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Best Mattress for Heavy People
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.
A key to finding a good mattress is making sure it’s compatible with your body weight.
Our in-house testing team has reviewed nearly 2,000 mattresses in our Seattle Test Lab, and for this list we focused on feedback from testers who weigh more than 230 pounds. We considered factors such as edge support, ease of movement, and pressure relief. We found medium firm or firm mattresses with minimal cushioning and strong support felt the most comfortable to sleepers over 230 pounds.
Titan Plus Luxe
For sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds, we recommend beds that have excellent support and little sinkage. Our testers found the Titan Plus Luxe struck a good balance of cushioning, support, and responsiveness with an added benefit of excellent cooling.
The Best Mattresses for Heavy People
- Best Mattress Overall – Titan Plus Luxe
- Best Value Mattress – DreamCloud Mattress
- Most Comfortable Mattress – Helix Plus
- Best Mattress for Back Pain – WinkBed Plus
- Best Mattress for Couples – Leesa Plus Hybrid Mattress
- Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Evolution Comfort+
- Best Mattress for Hip Pain – Bear Elite Hybrid
- Best Temperature-Regulating Mattress – Nectar Premier Copper Hybrid
- Best Luxury Mattress – Saatva HD
- Best Extra-Firm Mattress – Titan Plus
Weight Disclaimer
Please note: For the purposes of this page, we are talking about individuals who weigh 230 pounds or more. Although we use the term heavy for brevity and convenience to describe sleepers, we do not use weight categories such as “average” or “overweight” as they can be misleading and dependent on the individual. We use 230 or more pounds as a practical standard of size when discussing how mattresses interact with sleepers’ bodies. We have found that individuals who weigh more than 230 pounds will have similar needs for a mattress in terms of firmness, thickness, and other factors with small individual variations.
In-Depth Reviews
“I was pleasantly surprised by the Titan Plus Luxe and found the plush Euro-top surface to be a welcome addition to the ultra-firm support of the flagship Titan mattress. Its cooling properties are also exceptional, making it a great choice for hot sleepers.” – Logan Foley, Editorial Director
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Pros
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Medium firm hybrid design provides balanced contouring and support
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Optional cooling panel to boost temperature control on the surface
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Below-average pricing for a hybrid
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Cons
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May not provide enough cushioning for some side sleepers
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Coils can generate movement and disrupt sleep for couples
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$749 – $1,649
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Jadynrose H.
“I have never slept so good on a mattress. My only complaint is that I wish the cooling top did MORE cooling.”
Taylor T.
“The only issue it the smell the mattress had initially. It was a heavy chemical smell. I aired it out for two days in a closed off room with the windows open with a heavy fan blowing thru it and over. 10 hours a day. This solved the chemical smell.”
Elise C.
“We love our new Titan Plus Luxe. We had an all memory foam mattress before but it started to sag. The hybrid model makes the Titan Luxe super soft and comfortable while also being incredibly supportive for plus size sleepers.”
The Titan Plus Luxe from Brooklyn Bedding — previously known as the Titan Luxe Hybrid — strikes a nice balance between surface-level contouring and overall stability. Multiple foam layers cushion your body, evenly distribute your weight, and reduce pressure along the spine, but we noticed excellent support and minimal sinkage during our hands-on mattress tests.
How It Performed
Our side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds awarded the Plus Luxe excellent ratings. The medium firm (6) feel and deep foam layers provided ample cushioning for the hips and shoulders — two common pressure buildup areas for people who use this position — but none of us reported excessive sinkage. Our back and stomach sleepers in this weight range also felt adequately supported, as did back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.
We found cooling to be one of the Plus Luxe’s biggest strengths. Thanks to the breathable foam layers and steady airflow through the coil layer, we noticed little heat buildup when our team tested the mattress for temperature control. The coils were also sturdy and responsive enough to earn the Plus Luxe high marks during our edge support and ease of movement tests.
What It’s Made of
The Plus Luxe features a Euro-top cushioned with memory foam quilted into the cover for a bit of plushness on the surface. The comfort layer of proprietary TitanFlex foam is designed to mimic the responsiveness of latex, so you’ll notice a gentle bounce when getting into bed. A polyfoam transitional layer serves as a buffer between your body and the support core while providing additional cushioning.
Pocketed coils over high-density base foam provide excellent overall stability for the mattress, reinforcing the springy feel without generating too much motion transfer. A polyester cover encases the mattress. For an added fee, you can upgrade to a cover made of GlacioTex infused with phase change material. This fabric dissipates heat on contact to help maintain a cool sleep surface at all times.
The Plus Luxe is available in seven sizes, including a split California king for couples with adjustable beds. Competitive pricing and free shipping within the contiguous U.S. makes the mattress a good option if you’re shopping on a budget. Brooklyn Bedding also offers a 120-night sleep trial with each purchase, and those who keep their Plus Luxe receive a 10-year warranty.
“I can confidently say that the DreamCloud is a great mattress for those looking for a balance of close contouring and sturdy support. The foam layers are deep and plush, but the mattress still manages to provide ample reinforcement for heavier sleepers. This helps ensure a level sleeping surface and minimal pressure buildup.” – Eric Suni, Staff Writer
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Pros
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Medium firm feel is well suited to those over 130 pounds
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Hybrid construction offers strong pressure relief performance
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Gel-infused foam and breathable cover prevent overheating
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Cons
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May lack adequate support for heavier stomach sleepers
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Above-average off-gassing due to thick foam layers
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$499 – $999
Trial Period
365 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Lori S.
“I wasn’t sure how the mattress was going to affect my injured neck and sensitive back. I’m very pleased to say that I could not be more comfortable.”
Steven A.
“The mattress itself is high quality and super easy to set up. It didn’t take long to take its full regular shape once unboxed and opened up. Sadly, it’s just not firm enough for me.”
Thomas G.
“We are enjoying our new mattress. The one drawback for me is the edge support.”
The DreamCloud Mattress costs far less than the average luxury hybrid yet still manages to perform at the same level as many competing models in terms of pressure relief, temperature control, and overall support. Our sleep testers weighing more than 230 pounds were impressed with the deep contouring and lack of sinkage, as mattresses with thick foam layers tend to feel less stable.
How It Performed
Our team’s strongest ratings for the DreamCloud came from side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, but the mattress also earned favorable marks from our heavier testers across all three position groups. The thick comfort system delivered much-needed cushioning for our side sleepers’ sensitive areas — shoulders and hips in particular. Meanwhile, the robust coil system kept our back and stomach sleepers on a mostly even plane.
Most hybrids we’ve tested perform well for temperature control due to gel-infused comfort layers and consistent internal airflow. The DreamCloud raises the bar with an additional cooling component: a cover made from a breathable, moisture-wicking cashmere blend. Heat buildup was not an issue for any of our testers. The thick foam layers also earned the mattress above-average ratings for pressure relief and motion isolation compared to other hybrid models.
What It’s Made of
Polyfoam quilted into the DreamCloud’s cover gives the surface an invitingly plush feel. Gel-infused memory foam and transitional polyfoam reinforce this gentle cushioning, but each layer is progressively denser to help your body settle without sinking too much. Pocketed coils and high-density base foam provide a sturdy support system for the mattress.
The cashmere-blend cover resists overheating and feels luxuriously soft. We’ve rated the DreamCloud as medium firm (6), but expect more contouring from this mattress than you’d normally find on a model with this firmness level. We attribute this to the thick 14-inch profile ensuring plenty of space for a deep comfort system and robust coil support.
In addition to its relatively low price tag, the DreamCloud qualifies for free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. The company’s 365-night sleep trial is among the longest in the online mattress industry, and those who keep their DreamCloud receive a lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.
“When I tried the Helix Plus, I was impressed by how well it provided extra support around my midsection. The combination of dense foam layers and zoned coils created a mattress that was both robust and gentle. If you experience aches and pains in your shoulders, lower back, or hips, the Helix Plus could be an excellent choice for you.” – Danielle Pacheco, Staff Writer
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Pros
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Helix Dynamic Response Foam balances conforming, responsiveness and support
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Quality coils and high-density foam for above-average durability
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Excellent support for sleepers over 230 pounds
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Cons
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May not provide enough cushioning for people seeking a softer, more adaptive surface
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Thick foam layers may lead to strong initial odor
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Price Range
$649 – $1,449
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Terry S.
“Although we needed the extra suppor, the firmness of the mattress was hurting our pressure points. We bought an extra mattress topper to soften the support and we have been fine ever since.”
Lindsey S.
“My husband is a big and tall dude who had some hip issues with our old foam bed. He needed more support but we both loved the softness of a memory foam. This seems to be a great balance between the two.”
Alexis R.
“The Helix Plus for side sleepers ( 7-8 firmness) is the best matress I ever slept on. After 3 months I have less pain in the joints and back. My back issues have improved significantly and pain is much less.”
Designed with heavier sleepers in mind, the Helix Plus is one of Helix Sleep’s firmest and most supportive mattresses. This firm (7) luxury hybrid delivers a comfortable experience to its intended audience with dense foam over thick coils. This is a tried-and-true combination for people over 230 pounds who tend to sink excessively on softer mattresses with less robust support systems.
How It Performed
The Helix Plus was a hit among our testers weighing more than 230 pounds and received stellar ratings from all three sleep position groups. Our back and stomach sleepers weighing 130 to 230 pounds were also impressed with the mattress’ ability to cushion and support their bodies in equal measure.
Due to the thick foam layers, we found the Helix Plus performed well in areas where hybrid models tend to fall short. Our testers noticed minimal transfer when lying side by side to test for edge support, and we detected little pressure buildup in most of our testers during the pressure relief tests. At the same time, the mattress felt responsive enough for us to move across the surface without feeling stuck, and our edge support tests revealed solid pushback along the perimeter.
What It’s Made of
The Helix Plus’ comfort system consists of three foam layers. High-density memory foam cushions the surface, contouring to your body closely and evenly to distribute your weight, followed by polyfoam and memory foam layers that provide additional cushioning while keeping you on an even plane. The support core contains pocketed coils, extra perimeter reinforcement and a high-density foam base layer. The cover is composed of breathable Tencel fabric. You can order a GlacioTex phase change cover for an additional fee that dissipates body heat on contact.
Other Helix Sleep hybrids earned positive ratings from our heavier mattress testers. These include the Helix Twilight and Twilight Luxe (7), which was most popular among our side and back sleepers over 230 pounds, and the Dawn and Dawn Luxe (8), which earned high marks from our back and stomach sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds.
Helix Sleep ships mattresses free of charge to customers in the contiguous U.S., and each order includes two down alternative pillows at no extra cost. The Helix Plus comes with a 100-night trial period. Should you decide to keep the mattress, you’ll also receive a 15-year warranty against structural defects.
“The WinkBed Plus is designed specifically for heavier sleepers, and I think they nailed it. It delivers excellent support for people over 230 pounds with a responsive comfort system and zoned coil system. The mattress’ appeal extends to other weight groups a well — our field tester has slept comfortably on the Plus for more than 2 years despite weighing roughly 140 pounds.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Product Editor
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Pros
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Zoned latex and coil system provides enhanced support for shoulders, hips and back
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Firm feel supports the body and prevents sagging
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Sleeps cool, due to breathable latex and coil support core
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Cons
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Latex may not feel comfortable for people seeking a close contour
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More expensive than standard WinkBed models
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Mattress Type
Latex Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,349 – $2,199
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Linda C.
“Quick delivery and arrived well packaged. Opened up and inflated quickly. We slept on it the first night and it was great. Definitely firm yet slightly plush (top layer).”
Thirdson S.
“Bed is great. Customer service is even better. Kudos to the whole team at Winkbed who went out of their way to make sure all my concerns were addressed throughout the process.”
Richard O.
“Firm in the areas that need to be and great edge support. Might be be a little too firm at the ends for side sleepers.”
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid available in four firmness levels. The firmest option is the WinkBed Plus (8), one of the only mattresses on the market designed with heavier individuals in mind. Our testers found the mattress’ zoned comfort and support layers provide enhanced reinforcement from head to toe and noticed significant pushback around the torso and hips — two areas where people tend to carry a disproportionate amount of weight.
How It Performed
As expected, the WinkBed Plus earned strong ratings from our testers weighing more than 230 pounds across all three position groups. However, the mattress was also quite popular among side and back sleepers between 130 to 230 pounds. Gentle cushioning from the latex comfort layer combined with three-zone coil support helped ensure plenty of pushback and reinforcement for these team members.
We also gave the WinkBed Plus high marks for temperature control, as these tests revealed minimal heat buildup on the surface. Edge support tests were another highlight. The extra perimeter reinforcement allowed us to sit and lie along the edges of the mattress without feelings of “roll-off,” which we liken to being ejected by the mattress as it buckles beneath your weight.
What It’s Made of
The WinkBed Plus differs in construction from the other three WinkBed models. A Euro-top cushioned with adaptive foam creates some light cushioning on the surface, but the zoned latex comfort layer responds quickly to compression and keeps you on an even plane. The latex feels firmer and more supportive beneath your chest, stomach, and hips. In the support core, the coils are arranged similarly with thicker springs beneath your midsection for extra pushback. A cover made of breathable, moisture-wicking Tencel encases the mattress.
The Firmer WinkBed (7) also fared well among our heavier testers, earning “excellent” ratings from side, back, and stomach sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds. Our back and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds also felt comfortable and sufficiently supported on this mattress.
WinkBeds’ 120-night sleep trial includes a free exchange option. If you aren’t satisfied with your WinkBed Plus and want to test a softer model, you can swap your original mattress for another WinkBed at no extra cost. The replacement mattress comes with an additional 60-night trial. All WinkBed mattresses are backed by lifetime warranties, and shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S.
Best Mattress for Couples
Leesa Plus Hybrid Mattress
20% off mattresses + free pillows at Leesa
$1,319 at Leesa
“The Leesa Plus is designed for people who weigh more than 230 pounds, but provides more cushioning and contouring than a lot of competing models geared toward this weight group. Above-average motion isolation, consistent cooling, and sturdy edge support also make the mattress a solid pick for couples.” ― Lauren Fountain, Senior Product Editor
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Pros
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Adaptive foam layers provide light cushioning without too much of a body hug
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Thick pocketed coils create a robust support system
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Cover is composed of breathable, moisture-wicking poly-viscose fabric
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Cons
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Foam layers may emit harsh off-gassing smells for the first few nights
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May not be supportive enough for stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$919 – $1,949
Trial Period
100 nights (30 night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Maggie W.
“The mattress is the right balance of firmness and is very supportive. We are both plus sized adults and our son and dog join us every night, and the bed supports all of us.”
Emily B.
“My husband and I have found it difficult to find the perfect mattress. He is much bigger than I am and finding a balance for the two of us was hard. The Leesa provides enough support for him without being too firm for me. We love it!”
Anna C.
“I love this new mattress! My back feels so much better after sleeping on this mattress.”
Many major mattress brands offer specialty models intended for heavier sleepers, and the majority offer strong support and minimal contouring. The Leesa Plus Hybrid breaks from this trend with a design that delivers ample cushioning without sacrificing reinforcement and stability. These qualities should appeal to anyone weighing more than 230 pounds who wants a bit of padding from their sleep surface, but also needs steady pushback to keep their body on an even plane.
How It Performed
During our tests, the Leesa Plus earned higher ratings across different body type and sleep position groups than many competing models created for heavier individuals. This can be attributed to the balanced medium firm (6) feel and generous cushioning layers. Side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds and back sleepers up to 230 pounds were particularly impressed with the adaptive feel of the mattress.
Temperature control is one of the Plus Hybrid’s defining strengths. Cooling gel infused into the top foam layer, a moisture-wicking cover, and steady airflow through the coils all contribute to the bed’s excellent thermoregulation. Other testing highlights included edge support and ease of movement, and most of our testers who weigh more than 230 pounds reported little to no pressure buildup when lying on the mattress.
What It’s Made of
The Plus Hybrid’s comfort system consists of three polyfoam layers, each one progressively denser to keep the surface comfortable and prevent you from sinking excessively. Responsive transitional foam also produces a light bounce when compressed, and this can help you move across the surface without feeling stuck.
Pocketed coils and dense base foam stabilize the mattress nicely. The perimeter coils are reinforced to push back against weight, allowing you and your partner to comfortably use the entire surface for sleep or sex. A cooling cover made from a blend of polyester and viscose encases the mattress.
The Plus Hybrid carries a below-average sticker price compared to other hybrids on the market, and standard shipping is free for orders to all 50 states. You’ll also receive two complimentary pillows with your purchase. Leesa backs each mattress with a 100-night sleep trial and 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Nolah Evolution Comfort+
35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows at Nolah
$1,624 at Nolah Sleep
“Nolah’s Evolution Comfort+ delivers a combination of cushioning, pushback, and bounce that was popular among the side sleepers on our team weighing more than 230 pounds. The zoned coils were the star of the show — none of us felt any sinkage around the lower back and hips, but the mattress didn’t feel too stiff beneath our heads or legs.” – Brad Nehring, Senior Product Manager
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Pros
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Deep foam layers create a surface that’s both adaptive and supportive
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Zoned coils push back against extra weight around the midsection
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Breathable organic cotton cover is woven with heat-dissipating ArcticTex fibers
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Cons
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Potentially too firm for sleepers who prefer close contouring from their mattress
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All returns incur a $99 processing fee
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Price Range
$974 – $2,079
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Shyam V.
“From the first night the Nolah arrived my wife and I both noticed a huge increase in our quality of sleep. It’s more comfortable and inhibits motion transfer really well.”
Rick M.
“We couldn’t be more pleased with the quality of the mattress and our comfort. We chose Nolah based on the recommendations regarding hip discomfort. It has led to eliminating hip discomfort for my wife.”
Rainbow T.
“I appreciate this company directed what bed for different weight people. I bought the recommended Luxury Firm. No more back pain. It cradles while at the same time is supportively firm. A perfect marriage of soft and firm.”
Side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds often struggle to find a mattress that provides adequate levels of cushioning and support. The firm (7) Nolah Evolution Comfort+ nicely nails that balance thanks to deep foam layers in the comfort system and coils engineered to feel more robust where people carry most of their weight. Not only did our side sleepers in this weight range enjoy the Evolution Comfort+, but several of our lighter side-sleeping testers were also impressed.
How It Performed
Our testers noticed a plush feel on the Evolution Comfort+ when first lying on the mattress, followed by gentle pushback as their bodies settled. This adaptive, sink-free cradling comes from the progressively denser foam layers. Side sleepers on our team weighing at least 130 pounds awarded the mattress very favorable ratings, as did our back and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.
Temperature control was a major testing highlight. An open-cell composition allows each foam layer to resist heat buildup, the coils circulate plenty of air throughout the interior, and the cover is composed of breathable organic cotton woven with cooling ArcticTex fibers. Our tests also show that the Evolution Comfort+ performs well in areas where hybrids often fall short, such as motion isolation for couples and pressure relief, but the mattress also feels stable around the perimeter and doesn’t sink too much when you move across its surface.
What It’s Made of
The Evolution Comfort+ begins with a Euro-top containing four polyfoam layers. The two topmost layers are thicker and fairly adaptive, while the underlying two layers are dense and fairly firm. This helps ensure even cushioning for your body without too much compression around the midsection. Zoned coils in the support core also help keep your body on an even plane. Thicker coils line the perimeter to stabilize the edges, as well.
The cover is made from a blend of organic cotton and proprietary ArcticTex fibers, the latter of which is a phase change material engineered to dissipate heat on contact. The Evolution Comfort+ measures 14 inches thick and is considered a high-profile mattress, making it compatible with most fitted sheets — but we recommend measuring your sheet’s pocket depth to determine whether you’ll need new bedding for this mattress.
The Evolution Comfort+ carries a competitive sticker price, and Nolah offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your order comes with a 120-night sleep trial, which you can opt out of to decrease the cost of your purchase. A $99 return charge is deducted from all refunds for returns within the 120-night window. The mattress is backed by a standard lifetime warranty against structural defects, and you may add an accident protection plan against stains and other physical damage for an additional fee.
Best Mattress for Hip Pain
Bear Elite Hybrid
35% off + 2 free pillows at Bear. Code: SF35
$1,499 at Bear
“I found the Bear Elite Hybrid to be a well-balanced mattress with a nice combination of contouring and responsiveness that didn’t trap too much heat. The two firmest designs provide excellent pressure relief while still delivering the support that sleepers over 230 pounds need.” – Brad Nehring, Senior Product Manager
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Pros
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Deep, adaptive foam layers contour evenly to alleviate pressure without too much hugging or sinkage
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Pocketed coils promote airflow and reinforce the perimeter
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Celliant cover can assist with physical recovery during sleep
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Cons
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Limited firmness options for those seeking a soft to medium soft mattress
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Coils may generate too much movement for couples
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,231 – $2,548
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Customer Reviews
Walter F.
“I weigh 220 lbs, my wife weighs 130 lbs… we both love the mattress. The hybrid gives me the support I need, while it also gives my wife the comfort she needs. It’s the best parts of a coil mattress and a memory foam mattress.”
Keith B.
“I sleep with my wife and bad edge support is a non-starter for her. On the Bear Elite Hybrid she sleeps right near the edge with no issues. Edge support is very good.”
Sheila H.
“I think for the money, the Bear Elite Hybrid felt higher-quality compared to other online mattresses, regardless of price. This is built and feels more like a quality traditional mattress compared to many others.”
Bear is an online mattress and bedding brand known for incorporating Celliant fabric in its products, which is designed to regulate temperature. The Bear Elite Hybrid stands out for its balanced construction and sturdy feel. Regardless of their primary sleep position, people of all body types should receive enough cushioning along the spine to alleviate pressure without sinking too much.
How It Performed
The mattress is available in three firmness options that correspond to medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) on our firmness scale. All models have a pocketed coil system that offers robust support. The coils provide sturdy pushback along the perimeter, so anyone who sleeps near the edges of their mattress or struggles getting in and out of bed should feel secure. Back and side sleepers preferred the medium and medium firm models, while stomach sleepers gravitated toward the firm model for its stronger support.
What It’s Made of
The Bear Elite Hybrid begins with a layer of copper-infused memory foam under a Euro-top, followed by a polyfoam transitional layer. Celliant and phase change material in the cover are engineered to convert body heat into infrared energy, then transmit this energy back into your body through your skin. This process is intended to regulate temperature and help with physical recovery during the night, making the Bear Elite Hybrid especially suitable for athletes, generally active individuals, and people with physically demanding jobs.
Ground shipping is free of charge for all orders within the contiguous U.S., and delivery rates for Alaska and Hawaii are lower than average. The mattress has a generous 365-night sleep trial. Those who keep the mattress beyond the trial will receive a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty against certain defects, such as excessive sagging.
Best Temperature-Regulating Mattress
Nectar Premier Copper Hybrid
Up to 40% off mattresses at Nectar
$1,399 at Nectar
“Nectar’s Premier Copper Hybrid delivers excellent support thanks to its sturdy coil system with reinforced edges. Foam comfort layers make the surface somewhat plush, but overall this mattress feels quite sturdy beneath your midsection.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing
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Pros
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Plush foam layers adapt to your body and reduce pressure in sensitive areas
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Reinforced perimeter boosts edge support
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All orders include a 365-night sleep trial
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Cons
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Strong off-gassing odor for the first few nights after unboxing
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Foam layers may sink and hinder movement across the mattress
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Price Range
$1,199 – $1,899
Trial Period
365 nights
If you weigh more than 230 pounds and run hot in bed, you’ll need a supportive mattress that promotes consistent temperature control. The Nectar Premier Copper Hybrid checks both boxes thanks to copper fibers and ventilated coils in the support core. Gentle cushioning, a mellow bounce, and a strong perimeter round out the balanced design.
How It Performed
Since the Nectar Premier Copper Hybrid is firm (7), many of our testers awarded the mattress favorable ratings. The highest marks came from side sleepers weighing over 230 pounds, all back sleepers, and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds. Foam hybrids aren’t always the best choice for heavier individuals, but this model’s sturdy coil system and reinforced perimeter help ensure adequate support.
We were impressed with the mattress during our temperature control tests. Thanks to a cover infused with copper fibers intended to minimize heat retention, plus steady airflow through the coils, this mattress offsets much of the heat retention that foam is known for. Our tests also show the mattress isolates motion well, reduces pressure buildup along the spine, and feels secure along the perimeter.
What It’s Made of
The Premier Copper Hybrid begins with a layer of adaptive memory foam followed by a polyfoam layer, both quilted into the thick Euro-top. Next is another layer of polyfoam with a more responsive feel, which pushes back against your weight and creates a comfy buffer between your body and the support core. The pocketed coils are thicker along the edges to bolster the edge, and a polyethylene cover encases the mattress. Altogether, the Premier Copper Hybrid measures 14 inches thick.
Nectar offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your order comes with a generous sleep trial spanning 365 nights in length. If you decide to keep the mattress after the return period ends, your purchase is further backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
“The Saatva HD was designed with heavier people in mind, and our tests show it performs as intended. Comfort layers that contour very little and robust innerspring coils make the mattress feel incredibly sturdy, and none of us had trouble moving across the surface.” – Colin Simpson, Product Research Manager
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Pros
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Zoned latex and dense memory foam give the surface a sturdy, responsive feel
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Thick hourglass coils encased in foam provide excellent support
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All orders include a 365-night trial and free White Glove delivery
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Cons
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Above-average pricing for an innerspring
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Limited motion isolation for co-sleepers
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Price Range
$1,895 – $4,190
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Customer Reviews
David
“Edge support is the best I have ever seen. Supports my 275 lbs. with no sagging and I am sleeping so much better now.”
Kerrie
“We’ve had this mattress for a year and a half and it’s great! Finally, a mattress that holds its shape over time. (We do rotate the mattress 180 degrees every few months as an added precaution.) Most importantly it keeps bodies well aligned and we wake up without any aches or pains.”
Chris
“This bed has been fantastic. I no longer wake up with aches and pains and I’ve found a deeper more restful sleep where I’m actually dreaming.”
The Saatva HD is one of the few luxury mattresses sold today that was specifically created for people who weigh more than 230 pounds. High-quality materials and excellent craftsmanship elevate the HD over traditional innersprings, but sleepers can still enjoy the sturdy support and signature bounce that have come to define this type of mattress.
How It Performed
As confirmed by our testers, the HD performs well among its target audience. Side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds enjoyed the moderate cushioning of the top foam layer, which prevented pressure buildup in the shoulders and hips without contouring too closely. Our back and stomach sleepers in the same weight range experienced little to no sinkage thanks to the zoned latex and thick, low-gauge offset coils. The HD also received favorable ratings from back and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, but our other testers found the mattress too firm.
We noticed minimal compression during our edge support tests, and all of us were able to scoot across the mattress with relative ease. Temperature control was another testing highlight. The ventilated latex and coil system promote plenty of airflow, so the HD consistently maintains a comfortable temperature, while the breathable cover helps the surface stay cool.
What It’s Made of
The Saatva HD begins with Talalay latex encased in a luxurious Euro-top. This layer is divided into five firmness zones, pushing back against the extra weight in your midsection without feeling overly firm beneath your head and legs. The next layer consists of gel-infused memory foam. This layer conforms somewhat to the body, but a dense composition prevents the close “hug” many people notice on softer foam mattresses. Transitional polyfoam serves as a buffer between your body and the support core.
Foam-encased offset coils deliver excellent reinforcement and stability to the entire mattress. The coils have a gauge of 12.5, making them very thick compared to those found in other innersprings, so you should expect significant bounce from this mattress. High-density base foam completes the support system, and an organic cotton cover encases the mattress.
Although the HD’s steep sticker price reflects its high-end design, Saatva offers free White Glove delivery to all customers. This service includes full setup inside your residence and removal of your old mattress upon request. You’ll also receive a generous sleep trial with your purchase that runs for 365 nights. If you decide to keep the Saatva HD after the return period ends, it’s also covered under a lifetime warranty.
“If you’re in need of a mattress that offers maximum support and minimal cushioning, I recommend the Titan Plus. Whether you’re a heavier sleeper or just prefer a firmer feel, it’s a great choice for sleepers looking for a cool, responsive sleep surface with minimal sink.” – Daniel Noyed, Senior Product Editor
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Pros
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Proprietary TitanFlex foam has latex-like responsiveness
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Solid temperature regulation due to high-airflow coil design
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Optional cooling top panel with phase change material
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Cons
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May not provide enough cushioning for side sleepers
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Responsive design can produce movement and disrupt sleep for couples
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (8)
Price Range
$489 – $1,119
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Ejofon E.
“Comfortable, there’s a good amount of give and resistance so it’s not like sleeping on a plank of wood nor does it feel like I’m drowning in material. There’s a nice, slight bounce to the mattress.”
Garry M.
“It is very firm. A little too firm for my liking.”
Rolando M.
“Dont look any further if you’re looking for comfort and strength in your bed — this is the one, and you can’t best the price.”
Many mattresses sold today are suitable for people weighing more than 230 pounds, but the Titan Plus by Brooklyn Bedding is specifically designed for this sleeper demographic. A firm (8) model, our tests showed the Plus contours very little and maintains a flat, even sleep surface even for heavier individuals.
How It Performed
Our testers were divided about the Titan Plus, but it was a big hit among those weighing more than 230 pounds. The mattress received stellar ratings from all of our testers in this weight range across the side, back, stomach, and combination sleeping groups. Back and stomach sleepers weighing 130 to 230 pounds also found the Plus fairly comfortable, albeit too firm for their liking. The slightly softer Titan Plus Luxe may be a better fit if you need more conforming and less coil support.
As an exceptionally firm mattress, the Plus performed well in some areas where softer hybrids tend to struggle. We noticed little to no sinkage while testing the mattress for edge support by lying along the perimeter and mimicking the movements of getting in and out of bed. Ease of movement was another strong point, as none of our testers felt “stuck” moving across the surface. During the temperature control tests, our thermal sensors detected minimal heat buildup — we attribute this to the cooling cotton-knit cover and steady airflow through the coils.
What It’s Made of
The Plus’ comfort system consists of two layers. Adaptive, gel-infused memory foam is sewn into the bottom of the cover to give the surface some gentle cushioning. The second layer is responsive, latex-like TitanFlex polyfoam that supports the spine and produces a light bounce when you get into bed. The support core contains pocketed coils over high-density base foam. Altogether, the Plus measures 11 inches thick.
A cotton-knit cover encases the mattress. While this breathable material helps promote air circulation, some may still notice heat retention in the foam layers. These sleepers are good candidates for the GlacioTex cover, which contains a phase change panel engineered to dissipate heat on contact and maintain a cool-to-the-touch feel. Adding the GlacioTex will increase the sticker price by $100 to $200, depending on your chosen size.
The Titan Plus is affordably priced for a hybrid, and shipping is free of charge throughout the contiguous U.S. Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night sleep trial with each purchase. If you decide to keep the mattress, you’ll also receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects.
Watch Video: We Tested the Best Mattresses for Heavy People – Here Are Our Favorites
Watch our video below to learn more about our lab’s top mattress picks for heavy people.
How We Test: Rigor, Data, and Sleeper Feedback
Every sleeper is unique when it comes to mattress needs and preferences. While we’ve found most people who weigh more than 230 pounds prefer firmer, more supportive mattresses, this isn’t always the case — some feel most comfortable on models with softer layers and deeper contouring.
Our team understands the strong connection between choosing a mattress that’s right for you and getting enough sleep each night. We personally evaluate each mattress in our Seattle-based Test Lab using the same four-part process. Guidelines for each part of our testing system are listed below.
Construction analysis: We begin testing each mattress by analyzing its design and making note firmness, height, individual layer composition, and sticker price. This allows us to evaluate qualities like support, and durability, and value.
Product testing: Firsthand testing is crucial to our evaluation and ratings system. We use a wide range of tools and technology to test mattresses in six performance categories: motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature control, ease of movement, edge support, and odor potential.
Field testing: In addition to lab-based tests, we base our ratings on feedback from field testers who use the mattresses in their own homes. They spend several weeks collecting data — this gives us insights into how the mattress performs night after night for an extended period.
User testing: We curate feedback verified owners have provided in surveys, sleep stories, and product reviews. This helps us evaluate our initial findings and, if needed, tweak our ratings to reflect real-world experiences.
Expert Tested. Sleeper Approved.
Over the past eight years, our Seattle-based Test Lab has performed hands-on tests on more than 4,000 sleep products — and nearly 2,000 of them are mattresses.
As product experts, we stay up to date on the latest news in sleep science and product trends. We use this knowledge to fuel our data-backed recommendations. Many of our testers have worked directly with mattress manufacturers and visited actual mattress factories. On occasion, a sleep health expert might stop by to tweak a firmness rating.
When we test a mattress, we collect data across six major performance categories and combine these results with real-world feedback. We use tools and tech to monitor features like heat retention, motion isolation, and pressure mapping. In order to ensure our findings are inclusive of all sleepers, our team consists of people with varying body types and sleep positions.
Mattresses aren’t one-size-fits-all. The perfect bed for you is going to depend on general points like your body weight and sleeping position, as well as unique points like if you have back pain, if you sleep hot at night, or if you just like the feel of latex over memory foam. Our goal at the Test Lab is to help take the guesswork out of your mattress-buying process.
So How Did We Pick the Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers?
To select the best mattress for heavy sleepers, we focused on qualities like support and ease of movement that are most important to people weighing more than 230 pounds. During hands-on tests, we take turns lying on each mattress to evaluate comfort and stability. Our team also uses various tools and technology to measure performance areas such as pressure relief, temperature control, and motion isolation. Feedback from our testers who weigh more than 230 pounds was key to narrowing down our top picks for this list.
What to Look for in a Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
If you weigh more than 230 pounds, there are a few unique factors to weigh when choosing a new mattress. Below, we’ll discuss these considerations.
What Do You Need From Your Bed?
Mattress stability is a top priority for people who weigh more than 230 pounds. If your sleep surface lacks support you may sink too deeply and feel sharp pressure points along your spine. Our tests show the best mattresses for heavy people offer light contouring, to add cushioning for extra comfort, along with strong reinforcement.
Responsiveness and Edge Support
A responsive mattress pushes back against your weight as you move across its surface, creating a gentle bounce to prevent you from feeling stuck. If your mattress responds slowly to movement, you may have a difficult time getting in and out of bed. Edge support is also key to stabilizing your mattress. Perimeters that are not reinforced can make you feel unstable when lying or sitting along the mattress edge.
We’ve found innersprings and hybrids to be the most supportive and responsive mattress types. Both contain steel coils that provide better overall stability than the solid foam or latex found in other mattress support cores.
Firmness and Spinal Alignment
Your spine should remain evenly aligned while you sleep. An overly soft mattress may sink beneath your midsection and cause misalignment in the torso and hips. Likewise, a mattress that feels too firm may not provide enough cushioning for sensitive areas along the spine.
We rate mattresses for firmness using a 10-point scale. Our tests show people who weigh more than 230 pounds feel most comfortable with medium firm (6), firm (7-8), and extra firm (9-10) mattresses. A firmer feel often means minimal sinkage, better spinal alignment, and less pressure in the shoulders, lower back, and hips.
Durability
All mattresses wear out and become indented with use, but some last longer than others. Firmer mattresses withstand wear and tear better than softer models, so you may get more mileage out of a medium firm, firm, or extra firm sleep surface if you weigh more than 230 pounds. We’ve also found that hybrids and latex mattresses are more durable than traditional innersprings and all-foam models.
Mattress Material and Height
Mattresses with comfort layers made of dense foam or latex provide better support for heavy sleepers compared to softer, more adaptive materials. The same holds true for the steel coils found in hybrids and innersprings, which withstand compression and push back against your weight more than foam or latex bases.
Mattress height is another important consideration because taller models tend to be softer because they contain thicker cushioning layers. If you weigh more than 230 pounds, you’ll likely receive adequate support from a mattress with a profile of 12 inches or shorter and one to two cushioning layers.
Taking Sleeping Position Into Account
Most side sleepers need a softer mattress to cushion the shoulders and hips, which prevents pressure from building in these areas. Back and stomach sleepers tend to prefer firmer mattresses that don’t sink too much around their midsections. If you’re a combination sleeper who uses more than one position, you should take all of your positions into account. Optimal firmness levels for each sleep style are listed below.
- Side sleepers: Medium (5) to medium firm (6)
- Back sleepers: Medium firm (6) to extra firm (9-10)
- Stomach sleepers: Firm (7-8) to extra firm (9-10)
- Combination sleepers: Medium (5) to extra firm (9-10)
Mattress Shopping Tips for Heavy Sleepers
Buying a new mattress can be a challenging process. Below, we’ve outlined a few tips for finding the right mattress without breaking the bank.
Is It Time to Replace Your Mattress?
The average mattress performs for seven years before it needs to be replaced. Hybrids and latex mattresses tend to last longer than innersprings and all-foam models. Deep indentations on the surface, a trench down the middle, and creaky springs are all signs your mattress is due for a replacement. You should also consider a new mattress if you’re waking up feeling sore or stiff on a regular basis.
Consider Your Sleep Needs
Your sleeping habits should factor into which mattress you choose. A responsive mattress with a sturdy perimeter is beneficial for those with limited mobility, as well as combination sleepers. People who sleep with a partner should prioritize qualities like motion isolation, temperature control, and edge support.
Invest in Helpful Accessories
If your mattress has become softer and less supportive with age but you aren’t ready to invest in a new model, a firm topper can squeeze a little more mileage out of your sleep surface. People who weigh more than 230 pounds can further optimize their sleep space with a robust bed frame and supportive pillow. If you’re a hot sleeper, we also recommend breathable sheets made of cotton, linen, bamboo-derived fabric, or Tencel.
Use Trials and Warranties to Your Advantage
Many people are apprehensive about buying mattresses online without first trying them out, so most brands offer trial periods. You can sleep on the mattress for at least 90 nights before deciding whether to return it for a refund or keep it. If you opt for the latter, your mattress should be covered under a warranty for at least 10 years. Warranties ensure the manufacturer will repair or replace the mattress if it is defective.
Dive Deeper — In-Depth Mattress Guides
For more information about how the SleepFoundation.org team tests mattresses for different performance criteria, check out the following product guides.
Best Mattress by Sleeper Type
Frequently Asked Questions
Most mattresses have a weight capacity between 500 and 700 pounds. Firmer mattresses with coil support cores can support more weight than softer models with foam or latex base layers. Some brands list mattress weight capacities on their websites. If you can’t find this information, email the company or initiate an online chat with customer service.
A bariatric mattress is specifically designed for heavier sleepers with medical needs. These mattresses tend to be firmer and more supportive than their competitors. Most bariatric mattresses support between 600 and 1,000 pounds. Some medical equipment distributors require a prescription for bariatric mattresses, while select retailers sell them over the counter. If your doctor prescribes a bariatric mattress, insurance may cover some or all of the cost.
Mattresses with gel-infused foam, ventilated latex, or natural wool comfort layers are ideal for hot sleepers. Hybrids and innersprings also stay cool by promoting airflow throughout their coil systems. Another consideration is the cover — cotton, Tencel, and viscose derived from bamboo often sleep cooler than synthetic fabrics like polyester.
If you and your partner fall into different weight groups, you should consider a mattress with dual firmness. These models feel different on each side of the bed. You’ll receive the support you need from a firm surface while your partner gets the cushioning and cradling needed to sleep comfortably.
Our tests show most heavy sleepers prefer medium firm (6), firm (7-8), and extra firm (9-10) mattresses. However, there are exceptions and some people over 230 pounds feel comfortable on softer models. We recommend testing out mattresses with different designs to pinpoint your ideal firmness level.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.
Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
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.
Dr. Iyo is a Doctor of Physical Therapy at an orthopedic clinic in Seattle. She specializes in hands-on therapy and tailored exercise programs.