Best Mattress For Athletes

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If you live an active lifestyle, finding the best mattress for athletes can help you recharge your body for your next physical adventure — whether it be on the track, field, court, weight room, or amidst the great outdoors. But it’s important to remember that different athletes require different things from a bed. Just because you all have muscles, doesn’t mean that they will be supported and comforted the same way on the same mattress.

Because of this, it’s important to look beyond that fact that you all spend time at the gym. I want to recommend mattresses that will not only give you added pressure relief and cooling for the nights after those long workouts, but will also fit best with your sleeping position, body type, and whether or not you sleep with a partner or a pet. All of these added wants and needs factor into which mattress is going to give you the best night sleep.

But don’t worry — I’m here to guide you! I’ve already put these mattresses through the ringer. Before I review a mattress, I put it through a series of tests, including a pressure-map test, 15-minute rest test, and motion isolation test. The results from these various examinations can show us exactly who (and who not) to recommend these mattresses for, so you don’t have to waste time doing the evaluating on your own.

So whether your deal breaker is a hot bed, a lack of support, or a firm feel, I’m sure you can use the information I’ve gathered to find the right mattress for you. Below is my roundup of the best mattresses for athletes, but make sure to read the find print in order to find a mattress that also works for your personal preferences. I included mattresses that cover a variety of physical activities, types of pain, and special features, such as assisting in muscle recovery — so there should be something here for everyone.

Our Top Pick For Athletes

The Bear Elite Hybrid, one of the only mattresses on the market made specifically for athletes, landed at the top of my list because of its combination of strong coils and soft foam, which should help ease back pain after a workout while still providing spinal support.

Best Mattress For Athletes – 2024

Compare the Best Mattresses for Athletes

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Nectar Luxe Mattress DreamCloud Original Mattress Helix Midnight Mattress WinkBed Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Bear Original Mattress Saatva Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Nectar Luxe Mattress DreamCloud Original Mattress Helix Midnight Mattress WinkBed Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Bear Original Mattress Saatva Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress
Rating
4.6
4.5
4.4
4.1
4.7
4.4
4.0
4.8
4.3
Firmness Multiple firmness options Soft: 5.5/10 Firm: 7/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Firm: 7/10 Multiple firmness options Firm: 7.5/10 Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Material Hybrid Foam Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Foam Innerspring Hybrid
Cooling
Best For
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
Side Sleepers,
Back Sleepers,
Hot Sleepers
Back Sleepers,
Hot Sleepers,
Seniors
Couples,
Back Sleepers,
Side Sleepers
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors,
Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain,
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors
Joint Pain,
Back Pain,
Side Sleepers

What I Look For In The Best Mattresses For Athletes

Support and Alignment

As an athlete, you take support and body alignment seriously, and I know that, so I tested all of the mattresses in this list ourselves to ensure they were supportive for various types of sleepers and helped keep your spine, hips, and neck in alignment for optimum performance.

Pressure Relief

As an athlete, pressure and pain relief are important elements of your mattress. To help you find the best mattress for this relief, I used a pressure map to test each of these mattresses and find which ones have the best pressure relief to alleviate pain and keep your body healthy.

Temperature Relief and Breathability

Cooling is important for all mattresses but is especially important for athletes looking to get the best sleep they can. I know this, so I tested the temperature regulation of all of these mattresses using a thermal gun so you can be sure you are getting a breathable and cooling mattress.

Best Overall Mattress For Athletes – Bear Elite Hybrid

Best Overall
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Designed for Athletes
Soft Feel
Luxurious Foams
Hybrid mattress
120 nights
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BLACK35 for 35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, Firm. We rated the Medium model a 6 out of 10, meaning it is softer than average.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,865–$3,997 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for back sleepers of all weights, as it is supportive but cushioning.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
A good match for people who sleep hot, thanks to a cooling cover and breathable coils.
so brand icons 2023 Best Mattress Home Page
Athletes
This mattress was designed for rest and recovery and uses Celliant, a material Bear says assists with muscle recovery.
Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid
Thick comfort layers provide lots of pressure relief while coils lift the hips for spinal support
The Medium model has a medium-soft feel that should suit most back sleepers
A responsive feel makes this bed easy to move on
Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid
Heavyweight stomach sleepers won’t get enough support. See our best mattresses for heavy people for better options
As a luxury mattress with many special features, the Bear Elite Hybrid is priced higher. Budget shoppers may want to check out the best cheap mattresses
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
If you return within the 120-night trial period, you can get a full refund.

The Bear Elite Hybrid uses foam and coils for a mix of support, cushioning, and cooling. While designed for athletes prioritizing wellness and recovery, sleepers of all activity levels can enjoy the many luxurious features. Enjoy zoned support for targeted relief, an “on top of” feel allowing for ease of movement, and cooling features throughout. For more information, watch our video review.

What our tester says:

“I’d recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid for most back and stomach sleepers.I think these sleepers will get the needed pressure relief and contouring around the lower back and hips. This mattress does a wonderful job at offering body contouring while still helping the sleeper stay elevated and lifted as well. The layers of foam should provide comfort while the coil system should offer lots of support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester

Expert Opinion

Bear designs their mattresses with athletes in mind, so when picking the best mattress for athletes, I naturally had to go with the Bear Elite Hybrid. This luxurious mattress is made from a combination of soft foam and supportive coils, and comes in three different firmness levels (Soft, Medium, and Firm), so shoppers can pick the one that best fits their preferences and needs. I tested the Medium version of this mattress, which scored a 6 on our firmness scale. This ranking is created by combining the scores of multiple Sleepopolis mattress testers. A score of 6 makes the Bear Elite Hybrid slightly softer than the industry standard for a medium-firm mattress, which is set at a 6.5 on our scale.

Bear offers a mattress cover made of Celliant, a material believed to assist with recovery and blood flow, for additional purchase on all of their mattresses. That’s good news for athletes looking to restore their energy and recharge their body after a tough workout. The Bear Elite Hybrid also includes a cooling cover and copper-infused foam that give this mattress a cool-to-the-touch feel, along with phase change material that helps to get rid of added body heat throughout the night. All of these inclusions are helpful for athletes that need a proper and restful sleep in order to recover and prepare for the activities of the next day.

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
5
Materials
4.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
4
Trial Period
5
Warranty
4.5
Value

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Specs

MaterialHybrid
Price (Queen)$2,305 (before discounts)
FirmnessMedium soft
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial120 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height14″
Adjustable Base Compatible?Yes

What our tester says: “If you tend to sleep hot, then I think you’ll enjoy all the cooling factors this bed offers. From the phase change material cover to the copper-infused foam, hot sleepers should like how breathable and cool this mattress sleeps.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Customers love the immediate relief they felt upon lying down on the Bear Elite Hybrid. Many users even stated that they didn’t want to get out of bed in the morning because of how comfortable they felt on this bed.

Highlights of the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

  • Side sleepers should appreciate how soft the Bear Elite Hybrid feels, which will help give them added pressure relief and contouring around their hips and shoulders. If these sleepers are looking for an extra-plush feel, they could even opt for the Soft version of this mattress.
  • The Bear Elite Hybrid has a bounciness and responsiveness that’s great for combination sleepers. They should be able to switch positions and move around easily on top of this mattress throughout the night.
  • Sleepers who suffer from shoulder pain should appreciate the top foam layer that is included in the Bear Elite Hybrid. This layer offers pressure relief and body contouring to sensitive areas like the shoulders, which can be seen in our pressure-map test. During this test, the shoulder area lit up mostly blue and green (equating to low pressure).

What to Keep In Mind About the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

  • Stomach sleepers may find that the Bear Elite Hybrid is too soft for them. These sleepers need a firmer mattress that will lift their hips in line with their shoulders, creating a neutral spinal alignment. If this sounds like you, check out our roundup of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers to find some firmer options.

If you’re interested in this mattress, you can take a look our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review for more information, or click here for our best deal. For more of our favorites, check out our roundup of the best mattress.

Best Cooling Mattress For Athletes – Nectar Luxe

Best for Hot Sleepers
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Nectar
Nectar Luxe Mattress
Ultra-Soft Comfort
Thick Memory Foam
Cooling Cover
Memory Foam
365 nights
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Up to 50% off mattresses + spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Memory Foam
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated this mattress a 5.5 out of 10, meaning it’s a very soft mattress.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,696–$4,148 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
This bed offers a soft feel for the lumbar region while still providing enough support for a neutral spinal alignment
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
The cooling cover helps make this bed one of the best cooling mattresses on the market, especially for an all-foam bed.
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
They should get all the contouring they need at the shoulders and hips from the mattress’s soft foams.
Pros of the Nectar Luxe
Back sleepers and side sleepers alike should get plenty of contouring while also receiving spinal support.
While memory foam mattresses tend to sleep hot, the cooling cover helps the Nectar Luxe keep a low temperature.
The foams should provide deep pressure relief at the shoulders and hips.
Cons of the Nectar Luxe
It’s probably not going to be supportive enough for heavy sleepers over 250 pounds. Instead, check out some of our best mattresses for heavy people.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns within 365-night trial period

The Nectar Luxe is an ultra-plush yet supportive bed with a soft feel. It also provides a cool sleep experience, thanks to its cooling cover. We think it’s an especially good fit for back sleepers and side sleepers. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“I think side sleepers could really like the slow-moving, body-contouring feel of the Nectar Luxe. It should offer them plenty of pressure relief around the shoulders and hips. Back sleepers who prefer a softer mattress might also like this bed’s plush feel. It should offer these sleepers a nice balance of pressure relief and support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Expert Opinion

It can be much harder to get a good night’s rest if your body temperature is high, and you’re much more likely to have a higher body temperature after a workout. That’s why it’s so important for athletes to have a cooling mattress like the Nectar Luxe. This mattress includes cooling fibers in its cover, which help wick away heat and moisture. As a material, memory foam typically traps heat, and the fibers prevent this from happening. When I used a thermal gun to measure the bed’s temperature after five minutes of us lying on it, it only rose by 2.4 degrees. This tells us the Nectar Luxe has excellent cooling capabilities.

The Nectar company even states that the Nectar Luxe is their tallest (14″), coolest, and most supportive mattress out of their all-foam bed line. In terms of firmness, this mattress scored a 5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale, which is very soft. I found ourselves sinking into its memory foam layers for a slow-moving, hug-like feel.

Nectar Luxe Foam Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Materials
3.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4
Value
4.5
Cooling
3
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
4
Edge Support
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Nectar Luxe Mattress Specs

MaterialMemory foam
Price (Queen)$1,563 (before discounts)
FirmnessMedium firm
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial365 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height14″
Adjustable Base Compatible?Yes

What our tester says: “As you can see, the Nectar Luxe heated up 2.4 degrees, thus confirming its excellent cooling abilities. I think it’s one of the best cooling mattresses out there, especially for an all-foam bed.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

What Customers Say

Many users on the Nectar website stated that the Nectar Luxe helped eliminate their shoulder and and hip pain after a few months of sleep. Other customers often commented on how cool this mattress sleeps, and some even said that they prefer this mattress over any hotel or Airbnb mattress they have tried while traveling.

Highlights of the Nectar Luxe Mattress

  • Side sleepers should enjoy the way the Nectar Luxe contours their body while they sleep. This contouring should provide them with plenty of pressure relief around sensitive areas like their hips and shoulders during the night.
  • Back sleepers should also enjoy the Nectar Luxe, as long as they prefer a softer mattress. I experienced a lot of pressure relief in this position while also getting the support I needed for a neutral spinal alignment.
  • The Nectar Luxe performed well on our pressure-map test, especially when it came to back pain. Sleepers who suffer from back pain should feel that their weight is evenly distributed across this mattress, and the top layer of foam included in the Nectar Luxe should help fill in the space around their lumbar region.

What to Keep In Mind About the Nectar Luxe Mattress

To get more information, take a look our full Nectar Luxe mattress review, or click here for our best deal. If you’re still looking, check out our roundup of the best cooling mattresses.

Best Hybrid Mattress For Athletes – DreamCloud

Best Hybrid
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Firm, Supportive Feel
Cashmere-Blend Cover
Responsive Springs
Hybrid
365 nights
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Up to 50% off mattresses + spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the DreamCloud a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. A 7 means that the DreamCloud is fairly firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$839–$2,178 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
You should get enough cushioning for your lumbar region and enough support for a neutral spinal alignment.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
The coils in the support layer leave plenty of room for airflow.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Combination Sleepers
The DreamCloud is responsive enough for you to easily change positions.
Pros of the DreamCloud
Soft memory foam for cushioning at the lumbar region and sturdy coils for spinal support.
Springs that provide a lot of bounce and responsiveness, both of which help you change positions.
Strong edge support, allowing couples to use the whole surface of the bed.
Cons of the DreamCloud
Not enough contouring at the shoulders and hips to be one of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns after at least 30 days and within the 365-night trial period

With soft foam and a sturdy layer of innerspring coils, the DreamCloud strikes a balance between comfort and support — a little bit of contouring up top and on-top-of-the-bed feel that comes from the bottom. It’s a fairly firm mattress that we think is most comfortable for back sleepers. It also has some luxury touches such as a cashmere-blend cover that are reminiscent of a high-end hotel. Learn more in our DreamCloud video review.

What our tester says:

“I really like how luxurious this mattress feels and how it could work for a variety of sleepers. Along with that, I found that the breathable cashmere cover helps the DreamCloud sleep cool throughout the night. Thanks to its medium-firm to firm support, I think the DreamCloud is a durable mattress. It balances support with plenty of pressure relief for back sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, former Sleepopolis senior product editor

Expert Opinion

If you’re an athletic sleeper looking for a hybrid mattress to keep your body relaxed and supported after long workouts, I believe the DreamCloud mattress is for you. As a luxury hybrid mattress, it’s constructed with a staggering five layers, and it includes both springs and foams to combine support and pressure relief. The cover of this mattress has been quilted with a bit of memory foam up top to contour the spine and give you some pressure relief right away. Plus, the lumbar region is further cradled by a comfort layer of gel memory foam and simultaneously receives support from a layer of extra-tall coils below. All of this makes the DreamCloud an especially good match for back sleepers.

The DreamCloud scored a 7 on our firmness scale, making this mattress slightly firmer than the industry standard for medium firm. This is great for back sleepers that want to keep their spine stable and comforted at the same time. However, the individually wrapped coils underneath these layers keep this mattress bouncy and responsive, so combination sleepers will still be able to move around during the night without getting stuck in this bed.

DreamCloud Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Materials
3.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4.5
Value
4
Cooling
4.5
Pressure Relief
5
Responsiveness
4.5
Edge Support
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
MaterialHybrid
Price (Queen)$1,483 (before discounts)
FirmnessMedium firm
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial365 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height12″
Adjustable Base Compatible?Yes

What our tester says: “I really like how luxurious this mattress feels and how it could work for a variety of sleepers. Along with that, I found that the breathable cashmere cover helps the DreamCloud sleep cool throughout the night. Thanks to its medium-firm to firm support, I think the DreamCloud is a durable mattress. It balances support with plenty of pressure relief for back sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

The majority of users on the DreamCloud website comment how well constructed this mattress seems to them. Many customers state that they can tell the DreamCloud is a good quality mattress, and they are impressed with the durability it has that lasts the test of time.

Highlights of the DreamCloud Mattress

  • The DreamCloud scored well on our pressure-map test, with the back area lighting up completely blue (which equates to low pressure). Sleepers who suffer from back pain should feel less pressure in this region.
  • Lightweight sleepers should rest comfortably on the DreamCloud, no matter which sleeping position they prefer. Lightweight back and stomach sleepers should get the support they need, since this mattress will feel firmer to their frame. At the same time, lightweight side sleepers should still get enough pressure relief for their hips and shoulders.
  • With strong edge support, cooling, and responsiveness, couples are bound to be comfortable while asleep and during sex. However, one thing worth mentioning is the DreamCloud did score lower on our motion isolation test. Because of this, if you’re a lighter sleeper, you might wake up from your partner’s larger movements.

What to Keep In Mind About the DreamCloud Mattress

  • Strict side sleepers might find that the DreamCloud sleeps a little too firm for their liking. These sleepers need a softer mattress that will provide extra pressure relief to their hips and shoulders. To find other options, these sleepers can take a look at our roundup of the best mattresses for side sleepers.

If the DreamCloud sounds like a dream to you, get more information from our full DreamCloud mattress review, or click here for our best deal. For more of our favorites, check out our best hybrid mattresses roundup.

Best Mattress For Side Sleepers – Helix Midnight

Best for Side Sleeping
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Helix
Helix Midnight Mattress
Cooling Mattress
Medium-Firm Comfort
Reinforced Edges
Hybrid mattress
100-night trial on all mattresses
Free shipping on all orders
Black Friday Sale
Use code BF25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Helix Midnight a 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. This means it’s slightly softer than the industry standard (6.5 out of 10).
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$937–$1,749 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for back sleepers of all weights.
SO sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation, so you shouldn’t feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Pros of the Helix Midnight
Back sleepers should get some cushioning in the lumbar region, and the coils will help keep their spines neutrally aligned.
Side sleepers should experience nice pressure relief and contouring at their shoulders and hips. For extra pressure relief, we recommend the Helix Midnight Luxe, the standard Helix Midnight’s luxury version.
The Helix Midnight has low motion transfer, which means partners aren’t likely to feel each other moving around at night.
The Midnight is a responsive mattress, so it’s ideal for combination sleepers.
Cons of the Helix Midnight
Not supportive enough for people over 250 pounds. For them, we recommend one of the best mattresses for heavy people.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
You can return your bed after the 30-day “break-in” period and before the trial period ends for a full refund.

The Helix Midnight is amongst Helix’s line of six standard mattresses. It’s known for its more balanced feel, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of sleepers. We also recommend it for couples, as it scored well on our motion isolation, responsiveness, edge support, and cooling tests. For a plusher and more cooling version of this mattress, see the Helix Midnight Luxe. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“I would recommend this mattress for side or back sleepers because it’s supportive, without putting pressure on your joints.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Expert Opinion

Many of the mattresses I recommend for side sleepers are on the softer side. However, since athletes require a good amount of support to lift their bodies and help them recover, I recommend the balanced feel of the Helix Midnight. This mattress has a medium-soft to medium-firm feel, and because it is a hybrid mattress, it includes both plush memory foam and pocketed coils for a combination of pressure relief and support. This mattress also comes in two versions (the Standard and the Luxe). Athletes might want to opt for the Luxe version of the Helix Midnight because it includes additional comfort features like a pillow top and zoned support.

Because of the hybrid construction of the Helix Midnight, this mattress sleepers cool and has high breathability from the coils in its base layer. The Helix Midnight Luxe also includes a Tencel cover that helps to get rid of added body heat, which is great for athletes that might run hot from all of their activities. Finally, the Helix Midnight includes a comfort layer made of memory plus foam. This foam is extra helpful at relieving pressure around the joints, and it offers some extra body contouring for the sleeper.

Helix Midnight Mattress Specs

MaterialHybrid
Price (Queen)$1,332 (before discounts)
FirmnessMedium
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial100 nights
Warranty10-year warranty
Height11.5″
Adjustable Base Compatible?Yes

What our tester says: “I would recommend it for side or back sleepers, because it’s supportive without putting pressure on your joints. The model also has a nice bouncy feel, thanks to its hybrid construction. That means it’s easy to roll around on, so you shouldn’t have trouble changing positions at night.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Many customers on the Helix website stated that they no longer wake up with shoulder or hip pain after sleeping on the Helix Midnight, which is especially great for side sleepers who often get added pain in these areas. However, one thing to keep in mind is that some users did state that this mattress is firmer than they originally thought it would be.

Highlights of the Helix Midnight Mattress

  • The Helix Midnight includes a support layer of individually wrapped coils. These coils helps to give this mattress a bouncy feel, which is especially important for combination sleepers. With this responsive feel, combo sleepers should be able to change positions during the night without getting stuck in their mattress.
  • Sleepers who suffer from shoulder pain should feel comfortable on the Helix Midnight. This mattress includes extra cushioning in its top layers that should help to prevent stiffness around the sleeper’s joints.
  • The Helix Midnight is a great option for couples because it scored well on our motion isolation test. This means that you shouldn’t feel the tossing and turning of your restless partner throughout the night. This responsive nature of this mattress also makes it good for sex.

What to Keep In Mind About the Helix Midnight Mattress

  • Heavier sleepers (those over 250 pounds) most likely won’t get the support they need from the Helix Midnight because of how soft this mattress is. These sleepers could opt for the Luxe version instead, but I recommend that they check out our roundup of the best mattresses for heavier sleepers for added information.

If you’re a side sleepers looking for a combination of support and comfort, you can find more information by reading our full Helix Midnight mattress review, or click here for our best deal. To see some similar options, check out our roundup of the best mattresses for side sleepers

Best Mattress For Stomach Sleepers – WinkBed

Best for Stomach Sleeping
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.7
WinkBeds
WinkBed Mattress
Firm, Supportive Feel
Euro Pillow Top
Sturdy Coils
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale
$300 off any mattress See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Hybrid, combining a plush pillow top with coils and foams for a luxury feel.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. We tested the Luxury Firm and scored it a 7 out of 10, meaning it’s on the firmer side of medium-firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,149–$2,049 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SO sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is ideal for anyone suffering from back pain.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
A great option for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Pros of the WinkBed
Back sleepers should get the support they need
It has a traditional, supportive feel
The WinkBed has cooling capabilities to help people who sleep hot
Sturdy edge support and good motion isolation make this a good choice for couples
Cons of the WinkBed
It lacks a contouring, slow-sinking feel that most associate with the best memory foam mattresses.
It may be too pricey for some, and we recommend those shoppers browse the best mattresses under $1,000.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 120-night trial period

The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress. It has a similarly supportive and sturdy feel to a traditional innerspring mattress, but upgrades like a Euro top and cooling Tencel cover give it a touch of modern luxury. Available in three firmness levels, there is a WinkBed for just about every sleeper. And a responsive and bouncy feel makes it a great pick for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“If you like the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed could work for you. Since this bed offered great pressure relief around my lumbar region, I’d also recommend it to folks who suffer from lower back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Expert Opinion

Because they require a lot more support than any of the other sleeping positions, stomach sleepers often have a difficult time finding the right mattress. It’s even harder for stomach-sleeping athletes, who need a mattress that also provides pain relief. I think the WinkBed could be a good option because of its support layer of individually wrapped coils. They’re strong enough to keep stomach sleepers lifted, while also creating zoned support. That means the springs are firmer in certain places and softer in others, allowing them to relieve pain in specific areas of the body.

At the same time, the WinkBed is a luxury mattress, so it includes both ultra-supportive coils and a plush pillow top. This combination of comfort and support should really appeal to both stomach sleepers and athletes, because they won’t have to give up one for the other. This bed scored a seven on our firmness scale, making it slightly firmer than the industry standard. Once again, both types of sleepers should appreciate the firm feel of this mattress, as it helps keep the spine in a neutral alignment to avoid pain in the future.

WinkBed Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Materials
4
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4
Value
4.5
Cooling
4
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
4
Edge Support
4
Trial Period
5
Warranty

WinkBed Mattress Specs

MaterialHybrid
Price (Queen)$1,799 (before discounts)
FirmnessMultiple firmness options
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial120 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height13.5″
Adjustable Base Compatible?Yes

What our tester says: “One of my favorite things about the WinkBed is its durability. This is a high-quality mattress that should really stand the test of time. This is great news for any sleeper, but especially nice for heavy people and couples.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Users on the WinkBed website praise this mattress for how much it helped alleviate their back pain. Some users stated that they had been dealing with back pain for multiple years, and the WinkBed completely eliminated this problem during the night.

Highlights of the WinkBed Mattress

  • Back sleepers should appreciate the WinkBed because of its quilted Tencel cover. This cover is made from eucalyptus wood cellulose, which helps to contour and fill the lumbar region, providing pressure relief for the lower back throughout the night.
  • Lightweight sleepers should be able to rest well in all sleeping positions on the WinkBed. The slightly firm feel of this mattress combined with the softer Euro pillow top makes it sturdy enough for lightweight back and stomach sleepers, will still providing enough pressure relief for lightweight side sleepers.
  • Stomach and back sleepers with back pain should get the pressure relief they need from the WinkBed, specifically because of the plush top layer that fills in the space around their lumbar region. However, side sleepers with back pain might need a softer mattress in order to feel that same relief.

What to Keep In Mind About the WinkBed Mattress

  • Strict side sleepers that are looking for a mattress with more contouring or sinkage might want to opt for a softer mattress than the WinkBed can provide. While this mattress does work for some side sleepers, it definitely isn’t considered soft. If you’re looking for that traditional “sinking” feel, check out our roundup of the best soft mattresses.

To find our more about this mattress, take a look at our full WinkBed mattress review, or click here for best deal. For more of our favorites, check out our roundup for the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.

Best Mattress For Joint Pain – Nolah Evolution

Best for Joint Pain
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Nolah
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Multiple Firmnesses
ArcticTex Cover
HDMax Support Coils
Hybrid Mattress
120-night Trial and Lifetime Warranty
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
Icon MattressReviews MattressType 250
Material
Hybrid, meaning this bed combines foam and coils in its construction.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple Firmness Options: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. We tested the Luxury Firm and rated it as 6.5 out of 10, meaning it is a medium-firm mattress.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,499–$3,198 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Sizes
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you overheat while you sleep, this mattress may help you stay cool.
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
back sleeper
Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
Great for couples due to its good edge support and low motion transfer
Works for back sleepers who need good lumbar support
Side sleepers should appreciate the pressure relief
Cons of the Nolah Evolution
Too soft to be one of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
Bargain hunters may find this to be a bit pricier and may want to stick to the best mattresses for the money.
Doesn’t have a slow-moving memory foam feel that you’d find in the best memory foam mattresses.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping and returns
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 Nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund after 30 days and within the 120-night trial period

The Nolah Evolution’s hybrid construction offers the cushioning of memory foam with the responsiveness of coils. The Luxury Firm model is a good option for side and back sleepers due to its medium-firm feel, though there are Plush and Firm versions as well. Those who share a bed may also appreciate its low motion transfer, so you won’t be disturbed by a partner’s movements and its solid edge support to allow you to maximize surface area. For more information, check out our video review.

What our tester says:

“I laid down to rest on this mattress on my back — my primary sleep position. I felt comfortable, but also appreciated the cozy, plush top of the bed. After some time lying on my back, I switched over to my side. I didn’t find this position quite as comfortable, as I did feel some slight pressure buildup in my shoulder.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer

Expert Opinion

Whether it be a sprained knee from playing soccer or a severe case of tennis elbow, all athletes are subject to joint pain. If it’s something they experience, they’ll want to seek out a softer mattress that can give them the pressure relief they need in sensitive areas. I believe that the Nolah Evolution should be a good fit for this. Together, the Nolah Evolution’s comfort layers treat athletes to plenty of sinkage, contouring, and pressure relief on their joints. I recommend the Plush or Luxury Firm versions of this mattress for the best pain relief.

Once again, this mattress comes in three different firmness levels (Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm), so athletes, and sleepers in general, can pick the one that best fits their sleeping needs. In my opinion, the Nolah Evolution ranked a 6.5 on our firmness scale, making this mattress medium-firm. However, the Nolah Evolution does include an AirFoamICE layer in its construction (which is a graphite-infused version of the regular AirFoam), creating more sinkage for the sleeper. Because of this, sleepers can still get that “sinking” feel without compromising the neutral alignment of their spine.

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Materials
4.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
5
Responsiveness
5
Pressure Relief
4
Trial Period
5
Warranty
4
Value

Nolah Evolution Mattress Specs

MaterialHybrid
Price (Queen)$2,499 (before discounts)
FirmnessMultiple firmness options
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial120 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height15″
Adjustable Base Compatible?Yes

What our tester says: “I love how the Nolah Evolution comes in three different firmness models, so you can choose the best fit for you. For the Luxury Firm model, I really appreciate its medium-firm feel. This mattress provides good pressure relief and body contouring. It’s a great choice for side sleepers, and back sleepers who like a softer mattress.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Customers on the Nolah website love how great the Nolah Evolution is for side sleepers. Many of them stated that it was difficult to find a mattress that was soft enough to provide them with relief around their joints, but still firm enough for their liking. However, the majority of users said that the Nolah Evolution found the perfect balance for them.

Highlights of the Nolah Evolution Mattress

  • Lightweight sleepers in all positions should enjoy the Nolah Evolution. Lightweight back sleepers should get the medium-firm feel they’re looking for, while lightweight side sleepers should enjoy the contouring that the foams in this mattress provide. Even lightweight stomach sleepers could enjoy this mattress, since they will receive more support for their weight.
  • Couples should enjoy the low motion transfer results that the Nolah Evolution offers, which make sure that you won’t wake up when your partner moves. At the same time, the AirFoamICE included in this mattress eliminates body heat, and the ArcticTex fibers are breathable, so even the foams in this hybrid allow for some airflow.
  • This Nolah Evolution is a great mattress for side sleepers, which can be rare to find in firmer mattresses. I felt more sinkage around my hips and shoulders while laying on this mattress, which helps to alleviate pressure in these sensitive areas.

What to Keep In Mind About the Nolah Evolution Mattress

  • The Nolah Evolution could be too soft for some stomach sleepers. Even though this is a firm mattress, stomach sleepers need extra lift in order to keep their hips in line with their shoulders to create a healthy spine alignment. The Nolah Evolution may not have enough stability to create this alignment, so strict stomach sleepers can look at our roundup of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers to find a mattress that better fits their sleeping position

If you’re ready to evolve, take a look at our full Nolah Evolution mattress review, or click here for our best deal. For more pain relieving mattresses, check out our roundup for the best mattresses for arthritis.

Best Mattress For Muscle Recovery – Bear 

Best for Muscle Recovery
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Bear
Bear Original Mattress
Supportive Foam
Firm Comfort
Cooling Gel
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BLACK35 for 35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Memory foam, with no coils in the construction.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Bear as a 7 out of 10, meaning it is just a touch firmer than medium firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$786–$1,922 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
If you sleep on your back, you should feel well-supported on this bed.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
With the addition of the Celliant cover, the Bear keeps a cooler feel than some other foam beds.
SO Sleeper Type Icons BudgetShoppers
Budget Shoppers
This affordable mattress is a solid choice for those looking to save.
Pros of the Bear
The Bear’s firm and supportive feel makes it ideal for back sleepers
It doesn’t offer much sinkage, a benefit for those who prefer to feel “on top” of the bed
The optimal Celliant cover gives this foam bed a cooling touch
The Bear isolates motion well, so couples won’t be too disturbed by each other’s movements
Cons of the Bear
This bed is not supportive enough to be one of the best mattresses for heavy sleepers, which accommodate folks weighing 250 pounds or more
The lack of sinkage means the Bear isn’t the best for cushioning or pressure relief, which is crucial for the best mattresses for side sleepers and the best mattresses for arthritis
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 Nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund and free returns within trial period

Even though it’s made entirely of foam, the Bear has a firm, supportive feel that should be sturdy enough for back sleepers and stomach sleepers alike. Additionally, combination sleepers should be able to easily move around on its surface. You can also pay extra for a Celliant cover that may help with cooling and muscle recovery. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“I found the double poly foam construction produced a firm, supportive feel. Though you’re likely to sink into its top layer of memory foam, this sinkage is somewhat curbed by the taut poly foam transition layer. This means most folks are going to be positioned more “on top” of the structure than “in” it.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester

Expert Opinion

When it comes to the best mattresses for athletes, it’s hard to beat the Bear. The company specifically markets its products to athletes who need post-workout recovery. Evidence of this includes them offering a Celliant-infused cover to top their mattress — a material believed to assist with muscle recovery and blood flow. However, this cover does cost an extra $130 dollars to add on, so keep that in mind when considering this mattress. With a score of 7 on our firmness scale, the Bear is slightly firmer than the industry standard, and this mattress has a very “on top” feel to it, rather than a more “sinking” feel. This allows the Bear to be comfortable for most back-sleeping and combination-sleeping athletes.

At the same time, the Bear does include some sinkage and contouring in its construction, even though it is considered a firm mattress. Athletes need this added bit of pressure relief, especially for sour muscles after an especially grueling workout. The Bear provides this balance of support and comfort that most athletes are looking for in their mattress.

Bear Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Materials
4
Motion Isolation
3.5
Support
4.5
Value
4
Cooling
4
Pressure Relief
4
Responsiveness
3
Edge Support
4
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Bear Mattress Specs

MaterialMemory foam
Price (Queen)$998 (before discounts)
FirmnessFirm
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial120 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height12″
Adjustable Base Compatible?Yes

What our tester says: “I really appreciate the firm and responsive feel of the Bear mattress. Its combination of support and pressure relief makes it a great option for back sleepers struggling with back pain. I also really like the Bear’s Celliant cover. While I can’t say whether or not it really helps with muscle recovery, I do think it does a great job keeping this mattress cool.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Customers on the Bear website loved how easy this mattress was to unbox, which can be rare for a bed-in-a-box mattress that needs time to box unbox and degas. Other users also stated that this mattress is a great choice for children who are growing and need some extra space and support from their bed.

Highlights of the Bear Mattress

  • The Bear includes gel infusions in its construction, so it stays cool throughout the night, which is rare for an all-foam bed. As stated earlier, this mattress can also have an additional Celliant cover that can be added for $130, which is said to help promote blood flow throughout the body. This occurs because of the microfibers of silicon and aluminum oxide present in the cover. These materials absorb your energy and redirect it back into your body, which helps to regulate your temperature.
  • In the comfort layer, the Bear includes a 2″ section of graphite gel-infused memory foam, which has a slow response to pressure. This adds some pressure relief to the mattress, helping alleviate tension both for sleepers suffering from joint pain and for athletes.
  • The Bear has great motion transfer results, so couples shouldn’t be able to feel the movements of their partner throughout the night. This is due to the top layer of memory foam included in the Bear, which keeps movement from transferring across the top of the mattress.

What to Keep In Mind About the Bear Mattress

  • Heavier sleepers might not find that the Bear gives them the support that they need. Instead, these sleepers might want to opt for an innerspring mattress, which will give them the stability they need from a mattress. For more options, check out our roundup of the best firm mattresses.

Ready for hibernation? Take a look at our full Bear mattress review for more information, or click here for our best deal.

Best Mattress For Back Pain – Saatva

Best for Back Pain
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.8
Saatva
Saatva Mattress
Multiple Firmnesses
Cooling Mattress
Strong Edge Support
Innerspring
365-night trial and lifetime warranty
Free white glove delivery
Election Extravaganza Sale
Up to $600 off See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Innerspring, for a bouncy mattress that’s easy to move around.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options. We tested the Luxury Firm model and scored it a 6.5 out of 10, meaning it’s the industry standard for medium firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$935–$2,450 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you ever overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
back pain
Back Pain
This bed is ideal for anyone suffering from back pain.
back sleeper
Back Sleeping
This mattress is ideal for back sleepers of all weights.
stomach sleeper
Stomach Sleeping
It’s also a nice option for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Pros of the Saatva
With three firmness options, most sleepers should find a Saatva model that works for them
The Saatva uses high-quality materials that will last you a long time
Its bouncy and responsive feel means it’s great for combination sleepers
The Saatva’s reinforced edges give it some of the best edge support we’ve ever seen
Cons of the Saatva
If you’re looking for lots of sinkage or amazing motion isolation, you’re better off with one of the best memory foam mattresses.
None of the Saatva Classic models will likely be supportive enough for heavy stomach sleepers. For these folks, we recommend the Saatva HD.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 365-night trial period. Saatva charges a $99 pick-up fee

The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It’s a good option for combo sleepers, who will want to feel free to switch positions and avoid feeling “stuck” in the mattress. It comes in three firmness levels, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs. The white glove delivery Saatva provides is an added perk and will save you the headache of getting rid of your old mattress (they take it away for free!). For more information, watch our video review.

What our tester says:

“I think the Saatva is a great option for back sleepers, as the Luxury Firm model provides enough cushioning for their lumbar region, but also lots of support to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Expert Opinion

Back pain is a common problem for many sleepers — even more so if you’re an athlete. If your back is sore from lifting weights, tackling a rival team, or hitting home runs, allow us to direct you to the Saatva. This mattress has a hybrid construction, so it combines coils and foams. The layer of memory foam up top is meant specifically for your lumbar region, which helps the Saatva create a targeted kind of pain relief for the back. At the same time, the pocketed coil section underneath this layer makes sure that sleepers are supported throughout the night, especially when it comes to keeping the spine in a neutral alignment.

This mattress does come in multiple firmness options (Plush Soft, Luxury Fir, and Firm) and heights (11.5″ and 14.5″), so sleepers can pick and choose what version of this mattress is best for their needs and preferences. The Saatva scored a 7 on our firmness scale, making it slightly firmer than the industry standard for a medium-firm mattress. This firm feel is created by the Saatva’s sturdy construction, which allows for both more support for the sleeper and makes the mattress more durable in the long run.

Saatva Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
5
Materials
3
Motion Isolation
5
Support
5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
5
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
5
Value

Saatva Mattress Specs

MaterialInnerspring
Price (Queen)$2,095 (before discounts)
FirmnessMultiple firmness options
ShippingFree white glove delivery
Sleep Trial100 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height11.5″ or 14.5″
Adjustable Base Compatible?Yes

What our tester says: “I think the Saatva is a great option for back sleepers, as the Luxury Firm model provides enough cushioning for their lumbar region, but also lots of support to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

The reviews on the Saatva website often state how easy the entire shopping process for their mattress was. Many customers praise how information and helpful the Saatva customer service was to them, especially when it came to finding a mattress that fit all of their needs and preferences.

Highlights of the Saatva Mattress

  • Hybrid beds are a great choice for combination sleepers because the coils present in the base layer of these mattresses allow for these sleepers to move around and switch positions easily throughout the night.
  • Because of all the coils in the bed’s construction, there’s plenty of room here for airflow, making the Saatva an excellent mattress for cooling. This is especially great for athletes that might have some extra body heat stored from their activities during the day.
  • Couples should love the reinforced edge support system included in the Saatva. This system combines coils and polyfoam to create a barrier around the edge of this mattress. Because of this, couples can use the full surface area of their Saatva without fear of sinkage or sagging near the sides.

What to Keep In Mind About the Saatva Mattress

  • The Saatva could be too firm for strict side sleepers. These sleepers could opt for the Plush Soft version of this mattress instead, especially if they’re lightweight and need more pressure relief around their shoulders and hips. However, they can also check out our roundup of the best mattresses for side sleepers.

For more information, read our full Saatva mattress review, or click here for our best deal. For more of our favorites, check out our roundup of the best mattresses for back pain.

Best Mattress For Weightlifters – Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid

Best for Weightlifting
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress
Medium-Firm Comfort
Recovery Technology
Responsive Coils
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BFRIDAY30 for 30% off sitewide See Details
Icon MattressReviews MattressType 250
Material
Hybrid (this bed combines both memory foam and coils)
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmnesses: Soft, Medium, Firm. We tested the Medium and rated it a 6.5 out of 10, making it medium-firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,099–$2,399 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Most average weight back sleepers should find a good balance of comfort and support, especially if they’re athletic.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Combination Sleepers
Those who change sleeping positions should find this bed easy to move on.
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
The foams provide enough contouring for side sleepers to get the pressure relief they need at the shoulders and the hips.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Spartan
The cover contains infrared technology that may help with recovery.
It’s available in three different firmness levels, which should appeal to a variety of sleeping positions.
The cover and airflow-promoting coils both help with cooling.
The combination of coils and foam makes this mattress very easy to move around on
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan
It’s probably not going to be supportive enough for larger body types over 250 pounds. These folks should look at our best mattresses for heavy people instead.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 Nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 120-night trial. Brooklyn Bedding charges a $99 pick up fee

The Brooklyn Bedding Spartan mattress was designed especially for athletes. The copper infusion in the cover and the airflow-promoting coils should both go a long way to helping them cool down after a workout. The cover also contains infrared technology meant to absorb your body’s heat, then redirect it back to you as energy that may aid with recovery. However, note that we haven’t formally tested this technology. Either way, we definitely recommend this bed to those with an active lifestyle. For more information, check out our video review.

What our tester says:

“The Brooklyn Bedding Spartan is a hybrid mattress designed with athletes in mind. It’s made with far-infrared ray technology to aid in muscle recovery. I think it’s also a good choice for back sleepers because of its pressure relief and support.” – Madison Schaper, former staff writer

Expert Opinion

Serious weightlifters can often benefit from a firm mattress, as a firmer bed tends to do a better job of supporting their thicker musculature. I scored the Medium version of this mattress at a 6.5 on our firmness scale, making it the same as the industry standard for a medium-firm mattress. However, this company also offers a Firm model that should be an excellent fit for weightlifters. They should get some nice pressure relief from a comfort layer of CopperFlex foam, while getting all the support they need from below via a layer of denser TitanFlex foam and individually wrapped AscensionX coils.

The cover of the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid is also made with special far-infrared ray technology that could help to aid athletes in their recovery overnight. This fabric supposedly includes nanobionic technology that can absorb waves of energy from the sleeper’s body and reflect it back to promote circulation and recovery. While Sleepopolis cannot say if this works for all sleepers, I can firmly state that the fabric is very breathable, making it great for hot sleepers.

Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Materials
4
Motion Isolation
4
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4.5
Responsiveness
5
Pressure Relief
4
Trial Period
3.5
Warranty
3
Value

Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress Scores

MaterialHybrid
Price (Queen)$1,999 (before discounts)
FirmnessMedium firm
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial120 nights
Warranty10-year warranty
Height13
Adjustable Base Compatible?Yes

What our tester says: “I really appreciate the great edge support, cooling features, and motion isolation on the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid mattress. All these traits make me think this could be a great mattress for couples. It’s medium-firm feel should also appeal to many different sleepers, making it a great mattress to share.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Customers on the Brooklyn Bedding website love the firm feel that they get from the Spartan Hybrid. Many customers stated that this helped to eliminate their joint pain during the night, which was not the case with their previous mattress.

Highlights of the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress

  • Hot sleepers should find that they sleep cooler on the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid. This is because this mattress includes a cool-to-the-touch cover, and its top foam layer utilizes phase change material to keep get rid of added body heat, which can be especially important for athletes that have been working their body throughout the day.
  • During our pressure-map test, the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid lit up blue across the board for back pain, especially for back sleepers. Sleepers who suffer from back pain should feel that their weight is evenly distributed across this mattress, so there is no one area that is getting more pressure than others.
  • The Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid includes reinforced edges that make this mattress great for couples, as they can use the full surface area of their mattress without fear of sinkage near the sides. The reinforced steel coils in this bed also made us feel super stable on the edge of it.

What to Keep In Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress

  • Budget-conscious shoppers may want to opt for a cheaper mattress than the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid. Because this is a luxury mattress, it is on the pricier side, with a Queen bed costing around $2,000. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, check out our roundup of the best mattresses under $1,000.

If you want more details about this mattress, you can take a look at our full Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid mattress review, or click here for our best deal.

Buying the Best Mattress For Athletes

We recognize that the term “athlete” can be fairly all-encompassing. For example, a long-distance runner is likely going to be built differently than a linebacker, and will thus need different things out of a mattress.

So while no single mattress is going to be the perfect fit for every athlete out there, it’s important that athletes understand the differences between various mattress types so they can make an informed decision. Let’s dive into some of the different mattresses on the market, as well as their materials, firmnesses, and requirements of individual sleepers. 

Mattress Thickness For Athletes

We classify mattress thickness into three different categories: low-profile, medium-profile, and high-profile. Let’s see which of these profiles might be the best for athletes.

  • Low-profile mattresses: These are mattresses that have a thickness (or height) of less than 10 inches. While this might work for kids, teenagers, and smaller body types, these beds likely aren’t going to be supportive enough for athletes, especially if they’re heavier. Athletes should look for something taller.
  • Medium-profile mattresses: This refers to mattresses that are between 10 and 12 inches thick. Most of the beds I review here at Sleepopolis fall into this category, and I find it to be a good middle ground for athletes. Most sleepers — including those with an active lifestyle — should get the comfort and support they need from a medium-profile bed.
  • High-profile mattresses: Finally, I have high-profile mattresses, which refers to any bed taller than 12 inches. These beds can be an especially good fit for heavy athletes or anyone who has bulky musculature. They might need a bed that offers more support.

So, to sum it up, I think medium-profile and high-profile mattresses would be best for athletes.

Mattress Firmness For Athletes

I believe that most athletes will be most comfortable on a medium-firm to firm mattress. While there might be some soft mattresses out there that could work, they should still have a substantial amount of support to lift up athletes’ musculature and help their bodies recover.

I score every mattress I test on our mattress firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest.  Below, I’ve listed how we categorize firmness. I should note that, of all the tests we perform here in our Sleepopolis lab, firmness is the most subjective. What feels like a medium-firm mattress might feel like a firmer mattress to someone else, especially if they weigh less than I do. As a rule of thumb, lighter-weight sleepers tend to experience a mattress as firmer than heavier sleepers, as they’re putting less pressure on the bed’s layers.

SoftMedium-FirmFirm
3–5/10 on the firmness scale6–7/10 on the firmness scale8–10/10 on the firmness scale

Mattress Types For Athletes

As you can see in my above roundup of the best mattresses for athletes, I’ve included several different types of beds. Here are their differences.

  • Foam: All-foam mattresses tend to offer a lot of pressure relief, which can come in handy for athletes who suffer from aches and pains. Of all the different mattress types, foam beds often the least expensive. The downside is that they’re not always as supportive as other types of mattresses. They usually last five to seven years.
  • Innerspring: Today, the term “innerspring” means something different than it did many years ago. While true innerspring mattresses once had a core constructed of coils and little else, modern innerspring mattresses usually have a good bit of foam in the construction as well. Either way, they’re extremely responsive beds and tend to offer a lot of support for athletes. The downside is that they tend to be more expensive. They usually last seven to 10 years. 
  • Hybrid: A hybrid mattress is constructed from a combination of different materials — usually foam and coils. They tend to have a balanced, medium-firm feel and last seven to 10 years. Like innerspring mattresses, they can be a bit expensive, although there are some cheaper options out there.
  • Latex: A latex mattress is made with latex foam derived from either Talalay or Dunlop latex, resulting in a mattress that’s bouncy, responsive, and naturally cooling. Latex is extremely durable, and is often paired with coils and other types of foam. They usually last seven to 10 years. Like hybrid and innerspring mattresses, they tend to be on the pricier end.
  • Air beds: I didn’t include any air beds in my roundup of the best mattresses for athletes because they’re extremely expensive. But if you can afford one, it’s a good option for anyone with an active lifestyle, as it’s a luxury mattress with many — usually dozens — different firmness settings. It’s fairly easy to find one that works for every type of sleeper. If you’re looking for one of the best air beds around, I recommend the luxurious Saatva Solaire.

So, What’s The Best Mattress Construction For Athletes?

This answer is different from one person to the next, as we all have different body types, sleeping positions, and overall preferences. If we had to choose, I’d say that a hybrid mattress would probably be the best construction for athletes. Hybrids vary in firmness and feel, so athletes should be able to choose a mattress that provides pressure relief for sensitive areas or utilizes extra-firm support, all depending on their needs. In general, hybrids are durable options and many quality models (a number of them listed in this roundup) are listed at value prices.

Athletes’ Sleeping Position

Here’s a quick rundown of what mattresses might be good for the different sleeping positions among athletes.

  • Back sleepers: These folks need a mattress that has a blend of comfort and support, treating their lumbar region to pressure relief while also giving them a slight lift and keeping their spine in a neutral alignment. They usually do best on hybrid or innerspring mattresses.
  • Side sleepers: Like back sleepers, side sleepers need a mix of comfort and support, with perhaps a little more on the comfort side. To get that requisite pressure relief, they tend to be comfortable on foam mattresses, although they can also find a good fit in many hybrid beds.
  • Stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers usually have the hardest time finding the right mattress, as they require a lot of support to keep their hips from bowing into the bed and throwing their spine out of alignment. They also tend to need a lot of firmness. I usually steer them toward innerspring mattresses, although there are some hybrids that may be able to accommodate them.
  • Combination sleepers: This refers to sleepers who switch positions throughout the night. Because they need a responsive bed that allows them to easily move around, they can usually find comfort in latex mattresses, hybrid mattresses, and innerspring mattresses. 

What’s The Best Sleeping Position?

There isn’t one sleeping position that works for absolutely everyone, and with that in mind, the best sleeping position is one that supports your spine in a neutral alignment. Generally, stomach sleeping isn’t considered the healthiest position because of the unnecessary strain it puts on your joints and spine. Side sleeping and back sleeping are considered healthier for most, and which one is best for you depends on factors including whether you have back pain, joint pain, sleep apnea, and so on. For more details, see our article on the best sleeping position for better health and sleep.

Mattress Features For Athletes

Here are some specific traits that athletes may want to pay attention to in a new mattress.

Cooling

Athletes tend to get their body temperatures up through rigorous competition and workouts. Having a high temperature can make it difficult to fall asleep, so it’s important for them to find a mattress with advanced cooling features that can help them cool down.

Pressure relief

At some point in their athletic careers, athletes are undoubtedly going to struggle with aches and pains. That’s why they should look for a mattress with a decent amount of pressure relief. Even if they opt for a supportive hybrid or innerspring mattress to help keep them lifted, they’ll want to make sure there’s enough foam there for some contouring.

Recovery

Many mattresses designed for athletes have additional technology designed to promote blood flow and assist with muscle recovery. Examples include Celliant and infrared rays.

Adjustability

If you can afford it, investing in an adjustable bed can be a boon for athletes, as it lets you keep your legs elevated after a workout, which can assist with recovery and blood flow. For more, see our roundup of the best adjustable beds

What Is Celliant?

Celliant is a fiber found in mattress constructions, and we see it a lot in mattress covers. Essentially, Celliant utilizes your body’s heat and turns it into energy that reportedly becomes fuel for easier muscle recovery and better blood flow. While we can’t confirm this, we can say that Celliant makes a difference when it comes to cooling; beds that feature Celliant could be a really great choice for hot sleepers. You might have seen this material in many mattresses by Bear.

Athletic Body Types

We cannot stress this enough: not every athlete is the same. Even within the same sport, there are many different sizes and body types. Just look at football: according to a 2017 study by the NCAA, the average height and weight of a college football player varied depending on what position they played. Cornerbacks were, on average, 5’9” and 185 lb, while offensive linemen were 6’3” and 300 lb. 

So the best mattress for athletes should be a combination of extra features catered to those with an active lifestyle and a bed that fits each sleeper’s body type.

How We Test Pressure Relief

I’ve talked a lot in this roundup about the pressure relieving capabilities of the majority of these mattresses. This is because pressure relief is especially important for athletes that are putting more of a strain on their muscles and joints, whether that be from running, lifting, hiking, or just straight up moving.

Because of this, I made it a priority to pick mattresses that would be able to help these athletes, and sleepers in general, avoid and alleviate pain during the night. But how exactly can I tell that a mattress is going to be able to relieve pressure? Don’t worry, we’ve got a test for that.

In order to determine how well a mattress can alleviate pressure in certain sensitive areas (mainly the shoulders, lower back, and hips), I do what’s called a pressure-map test. During this test, I spread out a pressure-map across the length and width of the mattress. If you don’t know what a pressure map is, it is basically a pad that uses heat mapping technology to show where the most pressure is building across the body as a person lays on the bed. Once the pad is down, I have our Sleepopolis mattress testers lay on the mattress in different positions (back, side, stomach, and combination) to see where the most pressure, if any, is being generated.

The Minocasa's pressure map results showing red around the shoulder side sleeping and mainly blue for back sleeping.

As you can see in the image above, I can then look at these results on a nice graph that shows us where the most pressure is being generated. Blue and green on the map equate to low pressure, while yellow and red equate to high pressure in that area. Using the image above as an example, I can see that this sleeper is not experiencing much pressure around their lower back, but when they switched to side sleeping, they felt a lot of pressure building up in their hips and shoulders. This would tell us that while this might be a good mattress for back and stomach sleepers, side sleepers should avoid it, especially if they have pain in these areas.

For athletes, I really want a mattress that is going to be blue and green in all areas, since many athletes use their entire body when they work out. Because of that, they are going to want pressure relief in all areas. It can sometimes be difficult to find a mattress that has no pressure build-up whatsoever, but it’s definitely not impossible, and this roundup showcases several mattresses that are especially great at relieving pressure for these sleepers.

How We Chose These Mattresses

Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 300 products in our mattress lab, running each one through tests such as pressure-mapping and measuring motion transfer with a seismometer. From there, we give every bed an overall score based on materials, comfort, support, cooling, and edge support. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.

For some of the mattresses on this page, we considered additional technology geared toward athletes, such as Celliant covers and infrared rays that can assist with recovery. But we also picked beds that excel at cooling. After exercise, one’s body temperature tends to rise, which can make it difficult to fall asleep. So we only included mattresses that scored at least a 4 out of 5 on cooling. Click here to learn more about our methodology.

FAQs

What is the best mattress for muscle recovery?

The best mattresses for muscle recovery often have added technology such as Celliant or infrared rays. While we can’t verify the exact science of these features, we can attest that these beds were made with athletes in mind and have the requisite amount of support. One example of such a mattress is the Bear.

What mattresses does the NFL use?

The NFL has recently partnered with Sleep Number, making the company the official sleep and wellness partner of the league. As a result, each player has been offered a Sleep Number 360 Smart Bed with SleepIQ technology. While we didn’t include the mattress in our roundup because of its high price point (we recognize that not all of our readers are on an NFL salary), you can read our full review of it <a href=”https://sleepopolis.com/mattress-reviews/sleep-number-360-i10-smart-bed-review/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>here</a>.

Are memory foam mattresses good for athletes?

As a material, memory foam excels at pressure relief, which can help athletes alleviate their aches and pains from practice. At the same time, they’ll want to make sure that an all-foam bed has enough support for their musculature and to promote a neutral spine alignment. The Bear and Nectar Luxe are both examples of all-foam mattresses with the right blend of comfort and support for athletes.

Is a firm mattress better for athletes?

On a whole, athletes tend to need a firmer or at least a medium-firm mattress to assist with recovery and help them maintain their spinal alignment. However, there are a handful of softer mattresses that are still a good fit, such as the Bear Elite Hybrid and Nectar Luxe.

Recap: The Best Mattresses for Athletes

MattressBest ForPrice (Queen)CouponReview
Bear Elite HybridOverall$2,111Bear CouponRead Our Review
Nectar LuxeCooling$3,214Nectar CouponRead Our Review
DreamCloudHybrid$1,798DreamCloud CouponRead Our Review
Helix MidnightSide Sleepers$1,374Helix CouponRead Our Review
WinkBedStomach Sleepers$1,799WinkBed CouponRead Our Review
Nolah EvolutionJoint Pain$2,299Nolah CouponRead Our Review
BearMuscle Recovery$998BearRead Our Review
SaatvaBack Pain$1,995Saatva CouponRead Our Review
Brooklyn Bedding Spartan HybridWeightlifters$1,999Brooklyn Bedding CouponRead Our Review
Dan Caffrey

Dan Caffrey

Editor

About Author

Dan is a Performance Editor and Certified Sleep Coach at Sleepopolis, where he writes and edits mattress roundups to give readers the most up-to-date information on sleep products. In 2020, Dan earned his MFA In Playwriting from UT Austin, and his plays have been seen around the country in Chicago, Austin, Washington D.C., and elsewhere. He’s also a pop-culture fanatic, having written for publications such as The A.V. Club, Consequence, Pitchfork, and Vox. He co-hosts two popular horror podcasts on the Bloody Disgusting Podcast Network — The Losers’ Club: A Stephen King Podcast and Halloweenies: A Horror Franchise Podcast. When he’s not catching up on the latest King novel, you can find Dan in and around Brooklyn walking his dog Hank, seeing a play with his wife, and going to way too many concerts.

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