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Best Extra Firm Mattress
Sleep Foundation
Why Trust Us
Our mission to create a healthier, more well-rested world demands that our product reviews be best-in-class. You won’t find more expertise on mattresses and sleep products anywhere else.
The Sleep Foundation product testing team uses an industry-leading evaluation process paired with real world consumer feedback to come up with objective recommendations so that you can feel confident in your product decisions.
Extra firm mattresses often use durable materials to provide strong support, minimal sinkage, and excellent temperature neutrality. An extra firm mattress encourages healthy sleep posture for stomach sleepers and people over 230 pounds. Those with back pain may also prefer a firmer bed with even support.
Firmness is a key factor in a mattress’ level of comfort and support. Extra firm mattresses allow for very little sink, making them a popular choice for stomach sleepers who need a mattress that doesn’t sag under their midsection. People over 230 pounds also tend to prefer firm mattresses.
Extra firm mattresses rate between 7 (firm) and 10 (extra firm) on our 10-point firmness scale. Typically, the models within this range feature a sturdy support core and comfort layers that don’t contour too closely to the body.
After testing a wide range of extra firm mattresses, we came up with a list of our top picks. Since firmness is just one factor to consider when choosing a mattress, we also evaluated each mattress in performance areas like motion isolation and temperature control.
We’ll discuss each mattress’ construction and performance, as well as details like shipping, sleep trials, and warranties.
The Best Extra Firm Mattresses
- Best Mattress Overall – Plank Firm Luxe
- Best Value Mattress – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Firm
- Best Luxury Mattress – Saatva Classic – Firm
- Most Comfortable Mattress – Firmer WinkBed
- Best Mattress for Couples – Helix Dawn
- Best Mattress for Back Pain – Bear Elite Hybrid – Firm
- Best Mattress for Back and Stomach Sleepers – Nolah Evolution 15 – Firm
- Best All-Foam Mattress – Plank Firm
- Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers – Titan Plus
In-Depth Reviews
The Plank Firm Luxe is a sturdy dual-sided hybrid with two different firmness levels. It accommodates sleepers with back pain and those whose firmness needs may vary over time. We found that the mattress works particularly well for stomach and back sleepers over 130 pounds.
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Pros
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Dual-sided model with two firmness levels
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Soft cotton-microfiber cover
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Available in standard and non-standard sizes
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Cons
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Returns incur a $99 fee
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Some side sleepers may experience pressure buildup
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)
Price Range
$693 – $1,299
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Product Details
The Brooklyn Bedding Plank collection includes both the Firm and Firm Luxe mattresses. While the Firm mattress is an all-foam mattress, the Plank Firm Luxe is a versatile hybrid that combines high-density polyfoam with a pocketed coil core. One side is firm (7), while the other is extra firm (9).
How It Performed
Both sides of the Plank Firm Luxe reinforce good sleep posture by minimizing deep sinkage below the torso. Our testers with a history of back pain felt especially supported on the extra firm side. The extra firm side also helped stomach and back sleepers maintain a straighter spine. However, side sleepers and people under 130 pounds found the mattress a little too stiff.
Our tests showed that the mattress slept quite cool. Because the polyfoam comfort layer doesn’t conform too closely, it prevents heat buildup. Additionally, the pocketed coil core circulates air throughout the mattress, which helps with temperature neutrality.
The Plank Firm Luxe has excellent edge support, even by hybrid standards. Robust edges can make getting in and out of bed easier for people with joint or back pain. The Firm Luxe’s solid performance in this category and others, such as ease of movement and temperature neutrality, also make it an excellent choice for sex.
What It’s Made of
The Plank Firm Luxe is a flippable hybrid with two distinct surfaces. The extra firm (9) side starts with a .75-inch quilted cotton-microfiber cover. Below that, 2 inches of high-density polyfoam reduce deep sinkage. The reverse firm (7) side has a thicker cotton-microfiber cover for a slightly plusher surface. A 1-inch layer of TitanFlex foam increases contouring and is followed by 2 inches of supportive, high-density polyfoam.
A 6-inch pocketed coil core reinforces both comfort systems. The coils permit easier movement while boosting airflow. An optional cooling cover can be sewn onto both sides for an extra fee. The cover upgrade uses phase change technology engineered to release body heat.
The Plank Firm Luxe ships for free to the contiguous U.S. The mattress can also be shipped to Alaska and Hawaii for an added fee. Brooklyn Bedding backs the Plank Firm Luxe with a 10-year limited warranty and a 120-night sleep trial. Returns can be made after a 30-day break-in period.
Best Value Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Firm
Save 25% sitewide at Brooklyn Bedding
$999 at Brooklyn Bedding
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Firm is a great fit for people who absolutely need support but also enjoy a touch of cushioning for sensitive pressure points. We especially recommend it for stomach sleepers who have a hard time finding supportive beds.
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Pros
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Above-average firmness for a hybrid model
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Competitive price-point
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Reinforced perimeter increases edge support
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Cons
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$99 fee for mattress returns
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Foam may release off-gassing odors upon unboxing
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$499 – $1,199
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Product Details
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is available in three firmness levels, but the firmest model stands out for its exceptional support — and at a very attractive price-point.
How It Performed
Our testing team found the firm (8) feel of the Signature Hybrid – Firm offered better support than many other hybrids we’ve tested in our lab. We recommend this mattress for back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds, since these sleepers often find inadequate support in softer hybrids. Despite the firmness, the bed still offers enough cushioning to gently cradle areas susceptible to pressure buildup, such as the spine.
Another area the mattress excelled in was temperature regulation. Foam often retains heat, but the foam layers on this model are thin enough to mitigate heat retention. The air circulation through the coils also enhances cooling, so hot sleepers should stay fairly comfortable.
What It’s Made of
The mattress starts with a quilted pillow-top that is firm with moderate cushioning. A layer of responsive polyfoam beneath enhances cushioning but is thin enough to maintain the overall firm feel. Next is a transitional layer of VariFlex, a proprietary foam that’s designed to relieve pressure point discomfort. The support core is made from 8 inches of pocketed coils that sit on a thin polyfoam base. The coils are encased individually so that they move independently as you lie on them. The perimeter is lined with reinforced coils to increase edge support.
Each mattress carries a 10-year warranty and a 120-night sleep trial. Anyone wishing to return their mattress must first try it for 30 nights. Free shipping is available to addresses in the contiguous U.S.
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Pros
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Available in two heights: 11.5 or 14.5 inches
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Zoned Euro-top provides targeted back support
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Two layers of coils enhance responsiveness
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Cons
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Coils produce noticeable motion transfer
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Mattress returns incur a $99 fee
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$995 – $2,710
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Product Details
The Saatva Classic is available in three firmness levels and two heights. The firmest model registers as 8 on our 10-point firmness scale. Although this mattress permits very little sinkage, our testers found that the Euro-top still effectively cushions pressure points. Zoned memory foam and a layer of adaptive coils promote spine alignment, while an underlying layer of interlocking dual-coils gives the Saatva Classic a slightly bouncy feel.
How It Performed
Both height options performed similarly for our testers. Those over 130 pounds were the most satisfied, regardless of their preferred sleep position. The quilted Euro-top provided enough cushioning for side sleepers over 130 pounds. Our back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds enjoyed the firm feel and didn’t experience deep sinkage below their midsection.
High-density foam rails increase the mattress’ edge support and durability. We did observe a fair amount of motion transfer due to the interlocking dual-coil design, so couples may be more aware of their partner’s movements. That said, the mattress’ durability and temperature control are assets for co-sleepers.
What It’s Made of
The Saatva Classic features a breathable organic cotton cover with an antimicrobial treatment. Zoned quilting and polyfoam in the comfort system support the lower back. The layer of pocketed microcoils underneath helps relieve pressure, and the high-density foam rails limit sagging along the sides.
Along with the six standard sizes, the Classic comes in split king and split California king options. Saatva offers free White Glove delivery for customers in the contiguous U.S. The mattress includes a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty.
The WinkBed combines substantial support with notable pressure relief. The Firmer model reinforces the midsection while still cushioning the shoulders and legs. We found that the firm (7) version worked best for our stomach and back sleepers, though testers who sleep on their side and weigh over 130 pounds also found it comfortable.
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Pros
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Plush and breathable Euro-top
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Soft and stretchy Tencel cover
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A sturdy reinforced perimeter
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Cons
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Foam may off-gas at first
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Couples may notice some motion transfer due to coils
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Price Range
$1,149 – $2,049
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
Product Details
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid available in four firmness levels. The Firmer model corresponds to firm (7), so it has marginal give. It combines a breathable Euro-top with a foam support system and a pocketed coil support core.
How It Performed
Side sleepers don’t always get enough pressure relief on firm mattresses, but our testers over 130 pounds felt they got ample cushioning from the WinkBed’s soft Euro-top. The mattress also supported good sleep posture for stomach and back sleepers in all weight groups. The responsive polyfoam kept our testers’ spines aligned, while the zoned coil core reduced sinkage below the hips.
Our testing team was pleased with the Winkbed Firmer’s superior edge support, which keeps the mattress feeling firm right up to the sides of the mattress. Additionally, this bed doesn’t retain much heat, thanks to its airy coil core and lack of deep contouring.
What It’s Made of
The WinkBed is a 13.5-inch hybrid with a Tencel cover designed to wick away heat and moisture. Its quilted Euro-top has two layers of gel-infused polyfoam sewn inside. A 2-inch layer of transitional polyfoam underneath helps align the spine.
The robust pocketed coil core stabilizes the comfort layers. Zoned coils provide firmer support beneath the lumbar region, and sturdier coils along the perimeter boost edge support.
The WinkBed includes free shipping to the contiguous U.S. and a limited lifetime warranty. Customers have 120 nights to test the mattress, but returns can only be initiated after a 30-day break-in period.
The Helix Dawn is a responsive hybrid with an attractive price-point. A foam comfort system cushions pressure points, while the pocketed coil core reinforces spinal alignment. We found the firm (8) surface to be especially supportive for back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds.
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Pros
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Responsive comfort foam blends contouring with support
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Pocketed coil core allows for quiet movement
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Solid edge support makes it easy to get in and out of bed
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Cons
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Side sleepers will likely find the mattress too firm
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Some may find the foam’s off-gassing odors unpleasant at first
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$749 – $1,399
Trial Period
100 Nights (30-Night Requirement)
Product Details
Helix specializes in hybrids, and the Helix Dawn is one of the brand’s firmest models, rating as an 8 on our 10-point firmness scale. It blends a pocketed coil core with Helix Dynamic Foam, a proprietary latex-foam alternative. The result is an extra firm mattress that our testers found to have a great balance of contouring and support.
How It Performed
The Helix Dawn’s firm surface promoted spinal alignment for our stomach and back sleepers over 130 pounds. However, side sleepers in all weight groups found the mattress too firm. This makes sense since side sleepers generally prefer more sink below their hips and shoulders.
Our combination sleepers could easily change positions and move around on the bed, thanks to responsive foam and the slightly springy pocketed coil core. Despite the bounce, we didn’t notice much motion transfer or noise from the springs.
What It’s Made of
The Helix Dawn is a four-layer hybrid with a 11.5-inch profile. The standard cover is made from soft and stretchy polyester. Shoppers can upgrade to the GlacioTex cover for an extra charge. The cooling cover is made with phase change material designed to absorb and dissipate heat.
The comfort system on the Helix Dawn is composed of two different types of foam. An upper layer of adaptive foam cushions pressure points without compressing deeply. A layer of firmer polyfoam below spreads body weight evenly across the mattress. The 8-inch pocketed coil core is reinforced on two sides to improve edge support. A dense polyfoam base stabilizes the mattress.
The Helix Dawn can be purchased through the company’s website. Shipping is free for customers in the contigouous U.S. The mattress includes a 100-night sleep trial with a required 30-day break-in period. A 10-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects.
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Bear Elite Hybrid – Firm
35% off + 2 free pillows at Bear. Code: SF35
$1,499 at Bear
Consider the Bear Elite Hybrid if you’re a back sleeper seeking a firm mattress with notable pressure relief. Adaptive memory foam alleviates tension, while a zoned pocketed coil core supports the spine. Breathable foam and a cooling cover make the mattress ideal for hot sleepers.
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Pros
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Breathable cover made with Celliant fiber and phase change material
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Pressure-relieving memory foam infused with copper
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Zoned polyfoam reinforces spinal alignment
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Cons
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Side sleepers under 230 pounds may experience some pressure buildup
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Co-sleepers may feel each other’s movements due to coils
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,231 – $2,548
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Product Details
Bear designs mattresses to aid physical recovery. The Bear Elite is a four-layer hybrid available in three firmness levels: soft, medium, and firm. While all three versions provide solid support for a variety of sleepers, the firm (8) model is particularly well-suited to back sleepers.
How It Performed
Our team’s stomach and back sleepers across all weight ranges felt comfortable on the Bear Elite. The mattress’ zoned polyfoam prevented excessive sinkage, and the pocketed coil core supported the torso and promoted good spinal alignment.
The Bear Elite also works well for side sleepers over 130 pounds. The upper memory foam layer permits just enough sinkage below the hips and shoulders to prevent the buildup of tension.
We also found that the Bear Elite performed well in areas that couples tend to value. Reinforced edges give co-sleepers more space to spread out, and the mattress’ responsive feel and solid traction can be useful during sex. We didn’t notice many surface vibrations, so co-sleepers shouldn’t be disturbed when their partner moves.
What It’s Made of
The Bear Elite is a 14-inch hybrid made up of four layers. It has a cooling cover made from polyester, Celliant fibers, and phase change material. This thermally conductive blend is designed to absorb and release body heat.
The top memory foam layer cushions pressure points without overly conforming to the body. Underneath, a layer of zoned polyfoam helps even out body weight for better sleep posture. The pocketed coil core is also zoned to improve spine alignment, with extra coils around the perimeter to strengthen the mattress’ edge support. A high-density polyfoam base stabilizes the comfort and support layers.
Bear ships the Elite Hybrid for free to the contiguous U.S. The mattress has a 120-night sleep trial with a 30-day break-in period. A limited lifetime warranty protects customers from defects in materials and manufacturing.
Best Mattress for Back and Stomach Sleepers
Nolah Evolution 15 – Firm
35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows at Nolah
$1,624 at Nolah Sleep
The Nolah Evolution 15 balances solid support with comforting pressure relief. The responsive hybrid doesn’t trap much heat, thanks to a cooling cover and ventilated foam. Sturdy edges and minimal motion transfer make the mattress ideal for stomach sleepers and couples.
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Pros
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Organic cotton cover is designed to sleep cool
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Above-average edge support allows for more usable surface area
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Zoned pocketed coils provide good pressure relief
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Cons
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$99 fee incurred for mattress returns
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15-inch profile may require deep pocket sheets
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,004 – $2,143
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Product Details
The best-selling Nolah Evolution is a 15-inch hybrid available in three firmness levels. The firm model offers the sturdy support needed by stomach sleepers, ranking as an 8 on our 10-point firmness scale.
How It Performed
Some firm mattresses can feel uncomfortably stiff, but most of our testers experienced notable pressure relief on the Nolah Evolution. Our stomach sleepers in particular felt that the combination of a quilted Euro-top and a polyfoam comfort system alleviated tension by evenly distributing their body weight.
The back sleepers on our team also felt comfortable on the Nolah Evolution. However, our side sleepers weighing less than 230 found the mattress too firm.
What It’s Made of
The Nolah Evolution is a 15-inch hybrid with five distinct layers. It features a cooling cover made from organic cotton and thermally conductive fibers. The quilted Euro-top underneath contains 2 inches of ventilated polyfoam to cushion pressure points. A 2-inch gusset around the Euro-top is designed to draw out heat.
The comfort system begins with a 2-inch layer of graphite-infused foam that gently conforms to the body. Graphite infusions are engineered to dissipate heat. Below is 2 inches of responsive polyfoam to minimize sagging. A 1-inch layer of high-density polyfoam buffers sleepers from the support core.
The mattress is stabilized with an 8-inch pocketed coil core. Zoned coils deliver more push-back to the shoulders and back. A reinforced perimeter reduces outer surface impressions. The recycled plant fiber base has a non-slip underside to stabilize the mattress.
The Nolah Evolution 15 comes in all standard sizes and a split king option. The mattress is available through Nolah’s website and includes free shipping to the contiguous U.S. Customers are protected with a 120-night sleep trial and a limited lifetime warranty.
The Plank Firm is a flippable foam mattress with two distinct sides: firm and extra firm. Our testers were impressed with the responsive surface and strong edge support on both sides. The extra firm side performs especially well for stomach and back sleepers over 130 pounds.
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Pros
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Flippable model with two firmness levels
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Optional cooling cover made with phase change material
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Available in standard and non-traditional mattress sizes
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Cons
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Side sleepers under 130 pounds may need a bed with more cushioning
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You must pay $99 for mattress returns
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Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)
Price Range
$562 – $1,149
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Product Details
A dual-sided design allows sleepers to experiment with different firmness levels. Both sides encourage good sleep posture, thanks to robust edge support and minimal sinkage. We also found that the mattress stays cooler than most all-foam models.
How It Performed
The Plank Firm promotes neutral spine alignment by reinforcing the torso area. Our stomach and back sleepers over 130 pounds experienced minimal sinkage and felt comfortable on the extra firm (9) side. Side sleepers didn’t get enough pressure relief on the extra firm surface, but those over 230 pounds found the firm (7) side on par with other foam models.
While some close-conforming mattresses can be difficult to move on, our testers found it easy to change positions on the Plank Firm. The mattress also regulates temperature, both with and without the GlacioText cover.
What It’s Made of
The Plank Firm is a dual-sided foam mattress with four separate layers and an optional cooling cover that can be sewn into the top panel. It measures 11.75 inches tall.
A .75-inch layer of quilted foam on the extra firm side has minimal loft, which keeps the mattress feeling firm. The high-density foam layer beneath only minimally contours to the body and doesn’t permit deep sinkage. The opposite side has more give than the extra firm surface, due to its slightly thicker quilted layer, which is supported by 2 inches of high-density foam. Both sides share a 7-inch polyfoam core made of a dense foam that resists deep compression.
The Plank Firm comes in all six standard mattress sizes and a range of custom and RV sizes. The mattress is available through Plank’s website and other online retailers such as Amazon. Orders placed through Plank’s website include free shipping to the contiguous U.S. The Plank Firm comes with a 120-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.
Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
Titan Plus
30% off sitewide with code: MEMORIAL30
$936 at Brooklyn Bedding
The Titan Plus is designed to support sleepers over 230 pounds. The hybrid uses dense polyfoam and heavy-gauge coils to prevent deep sinkage. A top layer of memory foam keeps the mattress from feeling too rigid, leading to a good balance of support and pressure relief.
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Pros
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Pressure-relieving memory foam quilted inside the cover
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Extra resilient TitanCaliber coils in the support core
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A durable high-density polyfoam base
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Cons
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Insufficient pressure relief for most side sleepers due to firmness
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$99 fee for mattress returns
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$489 – $1,119
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Product Details
Brooklyn Bedding’s Titan Plus mattress series is designed for the needs and preferences of sleepers over 230 pounds. The collection includes two hybrids, each with a distinct firmness. The Titan Plus is a firm (8) mattress with very little contouring. Its dense foams and sturdy coils make the hybrid especially supportive.
How It Performed
Our testers over 230 pounds experienced negligible sinkage on the Titan Plus. The sturdy memory foam gently conforms to the hips and shoulders for side sleepers over 230 pounds. Our stomach and back sleepers over 130 pounds also felt comfortable and supported on the Titan Plus, thanks to its dense TitanFlex foam.
Combination sleepers should be able to comfortably change positions since the memory foam doesn’t permit deep sinkage. Additionally, minimal contouring and ventilated foam limit heat retention. And despite its responsiveness, the mattress doesn’t transfer much motion. This helps couples move freely without disturbing their partner.
What It’s Made of
The Titan Plus has a layer of gel-infused memory foam quilted inside the cover. This comfort layer is designed to relieve tension without trapping heat. Underneath, a 2-inch layer of responsive TitanFlex foam evenly contours to sleepers while resisting compression.
The 6-inch pocketed coil core features patented TitanCaliber coils. The sturdy low-gauge coils are wrapped in fabric to reduce motion transfer. At the base is a 2-inch layer of high-density polyfoam that reinforces the upper layers. An optional GlacioTex cooling cover can be added for an extra charge.
The Titan Plus is available in all standard mattress sizes and a split California king option. The mattress includes free shipping to the contiguous U.S. when purchased from the brand’s website. Select third-party retailers also sell the Titan Plus. The manufacturer backs the mattress with a 120-night sleep trial and a limited 10-year warranty.
Data-Driven Results You Can Trust
Our product reviews are backed by years of experience in the sleep industry. We evaluate hundreds of mattresses at our sleep lab. Along with physical testing, we use advanced tools and software to assess each mattress’ performance across categories like motion isolation, temperature control, and pressure relief.
Sleepers have different sizes, sleep styles, and preferences, and our testers reflect this diversity. We also make sure to test mattresses in a range of price-points to suit varying budgets. Our comprehensive approach gives us unique insight into a mattress’ value and performance.
Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides
If you’re not sure you’ve found a bed that suits your needs, you can narrow down your search by reviewing our recommendations by mattress feel.
Best Mattress by Firmness Level
Who Is an Extra Firm Mattress Best for?
Extra firm mattresses are well suited to sleepers who need additional support, such as stomach sleepers and individuals over 230 pounds.
Mattresses range in firmness levels to suit different body types and sleeping positions. On a firmness scale from 1 to 10, extra firm mattresses measure 9 or 10. Many back sleepers and most stomach sleepers prefer mattresses on the firmer side, ranging from medium firm to extra firm (6 to 10). A firmer surface helps support the sleeper’s midsection, keeping the spine and hips in alignment. On an overly soft model, a stomach or back sleeper’s middle could sag, potentially straining their lumbar region.
Body type also makes a difference. In general, larger individuals need a firmer surface for adequate support. For this reason, stomach and back sleepers over 230 pounds may particularly benefit from an extra firm mattress.
Most side sleepers and individuals under 130 pounds find extra firm mattresses too rigid. They tend to prefer softer models with more contouring.
How to Choose an Extra Firm Mattress
Mattresses are a significant purchase that’s critical to your sleep quality. To make the buying process less daunting, we spell out the major characteristics to look for to identify the best extra firm mattress for your needs.
What to Look for in a Mattress
Mattress companies often use confusing terminology and promotional language to discuss their products. We suggest looking past this jargon and focusing on a handful of key details when choosing a mattress. Consider how the following criteria may apply to your unique needs and sleeping style.
Price
Extra firm mattresses come in a wide array of price-points, typically ranging from around $300 to over $3,000. Some luxury models sell for significantly more. Prices vary based on size, material quality, craftsmanship, and brand. Some manufacturers offer extended sleep trials, warranties, or White Glove delivery service, which the mattress price can also reflect.
Sleeping Position
Sleepers tend to spend most of the night in one general orientation, such as on their stomach, back, or side. Sleeping position directly impacts an individual’s mattress needs since some positions require more support, and others call for more contouring. Generally, extra firm mattresses are most appropriate for back and stomach sleepers. However, some side sleepers over 230 pounds may also consider an extra firm sleep surface.
Quality Materials
The quality of the materials can help determine a mattress’ lifespan and durability. This is especially important for an extra firm mattress to maintain its support over time. High-quality materials usually increase the price tag, but the initial investment often pays off with a longer mattress lifespan.
Firmness Level
Mattresses are available in a variety of firmness levels, but manufacturers often use their own unique terminology, such as plush or luxury firm. Sleep Foundation uses a consistent 1 through 10 scale to rate firmness across all the mattresses we test. Those rated 9 or 10 qualify as extra firm.
Pressure Relief
In some sleep positions, certain body parts naturally dig into the mattress more than others, which can cause pressure buildup. Pressure relief refers to a mattress’ ability to redistribute weight to limit pressure points. This performance trait is more common in plusher models, though extra firm models may include surface-level cushioning.
Motion Isolation
Motion isolation occurs when a mattress prevents the movements of one partner from disturbing another sharing the bed. Because extra firm mattresses have less give, they may be more prone to motion transfer than similarly constructed models with a softer feel.
Temperature Regulation
Extra firm mattresses limit how deeply sleepers sink into the bed, allowing air to flow freely around their bodies. This exceptional air circulation reduces heat buildup, making extra firm models popular with hot sleepers. Many hybrid, latex, and innerspring models further enhance the temperature regulation thanks to their breathable designs. Foam mattresses are more likely to trap heat but often include features to improve temperature regulation.
Edge Support
Due to their sturdy construction, most extra firm mattresses have exceptional edge support. Since they limit edge sinkage, sleepers should be able to use the full mattress surface comfortably, including sitting or lying along the perimeter. Some models also use a more rigid material around the edges as reinforcement.
Contouring
Contouring is how a mattress conforms to the shape of a sleeper’s body. This trait is closely tied to pressure relief. Extra firm mattresses typically offer less contouring compared to softer models. However, the reduced contouring also contributes to enhanced support.
Mattress Type
Mattresses vary in their construction to accommodate different preferences. You can find extra firm models in any of the common mattress types, including hybrid, innerspring, latex, foam, and airbed.
Types of Extra Firm Mattresses
Virtually all mattresses fall into one of five general categories of construction: hybrid, innerspring, foam, latex, and airbed. While mattresses in each category share a basic method of construction, they differ on a range of other characteristics, such as quality, materials, firmness, temperature regulation, and price-point.
Hybrid
A hybrid mattress combines the traits of an innerspring mattress with those of a foam or latex model. The comfort layer may include several inches of foam, latex, or both materials for contouring and pressure relief. Beneath that, a coil core provides strength, durability, bounce, and breathability. Because of their balanced performance, hybrids are often popular with couples.
Extra firm hybrid models often use relatively thin comfort layers to limit sinkage. Denser comfort layer components can also enhance the firmness.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses are a classic design that relies on metal coils. An innerspring mattress pushes back against your movements, creating a springy, responsive sensation. Most extra firm models use an especially thick coil gauge for more rigid support.
Due to ample air circulation through the coil system, innerspring mattresses tend to stay cool throughout the night. Some couples like their overall responsiveness for sex, but innerspring models are also prone to motion transfer.
Foam
All-foam mattresses are increasingly popular. They generally use memory foam, polyfoam, or a combination of the two in the comfort system. The core uses high-density polyfoam for support. Foam models are well known for their contouring and motion isolation, though they can trap heat and often have weak edge support. Increasingly, manufacturers incorporate cooling features designed to regulate temperatures and reinforced perimeters to bolster the beds’ edges.
While foam mattresses tend to be on the plusher end of the firmness spectrum, a handful of extra firm options are also available. Extra firm foam models usually consist of primarily high-density polyfoam with little to no comfort layer.
Latex
Latex mattresses can use natural latex, synthetic latex, or a blend. They respond quickly to changes in pressure and spread compression over a wider area, leading to springy responsiveness.
While latex limits sinkage, its natural buoyancy may allow vibrations to spread. At the same time, the bounce and breathability of latex mattresses make them a good option for couples and hot sleepers. Eco-conscious customers also frequently favor natural latex models. Latex mattresses have an above-average price, but they should resist sagging to provide even support for many years.
Latex varies in formulation and density, providing different firmness levels. The Dunlop manufacturing process produces denser, more durable latex than the Talalay process. Therefore, you’ll see Dunlop latex in most extra firm models.
Airbed
Airbeds are among the most expensive and durable mattresses. An airbed should not be confused with an inflatable air mattress, which tends to be more affordable, prone to leaks, and minimally supportive. In contrast, an airbed uses an electric air pump and a sophisticated chamber system to offer an adjustable firmness level. Typically, each partner can set their own firmness, making airbeds ideal for couples with distinct preferences.
While an airbed may also be a good option for sleepers with changing needs, many top out at a firm (8) feel. Sleepers looking for a true extra firm mattress may struggle to find the level of support they desire. However, models with thinner comfort systems generally feel a bit firmer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stomach sleepers and some back sleepers often need a firmer surface to keep their spines aligned. An extra firm mattress may also be comfortable for sleepers over 230 pounds, who could sink too deeply into a softer model. The ideal mattress firmness for you ultimately depends on your sleep position, body type, and personal preference.
All mattress types are available in a variety of firmness levels, though innerspring and latex models tend to feel slightly firmer due to their pushback. That said, materials make all the difference. Denser foam or latex typically creates a firmer surface, and thick metal coils can lend to a sturdier feel.
Some sleepers find that an extra firm mattress is good for their back pain, but the ideal firmness still depends primarily on the sleeper’s body type and position preference.
Most sleepers get the right balance of support and contouring from a medium firm or firm mattress. However, individuals over 230 pounds and stomach sleepers may need additional support to promote good posture and relieve back strain. For these sleepers, an extra firm model may be best. If you experience back pain, talk to your doctor to assess the potential cause and determine if an extra firm mattress is right for you.
To choose the best extra firm mattress for you, you should first assess your sleep style, preferences, and needs.
Budget is a key factor for many shoppers, so consider your price range. Quality materials tend to retain their firmness better over time, so it may be worth investing more money upfront to enhance your mattress’ life expectancy.
Feel and performance are also high priorities. While most extra firm models excel in temperature regulation, edge support, and responsiveness, you may struggle to find models with notable pressure relief and motion isolation. However, understanding the different types of mattresses on the market can help you narrow your search.
Extra firm mattresses aren’t ideal for most side sleepers. A side sleeper’s shoulders and hips press harder into the mattress, so they typically prefer a softer model that contours closely to promote spinal alignment and ease pressure. However, some side sleepers over 230 pounds may enjoy an extra firm model’s added support.
The difference between a firm and an extra firm mattress is a matter of degree. While a firm mattress may have a bit of cushioning, an extra firm model has very little give. Many back sleepers and stomach sleepers find a firm mattress ideal. However, a stomach sleeper over 230 pounds might prefer the added support of an extra firm mattress.
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Logan is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a deep understanding of what it means to struggle with sleep. Her years of experience researching and testing sleep products – including mattresses, natural sleep aids, and bedding – are critical to her role helping lead the editorial team. As a chronic insomniac, she aims to bring her findings to anyone struggling with getting adequate rest. Her expertise is in creating informative, trustworthy, and useful health content. When she’s not testing mattresses or researching CBT-I, she enjoys spending time in the sunshine with her husband and her dogs Pepper and Winston.