Best Extra-Firm Mattress

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While many sleepers love soft or medium-firm mattresses, others need or want an extra-firm bed to get their beauty rest. It can be quite the feat to try to find the best extra-firm mattress with so many options out there, but don’t worry — Sleepopolis is here to help.

We’ve done all the work for you and compiled our top picks for the best extra-firm mattresses below that will work for a variety of sleepers. Each of these models has been tested in our mattress lab for a number of categories, including firmness, edge support, and materials.

Our Top Pick for Extra-Firm Mattresses

The Plank Firm earned the top spot on this list because it has two sides: firm and ultra firm. We think it’s great for stomach sleepers who need extra support in their hips. Likewise, it’s ideal for back sleepers wanting additional firm support.

Best Extra-Firm Mattresses 2024

Compare Mattresses for Platform Beds

Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress Helix Dawn Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe WinkBed Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Saatva Mattress Birch Natural Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress Helix Dawn Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe WinkBed Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Saatva Mattress Birch Natural Mattress
Rating
4.3
3.9
4.4
4.7
4.6
4.5
4.4
4.8
4.1
Firmness Multiple firmness options Firm: 7.5/10 Firm: 7.5/10 Firm: 7/10 Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Firm: 7/10
Material Foam Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Innerspring Hybrid
Cooling
Best For
Stomach Sleepers,
Back Pain,
Seniors
Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers,
Couples
Side Sleepers,
Back Sleepers
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors
Couples,
Back Sleepers,
Hip Pain
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors,
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors,

Best Extra-Firm Mattresses Video Review

Plank Firm – Best Overall Extra-Firm Mattress

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.
4.3
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Extra-Firm Feel
Flippable Design
Supportive Foams
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping
Gift of Sleep Sale
Use code GIFT25 for 25% off sitewide See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Foam
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
The Plank Firm is a flippable mattress with a different firmness option on each side. We score firmest with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest, and the Plank Firm features a Firm side (7.5/10) and an Ultra Firm side (8.5/10).
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$749–$1,532 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king, short full, short queen, Olympic queen, short king, RV king
SO sleeper type back pain
Back pain
Support for those living with back pain.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.
Pros of the Plank Firm
The Plank Firm often appears on many of our roundups pertaining to spinal health and back pain.
This mattress is a good choice for couples; it scored 4 out 5 or more for motion isolation, edge support, and cooling.
The quality materials, from its firm cover to its high-density foams, make it an extremely durable option.
Cons of the Plank Firm
Side sleepers won’t receive the proper cushioning or contouring on the Plank Firm. They should look at our best mattresses for side sleepers instead.
It’s not the best mattress for alleviating joint pain because of its firmer feel — take a look at our best soft mattresses for alternative options
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free within the contiguous US, but $125 for AK and HI
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
There is a $99 return fee.

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

Plank Firm Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion 

We chose the Plank Firm mattress as the best extra-firm mattress overall because it is a flippable mattress with a firm side and an ultra firm side. The extra-firm side makes you feel like you’re sleeping on a comfy plank (hence the name). We felt especially cozy sleeping on our stomachs on this all-foam bed. There isn’t a lot of sinkage, and it scores an 8.5 on our firmness scale where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. The firm side is still firm but has some extra cushioning to make it a touch softer

What our tester says: “I really like that the Plank Firm is a flippable mattress with two firmness options. This makes it feel like you’re getting two beds for the price of one. I also think this is a great choice for anyone who loves a firm feel — if you’re looking for the firmest mattress out there, the ultra-firm side of the Plank is the way to go.”- Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

Who the Plank Firm Is Best For 

  • Back sleepers: The firmness level can help these sleepers keep their spine aligned, which is especially beneficial for those who suffer from back pain.
  • Stomach sleepers: The mattress offers the right amount of support to align the hips and shoulders of these sleepers, creating a dreamy sleep experience.
  • Couples: The extra-firm side of the Plank mattress creates a perfect mixture of bounce and responsiveness for amorous activities. The Plank Firm also tested well for motion isolation and edge support. 

Who Should Avoid the Plank Firm 

  • Side sleepers: Both sides of the Plank will likely be too firm for these sleepers and might end up causing some pain in pressure points like the hips or shoulders.
  • Hot sleepers: While you can buy an optional cooling panel, those who choose not to add this $100 to $150 extra expense might feel warm in bed.

Does the Plank Firm sound like the best extra-firm mattress you need? Get our best deal here or learn more in our full Plank Firm mattress review

Helix Dawn – Best Value Extra-Firm Mattress

Best Value
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.
4.0
Helix
Helix Dawn Mattress
Firm Feel
Responsive Springs
Coils Promote Airflow
Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Hybrid
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Helix Dawn a 7.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale. It’s one of the firmest mattresses that Helix offers.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$936–$1,748 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers should find that the firm feel supports their hips very well.
SO Sleeper Type Icons HeavyPeople
Heavyweight Sleepers
The supportive construction does a good job of accommodating heavy people.
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Combination Sleepers
The Helix Dawn is very easy to move around and change positions on.
Pros of the Helix Dawn
Provides great lumbar support
Solid durability
Upgradeable to the more luxurious Helix Dawn Luxe
Cons of the Helix Dawn
Doesn’t provide much pressure relief, check out our best memory foam mattresses
Poor motion isolation, check out our best mattresses for couples
Too firm for side sleepers, check out our best mattresses for side sleepers
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 Dawn is one of the firmest mattresses offered by the company. Its construction provides good comfort for heavy people and stomach sleepers, both of whom need extra support to keep from sinking uncomfortably below the mattress surface. Like the other Helix mattresses, it can be upgraded to the Luxe version if you’re willing to pay a little extra for luxury features. To learn more, check out our video on Helix mattresses.

What our tester says:

“I really appreciate how supportive these mattresses are. Stomach sleepers, back sleepers, and heavy people (those over 250 pounds) could all benefit from the firm feel of this bed. No matter which model you choose, the Helix Dawn really delivers on lumbar support.” Logan Block, former Sleepopolis content director and mattress tester

Helix Dawn Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

The Helix Dawn is the firmest model offered by Helix Sleep, a popular online mattress and bedding company. It is one of six options in the Helix standard line and features multiple layers of supportive foam on top of individually wrapped coils. You also have the option to upgrade to the Helix Dawn Luxe, which features additional cooling, support, and a pillow top. We found the Helix Dawn mattress to be super comfortable while stomach sleeping since it helped prevent our hips from sinking into the bed.

What our tester says: “No matter which model you choose, the Helix Dawn really delivers on lumbar support. If you’re looking for extra plushness and cooling components, I’d upgrade to the Luxe version.” – Logan Block, former Sleepopolis director of content and mattress tester

Who the Helix Dawn Is Best For

  • Stomach sleepers: Many stomach sleepers should appreciate how the mattress helps with healthy sleep posture by promoting spinal alignment.
  • Couples: We found this mattress to have excellent responsiveness and bounce for couples, along with good cooling abilities and edge support.
  • Heavy sleepers: The Helix Dawn offers solid support for a lot of sleepers who are more than 250 pounds. It will likely feel closer to a medium-firm bed to these folks.

Who Should Avoid the Helix Dawn

  • Side sleepers with hip pain: We found this mattress to create too much pressure around the hips, which could create some discomfort.
  • Light sleepers: The Helix Dawn models did not test great for isolating motion, so people who wake up at every movement from their partner may want to pick a different option.

If either Helix Dawn models sound appealing, check out our full Helix Dawn review and click here to snag the best deal.

Titan Plus – Best Extra-Firm Mattress for Heavy Sleepers

Best for Heavy 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
Brooklyn Bedding
Titan Plus
Firm, Supportive Feel
Built for Heavy People
Extra-Strong Coils
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
Winter Flash Sale
Use code GIFT25 for 25% off sitewide See Details
Icon MattressReviews MattressType 250
Material
Hybrid, meaning it uses both foams and coils in its construction.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated this bed as 7.5 out of 10, meaning it is significantly firmer than average.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$699–$1,699 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
SO sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed should be a great option for anyone suffering from back pain.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Pros of the Titan Plus
Heavy sleepers should find this mattress comfortable and supportive
It’s responsive, so combination sleepers should move around easily on it
It’s durable and has great edge support — it should last for many years
Cons of the Titan Plus
Lightweight sleepers probably won’t get any pressure relief or contouring, so they might be better off with one of the best mattresses for lightweight sleepers
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
Brooklyn Bedding offers returns and exchanges with a $99 return fee

The Titan Plus mattress is a durable mattress made with heavy sleepers in mind. It’s firm and features heavy-duty coils and Titanflex foam that makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. We think that heavy back sleepers and stomach sleepers should be especially comfortable. For more information on the Titan Plus, check out our video review.

What our tester says:

“I think the Titan Plus lives up to its name as a good mattress for heavier sleepers. It will offer them the deep compression support and durability they need.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Titan Plus Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

Made with plus-size people in mind, the Titan Plus features quilted gel memory foam, high-density foam, and up to 961 individually encased TitanCaliber coils. This all brings heavier folks support, comfort, and pressure relief where they need it. The Titan Plus comes in at a 7.5 on the firmness scale (where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest), so it’s a truly firm mattress. 

What our tester says: “Heavier people with back problems will likely enjoy the lower body alignment the Titan Plus provides. Couples will find a lot to love with the Titan Plus because of its motion isolation and edge support. Stomach sleepers usually need hip support, which the Titan Plus provides nicely.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

Who the Titan Plus Is Best For

  • Heavy sleepers: Heavy sleepers will get the deep compression support and durability they need with this mattress. We especially think it’s a great fit for heavy back and stomach sleepers. 
  • Couples: The low motion transfer means you shouldn’t be disturbed by your partner turning and tossing at night and vice versa.
  • Stomach sleepers: The firm support will help keep these sleepers’ hips and shoulders aligned for a perfect straight spinal alignment.

Who Should Avoid the Titan Plus

  • Those wanting sinkage: If you’re looking for a mattress with a classic memory foam feel, this probably isn’t the one for you.
  • Side sleepers: If you only sleep on your side, we recommend finding a softer mattress to get better contouring and pressure relief. 

If you’re a heavyweight sleeper (meaning you weigh 250 pounds or more) who thinks the Titan Plus will give you the perfect support, check out our full review of the mattress and click here to get the best deal.

WinkBeds – Best Extra-Firm Pillow Top Mattress

Best Pillow Top
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
Holiday 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

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

Expert Opinion

The WinkBed measures 14 inches from base to cover. It’s constructed with a Tencel cover, pillow top comfort layer, and mattress coil support layer. All these materials make it plush, supportive, and cooling. It comes in three different firmness levels, along with a Plus model for heavier folks, and we recommend those after an extra-firm feel go for the Firmer model. 

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, senior product editor

Who the WinkBed Is Best For

  • Seniors: With the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed is great for seniors who not only want that classic feel, but also need extra back support.
  • Hot sleepers: The mattress’ pocketed coil layer will help keep you cool by allowing air to flow through the bed. 
  • Back and stomach sleepers: The mattress is excellent for these sleepers. They should feel propped up on top of the bed with an ideal mix of support and cushioning, which will help them maintain healthy sleep posture.

Who Should Avoid the WinkBed

  • Budget shoppers: While the WinkBed is usually on sale, it does feature high-quality materials and comes with a luxury price tag. Be sure to use our coupons to get the best deal though. 
  • Side sleepers: If you only sleep on your side, we recommend considering a softer mattress or the Softer model of the WinkBed.

If you’re convinced that the WinkBed offers the best firmness with a superb pillow top option, read our full WinkBed mattress review and get our best WinkBeds deal here.

Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Luxury Extra-Firm Mattress

Best Luxury
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
December Deals
Use code DEAL30 for 30% 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

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

Expert Opinion

The Elite Hybrid is Bear’s “ultra-luxurious” mattress model and comes in three different firmness levels. We’d recommend sleepers wanting an extra-firm feel check out the Firm option. The Elite Hybrid features a traditional mattress feel, plus advanced cooling and support technology. We thought the mattress’s layers of foam and its coil system with zoned support provided an excellent blend of comfort and support. 

What our tester says: “I honestly like a lot about the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress — starting with how you can choose your firmness level. I tested out the middle level (Medium), and I think it’s great that each sleeper can pick what option works best for them.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

Who the Bear Elite Hybrid Is Best For

  • All sleeping positions: Since this bed comes in three different firmness levels, it can work for all sleeping positions. We specifically think the Firm model will provide the pressure relief and support that back and stomach sleepers need.
  • Couples: The Bear Elite Hybrid is very responsive, cooling, and supportive for couples sharing the bed. It also did a good job isolating motion — another major perk for couples. 
  • Hot sleepers: The mattress’ Phase Change Material cover and copper-infused foam make the mattress breathable and cool for these sleepers.

Who Should Avoid the Bear Elite Hybrid

  • Budget shoppers: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mattress, you may want to check out some other beds on this list. This bed offers sleepers a luxury experience and comes with a luxury price tag.
  • Eco-conscious sleepers: If you’re looking for a mattress made with only natural, eco-friendly materials, it might be better to check out our list of organic mattresses.

Think the Bear Elite Hybrid is the right pick for you? Check out our full review of the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress to learn more and click here to get the best deal.

Brooklyn Bedding Signature HybridBest Extra-Firm Hybrid Mattress

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.
4.5
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Medium-Firm Comfort
Budget-Friendly
Responsive Coils
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
Gift of Sleep Sale
Use code GIFT25 for 25% 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
$665–$1,599 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and more
SO sleeper type couples
Couples
Those who sleep with a partner shouldn’t notice their partners shift around during the night.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Most average weight back sleepers should find a good balance of comfort and support.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Combination Sleepers
Those who change sleeping positions should find this bed easy to move on.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
It’s a good choice for budget shoppers. With a discount, queen sizes are often under $1,000
Back sleepers should find both comfort and support on the Medium model, which can help alleviate back pain
Brooklyn Bedding offers this bed in different firmnesses, making it a versatile option
The combination of coils and foam makes this mattress very easy to move around on
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
It doesn’t have that sinking-in feeling often found in the best memory foam mattresses
The Medium mattress is too firm for side sleepers and too soft for stomach sleepers (though the Soft or Firm model may work, respectively)
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 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

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

The Signature Hybrid is the flagship mattress from Brooklyn Bedding, and remains one of the brand’s most popular models. It has a simple construction of memory foam, transition foam, and individually pocketed coils at the very bottom of the bed, making for a well-balanced bed that delivers both comfort and support. When we tested it out, we found that we got a slight lift from the coils while also experiencing some soothing pressure relief from the foam.

We should note that the Signature Hybrid is available in three different firmness levels: Soft, Medium, and Firm. We found that the Medium was about a 6.5 on the mattress firmness scale — the industry standard for medium firm. So for purposes of this list, we’re recommending the Firm model, which should feel like a 7.5 or 8 on the firmness scale.

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

Who the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Is Best For

  • Combination sleepers: The coils give the Signature Hybrid a good amount of bounce, so it should be easy for these folks to change sleeping positions on its surface. 
  • Stomach sleepers: There should be enough firmness and support for them, as long as they opt for the Firm model. Back sleepers might also be comfortable on this model, but side sleepers should go for the Soft or Medium model.
  • Couples: The coils make the Signature Hybrid responsive enough for sex, plus the bed has low motion transfer, which means partners aren’t likely to feel each other tossing and turning at night.

Who Should Avoid the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

  • Luxury shoppers: As we mentioned, the Signature Hybrid has a fairly simple construction without a ton of bells and whistles. If you’re searching for something fancier, we recommend looking at our list of the best luxury mattresses.

If you’re ready to sleep on the Signature Hybrid, click here for our best deal. You can also learn more in our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review, or check out more options on our list of the best hybrid mattresses.

Nolah EvolutionBest Extra-Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers

Best for Back 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.
4.4
Nolah
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Multiple Firmnesses
ArcticTex Cover
HDMax Support Coils
Hybrid Mattress
120-night Trial and Lifetime Warranty
Free shipping
Winter Sale
35% off all mattresses + 2 free pillows 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

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

Expert Opinion

Many of Nolah’s mattresses are outfitted with the brand’s proprietary AirFoam — a more breathable alternative to memory foam. The Nolah Evolution is no different, but because the bed is available in three different firmness levels, you can get an extra-firm option with the Firm model. When we tested out the Luxury Firm model, we got a lot of support from the bed’s 8-inch layer of HD Max EcoSupport coils, and ultimately scored the mattress a 6.5 on the mattress firmness scale — the industry standard for medium firm. That means the Firm model should come in somewhere between a 7.5 and 8.

Both of these models should be very comfortable for back sleepers. When we tested out the Nolah Evolution in the back-sleeping position, we got enough support for a neutral spinal alignment, while still getting some cushioning at our lumbar region from the AirFoam. We also ran the mattress through our pressure map test, which uses a specialized mat to detect how much pressure is being put on different parts of our body. In the back-sleeping position, the graphic lit up almost entirely blue, indicating almost no pressure.

What our tester says: “I think back sleepers should love how the Evolution’s hybrid build provides both the support to realign the spine and the softness to sink in just enough.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

Who the Nolah Evolution Is Best For

  • Hot sleepers: The AirFoam in the Nolah Evolution is technically called AirFoamICE, as it has an infusion of graphite that assists with cooling. This, along with the airflow-promoting coils and the presence of ArcticTex fibers in the comfort layer, should help hot sleepers keep a low temperature.
  • Stomach sleepers: Like back sleepers, they should get the support they need from the Firm model of this mattress.
  • Side sleepers: While we don’t recommend the Firm model for these folks, they should be comfortable on the Soft or Luxury Firm model, getting all the contouring they need at the shoulders and hips, where they put the most pressure.

Who Should Avoid the Nolah Evolution

  • Budget shoppers: The Nolah Evolution is definitely a more expensive mattress. If you’re on a budget, check out some of our best affordable mattresses instead.

Ready to lie down on the Nolah Evolution? Click here for our best deal. You can also learn more about this bed in our full Nolah Evolution mattress review. And if you’re still exploring other options, you can always check out our best mattresses for back sleepers page.

Saatva – Best Extra-Firm Innerspring Mattress

Best Innerspring
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
Last Chance
15% off classic & bedding bundles 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

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

Expert Opinion

The Saatva Classic mattress has a traditional innerspring feel and offers a luxurious, firm sleeping experience. It comes in three different firmness levels, so we recommend sleepers wanting an extra-firm mattress to pick the Firm model. The bed’s memory foam and coil-on-coil system bring sleepers cushiony support. In addition, it has a zoned support system, which will help promote spinal alignment.

What our tester says: “The Saatva Classic is a bouncy, high-quality mattress with durability and great edge support. I think it’s a nice option for back and combination sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor

Who the Saatva Is Best For

  • Back sleepers: The Firm model provides enough cushioning to offer relief for back sleepers, while the coil-on-coil system provides support to help align their spine.
  • Hot sleepers: The mattress’ construction allows for a lot of airflow and breathability, so if you get hot while sleeping, it can help you stay cool.
  • Stomach sleepers: The Saatva should offer firm support to these sleepers in order to keep their hips lifted in line with their shoulders, ultimately helping prevent back pain.

Who Should Avoid the Saatva

  • Some couples: This bed doesn’t do the best job isolating motion, so if you wake up easily by a tossing and turning partner you may want to consider a different option.
  • Side sleepers: The Firm version will likely be too firm for side sleepers and not provide the sinkage they need at the hips and shoulders. The Plush Soft model would be a better fit for these folks.

Is the Saata the type of extra-firm mattress you need? Check out our full Saatva Mattress Review and get our best deal here. If you’re looking for other options, check out our review for the best mattresses for side sleepers.

Birch NaturalBest Extra-Firm Latex Mattress

Best Latex
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
Birch
Birch Natural Mattress
Firm Mattress
Organic
Cooling
Latex Hybrid
100-night Trial and 10-year Warranty
Free Shipping
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended!
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
Icon MattressReviews MattressType 250
Material
Latex
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Our mattress firmness scale runs from 1 to 10, with 10 being the firmest. The Birch is a 7 out of 10, which is pretty firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,499–$2,499 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Average weight back sleepers should get a good blend of lumbar cushioning and spinal support.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
Average weight stomach sleepers should get enough support to keep their hips and shoulders aligned.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
MattressReviewIcons Organic
Eco-conscious
If you’re looking for a mattress with safe and organic materials, this is the bed for you.
Pros of the Birch Natural
Organic mattress with numerous GOTS and GREENGUARD Gold certifications
Naturally cooling Talalay latex in its transition layer
Enough firmness and strong support for anyone experiencing back pain
Enough responsiveness for combination sleeping
Ideal for anyone looking for a firmer, more “on top of the bed” feel
Cons of the Birch Natural
This isn’t one of the best mattresses for side sleepers, which have a softer feel that better cushions the joints
Higher price point — one of the best cheap mattresses might be better
You won’t find the slow sinkage many look for in the best memory foam mattress
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
25-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns before the 100-night trial ends

The Birch Natural is a latex mattress utilizing individually wrapped coils for added support. This mattress specializes in cooling and responsiveness, and the firmer nature suits back and stomach sleepers well. Perhaps the most special part about this mattress is the material quality. Not only is the Birch organic, but it has also earned multiple certifications for safe production and materials. For more information, check out our video review.

What our tester says:

“One of my favorite things about the Birch is how cooling it is. I think any hot sleeper will be satisfied by this breathable bed. It’s definitely one of the most cooling mattresses available thanks to its wool and latex layers. These cooling materials also make it one of my favorite organic mattresses.” – Madison Schaper, Sleepopolis staff writer

Birch Natural Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

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

Expert Opinion

As a material, latex foam tends to be more responsive, cooling, and yes, firmer than memory foam. So we knew we had to include at least one latex bed on our list of the best extra-firm mattresses. We ended up going with the Birch Natural (created by Helix Sleep), a latex hybrid that has an organic cotton cover, a fire barrier of organic wool, a comfort layer of natural Talalay latex, and a support layer of individually wrapped coils. Together, these materials are environmentally friendly and have earned several organic certifications, including  GREENGUARD Gold and GOTS. You can read more about what those certifications mean here.

When we tested out the Birch Natural, we found it to be firm and springy, coming in at a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. We think sleepers should find it easy to move around on this bed, which makes it ideal for combination sleepers who need to move around and change sleeping positions at night. The mobility also makes the Birch one of the best mattresses for sex.

What our tester says: “In general, I’d recommend this bed to anyone looking for a firm mattress. The Birch is also very bouncy, which means combination sleepers who need to be able to change positions easily should like the feel of this bed.” – Madison Schaper, former staff writer

Who the Birch Natural Is Best For

  • Hot sleepers: The springs in the Birch leave plenty of room for airflow, plus latex’s natural breathability makes it a good cooling option for people who sleep hot. 
  • Eco-conscious shoppers: Environmentally minded sleepers will surely appreciate the Birch’s numerous organic certifications.
  • Back sleepers and stomach sleepers: They tend to require more support than side sleepers, and they’ll likely find it in the Birch Natural.

Who Should Avoid the Birch Natural

  • Side sleepers: There isn’t a ton of contouring in the Birch Natural, so they probably won’t get the pressure relief they need at their shoulders and hips. We recommend they see our list of the best mattresses for side sleepers for more suitable options.

If you’re ready to purchase the Birch Natural, click here for our best deal. You can also learn more in our full Birch Natural mattress review. If you’re still searching, check out our page of the best latex mattresses.

Who Should Buy an Extra-Firm Mattress?

Extra-firm mattresses are best for stomach sleepers, people who want additional support, and those who like an extra feeling of firmness underneath them when they sleep. Extra-firm mattresses can provide support in a way softer mattresses generally do not, but some still offer a pressure-relieving and contouring layer that can help sleepers find a comfortable fit. We generally do not recommend extra-firm mattresses to stomach sleepers or folks looking for deep pressure relief.

What to Look for in the Best Extra-Firm Mattress

Mattress Firmness

A look at our expertly derived firmness scale
Sleepopolis Firmness scale

It may sound obvious that you should consider firmness when buying an extra firm mattress, but the firmness of your mattress is really important to your comfort, support, pressure relief, and more.

Extra firm mattresses will likely be best for stomach sleepers, but some back sleepers may also find them comfortable. Side sleepers, however, will not find enough pressure relief on extra firm mattresses, so we advise those folks to stay away from firmer beds.

We measure firmness at Sleepopolis on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest (like you’re sleeping on cotton candy) and 10 being the firmest (like you’re sleeping on concrete). We use 6.5 as our standard for medium-firm, which is a firmness level that can work for a variety of sleepers and their needs. We typically consider anything 8 and above to be extra firm.

Take a look at the breakdown below and check out our mattress buying guide for more info.  

1 to 5 Mattresses

These are truly soft beds. If interested in a bed in this range, you’ll want to make sure it’s supportive enough for your body and sleeping position. Because of this, it’s unusual for us to come across a bed that’s softer than a 5. The Helix Sunset is a good example of a soft, yet supportive mattress.

6 Mattresses

6 mattresses are medium-soft beds. Mattresses closer to a 6.5 are medium-firm. We’d recommend mattresses that fall in the 6 to 6.5 range for side sleepers. Back sleepers can also feel great in that range, but may do best closer to a 6.5. The Bear Star Hybrid is a nice example of this type of mattress.

 

7 Mattresses

7 mattresses are firm beds. The WinkBed in the middle firmness model is a great example of a firmer mattress. Most sleepers on the hunt for a firm mattress should like a bed that falls at a 7 on the firmness scale.

8 to 9 Mattreses

8 to 9 mattresses are extra-firm beds, and are especially good fits for stomach sleepers who need a lot of support and heavier folks. The Plank Firm is a great example of an extra-firm mattress.

10’s

10 is the ranking we’d give to a hardwood floor, so it’s pretty unlikely to come across a bed this firm. At least, we haven’t so far.

Sleeping Positions and Extra-Firm Mattresses 

As we mentioned with some of the different mattresses above, depending on your sleeping position, some extra-firm mattresses may end up causing more harm than good. Considering how you sleep can help you decide what kind of mattress is best, and it affects the firmness of the mattress you are looking for.

We test all of the mattresses we review for each sleeping position by laying on the bed in every postion and using our expert knowledge of mattresses, pressure relief, contouring, and firmness needs, we can help you determine if a certain bed is good for you.

Sleepopolis prioritize testing each mattress in every sleeping position
Sleepopolis team testing mattresses in every sleeping position
  • Side Sleeping: These folks typically do best on a softer mattress so they can get the necessary pressure relief and cushioning around their shoulder and hip. If they’re set on a firmer mattress, they should look for one that is still soft enough to provide sinkage and relief around these areas. It’s unlikely they’ll find an extra-firm mattress that will work for their needs. 
  • Back Sleeping: Back sleepers can do well on a lot of different types of mattresses, but they usually do best on a medium-firm bed. That being said, a firm mattress can still be a great option and keep their spine aligned while preventing back pain. 
  • Stomach Sleeping: Stomach sleepers tend to be the happiest on firm or extra-firm mattresses because they need their hips to stay elevated and in line with their shoulders. These beds can get the job done and provide a healthy spinal alignment for them.
  • Combination Sleepers: Combination sleepers move from one position to another throughout the night What these sleepers need in terms of firmness and pressure relief changes depending on what positions they move from, but we generally recommend a more responsive bed for combination sleepers, as they will find those mattresses to be easier to move on.

Support 

While it may be easy to assume that any extra-firm mattress you get can give you good support, support and firmness are not the same thing. A mattress that offers you adequate support will keep your spine in proper alignment for your sleeping position and not create pain around pressure points that hurt your sleep quality.

Depending on how you sleep and any pain that you may already be feeling, we recommend different levels of support. for example, stomach sleepers need support through their hips, side sleepers through their shoulders and back, and back sleepers through their back and neck. How each type of sleeper gets this support is not directly related to firmness. Stomach sleepers, for example, generally benefit from a softer mattress that is more contouring but still supports their hip and spinal alignment.

Pressure Relief 

When considering an extra-firm mattress, you’ll also want to keep in mind how the bed will feel against various pressure points along your body while you sleep. While firm mattresses tend to offer less pressure relief, some feel softer over time or have a comfort layer that offers the right amount of sinkage for your sleep position. If you are experiencing chronic pain, or struggling with pain when you sleep, it may be a good idea to opt for a mattress that is softer and more cradling of sensitive joints. However, if you prefer a firmer mattress, or do not need as much deep pressure relief, then an extra firm mattress may be the way to go.

To test pressure relief on the mattresses that we review, we like to use a pressure mat. We roll this mat out across the bed and lay on it in different positions. The mat then gives us a thermal map, which you can see to the right. The map tells us where pressure is building up by showing red and orange, and where pressure is relieved by showing blue and green.

PressureMap Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm
An example of our pressure map on a firm mattress

Can Extra-Firm Mattresses Offer Pressure Relief?

Yes, even extra-firm mattresses can offer contouring and pressure relief. Some of these kinds of mattresses are made with a softer and more relieving layer that can help to make the mattress feel more contouring. However, if you are looking for a deeply contouring or pressure-relieving bed, we recommend looking for something softer. You can also check out our recommendations for the best mattress toppers to learn more ways to make an extra-firm mattress feel softer.

Mattress Material

The best type of extra-firm mattress depends on your personal needs and sleep style. Below we’ll look at some of the main mattress types and who they are typically a good match for.

Sleepopolis testing of mattress materials
Take a Closer Look at the Different Mattress Materials
Memory Foam

These mattresses consist of all-foam layers and can vary in firmness from super soft to super firm. Memory foam mattresses are historically popular because the materials can be gentle, pressure-relieving, and cozy. That being said, many brands use high-density foams that don’t offer as much sinkage as traditional memory foam and can offer a firmer feel.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses are made of steel coils and have thin layers of foam on top. They bring sleepers a more traditional mattress feel and are usually very supportive, bouncy, and airflow-promoting. Because of their materials, they tend to be medium-firm or firmer.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses are beds with a combination of two or more mattress materials, like foams and coils. These mattresses are great for sleepers wanting a bed with more than one material and are often considered to be the “best of both worlds” of having the benefits of both a foam and innerspring bed. Hybrid mattresses work great for most sleepers since they can range in firmness and feel.

Latex

These mattresses use latex foams in their construction. The materials can feel very firm and durable. Brands often combine latex and steel coil support systems to bring sleepers bounce and support. As a natural cooling material, this bed type is excellent for hot sleepers. These mattresses can vary in firmness level, but are typically medium-firm or firmer.

Edge Support

Nichole doing the edge support test on the Cocoon Chill Mattress Construction
A look into our edge support test

Edge support refers to the strength of the edges on your mattress, and can also be a good sign of durability. If you are looking for an extra firm mattress, you may want to be sure that the edges of your mattress will not sag when sleeping or using the bed. This can also be important for couples who want to use the entire surface of their bed, and elderly sleepers who need help getting in and out of bed.

We test for edge support by applying pressure to the edges of a mattress and seeing how far the edges sink and how much pressure is required to push them down. The less sagging and more pressure required indicate better edge support across the mattress.

Body Type and Extra-Firm Mattresses

Editor’s Note: 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.”

We use the following categories for body types: 

  • Lightweight sleepers: Less than 130 pounds
  • Average weight sleepers: Between 130 and 250 pounds
  • Heavy sleepers: More than 250 pounds 

Beds are typically going to feel firmer to lightweight sleepers than they do heavyweight sleepers. Because of this, lightweight sleepers tend to do best on softer mattresses. If you’re heavier in weight, you’re going to need more support from a bed and will typically do well on a firm or extra-firm mattress. If you weigh more than 250 pounds, it’s essential to find a mattress that’s going to fit your needs. We recommend taking a look at our roundup of the best mattresses for heavy people to see some great options.

Price

The price of your mattress will vary depending on the materials, brand, and type of bed. There are beds on the market that cost less than $500, and beds that cost upwards of $2,500. Like anything on the market, some mattresses are more expensive because of branding, and others truly are better quality. We recommend considering what attributes are most important for you and buying a new mattress based on those factors, not brand. If you are looking for deals, shopping around holidays like Labor Day, Memorial Day, and Black Friday may be a good idea, or you can check out our recommendations for the best cheap mattresses and best mattresses under $1,000.

FAQs

What type of mattress is the firmest? 

Latex or innerspring mattresses can feel very firm. However, there are also memory foam and hybrid mattresses designed to be extra firm.

What is the hardest firm mattress?

Mattresses will feel firmer to some sleepers more than others. The Plank Firm mattress came in at an 8.5 on our firmness scale (where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest), and is one the firmest and flattest beds we’ve tested.

Is it good to have an extra-firm mattress?

It depends on your sleeping position and body type. An extra-firm bed can be beneficial for some stomach and back sleepers. It’s typically not suitable for side sleepers since they usually need a softer mattress to get ample pressure relief.

Is it better to sleep on an extra-firm mattress? 

It’s not necessarily better to sleep on an extra-firm mattress. However, depending on the support you need, whether you’re a heavy sleeper, or what type of position you sleep in, an extra-firm bed might be the right choice for you.

How We Chose These Mattresses

Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 220 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 our picks on this list, we made sure they all landed around an 8 out of 10 or higher on our firmness scale, since that’s what we consider to be a true extra-firm bed. We’ve also given special consideration to both comfort and support. Click here to learn more about our methodology. And if you’re still not sure of the right mattress at the end of this article, you can take our mattress quiz to be shown a selection of mattresses curated to your sleep preferences.

Best Extra-Firm Mattresses 2024

MattressBest ForPrice (Queen)CouponReview
Plank FirmOverall$1,332Brooklyn Bedding CouponRead Our Review
Helix DawnBest Value$1,373Helix CouponRead Our Review
Titan PlusBest for Heavy Sleepers$1,249Brooklyn Bedding CouponRead Our Review
WinkBedsBest Pillow Top$1,799WinkBeds CouponRead Our Review
Bear Elite HybridBest Luxury$2,111Bear Mattress CouponRead Our Review
Brooklyn Bedding Signature HybridBest Hybrid$1,332Brooklyn Bedding CouponRead Our Review
Nolah EvolutionBest for Back Sleepers$2,499Nolah CouponRead Our Review
SaatvaBest Innerspring$1,995Saatva CouponRead Our Review
Birch Natural (By Helix)Best Latex$1,874Helix CouponRead Our Review
Logan Block

Logan Block

Mattress Reviewer

About Author

Logan is the former content director of Sleepopolis. As content director, he reviewed new mattresses every week and curated the comparisons, best of pages, and video guides on the site. Logan perfected his method by personally testing over 200 different mattresses, so he’s not only able to discern the overall vibe of a specific bed, but to contextualize its feel within the bed-in-a-box market as a whole.

Combination Sleeper

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