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Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed 600+ mattresses and accessories for over seven years using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing. We assess each bed for support, cooling, firmness, pressure relief, and more.
In This Review
I’ll go over the best mattresses for plus-size people and discuss how their durable materials and supportive designs are tailor-made for bigger bodies. We test mattresses in our Austin studio every week, so this list will sometimes be updated with new products that we feel deserve to be included.
When shopping for the best mattress for heavy people, sleepers over 230 lbs might have trouble finding a bed that’s both supportive and comfortable enough for someone of their weight. As a larger person myself, I understand the struggle. That’s why I wanted to put together a list of the best mattresses for plus-size people, based on the hundreds I’ve tested throughout my career. Some of the factors I considered include support, thickness, durability, cooling features, and edge support. This one’s for all my fellow larger mattress shoppers out there.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Mattress for Heavy People?
Our expert reviewers chose the Titan Plus Elite as the best mattress for heavy people. It was designed specifically with larger people in mind, and it is a supportive yet pressure relieving option for multiple sleeping positions.
Our Video Review: The Best Mattresses for Heavy People
Important Considerations For Heavy People
Weight Capacity
When considering mattresses for heavy people, I was sure to prioritize weight capacity over many other factors. I have included mattresses in this list that will support different body types and provide the reinforcement needed for a heavy person.
Weight Disclaimer: It’s important to note that when we refer to plus-size people, we refer to those who weigh more than 230 lbs. In our years of testing mattresses, we have found that the most comprehensive way of recommending products based on sleepers’ weights is to group them as such: lightweight (under 130 lbs), middleweight (between 130 and 230 lbs), and heavyweight (over 230 lbs).
These categorizations are not one size fits all. You may be over 230 lbs and find that a mattress we recommend for lightweight sleepers works best for you. However, in our experience we find that our testers tend to prefer the mattresses that traditionally cater to their weight range.
Durability
Durability is a crucial factor when considering a mattress for a heavy person. To ensure that a mattress will last and be able to support heavier people, I considered mattress models that feature high-density foam and extra coils.
Edge Support
As a heavier person, I understand the importance of edge support in a mattress. That is why within this list I considered mattresses that had a higher edge support rating to ensure that sleepers can utilize as much of the mattress as possible without feeling as if they are going to fall off the edge.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Titan Plus Elite is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Titan Plus Elite a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,648 – $2,648 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, RV king
Heavyweight People
Heavyweight sleepers of all sleep positions should feel supported on the Titan Plus Elite
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep hot sleepers from overheating at night.
Pros of the Titan Plus Elite
This mattress offers solid value. It’s a durable bed with luxury features, and is available at a relatively affordable price point thanks to Brooklyn Bedding’s factory-owned operating model.
The Titan Plus Elite boasts both cooling features and a pillow top, giving it a plush feel and nice contouring. A coil layer also promotes airflow.
Supportive enough for all sleepers who weigh over 230 lbs, including stomach sleepers, which can be one of the trickiest sleep positions to accomodate.
Cons of the Titan Plus Elite
Doesn’t do the best job of isolating motion. For better motion isolation, check out our list of the best mattresses for couples.
May feel too firm for lightweight sleepers, and those who sleep on their sides in particular.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A pickup fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Titan Plus Elite is a durable, supportive hybrid mattress designed for plus-size sleepers that offers a sturdy feel with comfort and cooling, and includes a luxurious pillow top as an added bonus. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
I found that the Titan Plus Elite offered exceptional orthopedic support, and gave the bed a 5/5 score in the category: The combination of TitanCore coils and micro coils held my body comfortably with zero issues when I tested it on my back, side, and stomach. My spine stayed neutral, which also helped the mattress earn a perfect score for support. Another score that stood out was the bed’s 4.5/5 for its cooling abilities. When measuring the bed’s surface with my handy heat gun, I only saw an 8-degree F increase at the bed’s core after resting on it. The Titan Plus Elite feels like a cooler-sleeping mattress, with no overheating issues whatsoever.
The Titan Plus Elite has a simple but durable and efficient four-layer construction. On top is a responsive 1″ quilted foam cover that helps to dissipate body heat while delivering softer comfort on the surface. Then, a 2″ comfort foam layer helps with contouring and pressure relief. Finally, a massive layer of 900 individually encased all-steel coils and a .25″ so-named “flex base” underneath help to create a durable base for the sleeper while generating firm support upwards, promoting airflow and preventing spine-disrupting sinkage into the upper comfort layers.
My testing notes: ‘‘I’m on the heavier side, and I can tell that the Titan Plus Elite was made with me in mind. The mattress gave me all the support I required and was especially comfortable while I was back sleeping.’’ – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Titan Plus Elite Mattress Performance for Heavy People
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Weight Capacity
4.5
Durability
3.5
Edge Support
4.2
Overall
What We Love About the Titan Plus Elite
The Titan Plus Elite’s firmness and durable build make it one of the more reliable mattresses for heavier sleepers today.
The Elite’s breathable innerspring layer and gel-infused memory foam cover help make the bed a good choice for hot sleepers.
The Titan’s all-steel innerspring layer and durable “flex base” make it a bed that not only supports sleepers but is also built to last.
What to Keep in Mind About the Titan Plus Elite
The Titan Plus Elite is a hybrid with some foam components, but this is a super firm mattress, and fans of that super soft memory foam feel should potentially look elsewhere. The Bear Elite Hybrid, for example, has three distinct firmness levels to choose from.
Titan Plus Elite Weight Limit
The Titan Plus Elite has an official weight capacity of 1000 lbs, or 500 lbs, on each side of the bed.
What Customers Say
At the time of writing, the Titan Plus Elite has 2755 reviews with an average score of 4.7/5. One verified buyer wrote about purchasing the mattress for her heavier son, saying, “I purchased this mattress in hopes that it would provide support for my overweight son. He is now working on losing weight but is 5’10” and 330 lbs. This weight is problematic in many ways, but everyone needs good rest. I am very happy with the performance of the mattress because, as my son reports, he is very comfortable and sleeps soundly.”
Nectar – Best Affordable Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
Best Affordable Mattress
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Nectar mattress is an all-foam mattress. It has a plush comfort layer followed by a thin layer of transition foam. At the bottom, there’s a layer of high-density base foam.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Nectar mattress a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$699-$1,798 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Couples
This mattress isolates motion well, which means couples shouldn’t feel movement come over to their side of the bed.
Side Sleepers
It offers great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
The Nectar mattress offers plenty of support for most back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Pros of the Nectar Mattress
This mattress has a slow-moving feel. If you like mattresses that contour to your body, this could be a great option.
The Nectar mattress isolates motion well, which is helpful for people who share a bed with a partner or a pet.
It offers plenty of pressure relief for side sleepers who weigh less than 230 lb.
Cons of the Nectar Mattress
Even though it has cooling gel-infused foam, it’s not the best mattress for hot sleepers.
It’s not supportive enough for most stomach sleepers. In this position, you may feel your hips sink out of alignment, which can lead to lower back pain.
Because it’s an all-foam bed-in-a-box mattress, it has a 48-hour off-gassing period. You’ll need to let the mattress air out for two days before sleeping on it.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Forever warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period.
The Nectar is an affordable all-foam mattress that offers lots of pressure relief and body contouring. It works well for most side sleepers, because it helps cushion shoulders and hips. It is also a good option for couples, because it isolates motion well. However, the Nectar mattress isn’t supportive enough for most stomach sleepers and heavyweight people. If you tend to sleep hot at night, you may want to look for a mattress with more cooling features. Learn more in our Nectar mattress video review.
Our Expert’s Take
The Nectar Original is a firmer-than-usual (7/10) all-foam mattress with a more affordable price tag than others in the luxury mattress category. At the moment, the Nectar is $599 for a queen, which, considering its quality, is definitely a bargain. Heavier sleepers tend to be wary of all-foam mattresses, but I found that heavier back and stomach sleepers can appreciate Nectar’s firmer feel despite being an all-foam bed.
Despite its competitive price, the Nectar has an elaborate four-layer construction that doesn’t cut corners like you’d expect from cheaper mattresses. On top is a cooling cover made with breathable fabric that is given an antimicrobial treatment when produced to be hypoallergenic. Then, there is a 1″ pressure-relieving foam layer on top of a 3″ responsive support foam that enhances cushioning. Under this is an 8″ high-density foam that helps isolate motion while creating a firm foundation for the upper comfort layers. Finally, surrounding the four internal layers is a shift-resistant fabric that helps maintain structural integrity and prevent the bed from moving around.
My testing notes: ‘‘The Nectar Classic is a good mattress, but it depends on what you’re looking for. With its firmer-than-average feel and budget-friendly price tag, back sleepers and value shoppers will likely find it an excellent buy.’’ – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Nectar Mattress Performance for Heavy People
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
3.5
Weight Capacity
4
Durability
4.5
Edge Support
4
Overall
What We Love About the Nectar
The Nectar Original is a luxury-grade mattress in terms of quality but is fairly affordable compared to beds of a similar status.
Despite being an all-foam bed, heavier sleepers can appreciate Nectar Original’s firmer (7/10) feel.
Heavier sleepers who struggle to get in and out of bed or share it with their significant other can enjoy Nectar’s excellent edge support (4.5/5)
What to Keep in Mind About the Nectar
While the Nectar is made with memory foam, its firmness, responsiveness, and strong build do not offer sleepers the typical “slow-moving” cushioning associated with all foam beds. Fans of the classic memory-foam feel should consider other options, such as the cushiony Nolah Evolution Comfort+.
Nectar Weight Limit
According to the company, Nectar’s official weight capacity is 650 lbs.
What Customers Say
The Nectar has over 50,000 reviews, resulting with an average score of 4.7/5. One heavy sleeper who purchased the Nectar wrote on its official site: “This mattress was a HUGE upgrade from what I was sleeping on before. I had some concerns about memory foam because I am overweight, but this mattress supports me perfectly, and I don’t sink down. The first time I laid on it I was in disbelief over what I had been missing! Love love love it!”
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Helix
Helix Plus
Firm Feel
Supportive
Breathable
Hybrid mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
The Helix Plus is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 7.5/10. This is firmer than average.
Price
$811-$1,011 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive enough for stomach sleepers.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers.
Pros of the Helix Plus
This bed is supportive enough for back and stomach sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs.
The Helix Plus has plenty of cooling features to help hot sleepers avoid overheating. From the cool-to-the-touch cover and breathable coils, it’s designed to keep you cool.
With zoned support, this mattress can help promote healthy spinal alignment. This can be good for preventing aches and pains in the morning.
Cons of the Helix Plus
Side sleepers who weigh less than 230 lbs will likely find this bed too firm to provide the contouring they need.
Since this is a bouncy, responsive mattress, it probably isn’t a great fit for couples looking for good motion isolation.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Helix Plus is Helix’s mattress model designed specifically to support heavier sleepers. It’s a responsive, cooling bed that provides a balance of comfort and support that’s a great fit for back and stomach sleepers who weigh 230 lbs or more. For heavyweight side sleepers, though, we’d recommend opting a medium-firm bed like the Titan Plus Luxe instead. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Helix prioritizes customization and flexibility. They designed the Helix Plus with heavy sleepers in mind. This hybrid mattress has lots of reinforcement, from proprietary high-density foams to taller-than-average coils offering extra support. All of that comes together as a mattress with a substantial height of 13.5″ and a firmness level of 7.5 out of 10.
The firm construction kept me from sinking into the mattress while still providing contouring and pressure relief. I felt a great deal of comfort while on my back, likely thanks to the zoned construction of the mattress, which provides different levels of support to different areas of the body. When I was on my side, however, the Helix Plus felt a bit too firm for me, even as a heavyweight person.
My testing notes: ‘‘When I tried out the Helix Plus, I was impressed by just how supportive it was. I usually have trouble getting enough support while stomach sleeping, but the Helix Plus was firm enough to offer the support I needed.’’ – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Helix Plus Mattress Performance for Heavy People
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Weight Capacity
4.5
Durability
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Overall
What We Love About the Helix Plus
Three words: support, support, support. The Helix Plus earned a perfect score on our support test, where I assess how well a mattress accommodates large amounts of weight.
The Helix Plus provides a bit of that hugging, memory foam feeling, but not so much that it’s hard to move around on. Combination sleepers should appreciate the level of responsiveness.
This mattress has a nice, sturdy perimeter. So, when you put a lot of weight on the edge of the bed you should feel supported and secure.
What to Keep in Mind About the Helix Plus
I wasn’t too impressed with motion transfer on the Helix Plus. This means that as your partner tosses, turns or gets out of bed for a glass of water, there’s a chance you’ll feel their movements on your side of the bed. If you’re concerned about being woken up by your partner, consider a bed with a higher motion-isolation score, like the Nectar Classic.
If you’re a side sleeper, you probably won’t find this mattress very comfortable. That’s because its dense foam layers don’t permit your shoulders and hips to sink into the mattress enough to be properly cushioned.
Helix Plus Weight Limit
Felix, a representative for Helix, told me that the Helix Plus has a weight limit of 1,000 lbs, 500 lbs per side of the mattress. When I asked if this was a higher weight limit than the other mattresses offered by Helix, he told me that they were all the same.
What Customers Say
Looking at the Helix website, the Helix Plus has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5, based on over 2,000 customer reviews. There are many users who specifically call out the bed’s stellar performance for heavyweight people, saying that it helped reduce soreness. Some, however, state that while the mattress started out good, it’s gotten less responsive and supportive over a short period of time.
Winkbed Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy People with Back Pain
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The WinkBed Plus is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is slightly firmer than the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,349-$2,199 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Stomach Sleepers
Great support for stomach sleepers over 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers over 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the WinkBed Plus
This bed is made with durable materials that should last at least a decade.
Back and stomach sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs should find they get plenty of support from this bed.
It sleeps cool. The cooling cover and breathable coil contruction can help hot sleepers keep from overheating.
Cons of the WinkBed Plus
The WinkBed Plus isn’t a soft or cushioning enough mattress for most side sleepers.
Although this bed is made with layers of memory foam, it doesn’t have the traditional “sink-in” foam feel.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The WinkBed Plus is the brand’s model designed specifically for sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs. Its sturdy, supportive coils help prevent sagging and provide plenty of support for heavyweight back and stomach sleepers. All of this said, it’s likely too firm of a mattress for most side sleepers. Instead, check out the WinkBed. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Like the Helix Plus, the WinkBed Plus is made specifically for larger people. It’s constructed with 7.5″ of zoned, individually wrapped coils and a zoned latex layer. Both of these layers are firmer in the center, giving extra support right under the lumbar zone. This makes the mattress a great option for anyone contending with back pain.
Personally, I found this mattress felt great, especially while on my back and stomach. The multiple zoned layers go a long way towards providing support around the areas that need it most. On my back, my hips sank into the mattress a little bit—enough to feel cushioned but not so much that my spine felt like it was unaligned. And while on my stomach, I rested comfortably on top of the mattress with little to know sinkage.
My testing notes: ‘‘Sleeping on the WinkBeds Plus, I was impressed by the amount of lumbar support I received. The center area of the mattress is firmer, so I felt more support there. I could see this helping with back pain.’’ – Marten, Lead Reviewer
WinkBed Plus Mattress Performance for Heavy People
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.25
Weight Capacity
5
Durability
5
Edge Support
4.8
Overall
What We Love About the WinkBed Plus
Thanks to extra-durable coils and high-density foams, the WinkBed Plus is very durable and should maintain its structural integrity for upwards of 10 years if properly cared for.
Because the WinkBed Plus has a responsive, bouncy feel, it makes for a great mattress for sex. Moving around on it doesn’t take much effort at all.
This mattress is right in the firmness sweet spot for heavyweight back and stomach sleepers. Both should find it supportive and comfortable.
What to Keep in Mind About the WinkBed Plus
Side sleepers, even heavyweight ones, will likely find the WinkBed Plus too firm to relieve pressure around their hips and shoulders. If you’re a heavyweight side sleeper, consider our best mattresses for side sleepers to find a better fit for you.
While this mattress can often be bought on sale, budget shoppers might find its base price of $1,999 for a queen to be a bit steep. If you’re looking for a less expensive mattress (and even firmer) bed, consider the Plank Firm.
WinkBed Plus Weight Limit
The WinkBed Plus has a weight limit of 900 lbs, or 450 lbs per side. Tory, a company representative, told me that the weight limit is the same for all of the mattresses that WinkBeds sells.
What Customers Say
Based on over 8,000 reviews from the WinkBed website, the WinkBed Plus has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5. Many call out the perfect, Goldilocks blend of firm but still a bit soft. Others were less enthusiastic, stating that they expected the mattress to help with their back pain but it did not.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Nolah
Nolah Evolution Comfort+
Firm Feel
Supportive Coil System
Breathable
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
The Nolah Evolution Comfort+ is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and a supportive coil layer.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,499-$3,198 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Heavyweight Sleepers
This mattress offers a lot of lumbar support for heavier people.
Hot Sleepers
There’s a cooling cover and airflow-promoting coils.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution Comfort+
This mattress has many cooling features, which makes it a nice option for people who run hot at night.
It’s a great match for many heavyweight back and side sleepers, thanks to its supportive coil system.
Because it contains high-quality materials, it should last at least a decade.
Cons of the Nolah Evolution Comfort+
People who weigh less than 300 lb might think this mattress feels too firm.
Because it’s a luxurious mattress, it might be too expensive for some people.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Nolah Evolution Comfort+ mattress was made specifically with heavier people in mind. It has a medium-firm feel, and it works well for many back and side sleepers who weigh more than 300 lb. This mattress has many cooling features, such as a breathable cover and coils that promote airflow. It could feel too firm for lightweight people, and some stomach sleepers may not get the hip support they need.
Our Expert’s Take
The Nolah Evolution Comfort+ is a mattress specifically built with heavier sleepers in mind. This means that sleepers who weigh 300 lbs or more should feel more comfortable on this mattress thanks to its balance of thick foam and individually wrapped coils. To take things a step further, Nolah also equipped the mattress with some great cooling features, including the ArcticTex cover and Euro topper that helps draw heat away from the body, the proprietary AirFoam HD that is made to prevent heat from trapping in the material, and a heat escape gusset that helps promote airflow.
While I tested the Nolah Evolution Comfort+ I felt very comfortable on my back and my side. When I sleep on my back, I tend to wake up feeling achy if the mattress doesn’t provide enough lumbar support, which was not an issue on this mattress. And while on my side the zoned support layer and the soft pillow top of the Nolah ensured that there wasn’t too much pressure around my shoulders or hips.
My testing notes: ‘‘The top of the bed was cool-to-the-touch, and I felt like the top foam layers didn’t trap too much body heat. I paired the mattress with some cooling sheets, and I experienced some cool nights of sleep.’’ – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Nolah Evolution Comfort+ Mattress Performance for Heavy People
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Weight Capacity
4.5
Durability
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Overall
What We Love About the Nolah Evolution Comfort+
The top layers of foam in the mattress are built to be pressure-relieving, and the individually wrapped coils are made to add some sturdiness. This makes the mattress a very balanced mattress, and would likely be good for folks who want both support and comfort.
The Nolah Evolution Comfort+ is made with reinforced coils around the perimeter, helping to boost edge support and durability in the mattress.
As mentioned above, the Nolah Evolution Comfort+ uses many of Nolah’s proprietary cooling benefits like the cooling cover, the temperature-neutral foam, a heat escape gusset, and coils that promote airflow.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nolah Evolution Comfort+
Many mattresses that come with a coil layer may cause motion transfer. Keep this in mind if you sleep with a partner and worry that you may disturb each other at night with your movements. If this is a concern for you, check out the best mattresses for couples to find a solution for you and your partner.
Since this mattress is built for heavier sleepers, it’ll likely feel a bit too firm for some sleepers. This is something that lightweight sleepers definitely might want to keep in mind. Mixed-weight couples may want to look into the Nolah Evolution, which has three available firmness levels.
Nolah Evolution Comfort+ Weight Limit
When asked about the Nolah Evolution Comfort+’s weight limit, Amber, a customer support employee, directed me to the Nolah Weight Tolerance breakdown. The Comfort+ can support up to 1,000 lbs of weight, which is more than any of the other mattresses that Nolah offers.
What Customers Say
On the Nolah site, users rated the Nolah Evolution Comfort+ 4.8 out of 5 stars. Some of the top reviews mentioned that the mattress feels luxurious and very cooling. Most reviewers on the site left 5-star ratings, however, it’s important to note that Nolah doesn’t allow filtering through ratings on their site.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Saatva
Saatva Classic
Multiplem Firmnesses
Durable
Responsive
Hybrid mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free white glove delivery
Limited Time Offer
Take $300 off your order of $1,000 or more See Details
The Saatva is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is a bit firmer than average.
Price
$1,295-$2,790 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive enough for stomach sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 300 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
The Saatva mattress is a great option for combination sleepers. It is available in multiple firmness options, but the Luxury Firm model works well for multiple sleeping positions.
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva will work well for most back sleepers. Its balance of comfort and support and zoned construction ensure you’ll sleep in good neutral alignment.
Shoppers looking for a long-lasting mattress will love the Saatva. It feature high-density foam and durable coils that should ensure it lasts for over 10 years.
Cons
If you like the feel of a memory foam mattress, you’re not going to love the feel of the Saatva.
Lightweight side sleepers might not get the best pressure relief, even on the softest Saatva model.
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Saatva is a luxurious hybrid innerspring mattress that should be a great long-term investment. It is available in multiple firmness options, so it should work for the majority of sleeping positions, and its Luxury Firm model is one of the best mattresses for back sleepers. However, lightweight side sleepers and fans of memory foam should look elsewhere. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
I consider the Saatva one of the best luxury mattresses on the market. Inside the bed, there are a ton of luxurious features typically found in high-end hotel mattresses: comfort foam, high-grade steel coils, and a zoned Euro pillow top, all of which work to give heavier sleepers the enhanced support and durability they need.
Saatva does have a mattress made specifically for heavy people (the Saatva HD), but I feel the Firm version of the original Saatva also works very well for heavy people and costs significantly less. This mattress scored of 4.5 out of 5 on our support test, which is a very important factor for heavyweight people. I tested the Luxury Firm (medium-firm) version of this mattress, which performed fairly well for me. I’m confident that the added firmness of the Firm version combined with the wonderful support present in all Saatvas would provide me everything I need for a great night’s sleep.
My testing notes: ‘‘The Saatva mattress is a great mattress for people seeking the comfort of a high-end innerspring mattress without the excessively expensive cost. Available in Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm options, the Saatva offers tailored support to both average and heavier sleepers.’’ – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Saatva Mattress Performance for Heavy People
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
3.5
Weight Capacity
4
Durability
4.5
Edge Support
4
Overall
What We Love About the Saatva
The Saatva has a bouncy feel that makes moving around or switching sleeping positions a breeze. When I tested this mattress, it felt like I was sleeping on top of the mattress rather than inside of it. That means it should work well for combo sleepers who tend to toss and turn throughout the night.
Available in three firmness options (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm) the Saatva Classic Mattress can accommodate a wide range of body types and sleep preferences. However, for heavier people we would recommend the Firm model.
What to Keep in Mind About the Saatva
Motion isolation isn’t great on the Saatva. You’ll likely feel your partner’s movements, which can be an issue if you wake up easily from nighttime disturbances.
If you select the Firm version of the Saatva, you should know that it likely won’t work well for side sleepers, even heavy ones. Side sleepers tend to prefer a soft mattress that allows their hips and shoulders to sink comfortably into the mattress. For me, the Titan Plus Elite struck a pretty good balance of softness and support when I rested on my side, and I recommended it for heavier people who spend part of the night sleeping that way.
Saatva Weight Limit
Kriten, a customer service representative from Saatva, informed me that the classic has a weight limit of 300 lbs per side. If you need something with a little bit more support, the Saatva Zenhaven and the Saatva HD both have weight limits of 500 lbs per side.
What Customers Say
Based on over 3,000 customer reviews from the Saatva website, this mattress has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5. Many of those who purchased the Firm version gave it 5 stars, saying it had the exact right amount of firmness. Some folks, on the other hand, left more critical reviews, saying the delivery process was a pain and the mattress began to slope after just a few years.
Plank Firm – Best Mattress for Heavy Stomach Sleepers
Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Plank Firm is a flippable mattress with two firmness levels on each side. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the softer side a 8/10. The firmer side comes in at a 9/10.
Price
$749-$1,532 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, short full, full, short queen, queen, olympic queen, short king, split king, split california king, California king, RV king
Stomach Sleepers
It offers ample hip support for most stomach sleepers, especially on the firmer side.
Heavyweight Sleepers
This mattress has a thick comfort layer and sturdy coils that can handle heavier weights.
Pros of the Plank Firm
It has a flippable design, so you can easily change its firmness level by turning the mattress over.
It’s the firmest mattress we have tested, so if you need a lot of spinal support, this is a good option.
It works well for stomach sleepers because it helps keep hips elevated and in the correct alignment.
Cons of the Plank Firm
This mattress is too firm for most side sleepers.
Because it’s made entirely out of foam, it tends to trap body heat.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Plank Firm mattress is one of the most supportive mattresses on the market. It has a flippable design, with two firmness levels in one. On our firmness scale, the the softer side feels like a 8/10 and the firmer side feels like a 9/10. Both sides tend to work well for stomach sleepers, but most side sleepers won’t get enough pressure relief on this bed. Watch our video review to learn more.
Our Expert’s Take
For stomach sleepers, it’s important to have a mattress firm enough to support the hips, chest and shoulders, and the Plank mattress may be the firmest mattress around. The mattress is flippable, and we rank the firmest side as a 9/10 on our firmness scale. The less firm side comes in at an 8/10, which is still very firm.
Those worried that the Plank will feel too firm, believe me, so was I. So, I was surprised to find that, despite it not having the softness typically associated with a good mattress, it actually feels very nice to lie on (just as long as you’re not a side sleeper). While on my stomach I found the firmer of the two sides very comfortable. My hips were completely elevated, and it truly felt like on of the most supportive mattresses I’ve ever tested on my stomach.
My testing notes: ‘‘There are firm mattresses, and then there’s the Plank. I was surprised by just how firm it was! It was great for stomach sleeping, even though I am a heavier guy.’’ – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Plank Firm Mattress Performance for Heavy People
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Weight Capacity
4
Durability
5
Edge Support
4.5
Overall
What We Love About the Plank Firm
I love flippable mattresses. The Plank Firm has a firm side (8/10 firmness) and an extra-firm side (9/10 firmness). The firm side is great for back sleeping while the extra-firm side accommodates stomach sleepers well.
Mattresses marketed as extra-firm often turn out to be softer than we’re led to believe. With the Plank Firm, though, that is not the case. This mattress lives up to its name and delivers the firmness that heavyweight back and stomach sleepers need to keep their hips supported.
What to Keep in Mind About the Plank Firm
The Plank Firm isn’t all that cooling. Its all-foam construction absorbs and traps body heat, which isn’t ideal for sleepers prone to night sweats. I ran the Plank Firm through our comprehensive temperature regulation test, which includes measuring how much body heat it absorbs with a thermal camera. I found that, after resting on the mattress for several minutes, its surface rose 4.5 degrees. If you’re looking for something that will more effectively disperse heat, consider the Nolah Evolution Comfort+ instead.
This mattress is simply too firm for side sleepers. It doesn’t allow hips and shoulders to sink in nearly enough to get the pressure relief needed.
Plank Firm Weight Limit
Brittney, a customer service representative for Plank, informed me that the Plank Firm can support up to 950 lbs of weight, which equals 475 lbs on each side of the bed.
What Customers Say
Based on over 2,000 customer reviews on the Plank website, this mattress has an average score of 4.8 out of 5. Plenty of users appreciate the back pain relief that the Plank Firm has provided them, while some have issues with the firmness—some claiming it’s too firm, others claiming it’s not firm enough.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid
Medium-Firm Feel
Lifetime Warranty
Sturdy Edges
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
December Deals
Use code DEAL30 for 30% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,893-$3,920 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Side Sleepers
Back Sleepers
Hot Sleepers
Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid
This mattress offers great value. It’s made with high-quality materials and backed by a lifetime warranty, but available at a relatively affordable price point.
It comes with excellent edge support. The Bear Elite Hybrid’s sturdy perimeter is helpful if you need a stable surface to get in and out of bed.
The bed’s cover and foam layers contain cooling materials to help regulate your body temperature. Its coil layer also promotes plenty of airflow to keep you cool.
Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid
Doesn’t do the best job of isolating motion.
Likely not supportive enough for sleepers who weigh over 230 lbs.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bear’s most high-end mattress. It offers luxury features, like zoned support and extra height, while still offering the temperature regulation Bear mattresses are known for. Based on our testing results, we’d recommend this mattress to average-weight side and back sleepers, as well as hot sleepers. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, check out the Bear Star Hybrid. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
The Bear Elite Hybrid’s layer of copper-gel memory foam and its sturdy coil system create a blend of comfort and support that should be an especially great option for heavyweight back sleepers. Plus, the Bear Elite Hybrid’s copper-infused foam feels especially breathable and doesn’t trap heat easily.
The Bear Elite Hybrid has three different firmness options, and for those over 230 lb, I suggest the Medium or Firm versions. While these still may be too soft to support heavy stomach sleepers (I was quite uncomfortable on my stomach), other heavyweight sleepers should enjoy the feeling of the mattress. I scored it a 4.5 out of 5 on both our durability test and our support test, which means it should do a good job of both providing you comfort and maintaining its structural integrity under your weight.
My testing notes: ‘‘Most heavyweight folks should feel comfy and supported while back sleeping on the Bear Elite Hybrid. The center of the mattress feels firm, which helped keep my hips elevated and in the correct alignment. Heavier side sleepers should also feel a great deal of cushioning along the shoulders and hips.’’ – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Performance for Heavy People
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
5
Weight Capacity
4.5
Durability
4.5
Edge Support
4.7
Overall
What We Love About the Bear Elite Hybrid
The Bear Elite Hybrid makes it easy to switch sleeping positions thanks to its pocketed spring coils, which give it a nice bounciness.
It’s available in three different firmnesses. For heavyweight side and back sleepers we suggest Luxury Firm, and for heavyweight stomach sleepers we suggest Extra Firm.
The coil layer in the Bear Elite Hybrid allows air to easily pass through the mattress, making it a breathable and cooling mattress.
What to Keep in Mind About the Bear Elite Hybrid
The Bear Elite Hybrid doesn’t provide the slow-moving feel that many people enjoy. If you want to feel like you’re gradually sinking into your bed, we suggest considering a memory foam mattress.
This bed wasn’t made specifically for heavy people, and as a heavy person myself, I noticed that it lacked the exceptional support of something like the Helix Plus.
Bear Elite Hybrid Weight Limit
I reached out to Bear customer service to ask about the Elite Hybrid’s weight limit. Scott told me that the mattress can support up to 1,500 lbs, so long as it’s paired with a properly supportive base. When asked what kind of base would be most compatible, Scott said, “We DO NOT recommend a traditional coil box spring. Rather, we recommend either a solid or slatted rigid base”.
What Customers Say
According to the Bear website, the Bear Elite Hybrid has 4.4 out of 5 stars based on over 200 customer reviews. There is a ton of positive feedback, with many users calling out that if you’re a heavyweight person it’s important to go with the firmest option. As for the negative, some users complain about structural defects in the mattress, in that it expands awkwardly when unboxed.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options available.
Price
$1,199 – $2,665 (before discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, split California king, RV king, RV bunk
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 130 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Available in a large variety of sizes. Whether you’re looking to add this to your bedroom or fit it in your RV, you should be able to find the right size.
This bed performed well on our cooling tests, making it a good fit for hot sleepers.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
This bed isn’t supportive enough for stomach sleepers.
Heavyweight sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs won’t find enough support on this bed.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe offers a responsive surface great for combination sleepers. It’s also a good choice for hot sleepers looking for a bed that can keep them cool but that’s available in a wide array of sizes. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Like the aforementioned Titan and Plank, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is another top bed for heavy people from the mattress brand Brooklyn Bedding. The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress uses what’s called a TitanCool cover, which I found soft, breathable, and cool to the touch.
There’s an optional Cloud Pillow Top for extra plushness and pressure relief. A 1.5” layer of cooper infused cooling foam, and 2” of responsive memory foam to prevent you from sinking too much. The final foam layer buffers you from the zoned pocketed coils, the bed’s main support layer. Thanks to the bed’s multiple layers of memory foam, springs, and features for hot sleepers, the Aurora Luxe earned high marks in both cooling and durability from testers, who gave 4/5 points in both categories.
My testing notes: ‘‘If you want to feel like royalty when you lay on your mattress, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe has you covered. It’s an ultra-luxurious mattress with zoned coil support that keeps the lumbar region of back sleepers nicely supported. And for stomach sleepers and side sleepers looking for a luxurious sleep experience from Brooklyn Bedding, I’d recommend they check out the Titan Luxe.’’ – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Aurora Luxe Mattress Performance for Heavy People
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Weight Capacity
4
Durability
3.5
Edge Support
4
Overall
What We Love About the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
The zoned construction of the bed helps the bed feel more reinforced on the periphery. This is a great feature for back sleepers who share the mattress with a partner or pet.
Each layer of the Aurora Luxe is built to cool, from the cover to the breathable coils. If you tend to overheat, this style of mattress should suit you well, especially if paired with a cooling mattress protector and cooling sheets.
What to Keep in Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
The middle-of-the-road motion transfer on the Aurora Luxe might be disruptive to sensitive sleepers.
It’s a competitive price for this luxury style of bed, but for those who have a lower sticker-shock threshold when mattress shopping, the Aurora Luxe is a lot pricier than simpler beds from Brooklyn Bedding, such as the Signature Hybrid.
Aurora Luxe Weight Limit
According to Brooklyn Bedding representative Melissa, “All Brooklyn Bedding mattresses are designed to support up to 950 lbs.” She suggested the Titan Plus if you “prefer more substantial support.”
What Customers Say
On the Brooklyn Bedding website, the Aurora Luxe averages a 4.7/5 score collected from some 3,500 customer reviews. When sorting for reviewers with plus-size body types, the mattress netted high regard, with shoppers citing their comfort on the bed’s and ability to get an excellent night’s sleep. Again, when sorting for heavier body type, there were no 1- or 2-star reviews, although a few 3-star reviewers wished the bed was firmer.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Big Fig
Big Fig
Firm Feel
Supportive
Durable
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
$500 off mattresses + 15% off anything else you want See Details
The Big Fig is a hybrid mattress that combines foam in the top comfort layer with coils at the bottom for support.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest, we rated the Big Fig an 8/10, meaning it’s quite firm.
Price
$1,499-$2,699 (before discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Couples
This bed isolates motion well for those who are easily disturbed while still being responsive enough for sex
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive for all stomach sleepers
Pros of the Big Fig
Great for heavier couples
Excellent edge support
Great for all heavier sleeper types
Cons of the Big Fig
Not suitable for most lightweight sleepers
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
20-year warranty
Returns
Full refunds during the trial period.
The Big Fig is a durable mattress that’s very firm and offers great support for stomach sleepers. It can also handle heavier weights, so it’s a great choice for heavyweight individuals who need a supportive mattress. Couples should sleep soundly without worrying about noticing their partner move around during the night and it won’t trap too much heat. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Finding a bed with the firmness and durability needed to support heavier sleepers can be hard enough; choosing the right one to support a heavier couple and their different sleeping needs can sometimes cause an even bigger headache. The Big Fig is a luxury hybrid mattress that can efficiently support upwards of 1,100 lbs without sleepers sinking into its comfort layers. The Big Fig was designed specifically for heavier sleepers, with a firmer than average 8/10 firmness that can simultaneously offer a soft and cozy comfort for sleepers while still delivering optimal spine and joint support. Furthermore, the Big Fig’s innerspring layer uses 50% more 100% steel coils than typical hybrid mattresses (1600 coils on their king-size model, to be exact) that rest on an ultra-dense foam base to further ensure support for heavier sleepers from the ground up.
Beyond the bed’s durable foundation, the Big Fig has three 1″ comfort layers and a .5″ gel-infused latex layer above its innerspring core to provide pressure relief, responsiveness, and breathable comfort when resting on it. Finally, on the very top is a 1″ layer of treated comfort and cooling foam that helps to dissipate heat while offering some plushness despite the bed’s firmer design. Due to the Big Fig’s firmness, most stomach sleepers will love this bed, while most lightweight back and side sleepers should look elsewhere (this is a bed for heavier people). But more notably, according to our heavier testers, this versatile hybrid should provide excellent support for all heavier back, side, and stomach sleepers, making it an easier choice when considering if it is right for your home as a heavier couple who may differ in their sleeping patterns.
When we tested the Big Fig, our heavier testers experienced exceptional support regardless of how they rested, giving it a 5/5 for its orthopedic support. For heavier couples sharing the bed, both sleepers should be able to find the comfort they need from the center to the edges due to Big Fig’s exceptional 5/5 edge support. Also, if you, your partner, or both of you tend to sleep hot, the coiled core and treated cooling foam technology in the Big Fig kept our testers quite cool, resulting in Big Fig’s near-perfect 4/5 for its temperature regulation.
The Big Fig is a comfortable yet durable (4.5/5) mattress that the company attests you’ll get at least 16 years out of (twice the 8-year industry standard), and regardless, it offers a 20-year warranty. The Big Fig provides a great solution for heavier sleepers, allowing heavier couples more choices that may otherwise be typically hard to find.
My testing notes: ‘‘The Big Fig has a balanced hybrid feel. The top layers are responsive and bouncy, so it is quite easy to move around on the Big Fig and switch sleeping positions. While this mattress does contain foam, you shouldn’t “sink” into the mattress like you might on an all-foam bed.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Big Fig Mattress Performance for Heavy People
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Weight Capacity
4.5
Durability
5
Edge Support
4.7
Overall
What We Love About the Big Fig
The Big Fig’s weight capacity, provenly exceptional edge support, and quality temperature control make this a go-to for heavier couples searching for a bed to share. Furthermore, its latex layer offers great bounce and responsiveness, making it easier to move around on the bed during sex.
Couples sharing the bed can find quality edge-to-edge support, as testers found the Big Fig didn’t sag when sitting on its edges. This is also an important attribute for seniors or people who struggle to get in and out of bed to consider when judging the Big Fig.
Testers found the Big Fig offered excellent support for heavier back and stomach sleepers and good support for heavier side sleepers. These results suggest that the bed is an ideal versatile choice for heavier couples choosing a bed that fits both their needs.
What to Keep in Mind About the Big Fig
The Big Fig is a firmer-than-average bed designed specifically for heavier people. While lightweight stomach sleepers may be able to find the support and comfort they need, lightweight back and side sleepers should consider another mattress, such as the versatile Bear Elite Hybrid.
Big Fig Weight Limit
According to the website, the Big Fig has a weight limit of 1,100 lbs.
What Customers Say
At the time of writing, Big Fig’s official website had 3,680 verified buyer reviews of its mattress. The reviews resulted in a 5/5 star score, which may be because Big Fig doesn’t factor negative reviews into its presented average score. Regardless, one review stood out: “Love this mattress—doesn’t sag or squeak, cool, supportive, and very comfortable. Best night’s sleep ever!”
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed over 600 mattresses in our dedicated testing facility in Austin, Texas. The testing team uses proprietary analysis and hands-on experience to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty. Our rigorous testing and reporting process has helped over 4,500 readers purchase the best mattress for their needs.
Hands-on mattress testing in our sleep lab in Austin
To choose the best mattresses for heavy people, we focused on several beds with reinforced materials. Ultimately, we narrowed this list down from 15 brand models to 10 — only the best of the best. We also kept a close eye on the category of support, as sleepers over 230 lbs tend to need more of it. All beds scored at least a 4 out of 5 in this category, with some of them earning a perfect 5.
In addition to durability, we considered weight capacity, durability, and edge support. Not all of the mattresses on this list are perfect in each category, but when considered holistically, they’re great choices for heavyweight sleepers.
What Heavy People Should Consider When Looking For A Mattress
For those larger people out there (like myself), there are a few extra factors to take into consideration when choosing a new mattress. Keep the information below in mind, and it should be quite easy to find the right mattress.
Weight Limits & Capacity
Once you find a mattress that can support you, you also want to consider how your specific weight will make the mattress feel to you. For example, a 250 lbs side sleeper and 350 lbs side sleeper could have a different experience with the same mattress. Mattresses with a soft comfort layer on top may feel softer to a 250 lbs sleeper and firmer to a 350 lbs sleeper. This is because the 350 lbs sleeper might push further into the mattress and feel more pressure.
At the same time, a firm mattress like the Big Fig might feel even firmer to the 250 lbs sleeper. This is because they might not be heavy enough to really activate and push into the dense layers of the mattress. The 350 lbs sleeper will cause those dense layers to collapse correctly, making the mattress actually feel softer.
In addition, make sure to keep your height in mind. For example, I’m a very tall person, standing at over 6’5″ tall. Because my weight is distributed across a larger surface, I prefer a mattress that is supportive all throughout. I also appreciate the extra length that comes with a California king mattress. Your weight distribution might differ if you are taller or shorter, and this could affect what type of mattress you should get.
Durability
No matter what your size is, it’s important to consider a mattress’s durability. Knowing how long your bed will last helps you understand if the price tag matches the value. For heavier people, durability is especially crucial, as their extra weight can strain the mattress and decrease its lifespan.
To ensure a mattress lasts, look for models incorporating high-density foams and extra coils. These components can counteract the wear and tear heavier weights can put on a mattress.
They can also solve the problem of sagging. As we lie on a mattress over time, body indentations can form, and this happens even more quickly under heavier weights. The indentations can cause discomfort and decrease the life of a mattress so, to combat this issue, look for mattresses that have “sag-proof” foams that retain their form over time.
In addition, make sure to read the mattress warranty fine print closely. You want to know exactly what’s covered if your mattress isn’t quite as durable as you thought. And of course, seek out the best place to buy a mattress. This means looking online and using our exclusive coupons.
Support
Mattresses designed for larger people utilize high-density foams and taller coils to give extra support, so it’s an excellent idea to choose a mattress with those features. High-density foams will not compress as easily, meaning there’s less of a chance that heavier sleepers will “bottom out” on the mattress and engage the firmer support layers. Taller and higher-grade coils are also designed to support more weight.
Larger people may struggle with issues such as lower back pain and sciatica, especially if their mattress is not supportive enough. Before I overhauled my sleep setup to accommodate my body type, I often found myself waking up feeling achey. Finding the right mattress can make a world of difference. Make sure to read our top picks for the best mattress for sciatica for some good options.
Thickness
Another important factor to consider is the overall height of the mattress. If a mattress is taller, it could offer more support, but if the mattress is thin, heavier people could press right through it to the bottom of the bed.
In addition to looking for a thicker mattress overall, it’s also helpful to consider the thickness of a mattress’ comfort layer. If there’s a very thin comfort layer, heavier people may have the issue of “bottoming out” on the mattress as they press through the comfort layer and engage the support layers. The thicker the comfort layer, the less likely it is that sleepers experience this problem. Another great way I’ve found to adjust the thickness of your bed is to add a mattress topper. It’s a relatively affordable way to add some comfort and support to a mattress that might be lacking in these areas. Check out our list of the best mattress toppers for heavy people for some great options.
How to Choose Mattress Thickness
Most mattresses fall between 8” and 14” thick. Lightweight and average-weight sleepers may find that they’re perfectly comfortable on a thinner mattress, but if you’re over 230 lbs you will likely want to look for something on the thicker end of the spectrum. In my experience as a larger person, I find that mattresses between 12” and 14” do the best job of making me feel supported.
Edge Support
The term “edge support” refers to how well a mattress holds you up when you’re sitting or lying near its edge. Does it collapse completely or give you the necessary support? Edge support also determines how close to the edge of a mattress someone can lie comfortably before they start to feel like they’re going to roll off the edge.
For larger people, this is an important feature. If someone is taller, heavier, and/or sleeps with a partner, they want to utilize as much of the mattress’ surface area as possible. Also, heavier people can compress a mattress more than a lighter person might, so they want to know if they can sit and lie down comfortably near the edge of the mattress.
As a general rule, hybrids and innerspring mattresses usually have better edge support than memory foam mattresses. That being said, both hybrids and all-foam mattresses sometimes have reinforced edges and foam encasements to enhance their edge support. It’s a good idea to ask the mattress retailer or manufacturer about construction specifically as it relates to edge support.
Testing edge support in our studio in Austin, Texas
Sleeping Partners And Their Sleeping Preferences
If you’re looking for a mattress for you and your partner, you’ll want to factor their weight and sleeping position into the equation.
If your partner is close to your weight and sleeps in the same position as you, the decision could be easy. But if they’re a different weight and need a softer or firmer mattress, the decision will be more difficult. Both partners may need to find a middle ground where they each compromise a bit on the comfort and support they need.
Couples should also consider their total weight, as it could mean extra pressure on the mattress and increase wear and tear. Mattresses such as the Big Fig are made to hold up to 1,000 lbs, and there are also foundations designed to add more support for a mattress. In addition, make sure the mattress is large enough for both of you. Take a look at our best king-size mattresses for some good options for heavy couples.
Mattress Cooling
When we are thinking about the temperature of a mattress, the mattress construction will play a big part. Innerspring or hybrid mattresses will most likely sleep cooler than a memory foam mattress since coils allow for airflow, while memory foam can trap heat.
That being said, many mattress-makers perforate their foam layers and make channels in the foam to promote airflow. Some of them also infuse gel into the foams or use an open-celled design to allow for good breathability. It’s important to ask about the mattress’ materials if you’re concerned about sleeping hot.
Weight is another consideration. For instance, if the mattress contains memory foam, a heavier person may sink further into it than a lighter person, thus exposing less of their body to the cooling air.
As a result, larger sleepers who worry about sleeping hot may want to think about finding a firmer mattress. If they’re able to sleep more “on” the mattress, they should stay cooler while they sleep.
Thermal camera test to gauge heat retention of a mattress in our mattress testing studio
What Sleeping Position and Mattress Firmness is Best for Heavy People?
One of the most important factors for heavyweight sleepers to consider is mattress firmness. For example, when I test a soft mattress, my size causes me to sink into the mattress more than the average person, which can result in discomfort and even pain. For this reason, you’re going to want to look for a firmer mattress, around the 7 to 10 range on the firmness scale. Then, in order to narrow it down from there, you should consider your sleeping position, which we’ll go into in the next section.
Heavy people should pay close attention to the difference between a firm vs soft mattress. While heavier sleepers may think that a very firm mattress is the best, it’s not that simple. It is true that a firmer mattress should offer more support, but it’s worth thinking about your specific sleeping position and whether the mattress’ firmness will be a good fit for your preferences.
Sleeping Position Considerations
Mattresses for heavy people are usually firmer than average, but back sleepers won’t want their mattress to be too firm. There needs to be just enough give so that their hips sink in and their spine stays in alignment.
Heavier-weight side sleepers usually want some nice pressure relief on their shoulders and hips. That means they’ll need a little bit of softness, although an overly soft mattress is going to cause them to bottom out. They should consider their weight and the thickness of the comfort layer to find the proper balance.
Heavier-weight stomach sleepers should have the easiest time finding a mattress. As long as the bed is firm enough, they should get the support they need.
Heavier-weight combination sleepers will want to find that right balance of comfort and support. Consider firmness, the thickness of the comfort layer, and your own weight while looking at different options.
What Mattress Type Is Best For Heavy People?
If you are a larger person, what type of mattress is going to be best for you? In general, it is all about support. Some mattresses just aren’t up to the challenge of supporting heavier bodies. These mattress types below usually work well for heavier people.
Innerspring Mattresses
Support shouldn’t be an issue with most innerspring mattresses. Innerspring mattresses feature coils in their support layer and are often more supportive than all-foam mattresses. Just research the innerspring mattress you are interested in, and make sure that it contains high-grade coils that are rated for heavier weights.
Hybrid Mattresses
In addition, hybrid mattresses are usually great for heavier people. Like innerspring mattresses, they contain coils. They also feature memory foam, latex foam, or polyfoam in their comfort layer. This makes them a good match for heavier people who still want a foam feel with their mattress.
Springs inside a hybrid bed
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are a little bit more hit-or-miss for heavy people. Many all-foam beds are on the softer side, which we generally advise heavier people to stay away from. However, there are firm foam mattresses available that offer enough support to keep larger folks comfortable. The Plank Firm is a great example of this.
Best Mattress Accessories for Heavy People
Looking for some accessories to go with your new or current mattress? There are some great options for heavy people out there.
Best Mattress Toppers for Heavy People
If you’re not ready to purchase a new mattress but would like to refresh the way it feels, a mattress topper may be the way to go. Heavier people should find something with high-density foam or latex foam. These materials will offer comfort without losing their shape too quickly. See our best mattress toppers for heavy people article for some great options.
Best Mattress Base for Heavy People
In addition, make sure to pair your mattress with the proper base. This will ensure your mattress is able to give you the support you need and will fight sagging. Platform beds (as opposed to a frame and box spring) are a good choice for heavy sleepers—they encourage even weight distribution and have a supportive “platform” made of closely spaced slats or solid material.
Also, you may want to consider an adjustable base. This can help with pain issues and even curb snoring or sleep apnea.
Summary of our Best Mattresses for Heavy People
Here’s a summary of our top picks for heavy people:
Marten has been writing about mattresses and sleep health for six years. He is the lead reviewer at Mattress Clarity where he tests mattresses, bedding, and sleep accessories.
In his role here, Marten’s reviewed over 500 mattresses and 150 sleep accessories (so you can rest assured that if he recommends a product, it’s been put through the wringer in our Austin studio). In addition, he has written more than 400 articles reviewing the quality of sleep and sleep products as well as sleep health. He’s especially interested in the correlation between sleep and mental health.
Marten’s also got a personal stake in sleep health. After writing dozens of pieces on the dangers of sleep apnea, he decided to get tested for the condition. Realizing he did, in fact, suffer from sleep apnea, he immediately started using a CPAP machine. He knows all too well the importance of a healthy night’s sleep and is passionate about helping others get the healthy, restorative sleep they deserve.
He received his bachelor’s degree in Film Production from Denison University and his master’s degree in Film Studies from Emory University.
