When it comes to finding the best mattress for heavy people, there are several important factors to consider, as these sleepers put more pressure on a bed’s layers than lightweight or average weight sleepers.
According to Sleepopolis Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta, sleepers weighing over 250 pounds should “look for a mattress that uses thick and durable materials. A mattress for heavier sleeps should offer strong support throughout, with medium to firm thickness and reinforced edges to prevent sagging.”
They’ll also want a bed with a higher-than-average weight capacity. According to Saatva, most queen and king mattresses are designed to only support 250 pounds on each side for a total weight limit of 500 pounds. This may not accommodate all heavy sleepers, especially heavyweight couples. That’s why, for this roundup of the best mattresses for heavy people, I picked beds with weight limits ranging from 600 to 1,500 pounds. I’ve also included mattresses that range from $1,332 to $3,424 so you can choose the price that’s right for you.
Finally, when selecting the mattresses for this list, I made sure to not just go off of my own opinion, but the opinion of folks with larger body types. As you’ll see, I paid attention to what heavy sleepers are saying online, and even brought in some heavier colleagues to test out the mattresses and offer their insights.
Weight Disclaimer: We recognize that people come in all shapes and sizes, and people of every size deserve a mattress that works for their body type. We use the weight categories light, average, and heavy to more easily categorize sleepers based on how mattresses will perform for their body type, as most mattresses are designed for the group we call “average” (130 to 250 pounds). As a general takeaway, lighter weight sleepers don’t require as much support as average weight sleepers, and mattresses will tend to feel firmer to them. On the other hand, heavy weight sleepers tend to need more support than average weight sleepers and tend to sink into the mattress more.
My Top Pick for Heavy Sleepers
Even among the 300+ mattresses I’ve tested, the Titan Plus Luxe stands out for its sturdy, supportive nature (due in part to its extra-tall layer of coils). Still, I found from testing this mattress that it’s still a comfortable and pressure-relieving option.
Best Mattresses for Heavy People 2024
- Titan Plus Luxe – Best Overall Mattress for Heavy People
- Helix Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy Hot Sleepers
- Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Heavy People
- Saatva – Best Innerspring Mattress for Heavy People
- WinkBed Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy Back Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Heavy Side Sleepers
- Nolah Evolution Comfort+ – Best Luxury Mattress for Heavy People
- Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Heavy People
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers and Muscle Recovery
- Big Fig – Best Mattress for Heavy Couples
Best Mattress for Heavy People 2024 Video Review
How I Test the Best Mattresses for Heavy People
Pressure Relief
As heavier sleepers tend to compress through more of a mattress’s layers, I searched for options with adequate pressure relief. By compiling beds with thicker and denser comfort layers, it better ensures that the best mattresses for heavy people properly contour any areas with pressure buildup and help relieve sensitive joints.
Weight Capacity
Some mattresses offer better support than others, and many aren’t properly designed to support a body weight of 250 pounds. While selecting the models for this roundup, our experts ensured each mattress manufacturer’s listed weight capacity is more than enough, whether you’re a heavy sleeper that snoozes alone or with a partner. Our team finds that beds with quality materials, taller heights, and stronger support layers hold more weight and support proper spinal alignment throughout the night.
Cooling
Heavier sleepers have more of a tendency to overheat during sleep, as they have more body mass, which generates more heat. Because of this, I took special care to include more cooling mattresses. Beds with coils, such as hybrid/latex/innerspring beds, have breathable constructions. But there are also a plethora of cooling features that brands include while manufacturing, from cooling gel infusions to Phase Change Material, which is thermoregulating.
Firmness
Heavier sleepers are likely going to feel that mattresses are softer than what the average sleeper perceives. Because of this, I filled this roundup with firmer beds with added support. Our experts suggest mattresses between a 6.5/10 – 9/10 on the firmness scale, depending on your sleeping position.
Compare the Best Mattresses For Heavy People
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| Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe | Helix Plus Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Saatva Mattress | WinkBed Plus Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress | Nolah Evolution Comfort+ | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Big Fig Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Firm: 7.5/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 8/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||||
| Best For |
Side Sleepers,
Back Sleepers |
Back Sleepers,
Side Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers |
Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors
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Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers |
Couples,
Back Sleepers, Hip Pain |
Hot Sleepers,
Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers |
Stomach Sleepers,
Back Pain, Seniors |
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
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Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers, Couples |
How Do We Calculate Our Sleepopolis Score?
To arrive at our final Sleepopolis mattress score, we use a weighted formula that averages the scores of several individual categories we believe to be important considerations when purchasing a mattress. We use a scale from 1–5, with 5 being excellent, 3.5 being average and 1 being poor. Regarding how much we weigh each category, support and value are the most important at 1.25. Weighed at 1 are factors like materials, cooling, responsiveness, edge support, and motion isolation. These categories are crucial for your purchase, but also depend on your sleep preferences. And lastly, weighed at 0.5 and 0.25 are categories likes warranty and sleep trial, neither of which are deal breakers, but still play an important role. We apply these weights and average the scores to give each mattress a fair assessment of its overall performance.
Titan Plus Luxe – Best Overall Mattress for Heavy People
The Titan Plus Luxe provides a sturdy and supportive, but still comfortable and luxurious sleep experience for heavy sleepers. The medium-firm feel can work for heavy back and side sleepers, but can also work for some light and average weight folks too. This means mixed-weight couples particularly might enjoy this mattress, especially since it has excellent motion isolation and strong edge support. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“If you’re a heavy sleeper looking for a bed made of high-quality materials, the Titan Plus Luxe is a great option for you. It’s built to last and should do a great job supporting heavier sleepers, especially back, side, and combination sleepers.” – Madison Schaper, former Sleepopolis staff writer and mattress tester
Expert Opinion
I chose the Titan Plus Luxe as the best mattress for heavy people because it was designed specifically for heavy sleepers and was built to support up to 1,500 pounds. This luxury hybrid mattress contains firm, responsive TitanFlex foam and a layer of 961 extra-tall TitanCaliber pocketed coils to create a supportive sleeping surface. The bed also includes a transition layer of Energex for extra pressure relief and cushioning.
The Titan Plus Luxe should have a classic medium-firm feel to sleepers weighing over 250 pounds. Heavy side and back sleepers can appreciate the balance between cushioning foams and sturdy support. The mattress is also pretty responsive, so combination sleepers should be able to easily switch between sleeping positions. Average and lightweight sleepers might experience this bed as firmer, as they won’t sink into the layers as much.
Helix Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy Hot Sleepers
As a company, Helix is famous for creating high-quality hybrid mattresses for affordable prices. The Helix Plus is that rare mattress that was designed for heavy people, but still has a lot of softness. This allows it to appeal to some sleepers of average weight, as well as larger body types. Read more about it in our full Helix Plus video review.
What our tester says:
“I think heavy back sleepers should love how the Helix Plus provides support for spinal alignment, but also plush comfort in the top layer. Also, those who sit or sleep along the edge of the bed should enjoy the Helix Plus’s sturdy edge support.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Expert Opinion
If you find yourself overheating at night and waking up sweaty, you may be a hot sleeper. These folks should look for a mattress that’s packed with cooling technology and promotes plenty of airflow. I chose the Helix Plus as the best mattress for heavy hot sleepers because it’s not only supportive enough for heavy bodies, but also contains a breathable Tencel cover, gel-infused memory foam, open-cell foam, and coils to promote airflow. The cooling materials and durable construction could be a game changer for heavy folks looking to prevent overheating.
Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Heavy People
The Nectar delivers a balance of comfort and support: it’s definitely contouring, but still provides a firm enough foundation for most light to average weight sleepers, especially if they sleep on their back or stomach. Plus, a lengthy trial period, lifetime warranty, and affordable price make the Nectar a reassuring choice for many. Watch our video review to learn more.
What our tester says:
“I think back sleepers would be especially happy on this bed. They’ll get plenty of support from the firm memory foam in the Nectar Classic, which should translate to great pressure relief and a good night’s sleep. Hot sleepers who have to have a memory foam mattress should also have no trouble at all falling asleep on this bed.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
Many all-foam beds tend to lack support for heavier people, leaving them sinking too deeply into the bed to receive adequate joint and back support. However, l found the mattress (which was recently remodeled) to have good level of comfort and support for larger body types, especially in the back- and side-sleeping positions. This is likely due to its high-density foam foundation and transitionary core foam layer, both of which are designed to give sleepers a nice lift. Beyond its unique ability to support heavier sleepers, I gave the Nectar high scores across the board, defying some of the associations some of us may have with all-foam beds.
Saatva – Best Innerspring Mattress for Heavy People
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
When testing mattresses, I’ve found that innerspring mattresses are often a good match for heavy people because the coils offer more support than all-foam mattresses. So it’s no surprise that Saatva — a brand known for creating luxury mattresses filled mostly with coils — created a bed that suits many heavier sleepers out there. The Saatva has the brand’s signature coil-on-coil construction, with just a bit of memory foam up top for cushioning. Better yet, this bed comes in three different firmnesses (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm) and two different heights (11.5 inches and 14.5 inches). That way, sleepers can choose the best option for their preferred sleeping position. However, I recommend the Luxury Firm or Firm models, as well as the tallest height option, for the best support.
WinkBed Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy Back Sleepers
The WinkBed Plus is a firm, hybrid mattress designed specifically to accommodate heavyweight sleepers. Through our testing, we found it works best for back sleepers, particularly those over 250 pounds. It also does a good job of isolating motion, which will likely appeal to you if you sleep with a partner. If you want to learn more about the WinkBed Plus, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“This mattress was designed for heavier people and it really is a fantastic bed for these individuals. Heavy people fed up with unsupportive mattresses will find a lot to love about this luxury mattress.” – Bridget Chapman, former Sleepopolis senior product editor
Expert Opinion
When it comes to back sleeping, a balance between support and pressure relief is key. Back sleepers require enough support to keep their spine in neutral alignment, especially if they fall in the heavyweight category. Heavy sleepers tend to sink further into a mattress’s layers and require more support and lift to achieve proper alignment. The WinkBed Plus is a luxury hybrid mattress built for heavy people. These sleepers should find all the support they need in a layer of individually wrapped coils and an Extra-Edge Support System. In fact, these coils are so tall, strong, and sturdy that they give the WinkBed Plus a feel that’s similar to a traditional innerspring mattress. For comfort, a Euro top and quilted cover help cushion the lumbar area.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Mattress for Heavy Side Sleepers
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress combines a foam comfort layer and sturdy coils. This combination of materials makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. It comes in three firmness levels, and we recommend the Medium model for most back sleepers. It’s a great choice for shoppers who are looking for a new mattress on a budget. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“Given that the Signature Hybrid has some excellent bounce, I’d highly recommend this mattress for combination sleepers who often change positions multiple times throughout the night. I also think the Signature Hybrid could be a great fit for couples. You shouldn’t be overly disturbed by a restless partner on this bed, and it has nice, firm edge support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
Heavier side sleepers need thicker, more supportive layers to prevent them from sinking too far into the material. Still, there needs to be a balance of pressure relief so their shoulder and hip joints — the areas of the body where they put the most pressure — are well-cushioned. They may find this balance in the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid. The mattress comes in three different firmness levels, and I think the Medium model, which usually feels medium firm to light and average weight sleepers, might give heavy side sleepers the softness they need. Remember, heavier folks tend to experience mattresses as slightly softer than average weight sleepers.
Nolah Evolution Comfort+ – Best Luxury Mattress for Heavy People
A mattress made for sleepers weighing 250+ pounds, the Nolah Evolution Comfort+ utilizes individually pocketed coils and other quality materials to create one of the most supportive beds on the market. Still, it tested incredibly for pressure relief, and should provide pain alleviation for back and side sleepers battling back, shoulder, and hip pain. This luxury option features lots of cooling features as well. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“As a mattress designed for heavy people, who weigh 250 pounds or more, I think the Nolah Evolution Comfort+ really succeeds. It is highly supportive, responsive, and yet also offers plush comfort. I particularly appreciate how it could work to relieve pressure points for heavy side sleepers — many mattresses for heavy folks are on the firmer side and don’t provide tons of cushioning.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Expert Opinion
When selecting the best luxury mattress for heavy people, I looked for a bed that truly takes quality and comfort to the next level. The Nolah Evolution Comfort+ fits the bill perfectly. This mattress utilizes cushioning proprietary foam and a Euro top for extra luxurious pressure relief. There are eight inches of sturdy coils toward the bottom of the mattress, which offer zoned support for targeted spinal support. The bed has an overall balanced feel that back sleepers can appreciate, as well as cooling technology that’s ideal for hot sleepers. Keep in mind that luxury beds come with higher prices, so they may not be ideal for budget shoppers.
Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Heavy People
The Plank Firm more than lives up to its name with its ultra-sturdy foams and supportive feel. While this bed certainly isn’t for everyone, it should be an ideal fit for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination sleepers who want to feel more on top of their mattress than in it. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Plank Firm is one of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers. Both sides of the mattress, the firm side and extra firm side, should give these sleepers the support they need to keep their hips in line with their shoulders. Back sleepers who like a firmer feel should also be happy on the firm side of the Plank.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
The more someone weighs, the more they’ll sink into the mattress. This is why I generally recommend firmer mattresses to heavier sleepers; they can feel more pressure relieving for these folk than average and lightweight sleepers. When it comes to firm mattresses, the all-foam Plank Firm is my favorite. Created by Brooklyn Bedding, this is a flippable all-foam mattress with two sides: a firm side and an extra-firm side. The mattress maintains its strong support from the seven inches of high-density base foam in the middle of the construction, with a quilted foam cover on both sides for a bit of pressure relief. The firm side has more quilted foam on top and the extra-firm side has less. When Paulie tried the Plank Firm in all three sleeping positions, he found it to be a good fit for back sleeping and stomach sleeping. However, he thinks both sides are too firm for side sleeping.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Heavy People and Muscle Recovery
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
One of Bear’s interesting qualities is their use of a material called Celliant, which they’ll add to the mattress cover for an additional fee. According to Bear, Celliant is designed to absorb body heat, and then redirect it back to the sleeper for muscle recovery and blood flow. While I can’t verify these benefits, several independent studies have, and I can testify that Celliant sleeps nice and cool. With a height of 14 inches, the Bear Elite Hybrid is also taller than many other beds, which bodes well for a mattress that supports heavier people. During testing, I found that the Medium model of this mattress should provide a good balance of comfort and support for heavier side sleepers and back sleepers.
Big Fig – Best Mattress for Heavy Couples
Big Fig stands for “bigger figure” and has the strength and durability to support more weight while also providing pressure relief and comfort. The mattress is made with high-quality and durable materials including latex foam, pocketed coils, and high-density poly foam. This is a firm mattress that’s cooling and great for couples. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“When I added more weight and pressed further into the mattress I began to feel the strong support and bounce of the Big Fig. I would definitely recommend this bed for heavier people, as its firmness offers optimal support for larger bodies.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior commerce editor
Expert Opinion
When a couple is searching for a new mattress, there are a few factors to pay special attention to. First, they’ll want to find a bed with low motion transfer, especially if one or both partners are easily woken up. If the bed is able to isolate motion, you won’t be disturbed by your partner’s tossing and turning. Cooling is also something to look out for, as two bodies overheat faster than one. Couples may also want a bed with strong edge support, which gives the bed a larger feel and allows both partners to spread out. Finally, a responsive bed has a bit of bounce, which makes it good for sex. The Big Fig mattress has all of these elements and was designed for heavy sleepers.
Why Trust Sleepopolis to Help you Find the Best Mattress for Heavy People
At Sleepopolis, we have tested over 300 products to help every sleeper find exactly what they are looking for. While we do not have testers of every body type, shape, and size, we can apply our expert knowledge of mattresses, combined with years of research to help you find the best mattress for you. We consider every important factor to be sure sleepers of any and every weight can find the right mattress for them.
How We Test the Best Mattresses for Heavy People
When testing the best mattresses for heavy people, we pay special attention to firmness and support. We want to feel lifted when lying down on the bed — a sign that the materials are sturdy enough to prop up additional weight. We also look for mattresses on the firmer side (most of the selections on this list are at least a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale), or ones that come in multiple firmness options.
Most importantly, we try to bring in someone with a larger body type when we can to test out how good a particular mattress might be for heavy people. They lie down on the mattress, then give us their observations about how it felt and what kind of support they received.
If for some reason, we can’t have a heavy person test out a mattress, we note that a mattress is going to feel half a point to a whole point softer for them than it might for someone with an average body type. Then we can make our recommendations from there.
Hear from the Experts:
What Do Doctors Recommend Heavy People Prioritize in a Mattress
“I recommend looking for a mattress that uses thick and durable materials. A mattress for heavier sleeps should offer strong support throughout, with medium to firm thickness and reinforced edges to prevent sagging and keep the spine aligned.”
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
What to Look for in the Best Mattress for Heavy People
Body weight helps determine the support, thickness, and material of your ideal mattress. The following guide will help you narrow down the many available options and make an educated decision when you’re ready to purchase.
Support and Firmness
Support and spinal alignment are important considerations for every mattress shopper. While the firmness of your mattress does not directly indicate how supportive it will be, firmer mattresses are generally more supportive, while softer mattresses are usually more contouring. Firmness can be subjective, for lighter folks, a mattress may feel more firm than for heavier folks. When considering your body type and weight, this is important to think about.
For folks who weigh 250 pounds or more, a mattress may not feel as firm, so for those looking for more support, spinal alignment, and a firmer feel I recommend a firmer mattress, somewhere around a 7 to a 9 on our firmness scale. If you weigh between 180 and 250 pounds, I recommend still going for something firmer, but you may get the support you are looking for with something closer to a 7 or 8 on the firmness scale. If you weigh between 140 and 180 pounds, you can likely rely on industry standard for firmness guides, and if you weigh less than 130 pounds, you may want to opt for something softer.
What Mattress Firmness Is Best For Heavier People?
You should determine your ideal mattress firmness from what type of sleeper you are and your personal preferences. Mattress firmness is described by a numerical 1–10 scale, from the softest to the firmest. 6.5 is considered the industry standard for medium firmness. Most soft mattresses measure around 4–6 out of 10 on the scale, while firmer mattresses measure around 7–9 out of 10.
Heavier sleepers should look for a mattress on the firm side, although a medium-firm mattress can also work, as it provides enough spinal and joint support, yet relieves pressure around the hips and shoulders. The heavier you are, the deeper and more pronounced the sinkage. A mattress with an 8 out of 10 on the firmness scale might feel like a 7 out of 10 for a sleeper who weighs 250 pounds or more. A heavier sleeper may experience about one to two inches more sinkage than an average weight person.
Can the mattress support your weight without sinking or sagging?
Larger folks often carry weight in the hips and stomach area, making a mattress’s core and surface support crucial to a comfortable night’s sleep. An internal structure with steel coils should stand up to additional pressure from body weight.
Feel and Preference
It’s more challenging for heavy sleepers to find a softer mattress with a sturdy core structure. A pillow top mattress can provide a plush comfort layer without compromising support. Those preferring a medium feel might opt for a firmer top layer that’s thick enough to allow some body sinkage. Larger sleepers who like a firm feel can forego a plush comfort layer but should keep support and pressure relief in mind. A latex surface may work well for this type of sleeper. To assist your search, take a look at our guide for the Pros and Cons of Firm vs Soft Mattresses.
Sleeping Position
| Sleeping Position | Mattress Firmness Recommendation |
| Side Sleepers | Medium (5) to Medium Firm (6) |
| Back Sleepers | Medium Firm (6) to Firm (8-9) |
| Stomach Sleepers | Firm (7-8) to Extra-Firm (9-10) |
| Combination Sleepers | Soft-Medium (4-5) to Firm (7-8) |
If you weigh more than 200 pounds, your sleeping position has even more impact on your mattress choice. For instance, stomach sleeping puts more pressure on a mattress than back sleeping or side sleeping, so these folks usually require more support. Consider your sleeping position, then decide how firm and sturdy you need your mattress to be.
- Heavy Back sleepers may prefer a medium-firm to firmer mattress that prevents the hips and shoulders from sinking out of alignment.
- Heavy Stomach sleepers usually need a firm mattress to prevent curvature of the lower back.
- Heavy Side sleepers tend to want a mattress that’s softer, so it can cushion their shoulder and hip.
For more information, see our guide for The Best Sleeping Position for Better Health and Sleep.
Edge Support
If you frequently sit on the edge of your bed, edge support will be that much more important. A mattress with strong and stable sides can also help prevent significant sagging or collapse when you sleep near the edge of the mattress. This becomes even more important if you have a larger body type.
Edge support is also important for heavier couples. A more supportive edge allows each partner to sleep closer to the side and use the full surface area of the mattress. Edge support is a more common feature in mattresses with side support coils or additional side structure made of high-density poly foam.
In general, mattresses built from springs, coil-on-coil constructions, or hybrid designs that utilize springs and foam will offer the best edge support. Many foam mattresses have minimal edge support, especially for heavier sleepers. This is less of an issue for thicker foam mattresses, but still important to keep in mind.
Responsiveness
Responsiveness in a mattress refers to its ability to quickly adapt to changes in position and pressure, which is crucial for heavy people. Responsiveness in a mattress helps maintain proper spinal alignment, reducing the risk of discomfort and pain during sleep. Additionally, a responsive mattress enhances comfort during activities like sex, providing the support needed for movement. By minimizing sagging and promoting even weight distribution, a responsive mattress significantly improves overall sleep quality for heavier individuals.
Cooling
Cooling is an important factor to consider for heavy sleepers since the more weight that’s in the bed, the more likely it is to heat up. I take a couple of different factors into account when evaluating a mattress’s cooling abilities.
First,Ie consider the mattress’s construction. We’ll get into more detail about why this is later, but as as rule of thumb, latex mattresses and innerspring mattresses tend to sleep the coolest, followed by hybrid mattresses, then memory foam. Memory foam mattresses usually sleep the hottest because the material is so dense and doesn’t leave a ton of space for air to flow through the bed.
Next, I simply see how cool the mattress feels when I lie down on it. And finally, I perform a more formal test by checking each mattress’s temperature with a thermal gun. This device uses thermal imaging to show how much a bed heats up after one of our testers lies down on it for five minutes. More than 15 degrees Fahrenheit indicates poor cooling capabilities. 10 to 15 degrees indicates decent cooling, 5 to 10 degrees indicates good cooling, and less than 5 degrees indicates excellent cooling.
After combining the temperature increase with the mattress’s construction and feel when it comes to temperature, I came up with our final cooling score.
Mattress Thickness
Mattresses are generally six to 14 inches thick, though there are some outliers. Beds made primarily of latex or memory foam are on the lower end of thickness, while hybrid and coil mattresses are usually on the higher end. Heavy sleepers usually benefit from a thicker mattress that offers a higher level of support.
Finding The Right Thickness For You
Sleepers weighing less than 200 pounds should find a 10-inch mattress to be sufficient. Because heavier people exert a larger amount of pressure, they sleep best on a thicker mattress offering deep compression support. I generally recommend 12 to 14-inch thick mattresses for sleepers over 200 pounds.
Durability
The highest quality mattresses last around seven years. The durability of a mattress varies by the types of materials used in its construction. Heavy people, in particular, need to pay special attention to durability since they put more pressure on a mattress’s layers, which can lead to faster softening or sagging. That’s why I recommend they consider a mattress with a ton of support, or a model that was made especially for larger body types. Looking for warranties above 8 years, guarantees longevity and enhanced durability and long term support.
You can read more about the varying mattress materials and which ones have the highest durability in our section titled Best Type of Mattress for Larger Sleepers further down the page.
Price
The best mattresses for heavy people tend to run a bit more expensive than other beds. If the mattress was specifically designed for heavy people (as many of the ones on this list are), the materials are usually going to be extra-durable, and thus more costly. However, there are also some mattresses not designed for heavy people that still have enough firmness and support for larger folks. These will be the less expensive options.
For context, the mattresses on this list range from around $953 to around $3,300 for a queen size before discounts. So there’s a pretty wide price range, and something here for several different budgets.
Why Mattress Warranties and Sleep Trials are Crucial for Heavy Sleepers?
Many mattress companies offer great warranties, such as lifetime warranties, to ensure that you can get your mattress replaced or fixed if it is defective or recalled. These warranties protect you from having to buy a new mattress too soon. Sleep Trials are also extremely beneficial as it allows you to test the mattress for 30-90 days to make sure it has the support, pressure relief and cooling you are looking for so you can feel confident when making your mattress purchase. Sleep trials and warranties are especially crucial for heavy people because they ensure proper support and durability of mattresses, which can significantly impact comfort and long-term health.
Best Type of Mattress for Larger Sleepers
The construction and materials in a mattress do a lot to inform the overall firmness, support, and temperature regulation of a structure. This is crucial for heavy sleepers since they may need additional structural support and cooling features. Some of the most common materials include:
Memory Foam
Memory foam mattresses may be soft or very firm depending on the manufacturer and construction. These beds help relieve pressure points by providing consistent, contouring support. The material responds to pressure slowly and transfers little to no motion. It’s often a good choice for side sleepers and back sleepers looking for pain relief.
Memory foam has a slight reputation for absorbing and trapping body heat. If you’re someone who sleeps hot at night, you’ll want to look for memory foam with cooling properties, such as gel infusions or open-cell designs.
Another downside to memory foam is its durability. Although it’s longer-lasting than poly foam, it’s susceptible to developing body indentations over time. The foam density makes a difference; low-density foam can form indentations faster, whereas medium and high-density foams break down slower.
Latex
Latex foam is a natural product made from the sap of the rubber tree. Unlike memory foam, it offers gentle cushioning without pronounced sinkage. This is beneficial for heavy sleepers who need pressure relief without sacrificing support.
Latex mattresses typically have a medium to medium-firm feel, so they’re great for heavy back and combination sleepers. The material is also naturally cooling and ideal for hot sleepers. Latex has a quick response to pressure, making it a bouncier alternative to memory foam or other types of poly foams. It’s worth noting this increase in buoyancy may result in more motion transfer.
Latex is frequently used as a primary mattress material or cushioning layer. It’s less prone to indentations than memory foam, but can soften with use like other materials.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses utilize interior coils to provide support. This sturdy interior construction makes these beds appropriate for heavier sleepers. Foam tends to sink under body weight, but innerspring mattresses have a firmer core structure that prevents deep sinkage.
The supportiveness of an innerspring is determined by the number and density of its interior coils. A coil-on-coil construction, for example, uses two layers of springs to improve the feel, support, deep compression, and build quality of the mattress. Innerspring mattresses also offer better edge support than foam ones. This is great for larger people who sleep close to the edge of the mattress.
Innerspring mattresses are typically some of the most durable beds out there. That said, coils can lose their spring over time and become prone to sagging. That’s why quality is so important. Some lower-quality innerspring mattresses may deteriorate in under three years. Higher-quality innerspring mattresses should last at least seven years.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses utilize both coils and layers of foam, and the benefits are similar to those of innerspring mattresses. Coils create space inside a bed, encouraging increased airflow and breathability. They also offer support and bounce. Comfort layers made of latex offer additional bounce, while memory foam layers provide pressure relief and conforming comfort.
Hybrid mattresses tend to offer better edge support than other models, a trait that prevents sagging and increases a mattress’ durability. Another benefit of hybrids is deep compression support, allowing the body to sink into the top layers without digging too deeply into the material. You can read our best hybrid mattress list to see my top picks in the category.
For instance, latex comfort layers are more durable than those made of memory foam. So a latex hybrid mattress is likely to last longer than memory foam, with the latter more prone to indentations, softening, and sagging over time.
What About Heavier Sleepers Who Sleep Hot?
Poor ventilation in a mattress can make a mattress feel warmer, and so can extra body heat if you share a bed. Studies show that heavier and/or more muscular sleepers have more body mass, which generates more heat. Some mattresses sleep warmer than others. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of how each one performs when it comes to temperature regulation. For more info, check out our guide to the best cooling mattresses.
Memory Foam
Memory foam mattresses typically sleep warmer than innerspring or hybrid mattresses. New mattress innovations addressed the problem of heat retention by utilizing cooling gels, an open-cell structure, or cover materials that absorb heat. I recommend heavier sleepers avoid inexpensive or basic memory foams that are more likely to absorb and retain heat.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses don’t absorb as much body heat because most of their construction is made up of coils. Because springs have a lot more room than foams, air has an easier time flowing throughout the structure, which helps prevent the accumulation of heat.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses also tend to sleep cool, though not quite as cool as innerspring beds. This is due to there still being some foam in the construction — usually in the comfort layer. If it’s a cooling hybrid mattress, the comfort layer is often made of a cooling material such as latex or advanced memory foam to help make the bed a good choice for hot sleepers.
Latex
Latex tends to be an excellent material when it comes to sleeping cool. Its open-cell structure encourages airflow, thus reducing the retention of body heat. Many latex mattresses and toppers contain small holes, permitting additional airflow. Changing positions and moving during sleep help push air through the latex foam structure and disperse even more heat.
Why Does Buying a Mattress Made for your Body Type Matter?
Buying a mattress made for your body matters because it ensures proper support and alignment, reducing the risk of discomfort and back pain. Additionally, a personalized mattress can improve sleep quality by adapting to your unique sleep preferences and body contours.
Mattress Weight Capacities
The typical mattress is designed to support a body weight of 250 pounds. Weight limits normally refer to one person sleeping on one side of the mattress and can be doubled to estimate the total weight the mattress will support. Though many of these mattresses can support more weight, going above the advertised limit may void the warranty.
If you weigh more than 250 pounds or if you and your partner together weigh more than 500 pounds, you may want to look into a specialty or bariatric mattress. The thickness of these mattresses is less important than its interior construction. Bariatric and specialty mattresses utilize a supportive innerspring base coupled with memory foam or latex comfort layers for pressure relief. These types of mattresses typically fall into the hybrid category and are usually available in queen- or king-size.
If you’re unsure about a mattress’ weight limit, call the manufacturer or check out the brand’s website. Some mattress manufacturers such as Casper specifically state that their products do not have a weight limit.
What’s a Specialty or Bariatric Mattress?
These beds are specifically designed to support more weight and are often wider than conventional mattresses. Bariatric mattresses typically support up to 1,000 pounds. Like traditional mattresses, specialty and bariatric mattresses vary in price depending on features and manufacturers. They’re widely available online, but are more difficult to find in stores.
Considerations for Heavier Couples When Buying a Mattress
The weight limit of a mattress is especially important when shopping for a mattress as a heavy couple. A collective weight of more than 500 pounds may make a bariatric or specialty mattress a better choice than a conventional one. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s weight specifications before buying.
Support becomes increasingly important as the weight of each sleeper increases. A foam mattress may be adequate for one 200-pound person, but provides too little support when a partner of a similar size sleeps in the same bed. Innerspring mattresses offer pressure relief and durable support, so they’re great for heavier couples. Interior coils made of lower-gauge steel are thicker and denser. These provide better support for heavier couples than thinner coils made of higher-gauge steel.
Buying a Mattress for Couples of Different Weights
If you and your partner have different sleep needs, consider an adjustable bed. Some mattress brands allow firmness, head elevation, and temperature to be adjusted on each side of the bed, maximizing individual comfort.
One such mattress that comes to mind is the Saatva Solaire. A high-tech airbed, it allows you to choose from 50 different firmness settings via a remote control. That means its firmness fluctuates between a 4 out of 10 and an 8 out of 10 on my mattress firmness scale. Granted, those firmnesses will likely feel different to heavier sleepers. But there are enough options here to keep a wide variety of folks satisfied, including couples with different weights and preferences.
Also, Saatva is known for creating durable luxury mattresses, and the Solaire is no different. In addition to its varying firmness levels, you get to enjoy a Euro pillow top, hypoallergenic cotton cover, a protective moisture barrier, and other luxurious features.
If you’re intrigued by this innovative bed, you can read more about it in our full Saatva Solaire mattress review.
Hear from the Experts:
How Can a Mattress Affect a Heavyweight Person’s Sleep Quality and/or Overall Health?
“The right mattress will support your body, help you sleep more comfortably, may prevent frequent awakenings throughout the night, and help you avoid problems like back pain.”
When to Replace Your Mattress
A mattress that flattens out or becomes uneven after a few years can curtail comfort and make sleep difficult. Beds that can withstand heavier weight will perform longer than one that is less structurally sound.
The lifespan of a mattress refers to the amount of time before it needs to be replaced. Heavier weight can impact the lifespan of a bed, so the right mattress selection is essential. All mattresses lose shape and support over the years. Common types of deterioration include the following.
Sagging
Sagging is caused by compression and breakdown of the mattress surface and/or interior materials. It primarily results from torso and hip pressure. This type of deterioration can cause misalignment of the spine, irritation of pressure points, and numbness and tingling from impaired circulation. That’s why couples in particular need to make sure they find a durable bed.
For some of our favorite durable mattresses, check out our roundup for the best mattresses that won’t sag.
Sinkage
Sinkage is common with memory foam mattresses but can happen to any mattress over time. This can cause impressions of the body to form on the surface of the mattress and make changing positions more difficult.
Flattening
Flattening of the surface or upper layers of a mattress can occur quickly if the layers are thin or lower in quality. This can occur gradually due to pressure from body weight. Flattening can be especially uncomfortable for heavy people who rely on a pressure-relieving cushioning layer.
Softening
For those who prefer a medium-firm to firm feel in a mattress, softening can be an unwelcome change. Some softening is expected over time, but too much leads to grooves in the mattress surface, increased pressure on joints, and disrupted sleep.
Mattress Accessories for Heavy People
In addition to finding a mattress that’s right for them, heavy people can use various accessories to strengthen their sleep surface and give them the features they need.
Best Mattress Toppers for Heavy People
Mattress toppers can extend the life of an older mattress or provide a plush, cushioning layer on top of a firm bed. The best mattress toppers for heavy people offer pressure relief and durability while still providing support. A mattress topper can also create a cooling barrier over a mattress.
Mattress toppers typically range from two to four inches thick. In general, a thicker topper will offer more support for heavier sleepers. Topper materials usually include:
Memory Foam Mattress Topper
The best memory foam mattress toppers can offer the firm yet plush support many heavy sleepers prefer, but may sleep warmer than other materials. They’re likely to cause overheating if infused with gel or covered with Phase Change Material (specifically designed to absorb and release heat).
Poly Foam Mattress Topper
Poly foam, or polyurethane foam, is usually the least expensive of all topper materials. Due to its lower density, it’s the least durable. Poly foam is made from petrochemicals and tends to degrade and lose shape quickly. “Egg crate” toppers are often made from polyurethane and can contain fire retardant additives.
Latex Mattress Topper
Latex is cooling and supportive, but may feel springier than memory foam. It has a faster response time than memory foam and is ideal for combination sleepers. However, it’s worse at isolating motion.
Is There a Best Pillow for Heavy People?
While there are some mattress toppers that work better for heavier sleepers, there’s not really a best pillow for heavy sleepers. What matters far more than your weight is your preferred sleeping position and the broadness of your shoulders. For detailed info on these accessories, check out our guide on how to choose the right pillow, or our best pillows roundup.
A Look Into the Sleepopolis Testing Lab
In order to ensure that we’re recommending the best mattresses to sleepers everywhere, we test each one individually in our mattress lab in Raleigh, North Carolina. Here, our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 300 beds, putting each one through a rigorous testing process that includes measuring a mattress’s motion transfer with a seismometer, tracking its cooling capabilities with a thermal gun, and visualizing its ability to relieve pain with a pressure map.
From there, we give every bed an overall score based on its materials, comfort, support, cooling, edge support, and more. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.
We know that sleep is an integral part of your health, which is why we’ve developed such a detailed methodology when testing mattresses and writing our reviews. We also know that every sleeper is different when it comes to body type, sleeping position, and mattress preference. With so many factors at play, we want to give you an informed opinion so you can make an informed purchase.
How We Chose The Best Mattresses for Heavy People
When handpicking the best mattresses for heavy people this roundup, we first and foremost considered the support scores in our Sleepopolis mattress lab. Ideally, beds for larger bodies should excel in support and stability, keeping the sleeper’s hips lifted and the spine in proper alignment throughout the night. When testing each bed, we found that 10 of these mattresses scored at least a 4 in support.
We also made a point to include beds with stellar edge support. The stronger the perimeter of the mattress is, the more weight it should be able to bear. Ideally, heavy sleepers who sleep with a partner or close to the edge of the mattress will want a bed with solid edge support. All 10 mattresses in this roundup received an edge support score at or above 4 out of 5.
FAQs
What type of bed frame is best for heavy people?
When shopping for a bed frame, larger people should look for one designed to support both a mattress and foundation or box spring (if you plan to use one). Bed frames made of hardwood or metal work for bigger people, while softwoods and weaker materials should be avoided. Metal bed frames are typically made of hollow tubes of steel and weigh less than wood frames.
Do I need a foundation or box spring to go with my mattress?
Whether to buy a foundation or box spring depends on personal preference. A good foundation or box spring can extend the life of your mattress and raise it to a comfortable level. A foundation helps to protect your mattress by absorbing your body’s pressure and the movement. It can also help prevent sagging or flattening of the mattress against slats or a platform base. The warranty of some mattresses requires the use of a box spring or platform bed. Some innerspring mattresses perform best on a box spring, which helps preserve the supportive core.
Do memory foam mattresses have a weight limit?
Many memory foam mattresses do not have a weight limit due to their minimal core construction. However, many bed frames, foundations, and box springs do. Familiarize yourself with the weight limit of any product or item of furniture before purchasing.
Can a heavy sleeper sleep on a bed in a box?
It depends on your weight, mattress preference, and sleep position. If you’ve chosen an innerspring mattress, you may be able to buy some brands in a box, though many innerspring mattresses with sturdier and more durable coils aren’t available in bed in a box form.
What is the best mattress for heavy people who sleep with a partner?
I recommend a hybrid mattress for heavy couples, since many models are built to be responsive for sex yet motion isolating. And the breathable coils prevent overheating, since two bodies is hotter than one.
Overall, heavy couples will want a mattress with enhanced edge support and general support in the form of a hybrid’s sturdy coils. This helps couples stay lifted throughout the night, keeping their spines in proper alignment. Keep in mind that it’s important to find a mattress that caters to each partner’s sleeping position, and this might mean going for a split mattress, where each couple customizes their own side.
What kind of mattress is best for a 300-pound person?
Those weighing around 300 pounds should be pleased with models made for heavy people like the Saatva HD, WinkBed Plus, and Bear Elite Hybrid. Overall, I recommend medium-firm to firm mattresses with enhanced support, whether you get it from high-density foam or sturdy coils. I also suggest getting a mattress that’s extra-thick, or roughly 12 inches or more.
What kind of mattress is best for a 400-pound person?
Those weighing around 400 pounds should be pleased with models made for heavy people like the Saatva HD, Titan Plus, and Nolah Evolution Comfort+. Overall, I recommend medium-firm to firm mattresses with enhanced support, whether you get it from high-density foam or sturdy coils. I also suggest getting a mattress that’s extra-thick, or roughly 12 inches or more.
What kind of mattress is best for a 500-pound person?
Those weighing around 500 pounds should be pleased with models made for heavy people like the Titan Plus, Plank Firm, and Nolah Evolution Comfort+. Overall, I recommend medium-firm to firm mattresses with enhanced support, whether you get it from high-density foam or sturdy coils. I also suggest getting a mattress that’s extra-thick, or roughly 12 inches or more.
Best Mattresses for Heavy People
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen) | Coupon | Review |
| Titan Plus Luxe | Overall | $1,599 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Helix Plus | Hot Sleepers | $1,498 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nectar | Memory Foam | $1,563 | Nectar Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Saatva | Innerspring | $1,995 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
| WinkBed Plus | Back Sleepers | $1,999 | WinkBed Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Side Sleepers | $1,332 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nolah Evolution Comfort+ | Luxury | $2,499 | Nolah Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Plank Firm | Firm | $1,332 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Athletes | $2,305 | Bear Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Big Fig | Couples | $1,899 | Sleepopolis Coupon | Read Our Review |
Bridget Chapman
Former Senior Product Editor
About Author
Bridget is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and senior editor here at Sleepopolis. From testing mattresses to writing about various sleep health topics, her goal is to help you get a good night’s sleep. You can also find her in videos on our YouTube channel. Bridget graduated magna cum laude from San Diego State University with a degree in journalism and a minor in English. Before joining the Sleepopolis team, she was a TV news reporter and worked in cities across the country. She loves spending time outdoors, checking out new restaurants, snuggling with her pets, and of course — getting some quality Zzz’s.
Combination Sleeper