Because heavier sleepers over 250 lb tend to put more pressure on a bed’s layers, it’s crucial to have the proper mattress infrastructure and find the best mattress for heavy people. Without it, these sleepers may experience discomfort, disrupted sleep, and a flattening of the mattress’ core. To help prevent this, I’ve listed my picks for the Best Mattresses for Heavy People in 2022!
Best Mattresses for Heavy People 2022
- Editor’s Pick – Helix Plus
- Best Mattress for Heavy People with Lower Back Pain – DreamCloud Premier
- Best Innerspring Mattress for Heavy People – Saatva HD
- Best Mattress for Heavy Back Sleepers – WinkBed Plus
- Best Mattress for Heavy Couples – Bear Hybrid
- Best Hybrid Mattress for Heavy People – Brooklyn Bedding Titan
- Best Budget-Friendly Mattress for Heavy Sleepers – Loom & Leaf
- Best Organic Mattress for Heavy People – Nolah Natural
- Best Latex Mattress for Heavy People – Birch Original
- Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers – Casper Wave Hybrid
Our Methodology
We’ve 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.
Because heavy people tend to need more support from their bed, we’ve paid special attention to that category. Every mattress in this roundup except the GhostBed Flex scored at least a 4 out of 5 on support, with six of them scoring a perfect 5. As an added bonus, all of the mattresses except the GhostBed Flex and the Helix Plus scored at least a 4 on edge support. Click here to learn more about our methodology.
Editor’s Pick – Helix Plus
This cooling and pressure-relieving mattress was specifically designed to support heavier sleepers. It features several layers of foam and reinforced coils to provide support and comfort. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. This cooling and pressure-relieving mattress was specifically designed to support heavier sleepers. It features several layers of foam and reinforced coils to provide support and comfort. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. This cooling and pressure-relieving mattress was specifically designed to support heavier sleepers. It features several layers of foam and reinforced coils to provide support and comfort. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Helix Plus Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Helix Plus Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Helix Plus Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Helix is known for offering a range of mattresses that can be personalized to your (and your partner’s) sleep style. Among Helix’s diverse lineup, the hybrid Plus model is designed specifically for heavy folks between 250 and 300 lb. The company created a sturdy, medium-firm, and supportive mattress using a variety of foams and a pocketed coil support system.
Pros
The combination of support and pressure relief is a good fit for combination sleepers.
The bed sleeps cool, thanks to an open-cell foam, a breathable cover, gel-infused memory foam, and coils to promote airflow.
Because the mattress is medium-firm, you’re liable to sleep more on top of it than “in” it.
Cons
Some reviews of the Helix Plus describe the mattress as being too soft. If you’re a heavy sleeper who likes an extra-firm bed, you may want to find other options.
Read our full Helix Plus review.
Best Mattress for Heavy People with Lower Back Pain – DreamCloud Premier
The DreamCloud Premier is a hybrid mattress that offers firm support, but also soft pressure relief, which is ideal for heavier sleepers who suffer from lower back pain. The DreamCloud Premier is a hybrid mattress that offers firm support, but also soft pressure relief, which is ideal for heavier sleepers who suffer from lower back pain. The DreamCloud Premier is a hybrid mattress that offers firm support, but also soft pressure relief, which is ideal for heavier sleepers who suffer from lower back pain.DreamCloud Premier Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
DreamCloud Premier Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
DreamCloud Premier Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
If you’re a heavier sleeper struggling with back pain, check out the DreamCloud Premier mattress. This extremely durable bed provides targeted relief to the hips, shoulders, and lower back. Its strong coils keep the body from sinking too far in the material. The mattress’s one-two punch of pressure relief and support works wonders for back pain.
Pros
The DreamCloud Premier greets sleepers with a quilted pillow-top and layers of memory foam, providing plush pressure relief to the shoulders and lumbar region.
Bouncy pocketed coils support the hips and keep them aligned with the neck and shoulders.
The DreamCloud Premier has fantastic edge support, maximizing the usable surface area of the mattress.
Cons
While the DreamCloud Premier should accommodate many heavy sleepers, folks who sleep on their stomach will probably need a more supportive bed.
For more, read our full DreamCloud Premier mattress review.
Best Innerspring Mattress for Heavy People – Saatva HD
This mattress is no longer available for purchase. To help you find your next mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses available on the market now.
The Saatva HD should appeal to people who prefer the sturdiness of traditional (uncompressed) beds. Although it’s technically a hybrid, it offers a classic innerspring feel. It provides a firmer feel and is made with high-quality materials. This provides sufficient durability for heavy sleepers.
Pros
The pillow-top features bouncy Talalay Latex, a naturally cooling material.
A contouring layer of memory foam followed by a transitional layer of polyfoam prevents you from sinking too far into the mattress.
This mattress is a good fit for combo sleepers, as well as strict back and stomach sleepers.
Cons
The Saatva HD doesn’t have the best motion-transfer results. If you sleep with a partner and are easily disturbed, you may feel their movements.
Intrigued by this mattress? Read our full Saatva HD review or visit our Best Innerspring Mattresses page to find the best mattress for you!
Best Mattress for Heavy Back Sleepers – WinkBed Plus
The WinkBed Plus is another bed designed with heavy sleepers in mind, and it's a good pick for back sleepers because of its bouncy and supportive feel. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed Plus is another bed designed with heavy sleepers in mind, and it's a good pick for back sleepers because of its bouncy and supportive feel. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The WinkBed Plus is another bed designed with heavy sleepers in mind, and it's a good pick for back sleepers because of its bouncy and supportive feel. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.WinkBed Plus Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
WinkBed Plus Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
WinkBed Plus Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Back sleepers of all weights and sizes need a mattress with enough support to keep their spine in proper alignment. The WinkBed Plus is designed to deliver just that. While the brand has a few different models (including the natural latex EcoCloud and all-foam MemoryLux), the Plus is constructed with heavier folks in mind. Its super firm feel provides the extra support required by heavy back sleepers, while its quilted cover helps cushion the lumbar area.
Pros
Its combination of quick-responding latex foam and pocketed coil layers provide lots of support and responsiveness.
With the WinkBed Plus’s Tencel cover and pocketed coils, you should sleep cool on this mattress.
Its high-density polyfoam provides excellent edge support.
Cons
The WinkBed Plus is probably too firm for lightweight sleepers under 130 lbs.
Check out my full WinkBed Plus review, or visit our Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers page to find the perfect fit for you!
Best Mattress for Heavy Couples – Bear Hybrid
The Bear Hybrid combines foams and coils to achieve a medium-soft to medium-firm feel. The Celliant woven into its cover aims to help with restorative sleep. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Bear Hybrid combines foams and coils to achieve a medium-soft to medium-firm feel. The Celliant woven into its cover aims to help with restorative sleep. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Bear Hybrid combines foams and coils to achieve a medium-soft to medium-firm feel. The Celliant woven into its cover aims to help with restorative sleep. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Bear Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Bear Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Bear Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
If you and your partner are interested in a mattress that keeps you comfortable and cool, the Bear Hybrid is a great choice. Not only does this 13-inch mattress have foams for comfort and coils for support, but Bear says the Celliant in the bed’s cover assists with muscle recovery. This is great for couples who want to unwind, snooze, and not overheat!
Pros
Because of memory foam’s pressure-relieving properties, the Bear Hybrid should be great for those with joint pain.
Many avoid memory foam because it traps heat, but this isn’t the case for the Bear Hybrid. It boasts a breathable cover and gel-infused cooling foam.
Bear offers a 120-night trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping.
Cons
Because it reads as a 6/10 on the firmness scale, this mattress is likely too soft to support heavy stomach sleepers.
If you’re interested in learning more then read our Bear Hybrid review!
Best Hybrid Mattress for Heavy People – Brooklyn Bedding Titan
The Brooklyn Bedding Titan is a supportive and durable mattress designed for heavier sleepers. It features heavy-duty coils and the Titanflex foam comfort layer, which provides lift and bounce. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Brooklyn Bedding Titan is a supportive and durable mattress designed for heavier sleepers. It features heavy-duty coils and the Titanflex foam comfort layer, which provides lift and bounce. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Brooklyn Bedding Titan is a supportive and durable mattress designed for heavier sleepers. It features heavy-duty coils and the Titanflex foam comfort layer, which provides lift and bounce. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Titan Firm Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Titan Firm Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Titan Firm Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
If you can’t choose between the durability of an innerspring and the comfort of an all-foam, consider a hybrid mattress. The Brooklyn Bedding Titan is one of our favorites, combining memory foam and the brand’s proprietary TitanFlex foam for pressure relief and comfort. This material is supported by six inches of strong pocketed coils, keeping heavier sleepers from sinking through the layers to the bottom of the bed. This firm support is great for spinal alignment.
Pros
The Brooklyn Bedding Titan’s ability to isolate motion transfer is extremely impressive, which should appeal to couples.
The bed has strong edge support. You should be able to use the full surface area of this mattress.
Because the mattress has a high responsiveness, it could be a good bed for sex.
Cons
For a hybrid bed, the Titan tends to sleep hot. Anyone especially concerned with temperature regulation may experience a bit of discomfort.
Learn more in our Brooklyn Bedding Titan Review or visit our Best Hybrid Mattresses page!
Best Budget-Friendly Mattress for Heavy Sleepers – Loom & Leaf
The Loom & Leaf is a pressure-relieving memory foam mattress. It offers deep sinkage and contouring, and its foam layers absorb almost all movement, making it a great option for couples. The Loom & Leaf is a pressure-relieving memory foam mattress. It offers deep sinkage and contouring, and its foam layers absorb almost all movement, making it a great option for couples. The Loom & Leaf is a pressure-relieving memory foam mattress. It offers deep sinkage and contouring, and its foam layers absorb almost all movement, making it a great option for couples.Loom & Leaf Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Loom & Leaf Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Loom & Leaf Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
It’s hard to find a sturdy, supportive mattress standing at a reasonable price point. Fortunately, the Loom & Leaf by Saatva is a quality mattress that comes at an affordable cost. The Loom & Leaf is made with pressure relieving foams in the comfort layer and sturdy polyfoam for support. This mattress also comes in multiple firmness options, so you can choose the feel that’s best for your needs.
Pros
The Loom & Leaf is great for couples, as it isolates motion well. The foam absorbs movement so it won’t transfer across the bed and wake your partner.
The Relaxed Firm version is good for side sleepers, as this bed provides cushiony support around the hips and shoulders. The Firm version of the Loom & Leaf should work well for stomach sleepers and keep their hips elevated.
In our tests, the Loom & Leaf displayed strong edge support. This is a great indicator of a mattress’s durability.
Cons
This mattress isn’t very bouncy, so combination sleepers or folks with mobility issues may have trouble moving on top of the bed.
Ready to make the Loom & Leaf your new mattress? Read our full review. more budget-friendly options, check out our best mattresses for the money.
Best Organic Mattress for Heavy People – Nolah Natural
The Nolah Natural mattress is not only made with eco-friendly and hypoallergenic materials, but it also offers pressure relief and comfort that many sleepers should enjoy. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Nolah Natural mattress is not only made with eco-friendly and hypoallergenic materials, but it also offers pressure relief and comfort that many sleepers should enjoy. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Nolah Natural mattress is not only made with eco-friendly and hypoallergenic materials, but it also offers pressure relief and comfort that many sleepers should enjoy. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Nolah Natural Mattress
Material
Latex
Trial Period
120 Nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Nolah Natural Mattress
Material
Latex
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Nolah Natural Mattress
Material
Latex
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
120 Nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
The Nolah Natural is an eco-friendly mattress with a luxurious feel. It has an organic cotton cover, an organic wool layer acting as a natural fire barrier, a layer of bouncy Talalay latex, and individually wrapped coils. Those sturdy coils make this bed great for heavy people, as they’ll provide lots of support. The latex foam will balance things out with pressure relief.
Pros
The Nolah Natural is ideal for most back and side sleepers, as it offers a balance of comfort and support.
With a combo of latex and coils, this mattress should sleep cool and prevent the trapping of body heat.
The Nolah Natural is made with Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified organic wool, GOTS certified organic cotton, natural latex, and recycled steel.
Cons
Couples should be wary of the Nolah Natural’s poor motion isolation. With bouncy latex and coils, this mattress transfers motion quite easily.
Read our full Nolah Natural review. For more natural options, take a look at our best organic mattresses.
Best Latex Mattress for Heavy People – Birch Original
The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy. The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy. The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy.Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Birch is a brand that’s all about natural sleep products, and this hybrid latex mattress is no exception. The Birch is made with an organic cotton cover, a layer of organic wool, Talalay latex, and a layer of pocketed coils. Those sturdy coils provide lots of support to keep heavier sleepers comfortable and well-supported.
Pros
Thanks to its latex and coil construction, the Birch sleeps very cool.
Heavy back sleepers should find the Birch comfortable. It has a medium-firm feel, offering a combination of pressure relief and support.
The Birch is a responsive mattress, making it great for sex and combination sleepers.
Cons
The Birch also doesn’t offer a ton of sinkage or body contouring, so side sleepers may want to look for something a little cushier.
Read our full review or take a look at some of our other favorite latex mattresses.
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers – Casper Wave Hybrid
The Wave Hybrid does a great job combining support and softness to strike a great balance between pressure relief and lift. This is especially nice for sleepers who struggle with back pain or heavy people in need of durable support. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Wave Hybrid does a great job combining support and softness to strike a great balance between pressure relief and lift. This is especially nice for sleepers who struggle with back pain or heavy people in need of durable support. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Wave Hybrid does a great job combining support and softness to strike a great balance between pressure relief and lift. This is especially nice for sleepers who struggle with back pain or heavy people in need of durable support. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Financing Options
Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Financing Options
Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Financing Options
Casper’s one of the biggest names in the mattress industry and for good reason! The Casper Wave Hybrid is built with a five layer construction that includes Casper’s proprietary Airscape foam, zoned memory foam, zoned polyfoam, gel support pods, and pocketed coils. This results in a stable mattress that provides excellent mobility for combination sleepers. They shouldn’t feel stuck in the material as they toss and turn at night.
Pros
This mattress is great for those who struggle with back pain.
The Casper Wave Hybrid sleeps cool, but if you want to sleep even cooler, you can upgrade to the Casper Wave Hybrid Snow.
Because this bed has impressive motion isolation, couples shouldn’t have to worry about being disturbed by their partner’s movements.
Cons
Heavy stomach sleepers will likely need a firmer mattress with additional support.
Read our full review or head over to our best mattress for combination sleepers roundup.
A Guide to Mattress-Buying for Heavier People
Many sleepers who weigh more than 200 lb are not overweight, but for the purposes of this guide the terms “heavy,” “large,” and “overweight” refer to sleepers above 200 lb. All mattresses mentioned in this review can support a bodyweight up to at least 300 lb, and several can support 350–450 lb. In general, a 200-lb person will have more options when purchasing a mattress than a 300- or 400-lb person, but there are some great options for larger sleepers.
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
Can the mattress support your weight without sinking or sagging? Overweight 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.
Preference
Do you like a softer or firmer feel in a mattress? 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.
Sleeping Position
If you weigh more than 200 lbs, your sleeping position has even more impact on your mattress choice. A medium-firm mattress is generally best for heavier sleepers since it provides enough spinal and joint support yet relieves pressure around the hips and shoulders. Back sleepers may prefer a firmer mattress that prevents the hips and shoulders from sinking out of alignment. Stomach sleepers usually need a firm mattress to prevent curvature of the lower back.
Mattress Materials
The 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.
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 polyfoams. It’s worth noting this increase in buoyancy may result in more motion transfer.
Innerspring
Innerrspring 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.
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’s 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 our top picks in the category.
Mattress Thickness
Mattresses are generally 6” to 14″ 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.
Sleepers weighing less than 200 lbs should find a 10” mattress sufficient. Because heavier people exert a larger amount of pressure, they sleep best on a thicker mattress offering deep compression support. In some cases, 10″ mattresses utilize advanced foams or an extra thick comfort layer to improve this type of support.
Mattress Firmness
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 4–6/10 on the scale, while firmer mattresses measure around 7–9/10. Heavier sleepers should look for a mattress on the medium to medium firm side.
The heavier you are, the deeper and more pronounced the sinkage. A mattress with a 8/10 on the firmness scale might feel like a 7/10 for a sleeper who weighs 250 lbs or more. A heavier sleeper may experience about 1–2″ more sinkage than an average weight person.
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.
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.
Sleeping 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. Here’s how some of the most popular mattress materials stack up when it comes to temperature regulation:
Memory Foam
Mattresses made from memory foam 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. We recommend heavier sleepers avoid inexpensive or basic memory foams that are more likely to absorb and retain heat.
Innersprings and Hybrids
Innerspring and hybrid mattresses don’t absorb as much body heat. The internal coil structure improves airflow through the mattress and prevents the accumulation of heat. Comfort layers made of a cooling material such as latex or advanced memory foam can also make innerspring or hybrid mattresses a good choice for hot sleepers.
Latex
The open-cell structure of latex encourages airflow, which reduces 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.
For more, check out my guide to the Best Cooling Mattresses!
When to Replace a 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:
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.
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.
Durability of Materials
The highest quality mattresses last around seven years. The durability of a mattress varies by the types of materials used in its construction. These materials may include:
Memory Foam
Though more durable than polyfoam, memory foam is 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.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses are typically constructed from comfort layers made of foam or latex and an interior network of coils. Coils can lose their spring over time, making innerspring mattresses prone to sagging. Some lower-quality innerspring mattresses may deteriorate in under three years. Higher-quality innerspring mattresses should last at least seven years.
Hybrid
A hybrid mattress contains comfort layers made from memory foam and/or latex with pocketed coils in the support core. This combination of materials is prone to indentations, softening, and sagging over time. Latex comfort layers are more durable than those made of memory foam.
Latex
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.
Mattress Weight Capacities
The typical mattress is designed to support a body weight of 250 lb. 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 lb or if you and your partner together weigh more than 500 lb, investigate 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 lb. 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.
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’s 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.
Heavier Couples
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 lb 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-lb 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.
If you and your partner have different sleep needs, consider a bed with customizable or adjustable features. Some mattress brands allow firmness, head elevation, and temperature to be adjusted on each side of the bed, maximizing individual comfort.
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 2–4″ thick. In general, a thicker topper will offer more support for heavier sleepers. Topper materials usually include:
Memory Foam
Memory foam 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).
Polyfoam
Polyfoam, or polyurethane foam, is usually the least expensive of all topper materials. Due to its lower density, it’s the least durable. Polyfoam 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
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.
FAQ’s
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. 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. 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. 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 type of bed frame is best for heavy people?
Do I need a foundation or box spring to go with my mattress?
Do memory foam mattresses have a weight limit?
Can a heavy sleeper sleep on a bed in a box?
Recap: The Best Mattresses for Heavy People
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen) | Coupon | Review |
| Helix Plus | Editor’s Pick | $1,749 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| DreamCloud Premier | Lower Back Pain | $1,599 | DreamCloud Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Saatva HD | Innerspring | $2,895 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| WinkBed Plus | Back Sleepers | $1,799 | WinkBed Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Bear Hybrid | Couples | $1,732 | Bear Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Brooklyn Bedding Titan | Hybrid | $1,249 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Loom & Leaf (by Saatva) | Budget-friendly | $2,099 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Nolah Natural | Organic | $1,799 | Nolah Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Birch (by Helix) | Latex | $1,799 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Casper Wave Hybrid | Combo Sleepers | $2,895 | Casper Coupon | Read Our Review! |
