. If you’re picturing yourself sinking into a mattress that softly cradles your body, you’ll more than likely enjoy sleeping on a memory foam mattress.
Still not sure if you should try one? From my own experience — plus insights from our medical advisors and testing team — I’ve found that there are a few types of sleepers who tend to be the best fit for a memory foam mattress:
| Sleepers With Sensitive Joints | Side Sleepers | Couples |
|---|---|---|
| Memory foam helps evenly distribute your weight across the mattress surface, taking some pressure off sensitive joints and areas prone to pain like the lower back. With the right firmness level, a memory foam mattress may improve comfort for people with medical conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and sciatica. | If you’re a side sleeper like me, memory foam provides cushion for your bottom shoulder and hip. It also helps you maintain a neutral spine, reducing the risk of morning aches and pains. | Memory foam absorbs movement soundlessly, so I don’t feel (or hear!) my partner moving around on their side of the mattress. |
Who Are Memory Foam Beds Less Than Ideal For?
While memory foam beds are great for many sleepers, they’re not for everyone. If you want a firmer mattress that doesn’t conform to your body, memory foam is decidedly not your jam. Hot sleepers, stomach sleepers, and people who want a bouncy mattress should also probably think twice before buying a memory foam mattress.
| Hot Sleepers | Stomach Sleepers | Sleepers Who Like Bouncy Beds | People Who Prioritize Edge Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| The downside of close-conforming memory foam is that it traps body heat. As a result, hot sleepers often feel too warm on a traditional memory foam mattress. Try a cooling mattress instead. | In our testing, we frequently find that stomach sleepers say memory foam is too soft and doesn’t have enough support for their midsection. Try a mattress specifically designed for stomach sleepers instead. | The material has almost no bounce to it, which can make it more of a chore to move around in bed. Try a latex mattress instead. | While I love memory foam, one of my biggest frustrations with it is that it can feel weak around the perimeter. Try a firm mattress instead. |
What to Consider When Shopping for a Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam mattresses come in a range of styles. Some really lean into the traditional feel of memory foam, while others change things up by pairing memory foam with latex or other types of foam.
That means you can find memory foam beds with different firmness levels and different degrees of hug, heat retention, and motion isolation. While that broadens your options, it’s also important to know what you’re looking for. Here are some of the things I’ve found to be most useful to consider when shopping for a quality memory foam mattress.
Sleep Position and Body Weight
When I shop for clothing, I can’t find the right fit unless I think about my body’s shape and size. The same applies to mattress shopping.
Optimal comfort and spinal support aren’t universal — they depend on your weight and how you position your body on a mattress. That’s a huge reason why mattresses, like most clothes, aren’t “one size fits all.”
If you sleep on your side, your bottom hip and shoulder push down into a mattress way more than they do in other sleep positions. Memory foam contours around these joints, making memory foam mattresses popular among side sleepers. However, if you’re a back or stomach sleeper, you typically need more firmness to keep your spine in an even plane and help prevent back pain.
Your weight influences how a mattress feels, too. A mattress that’s perfect for a heavier person may feel too firm to someone of a lighter weight. Similarly, a mattress that feels comfortable and supportive to a lighter person may feel too soft for a heavier individual.
And though comfort is ultimately subjective, our testing team put together some general recommendations for mattress firmness based on your sleeping position and body type. We rate firmness on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the firmest.
| Weight | Side Sleepers | Back Sleepers | Stomach Sleepers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 130 lbs. | Soft (3) to Medium Soft (4) | Medium Soft (4) to Medium (5) | Medium (5) to Medium Firm (6) |
| 130 to 230 lbs. | Medium (5) to Medium Firm (6) | Medium Firm (6) to Firm (7 or 8) | Medium Firm (6) to Firm (7 or 8) |
| More than 230 lbs. | Medium Firm (6) to Firm (7 or 8) | Firm (7 or 8) to Extra Firm (9) | Firm (7 or 8) to Extra Firm (9) |
Contouring and Pressure Relief
All memory foam mattresses will contour to your body to some degree. But I’ve found that there’s a lot of variation in just how much of a hug you’ll get.
Ultimately, the right amount of hug depends on your sleep style and preferences. If you have sharp pressure points — say, if you’re a side sleeper with broad shoulders — you may want deeper contouring so that your shoulders get plenty of cushioning.
But if you’re a back or stomach sleeper, that level of hug may be overkill. In fact, it may even cause your midsection to sink down into the mattress, setting you up for an achy lower back in the morning.
Motion Isolation
Sharing a mattress isn’t always conducive to high-quality sleep, especially if your bed partner is constantly tossing and turning. Thankfully, a quality memory foam mattress can dramatically reduce disruptions from movement on the other side of the bed. It also stays quiet — no squeaky springs here!
However, through testing, I’ve observed that some memory foam mattresses are far better at limiting noise and motion transfer. I recommend that couples who share a bed look closely at test results (we break down each mattress’s scores on their individual review pages) and customer ratings to gauge just how well a specific model performs in these areas.
Temperature Regulation
Hot sleepers should proceed with caution when buying a memory foam mattress. That doesn’t mean they should avoid these mattresses altogether, but being aware of temperature regulation can help zero in on the ideal mattress.
Traditional memory foam was known for major heat buildup. Thankfully, most mattresses today have design features meant to resist overheating. For example, you may see options with cooling gels, copper, or other materials that have been infused into the foam layers. Breathable covers with specialty fabrics are also getting more popular as a way to try to limit heat retention.
Durability
The average mattress lasts around seven years, but this number can vary greatly depending on how durable the mattress is. The type, density, and quality of the foam will all play a role in how durable an all-foam bed is. Polyfoam tends to be more durable than memory foam, higher density foams are more durable than lower density, and higher-end foam beds tend be of a better quality.
Budget
As with any purchase, price is an important factor. I used to think that a more expensive mattress was always better, but I’ve tested enough mattresses to know that price doesn’t necessarily always reflect quality.
A great mattress is a worthy investment, so I don’t recommend shopping based on price alone. Instead, give yourself a general price range (lowest, ideal, and absolute max) and use that to narrow down your options. From there, you can pick the mattress that best suits your sleeping position, body weight, and comfort preferences. You can also check out our guide to the best affordable memory foam mattresses.
Sleep Trials
I’ve experienced firsthand how much you can learn about a mattress by sleeping on it for a few weeks. That’s why I always recommend buying a mattress with an extended sleep trial.
In the mattress industry, a “sleep trial” is a term for a flexible return policy. Most online companies give you a few months to test out a mattress at home with the option to return it for a full refund. The standard sleep trial is around 100 nights, but some last for a full year. Other companies make you “break in” the mattress for at least a month before you can return it, and others charge return fees.
More Mattress Guides
Our team tests mattresses to determine the best options for different types of sleepers. To see how we’ve ranked mattresses in other performance categories, check out the product guides below.
Shopping Guides by Mattress Type
- Best Mattress for Sciatica
- Best Mattress for Scoliosis
- Best Mattress for Athletes
- Best Affordable Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Tempur-Pedic Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Best Tempur-Pedic Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Best Tempur-Pedic Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Best Mattress for Seniors
- Best Mattress on Amazon
- Best Mattress for Couples
- Best Gel Mattress
Still have questions? Ask our community!
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Jackson leads editorial product recommendations at Sleep Foundation, transforming the data from our sleep product test lab into real world takeaways for consumers. He has spent over half a decade developing protocol to evaluate and measure the impacts of products on sleep quality. As a cited sleep product expert, Jackson helps guide millions of shoppers to find personalized recommendations for everything from pillows to bedding to mattresses.
References1 Sources
Forty-Year-Old Foam Springs Back With New Benefits | NASA Spinoff. spinoff.nasa.gov/Spinoff2005/ch_6.html.
https://spinoff.nasa.gov/Spinoff2005/ch_6.html