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Written by Kenny Timper, Certified Sleep Science Coach
Kenny is a certified sleep science coach and staff writer at Mattress Clarity, where he reviews mattresses, bedding, and sleep accessories to help you skip the guesswork and enjoy a restful nightโs sleep. Heโs been featured as a sleep expert in publications such as Livingetc and U.S. News & World Report. As a natural tinkerer, he enjoys getting hands-on with each product to determine if it truly makes a difference in sleep quality. When heโs not testing out mattresses and other sleep products, you can find him hiking, biking, or trying out new local eats.
Livvi has been writing and researching sleep-based content for over a year. This, alongside her penchant for napping and extreme tossing and turning, has made her something close to an โexpertโ in the realm of sleep science, sleep products, and sleep accessories. Sheโs been consulted for her knowledge of the sleep space by publications such as Authority Magazine, Bustle, and Livingetc.
Livvi has been writing and researching sleep-based content for over a year. This, alongside her penchant for napping and extreme tossing and turning, has made her something close to an โexpertโ in the realm of sleep science, sleep products, and sleep accessories. Sheโs been consulted for her knowledge of the sleep space by publications such as Authority Magazine, Bustle, and Livingetc.
Caitlin has more than 15 years of experience writing about sleep and fitness. After getting an M.A. in journalism from the University of Missouri, she spent nearly a decade as a staff writer and editor at Runnerโs World and Bicycling magazines.
Caitlinโs work has focused primarily on health, the outdoors, and parentingโand taken the form of everything from running shoe reviews to long, weepy personal essays about biking across the country. You can find her writing in Outside, Wirecutter, Lonely Planet, Menโs Health, ELLE, Popular Mechanics, Menโs Journal, Sierra Club Magazine, and more.
A side sleeper, lifelong sleepwalker (itโs a problem), and newly hardcore sleepmaxxer, when sheโs not editing and writing about health and gear, she likes to ride bikes, run trails, and be under the covers by 9:30 p.m.
Back pain has a wide range of causes, but sleeping on an uncomfortable and unsupportive mattress can be a large contributor. So, letโs talk about the best mattresses for back pain relief.
In this article, weโll share our top mattress recommendations for people with upper and lower back pain, explaining how you can choose a bed that suits your sleeping habits. Whether youโre a back or side sleeper, or a bit of both, we have you covered with models that offer different firmness options and builds to help relieve back pain.
Our chief medical product tester, Dr. Hannah Habeeb (DPT) has personally tried most of these mattresses and offers her insight throughout. We also consulted with a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, Dr. Neel P. Shah, and quadruple board-certified physician Dr. Raj Dasgupta to find out how back pain can be either helped or exacerbated by your bed.
Editorโs Note: The information provided in this article should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a medical professional if you have personal health-related questions or youโre experiencing severe back pain.
500+
Mattresses Tested
Hands-on testing across leading brands
43,000+
Mattresses Purchased
Readers trust our picks year after year
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Clarityโs Clear Winner
According to our experts, the Helix Midnight Luxe (with the optional ErgoAlign layer) is the best mattress for back pain because it includes a layer specifically designed to support the lower back. Even when evaluated without that layer, it wowed our chief medical product tester, Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT, who praised its ability to relieve pressure without letting the lumbar spine sink too deeply.
Pressure relief is essential for alleviating back pain because it helps reduce tension buildup in key areas such as the lower back and hips. We use a pressure map test to measure a mattressโs ability to relieve pressure and pain. The map shows the average PSI and provides a visual reading of where pressure is building up on our bodies.
Weโve found that the average PSIs for back and side sleeping are around 15 and 12, respectively. If the PSI is lower than average on our pressure map, it indicates the mattress is less prone to pressure buildup. For this list, we only included beds that scored 3.8/5 or higher in this category.
Support is important for sleepers with back pain because it ensures the mattress can encourage neutral spinal alignment across its entire surface, from the middle to the edges.
As Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, explains, โMattresses with consistent support distribute your body weight evenly. Uneven weight distribution can cause the spine to slip out of alignment, or increase pressure buildup that leads to additional discomfort.โ
Every mattress on this list aside from the Saatva Rx and Plank Firm Luxe scored at least a 3.8/5 for edge support.
A responsive mattress quickly adjusts to the bodyโs movements and allows sleepers to shift positions without feeling โstuckโ or experiencing increased discomfort. A mattress that responds well to changes in position helps prevent misalignment of the spine, which can cause or worsen back pain. It also reduces the chances of waking up stiff or in pain due to prolonged pressure on certain areas of the body.
Aside from the WinkBed, every mattress on our list scored a 4/5 or higher in the responsiveness category.
The ideal mattress for back pain should be supportive enough to help you maintain spinal alignment yet soft enough to provide cushioning along potential high-pressure areas. Its surface should also be easy to maneuver on, so you can easily change positions to avoid discomfort without putting additional strain on your back. For these reasons, we focused on pressure relief, edge support, and responsiveness when curating this list of the best mattresses for back sleepers.
Aside from those features, my fellow mattress testers and I also examine other areas, such as motion isolation, cooling, and more. We evaluate and score these factors using specialized technology as well as firsthand accounts of how a bed feels to testers with different body types.
Once we have all those scores, we calculate the bedโs overall score using a weighted formula. This overall score is a good indicator of a mattressโs general quality, and is always a number out of 5.
As we decide which mattresses to feature on any roundup, we only include beds with an overall score of 3.5 out of 5 or higher. Even if a mattress does certain things well, we wonโt point you towards it if it falls below this baseline.
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.
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
Nectar Classic Hybrid
Cool-to-the-touch cover
Memory foam feel
Soft, slow-moving comfort layers
Summer Spectacular
Save Up to 50% on Mattresses + 66% on Bundles See Details
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
DreamCloud Classic Hybrid
Firm, hotel-like feel
Bouncy and responsive
Relieves pressure for back and side sleepers
Summer Spectacular
Save Up to 60% Off Mattresses + 66% on Bundles See Details
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Multiple firmness options
Cooling-infused cover
Strong edge support
Fourth of July Sale
25% Off Mattresses | Up to 30% Off Mattress and Adjustable Base Bundle | 25% Off Bedding See Details
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.
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.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Serta Perfect Sleeper Innerspring Mattress
Multiple firmness and height options available
Queen-size under $1,000
Responsive and firm-feeling
Bedding Bundle Deals
Serta Classic Bedding Bundle Starting at $11.95 See Details
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.
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 Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Multiple firmness options
Relieves pressure
Contouring with strong edges
Summer Sale
30% Off Sitewide, Additional $50 Off with Code CLARITY50 See Details
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.
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.
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.
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 is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Loom & Leaf is a luxury memory foam mattress that delivers a subtle hug-like sensation. Upgraded lumbar support makes it ideal for back sleepers, and we were impressed by the bedโs outstanding motion isolation and responsiveness. While the former isnโt unusual for memory foam, ease of movement isnโt common for this material. The Loom & Leaf scored very well in our edge support tests โ also atypical for all-foam models โ making it a great option for couples who appreciate the feel of memory foam. Our only quibble? It wasnโt especially cool.
The Nolah Natural mattress, made entirely out of eco-friendly materials, feels both supportive and comfy. Back sleepers will especially appreciate its zoned coil system.
30% Off Sitewide, Additional $50 Off with Code CLARITY50
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is offered in three firmness levels and features a durable hybrid construction. Our testers found that this mattress blends soft comfort with firm support to deliver quality pressure relief for sleepers. Those who sleep with a restless partner, may want to steer clear because of its subpar motion isolation, and despite having cooling in its name, this mattress didnโt blow us away in that category.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a premium medium-firm mattress that offers a hotel-like feel for a relatively affordable price. Its zoned support and supportive coil layers make it a great option for back sleepers. The only element in which it scored below average was responsiveness, so if you like a super bouncy bed or youโre a restless combination sleeper, consider another model.
The Sunset Luxe is one of Helixโs softest options in its luxury hybrid collection. However, it provides plush pressure-relieving comfort while maintaining optimal spinal support for a variety of sleeper types. It also demonstrated excellent responsiveness, making it particularly great for couples and combination sleepers.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a premium medium-firm mattress that offers a hotel-like feel for a relatively affordable price. Its zoned support and supportive coil layers make it a great option for back sleepers. The only element in which it scored below average was responsiveness, so if you like a super bouncy bed or youโre a restless combination sleeper, consider another model.
The Titan Plus Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid intended for heavyweight sleepers. We found its responsiveness a good match for combination sleepers, though back and stomach sleepers should also fare well, thanks to a notably lifted feel. We werenโt terribly impressed with the bedโs edge support or pressure relief, and weโd steer most side sleepers to models with more contouring. Those who prefer a firm feel and want a mattress engineered to support more weight should fare well.
The Titan Plus Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid intended for heavyweight sleepers. We found its responsiveness a good match for combination sleepers, though back and stomach sleepers should also fare well, thanks to a notably lifted feel. We werenโt terribly impressed with the bedโs edge support or pressure relief, and weโd steer most side sleepers to models with more contouring. Those who prefer a firm feel and want a mattress engineered to support more weight should fare well.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is offered in three firmness levels and features a durable hybrid construction. Our testers found that this mattress blends soft comfort with firm support to deliver quality pressure relief for sleepers. Those who sleep with a restless partner, may want to steer clear because of its subpar motion isolation, and despite having cooling in its name, this mattress didnโt blow us away in that category.
The Sunset Luxe is one of Helixโs softest options in its luxury hybrid collection. However, it provides plush pressure-relieving comfort while maintaining optimal spinal support for a variety of sleeper types. It also demonstrated excellent responsiveness, making it particularly great for couples and combination sleepers.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is offered in three firmness levels and features a durable hybrid construction. Our testers found that this mattress blends soft comfort with firm support to deliver quality pressure relief for sleepers. Those who sleep with a restless partner, may want to steer clear because of its subpar motion isolation, and despite having cooling in its name, this mattress didnโt blow us away in that category.
The Titan Plus Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid intended for heavyweight sleepers. We found its responsiveness a good match for combination sleepers, though back and stomach sleepers should also fare well, thanks to a notably lifted feel. We werenโt terribly impressed with the bedโs edge support or pressure relief, and weโd steer most side sleepers to models with more contouring. Those who prefer a firm feel and want a mattress engineered to support more weight should fare well.
The Saatva Solaire is a very comfortable mattress with adjustable firmness. It is a great fit for light- and medium-weight people of any sleeping position.
The Studio by Leesa is a comfortable all-foam mattress that should be ideal for children, lightweight adults, and those who are looking for a good value.
25% Off Mattresses | Up to 30% Off Mattress and Adjustable Base Bundle | 25% Off Bedding
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam Mattress is a value-priced model with a firm, lifted feel. It wowed us with its outstanding edge support and motion isolation, which makes it ideal for couples, and it earned a perfect response score. Combination sleepers should have no problem moving around. On the downside, that firmness means the CopperFlex doesnโt offer much in the way of pressure relief, and weโd advise dedicated side sleepers and fans of a traditional memory foam feel to look for something softer.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Nolah Natural mattress, made entirely out of eco-friendly materials, feels both supportive and comfy. Back sleepers will especially appreciate its zoned coil system.
30% Off Sitewide, Additional $50 Off with Code CLARITY50
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a premium medium-firm mattress that offers a hotel-like feel for a relatively affordable price. Its zoned support and supportive coil layers make it a great option for back sleepers. The only element in which it scored below average was responsiveness, so if you like a super bouncy bed or youโre a restless combination sleeper, consider another model.
The Saatva Solaire is a very comfortable mattress with adjustable firmness. It is a great fit for light- and medium-weight people of any sleeping position.
The Titan Plus Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid intended for heavyweight sleepers. We found its responsiveness a good match for combination sleepers, though back and stomach sleepers should also fare well, thanks to a notably lifted feel. We werenโt terribly impressed with the bedโs edge support or pressure relief, and weโd steer most side sleepers to models with more contouring. Those who prefer a firm feel and want a mattress engineered to support more weight should fare well.
The WinkBeds Plus is a mattress made specifically for larger people, and heavier stomach sleepers should get the support they need on the WinkBeds Plus.
The Titan Plus Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid intended for heavyweight sleepers. We found its responsiveness a good match for combination sleepers, though back and stomach sleepers should also fare well, thanks to a notably lifted feel. We werenโt terribly impressed with the bedโs edge support or pressure relief, and weโd steer most side sleepers to models with more contouring. Those who prefer a firm feel and want a mattress engineered to support more weight should fare well.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a new mattress designed with luxury in mind. This is a luxury hybrid mattress perfect for fans of eco-friendly made mattresses.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Titan Plus Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid intended for heavyweight sleepers. We found its responsiveness a good match for combination sleepers, though back and stomach sleepers should also fare well, thanks to a notably lifted feel. We werenโt terribly impressed with the bedโs edge support or pressure relief, and weโd steer most side sleepers to models with more contouring. Those who prefer a firm feel and want a mattress engineered to support more weight should fare well.
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a new mattress designed with luxury in mind. This is a luxury hybrid mattress perfect for fans of eco-friendly made mattresses.
The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a new mattress designed with luxury in mind. This is a luxury hybrid mattress perfect for fans of eco-friendly made mattresses.
The Canadian-made Silk & Snow Mattress is a very budget-friendly memory foam mattress with a firm feel. It has a simple two-layer construction, but the antimicrobial cover is removable for easy care. We found the bed stayed surprisingly temperature neutral given its construction, and it scored well in our pressure relief tests. We werenโt especially impressed with its edge support or motion isolation, but it has a steady responsiveness that might appeal to many combination sleepers.
Up to 30% Off Sitewide | Free Classic Sleep Bundle with Mattress Purchase
The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam Mattress is a value-priced model with a firm, lifted feel. It wowed us with its outstanding edge support and motion isolation, which makes it ideal for couples, and it earned a perfect response score. Combination sleepers should have no problem moving around. On the downside, that firmness means the CopperFlex doesnโt offer much in the way of pressure relief, and weโd advise dedicated side sleepers and fans of a traditional memory foam feel to look for something softer.
Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box thatโs made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.
The WinkBeds Plus is a mattress made specifically for larger people, and heavier stomach sleepers should get the support they need on the WinkBeds Plus.
The Nolah Natural mattress, made entirely out of eco-friendly materials, feels both supportive and comfy. Back sleepers will especially appreciate its zoned coil system.
30% Off Sitewide, Additional $50 Off with Code CLARITY50
The Canadian-made Silk & Snow Mattress is a very budget-friendly memory foam mattress with a firm feel. It has a simple two-layer construction, but the antimicrobial cover is removable for easy care. We found the bed stayed surprisingly temperature neutral given its construction, and it scored well in our pressure relief tests. We werenโt especially impressed with its edge support or motion isolation, but it has a steady responsiveness that might appeal to many combination sleepers.
Up to 30% Off Sitewide | Free Classic Sleep Bundle with Mattress Purchase
The WinkBeds Plus is a mattress made specifically for larger people, and heavier stomach sleepers should get the support they need on the WinkBeds Plus.
The Nolah Natural mattress, made entirely out of eco-friendly materials, feels both supportive and comfy. Back sleepers will especially appreciate its zoned coil system.
30% Off Sitewide, Additional $50 Off with Code CLARITY50
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is offered in three firmness levels and features a durable hybrid construction. Our testers found that this mattress blends soft comfort with firm support to deliver quality pressure relief for sleepers. Those who sleep with a restless partner, may want to steer clear because of its subpar motion isolation, and despite having cooling in its name, this mattress didnโt blow us away in that category.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Saatva Contour5 is a high-quality all-foam mattress. It has two firmness options and shouldnโt trap a lot of heat thanks to its cooling features.
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a premium medium-firm mattress that offers a hotel-like feel for a relatively affordable price. Its zoned support and supportive coil layers make it a great option for back sleepers. The only element in which it scored below average was responsiveness, so if you like a super bouncy bed or youโre a restless combination sleeper, consider another model.
The Saatva Solaire is a very comfortable mattress with adjustable firmness. It is a great fit for light- and medium-weight people of any sleeping position.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a new mattress designed with luxury in mind. This is a luxury hybrid mattress perfect for fans of eco-friendly made mattresses.
The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a new mattress designed with luxury in mind. This is a luxury hybrid mattress perfect for fans of eco-friendly made mattresses.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a new mattress designed with luxury in mind. This is a luxury hybrid mattress perfect for fans of eco-friendly made mattresses.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Studio by Leesa is a comfortable all-foam mattress that should be ideal for children, lightweight adults, and those who are looking for a good value.
25% Off Mattresses | Up to 30% Off Mattress and Adjustable Base Bundle | 25% Off Bedding
The Canadian-made Silk & Snow Mattress is a very budget-friendly memory foam mattress with a firm feel. It has a simple two-layer construction, but the antimicrobial cover is removable for easy care. We found the bed stayed surprisingly temperature neutral given its construction, and it scored well in our pressure relief tests. We werenโt especially impressed with its edge support or motion isolation, but it has a steady responsiveness that might appeal to many combination sleepers.
Up to 30% Off Sitewide | Free Classic Sleep Bundle with Mattress Purchase
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box thatโs made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Canadian-made Silk & Snow Mattress is a very budget-friendly memory foam mattress with a firm feel. It has a simple two-layer construction, but the antimicrobial cover is removable for easy care. We found the bed stayed surprisingly temperature neutral given its construction, and it scored well in our pressure relief tests. We werenโt especially impressed with its edge support or motion isolation, but it has a steady responsiveness that might appeal to many combination sleepers.
Up to 30% Off Sitewide | Free Classic Sleep Bundle with Mattress Purchase
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Saatva Solaire is a very comfortable mattress with adjustable firmness. It is a great fit for light- and medium-weight people of any sleeping position.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Saatva Solaire is a very comfortable mattress with adjustable firmness. It is a great fit for light- and medium-weight people of any sleeping position.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Titan Plus Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid intended for heavyweight sleepers. We found its responsiveness a good match for combination sleepers, though back and stomach sleepers should also fare well, thanks to a notably lifted feel. We werenโt terribly impressed with the bedโs edge support or pressure relief, and weโd steer most side sleepers to models with more contouring. Those who prefer a firm feel and want a mattress engineered to support more weight should fare well.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Silk & Snow Hybrid is an affordable, Canadian-made mattress that packs a lot into its deceptively simple construction. It earned high marks for motion isolation and cooling, making it a great choice for co-sleepers and those who run hot. While its edge support is a bit lacking, it offers plenty of pressure relief in its cushy construction. Itโs also available in plush, medium-firm, and firm options for your choosing.
Up to 30% Off Sitewide | Free Classic Sleep Bundle with Mattress Purchase
The Titan Plus Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid intended for heavyweight sleepers. We found its responsiveness a good match for combination sleepers, though back and stomach sleepers should also fare well, thanks to a notably lifted feel. We werenโt terribly impressed with the bedโs edge support or pressure relief, and weโd steer most side sleepers to models with more contouring. Those who prefer a firm feel and want a mattress engineered to support more weight should fare well.
The Plank Firm Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding is a flippable mattress that has two firmness options: firm and extra firm. This is one of the firmest mattresses weโve ever tested and could be a good fit for back and stomach sleepers.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Saatva Solaire is a very comfortable mattress with adjustable firmness. It is a great fit for light- and medium-weight people of any sleeping position.
The Titan Plus Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid intended for heavyweight sleepers. We found its responsiveness a good match for combination sleepers, though back and stomach sleepers should also fare well, thanks to a notably lifted feel. We werenโt terribly impressed with the bedโs edge support or pressure relief, and weโd steer most side sleepers to models with more contouring. Those who prefer a firm feel and want a mattress engineered to support more weight should fare well.
The Silk & Snow Hybrid is an affordable, Canadian-made mattress that packs a lot into its deceptively simple construction. It earned high marks for motion isolation and cooling, making it a great choice for co-sleepers and those who run hot. While its edge support is a bit lacking, it offers plenty of pressure relief in its cushy construction. Itโs also available in plush, medium-firm, and firm options for your choosing.
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The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box thatโs made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
The Silk & Snow Hybrid is an affordable, Canadian-made mattress that packs a lot into its deceptively simple construction. It earned high marks for motion isolation and cooling, making it a great choice for co-sleepers and those who run hot. While its edge support is a bit lacking, it offers plenty of pressure relief in its cushy construction. Itโs also available in plush, medium-firm, and firm options for your choosing.
Up to 30% Off Sitewide | Free Classic Sleep Bundle with Mattress Purchase
The Brooklyn Bedding is a value-packed bed that is offered in multiple firmnesses. It was a solid performer across all testing perimeters and it should work for a variety of sleepers. We think couples will appreciate that it is responsive and isolates motion well.
The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.
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 Helix Midnight Luxe is a hybrid mattressโit 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 6/10. This is slightly softer than the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,436-$2,924 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers of all body types should feel cozy on this bed.
Back Sleepers
It has enough support for most back sleepers.
Hot Sleepers
This bedโs cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
This bed has a hotel-like feel. The pillow top provides a plush comfort layer to sink into.
The Helix Midnight Luxe sleeps very cool, and impressed us during our temperature testing.
Even though itโs a hybrid mattress, this bed has good motion isolation. That means if you co-sleep, youโre less likely to feel your partnerโs movements.
Cons
Stomach sleepers probably wonโt find this bed supportive enough to keep their spine in proper alignment.
This is a luxury mattress model, so it wouldnโt be considered a budget-buy.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Returns
Youโll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day โbreak-inโ period.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a premium medium-firm mattress that offers a hotel-like feel for a relatively affordable price. Its zoned support and supportive coil layers make it a great option for back sleepers. The only element in which it scored below average was responsiveness, so if you like a super bouncy bed or youโre a restless combination sleeper, consider another model.
Testing Highlights
Edge support. The Helix Midnight Luxe earned a near-perfect rating in this category, so you should be able to sit, lie down, and spread out along its edges without incident.
Cooling. The mattress felt cool to the touch when our testers were lying down on it.
Pressure relief. We rated the Midnight Luxe highly for both back and side sleepers wanting cushioning and sinkage.
What Makes the Helix Midnight Luxe the Best Bed for Back Pain
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a hybrid mattress that features a plush mattress topper, multiple proprietary foams, and innerspring coils so any sleeper can feel supported and comfortable while they rest.
Currently, you can order it with an ErgoAlign layerโan upgraded top layer of foam thatโs denser and firmer underneath your lower back and midsection. This additional support for the lumbar spine can be a reliable defense against back pain. Our testers gave this excellent pillow top mattress a 4/5 across every single performance category, including the ones that matter most for back pain: pressure relief, edge support, and responsiveness.
โMy favorite part about this mattress is that it fills in your lower back. The quilted top is plush but the coils underneath offer great support for my back. My body feels very aligned overall. I can see this working for combination sleepers of the average weight category.โ
Livvi DiCicco, Certified Sleep Science Coach
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Firmness: 6/10
The Helix Midnight Luxe has a medium feel, skewing slightly softer than traditional medium-firm.
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Pressure Relief: 4.2/5
Above average. Only our heavyweight tester noted some pressure on his lower back while back-sleeping.
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Edge Support: 4.8/5
Above average. There was minimal sinkage when sitting or lying down at the edge of the mattress.
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Cooling: 4.5/5
Above average. The Midnight Luxe has a cool-to-the-touch feel at the surface.
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Motion Isolation: 4/5
Average. We could feel some movement from the other side of the bed during the coupleโs test.
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Response: 4/5
Average. This bed has bounce, but the pillow top is softer, potentially impeding some movement.
Who Might Like the Helix Midnight Luxe
Side sleepers. The Helix Midnight Luxe cradles the hips and shoulders in this position, ensuring thereโs no pressure buildup.
Hot sleepers. This mattress barely rose 5 degrees after our tester lay on it for seven minutes, so it shouldnโt hold onto heat.
Combination sleepers. The Helix mattress has some responsiveness, and its medium feel should appeal to a variety of sleeping styles.
Who Might Not Like the Helix Midnight Luxe
Fans of a bouncy bed. While responsive, I wouldnโt describe the Midnight Luxe as a typical bouncy hybrid. Youโll still feel a lot of cushioning up top from the dense pillow top.
Budget shoppers. As a luxury mattress, the Midnight Luxe calls well over $1,000 for a queen-size.
Doctorโs Note
โI think that although most people carry more weight in their hips, this mattress is supportive enough that it will elevate their hips and keep the pelvis and spine neutral.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
The Helix Midnight Luxe currently has a 4.5-star rating on the brandโs site. Customers praise the mattress for being both cool and comfortable, but opinions vary on the bedโs firmness, especially for side sleepers. A few commented that it was firmer than expected.
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
Nectar
Nectar Classic Hybrid
Soft Feel
Cooling
Pressure Relief
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This is a hybrid mattress made with both foam layers and coils.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Nectar Classic Hybrid mattress a 5.5/10, which is a touch soft.
Price
$749-$1,998 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Couples
This mattress isolates motion well, which means couples shouldnโt feel movement come over to their side of the bed.
Back Sleepers
The Nectar Classic Hybrid mattress offers plenty of support for most back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
The Nectar Classic Hybrid earned a 4.5 out of 5 during our cooling tests.
Pros of the Nectar Classic Hybrid Mattress
The mattress excels at providing support for back sleepers due to its contouring layers.
The Nectar Classic Hybrid mattress isolates motion well, which is helpful for people who share a bed with a partner or a pet.
Cons of the Nectar Classic Hybrid Mattress
This bed has a softer feel. If youโre used to a firmer mattress, this may not be the bed for you.
Itโs not supportive enough if youโre a strict stomach sleeper.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Forever warranty
Returns
Youโll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period.
The Nectar Classic Hybrid is an affordable hybird mattress that offers lots of pressure relief and supportive contouring. It works well for most side and back sleepers, because it helps cushion shoulders and hips. However, the Nectar mattress isnโt supportive enough for most stomach sleepers. Watch our full Nectar Classic Hybrid video review.
Testing Highlights
Cooling. The Nectar Classic Hybrid is outfitted with a cooling cover that provides an icy feel right at the surface.
Firmness. At a 5.5/10 on our firmness scale, the Nectarโs softness is perfect for contouring sensitive areas of the body.
Edge support. Despite the coils, there is some sagging when youโre seated on the edge of the mattress.
What Makes the Nectar Classic Hybrid the Best Bed for Hip and Back Pain
The Nectar Classic Hybrid is a mattress that offers all the cushioning comfort of foam, plus the robust support of coils. The Nectar scored respectably across the board, earning its highest rating in cooling (4.5/5), alongside 4s in response, motion isolation, and pressure reliefโthe latter is also important for relieving back andhip pain. Its slightly softer, traditional memory foam feel should accommodate sleepers who want to sink into their bed and feel pain melt away.
โThe foams on top really conform to my body, filling in the gap near my lower back, and relieving pressure where my shoulders and lower half really start to sink into the bed. I think the coils work better for back sleeping than on my side. It may be a bit too soft for some, especially if you weigh a bit more.โ
Livvi DiCicco, Certified Sleep Science Coach
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Firmness: 5.5/10
The Nectar Classic Hybrid has an in between soft and medium feel.
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Pressure Relief: 4/5
Average. This bed offers decent pressure relief for both side and back sleepers.
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Edge Support: 3.8/5
Below average. We noticed quite a bit of sinkage when seated on the Nectar Classic Hybridโs perimeter.
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Cooling: 4.5/5
Above average. This bedโs cooling cover helps to keep temperatures low.
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Motion Isolation: 4/5
Average. Our tester didnโt feel too jostled by their partnerโs movements, but they could feel them.
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Response: 4/5
Below average. The Nectar Classic Hybrid has a softer feel up top, but its coils allow for some ease of movement.
Who Might Like the Nectar Classic Hybrid
Lightweight sleepers. These folks will enjoy the Nectar Classic Hybridโs softness, which allows them to sink deeper into the mattress.
Sleepers who run hot. Our tester said that the bed remained temperature-neutral throughout the cooling test and recommended it to sleepers who overheat.
Memory foam fans. If you like a foam-bed feel to your hybrid, this is the one.
Who Might Not Like the Nectar Classic Hybrid
Heavyweight sleepers. Sleepers over 230 pounds will likely sink too far into this mattress, compromising their alignment and support.
Stomach sleepers. Likewise, the bed will feel too soft for most stomach sleepers, especially those over 130 pounds.
Doctorโs Note
โFor those with back pain, I think the support and pressure-relieving aspect of the Nectar Classic Hybrid will be a great match. Iโm not sinking into an awkward position, and I donโt feel my spine being compressed. When switching over to my side, I notice that I am getting good pressure relief at both my hips and shoulders.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
The Nectar Classic Hybrid has a total rating of 4.5 stars on the brandโs site. The majority of reviews are positive, praising the bedโs cloud-like feel and cushioning, which helped relieve their pains. However, opinions are mixed on whether the mattress was too soft or too firm.
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
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Classic Hybrid
Firm Feel
Responsive
Affordable
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The DreamCloud 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 makes the mattress firmer than average.
Price
$839-$2,178 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Couples
Good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness.
Budgets
Itโs an affordable hybrid model thatโs often available at a discount.
Pros of the DreamCloud
It is a good option for back sleepers. While it is a bit firmer than average, its balance of comfort and support will keep the spine in neutral alignment.
You should never feel stuck in this mattress. The DreamCloud is bouncy and responsive, so you will have no trouble moving around and changing positions.
The DreamCloud is a good value option. Hybrid mattresses can be quite pricey, but the DreamCloud is surprisingly affordable.
Cons of the DreamCloud
Side sleepers will want to find a softer mattress to give them the pressure relief they need.
Fans of slow-moving memory foam wonโt get that feeling on the DreamCloud.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Youโll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day โbreak-inโ period.
The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress that offers great support for back sleeping and a carefully balanced mix of motion isolation and bounce. Itโs definitely on the firmer side, so side sleepers may crave more cushion, but we think itโs a solid choice for couples, heavyweight sleepers, and shoppers on a budget.
Testing Highlights
Responsiveness. The DreamCloudโs bouncy feel earned it a 5/5 rating in this category.
Edge support. The firmer feel of this mattress also extends to the edges, lending the perimeter a sturdy feel.
Pressure relief. The DreamCloud received high marks for pressure relief when our testers rested on their back and side.
Why the DreamCloud is the Best for Luxury Shoppers with Back Pain
Sometimes, people with back pain find their symptoms alleviated after sleeping on a luxury mattress at a nice hotel or resort. To bring that 5-star feel to your house without the 5-figure price tag, we recommend the DreamCloud.
The DreamCloud is a luxury mattress featuring high-end materials, including gel memory foam and a plush cashmere cover, that offers comfort and durability. This balanced hybrid construction enabled the mattress to perform well across the board, earning 4s and above in all our tests, resulting in a total score of 4.4/5.
โI like this for back sleepers. It cushions my bony areas, while keeping my spine aligned. Itโs just very comfortable for back sleeping.โ
Riley Otis, Expert Mattress Tester
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Firmness: 7.5/10
The DreamCloud mattress has a firmer feel.
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Pressure Relief: 4.4/5
Above average. Even with its firm feel, the DreamCloud offers great pressure relief for both back and side sleepers.
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Edge Support: 4.4/5
Above average. The DreamCloud has exceptional edge support, regardless if you lie down or sit at the mattress perimeter.
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Cooling: 4/5
Average. The DreamCloud provides a temperature-neutral feel.
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Motion Isolation: 4/5
Average. We could feel some motion transfer on the DreamCloud, but nothing that would cause extreme disturbance.
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Response: 5/5
Exceptional. Itโs extremely easy to move around on the bouncy DreamCloud hybrid.
Who Might Like the DreamCloud
Combination sleepers. It was easy to move around on the DreamCloud, and despite its firmer feel, our testers enjoyed the mattress in practically every sleeping position.
Firm mattress fans. We rated this bed 7.5/10 on our scale; it is firmer than expected but should provide excellent support.
Back sleepers. While most sleepers should find comfort on the DreamCloud, back sleepers should reap the most benefits from its supportive coils and pressure-relieving pillow top.
Who Might Not Like the DreamCloud
Especially light sleepers. The DreamCloud performed decently in our motion-isolation test, but you can still feel your partnerโs movements on the other side of the bed.
Some lightweight side sleepers. The DreamCloudโs firmness could cause excess pressure buildup in the hips and shoulders.
Doctorโs Note
โEverything feels really comfortable, and the pressure is very evenly dispersed on the DreamCloud. Itโs contouring my body, and Iโm sinking in the right amount at my hips and shoulders. Iโm supported enough to prevent my spine from bending, and my back feels really good.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
With more than 8,000 reviews on the brandโs site, the DreamCloud has an overall customer rating of 4.6. Many customers prefer the bedโs firmer feel, but a few commented that the edge support wasnโt as strong as expected.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Leesa
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Multiple Firmnesses
Pillow Top
Breathable
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The Leesa Sapira Chill is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush, Medium-Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium-Firm model a 6/10, which is slightly softer than average.
Price
$1,499-$2,399 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Hot Sleepers
This bedโs cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Pros of the Leesa Sapira Chill
This bed is available in several firmness options. That means a variety of sleepers should be able to pick a feel that works for their needs.
It sleeps impressively cool. The cooling cover and breathable foam and coils mean it offers strong temperature-regulation.
The pillow top gives the bed a hotel-like feel. This provides plenty of cushion while the coils offer zoned support.
Cons of the Leesa Sapira Chill
This is a more responsive mattress, so you wonโt get that signtaure memory foam sinking feeling.
The Leesa Sapira Chill isnโt a cheap mattress.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Youโll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day โbreak-inโ period.
The Leesa Sapira Chill is a cool, comfortable bed that pairs a plush pillow top with supportive zoned coils. Itโs available in three firmness options, so many sleepers should be able to choose a model that works for their sleeping position. This isnโt the cheapest option for a cooling mattress, though. Instead, check out the Cocoon Chill.
Testing Highlights
Pressure relief. The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid earned multiple 5-star ratings for side sleepersโ pressure relief.
Edge Support. Sitting and lying down along the edge of the mattress produced minimal sinkage.
Cooling. Our tester thought the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid featured a truly cool-to-the-touch cover.
What Makes the Leesa Sapira Chill the Best for Side Sleepers with Back Pain
It can be tough to tackle back pain if you sleep on your side. This position demands a fair amount of cushion from your bed, and more cushion means more softness and sinkage, which isnโt great for spinal alignment. But luckily, the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid is multitalented: it excels at pressure relief (earning a 4.5/5 score from our testers) and support.
Three testers, each with a different body type, really enjoyed how this pillowy hybrid took the pressure off while preserving their spinal posture. Our heavyweight tester even deemed it โspinaliciousโ for its ability to maintain alignment.
โThis feels great! I feel very aligned, spinally. I feel relief in my shoulder, which is usually a pain point for meโI usually donโt feel a lot of pressure relief there. This is highly supportive, super cozy.โ
Heavyweight Tester, Mattress Expert
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Firmness: 6/10
The Medium Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid has a slightly softerโbut still mediumโfeel.
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Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Above average. Our testers encountered plenty of pressure relief in the back- and side-sleeping position.
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Edge Support: 4.3/5
Above average. The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid has excellent edge support for sitting and lying down at the far reaches of the bed.
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Cooling: 4/5
Average. True to its name, the Leesa Sapira Chill has a pleasantly cool-to-the-touch feel.
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Motion Isolation: 3.8/5
Below average. Youโll likely feel your partner moving around on the other side of the bed, just like we did.
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Response: 4/5
Below average. Though itโs a hybrid mattress, the Leesa Sapira Chill has a doughy pillow top that makes it harder to move around on.
Who Might Like the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Back sleepers. Alongside side sleepers, most back sleepers who like a softer feel to their mattress should enjoy the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybridโs pressure relief.
Sleepers prone to overheating. This mattress felt cool and didnโt produce a discernible rise in temperature throughout testing.
Those who need strong edge support. If you need strong edges to spread out or transfer in and out of bed easily, it wonโt be a problem on this mattress.
Who Might Not Like the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Combination sleepers. Switching positions on this mattress โwasnโt the easiest,โ per our tester, which could prove an issue for these sleepers.
Light sleepers. The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid earned an average rating for motion isolation, since our tester noted her partnerโs movements jostled her body a bit.
Doctorโs Note
โThe Sapira Chill Hybrid is very comfortable, especially for side sleeping. Itโs very soft, allows you to sink into it, and it also contours your body really well. Particularly, it distributes pressure really well across the hips.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
The Leesa Sapira Chill currently has a 4.3-star rating on the brandโs site. Most reviews are positive and praise the bedโs mix of softness and support. However, a few customers say they found the Medium-Firm model of the mattress softer or firmer than advertised.
Saatva Classic โ Best Innerspring Mattress for Back Pain
Best Innerspring
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 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 7.5/10, which is a bit firmer than average.
Price
$1,399-$3,118 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
Stomach Sleepers
It provides enough lift under the hips for stomach sleepers to maintain spinal alignment.
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers should feel fully and evenly supported.
Back Pain
Built-in lumbar support features may help combat lower back pain.
Pros
Itโs available in multiple firmness options (and two heights!).
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva Classic will work well for most back sleepers, as its zoned support encourages spinal alignment.
Its high-density foam and dual coil units should ensure longevity and durability.
Cons
If you like the feel of a memory foam mattress, youโre not going to love the springiness of the Saatva.
This mattress also doesnโt offer much in the way of motion isolation, which could be a problem for light sleepers.
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Youโll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day โbreak-inโ period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Saatva Classic is a luxurious hybrid mattress that should be a great long-term investment. Its claim to fame is that it boasts two coil units instead of one, with a layer of shorter micro-coils above its classic innerspring unit. Itโs available in multiple firmness options and two heights for lots of customizability.
We think its Luxury Firm model is one of the best mattresses for back sleepers, and two of our Certified Sleep Science Coaches actually own this bed. However, light sleepers with a rowdy partner and fans of memory foam should look elsewhere. Learn more in our video review.
Testing Highlights
Responsiveness. The Saatvaโs two coil layers gave it double the bounce, yielding a perfect responsiveness score.
Edge support. Sitting and lying down at the perimeter of the Saatva feels just as sturdy as the rest of the mattress.
Motion isolation. The one area where the Saatva really drops the ball is motion isolation; you can feel every little movement on this mattress.
What Makes the Saatva Classic the Best Innerspring Bed for Back Pain
The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress with bells and whistles designed to help you sleep better. However, to be selected as the best bed for back pain, it has to do more than make a lot of noise; it has to do the work, and the Saatva does. After taking the Saatva for a spin, our mattress testers awarded the Luxury Firm model a 4.5 or higher in pressure relief, edge support, and response.
โI sleep on my stomach on the Saatva Classic Luxury Firm model. The pillow top allowed for enough give so my chest and tummy werenโt uncomfortably pressing into the surface. My hips were lifted, and I felt that my spine was properly aligned overall. I could also sleep on this bed without a pillow, since the surface is so comfortable.โ
Livvi DiCicco, Certified Sleep Science Coach
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Firmness: 7.5/10
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva Classic feels pretty firm.
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Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Above average. Even with its firmer feel, the Saatva offers great pressure relief.
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Edge Support: 5/5
Exceptional. You can sit and lie down on the edges of the Saatva Classic with minimal sinkage.
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Cooling: 4/5
Average. The Saatva Classic has a comfortable, temperature-neutral feel.
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Motion Isolation: 2.7/5
Below average. We could feel every little movement our fellow testers made on the Saatva.
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Response: 5/5
Exceptional. Thanks to its two innerspring layers, the Saatva Classic is plenty bouncy.
Who Might Like the Saatva Classic
Combination sleepers. The Saatvaโs versatile feel and responsiveness means multiple sleeper types can comfortably rest and switch positions on this mattress.
Seniors. These folks can transfer in and out of bed without feeling like theyโre going to slip right off the edge, and it can also serve as a second chair thanks to its sturdiness.
Luxury mattress fans. Aside from its plush, hotel-like feel, the Saatva comes with some pretty swanky policies, like free white-glove delivery and a 365-night trial, which heighten the overall experience.
Who Might Not Like the Saatva Classic
Light sleepers. You can expect to feel every movement from your partner on this bed, so I wouldnโt recommend it to couples that include a light sleeper.
Memory foam fans. Our testers felt more โon topโ of the mattress, so donโt expect the deep sink of traditional memory foam.
Doctorโs Note
โItโs very comfortable, plush, and cushioning, which are all the things I want to see in an orthopedic bed. Iโm still finding enough support to keep my spine mostly aligned. I think the Saatva Classic could help with back pain depending on your body type.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
On Saatvaโs site, the Classic has an overall customer rating of 4.8 stars. Reviews praise the bedโs quality and comfort, as well as the brandโs customer service and delivery experience. But reviews are mixed on whether the Luxury Firm is too soft or too firm.
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 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
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers should get enough support around their lower lumbar region to keep their spine in neutral alignment.
Couples
Sleepers with restless partners (or pets) will appreciate the Bear Elite Hybridโs motion dampening abilities.
Combo Sleepers
Combination sleepers should find it easy to move around and change positions on the Bearโs highly responsive surface.
Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid
This mattress offers great value. Itโs 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 Hybridโs sturdy perimeter is helpful if you need a stable surface to get in and out of bed.
The bedโs 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
Doesnโt 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
Youโll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day โbreak-inโ period.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bearโs 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, weโd recommend this mattress to average-weight side and back sleepers, as well as hot sleepers. If youโre looking for a cheaper option, check out the Bear Star Hybrid. Learn more in our video review.
Testing Highlights
Edge support. Our in-house tester felt sturdy when she sat and lay down along the perimeter of the mattress.
Responsiveness. The Bear Elite Hybrid earned a perfect responsiveness rating despite featuring a dense, cushy pillow top.
Cooling. This mattress earned mixed results in our cooling test, showing a large increase in surface temperature despite our tester finding the mattress comfortable.
What Makes the Bear Elite Hybrid the Best Soft Bed for Back Pain
Sleepers with back pain who need a softer mattress that offers ample support and pressure relief should check out the Bear Elite Hybrid. We tested the medium-firm option and found that its memory foam comfort layer and quilted cover were incredibly comfortable and cushioning. After testing it, we gave Elite Hybrid a firmness rating of 6/10, meaning it is softer than the industry standard of 6.5, or medium-firm. The Bear Elite Hybrid earned an impressive 4/5 or higher in categories like pressure relief, edge support, and response.
โThe softly cushioned top contoured to my body, and I felt no pressure when side sleeping. I could feel some firmer support coming from below the pillow top, so my spine felt supported enough to maintain its natural curve.โ
Lightweight Tester, Certified Sleep Science Coach
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Firmness: 6/10
The mid-range model for the Bear Elite Hybrid skews slightly soft.
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Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
Above average. The Bear Elite offers better pressure relief for back sleepers.
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Edge Support: 4.6/5
Above average. The edges barely budged when sitting or lying down on them.
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Cooling: 2.5/5
Below average. We had conflicting results in our cooling test, but it heated up quite a lot.
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Motion Isolation: 4/5
Average. We could feel movement from the other side of the bed, but itโs likely not enough to wake a light sleeper.
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Response: 5/5
Exceptional. Even with the softer pillow top, moving around was a breeze.
Who Might Like the Bear Elite Hybrid
Back sleepers. This sleeping position earned the most 5-star ratings from our testers during our pressure relief test.
Seniors and folks with mobility concerns. Thanks to the Bear Elite Hybridโs responsiveness and edge support, it should be easy to โbounce outโ of bed, as our tester put it.
Athletes. The Bear features an optional Celliant cover, which not only helps with cooling but purportedly aids in muscle recovery.
Who Might Not Like the Bear Elite Hybrid
Budget shoppers. The Bear Elite Hybrid comes with an elite-level price that reflects its luxury mattress status.
Some hot sleepers. While our tester didnโt feel the mattress heating up beneath her, our thermal gun recorded a whopping 12-degree increase in surface temperature. This might be felt by sleepers who are prone to overheating.
Doctorโs Note
โThe Bear Elite Hybrid does such a good job of hugging your joints; this bed will support and cushion them while also distributing pressure evenly.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
On Bearโs site, the Elite Hybrid has a 4.6-star rating from customer reviews. Many say that the Bear Elite Hybrid helps to support their spine and relieve back pain. Most negative reviews come from sleepers saying the mattress was too firm or too soft for their tastes, causing pain instead of relieving 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.
4.4
Serta
Serta Perfect Sleeper Innerspring Mattress
Firm Support
Isolates Motion
Strong Edges
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The Serta Perfect Sleeper Innerspring mattress contains both foam and coils in its construction.
Firmness
The Cascade Range Medium model of the Serta Perfect Sleeper Innerspring Mattress came in at an 8/10 on our firmness scale. This is quite firm.
Price
$899 โ $1,299
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Back Sleepers
These sleepers should enjoy pressure relief from the soft pillow top and spine-aligning support from the innerspring unit.
Couples
This mattress absorbs motion so couples can rest undisturbed.
Back Pain
Sleepers dealing with a too-soft mattress to support their spine should benefit from this bedโs 5-zoned support.
Pros of the Serta Perfect Sleeper Cascade Range
This mattress provides a comfortable mix of pressure relief and support, which should appeal to many sleeper types.
Light sleepers should be able to rest soundly beside their partners, thanks to this bed's ability to absorb motion.
Strong edge support means sleepers can spread out and make full use of the bed's surface area.
Cons of the Serta Perfect Sleeper Cascade Range
This bed scored rather low in our temperature regulation tests.
Though we tested the Medium feel, we found it was surprisingly firm.
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping
Free shipping
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
The Serta Perfect Sleeper Innerspring mattress is a hybrid that boasts, unsurprisingly, a classic innerspring feel. Despite coming across as firmer than expected, our testers enjoyed this bed's mix of gentle pressure relief and robust, spine-aligning support. It earned high marks for motion isolation, edge support, and responsiveness, but faltered in our cooling test.
Testing Highlights
Motion isolation. Our testers noted only very slight movements coming from the other side of the bed, earning an impressive 4.7/5 for motion isolation.
Edge support. There were no concerns about sliding or slipping off when our tester rested along the perimeter of this mattress.
Firmness. The Medium model in the Serta Perfect Sleeper Cascade range skewed firmer than expected, at 7.5/10 on our scale.
What Makes the Serta Perfect Sleeper the Best Affordable Bed for Back Pain
The Serta Perfect Sleeper Innerspring is the perfect mattress for people on a budget, as you can get a queen-size bed for less than $1,000. For that price, you still get a supportive mattress that helps keep your back aligned while providing gentle pressure reliefโa definite necessity if youโre dealing with back pain.
Even with its firmer feel (we rated the Medium version of the 14-inch model at an 8/10), the Perfect Sleeperโs plush pillow top provides enough cushioning and contouring to fill in the gaps of your lower back.
โI really liked this on my back and think that people who want a firm bed with a pillow top would agree. You donโt get a lot of sinkage, but the top gives you a slight bit of contouring. The alignment is on the mark.โ
Sosha Lewis, Certified Sleep Science Coach
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Firmness: 8/10
The Perfect Sleeper Innerspring has a firmer feel complimented by a plush pillow top.
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Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
Above average. Side sleepers may not get enough cushioning, but back and stomach sleepers will appreciate its supportive lift.
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Edge Support: 4.6/5
Above average. The Perfect Sleeper Innerspring has a sturdy edge that hardly dips while lying on the bedโs perimeter.
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Cooling: 3/5
Below average. This mattress had a significant temperature increase during our cooling tests, so it may not be ideal for hot sleepers.
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Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Above average. The mattress did an excellent job at stifling movement across the bed.
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Response: 4.5/5
Above average. The springy coils of the Perfect Sleeper Innerspring allows for easy movement while on the mattress.
Who Might Like the Serta Perfect Sleeper
Firm mattress fans. The Serta Perfect Sleeperโs firmer feel should appeal to stomach sleepers, back sleepers, and anyone who wants extra support from their mattress.
Combination sleepers. Thanks to its bouncy innerspring feel, you shouldnโt feel โstuckโ in the mattress as you switch positions on the surface.
Couples. Couples should enjoy the bedโs top-notch motion isolation, edge support, and bounce, which should benefit them during sleep or sex.
Who Might Not Like the Serta Perfect Sleeper
Hot sleepers. The Serta Perfect Sleeper only scored a 3/5 for cooling, with our tester noting the bed felt a bit warm throughout testing.
Sleepers with joint pain. If you deal with arthritis or otherwise sensitive joints, this mattress may not provide the level of support you need.
Doctorโs Note
โI like this bed for back sleepers who appreciate firmer support. I feel very neutral in my back, but I also really like the divots in the pillow top and the tufting, which does a good job cushioning and contouring my lower back, too. โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
The Serta Perfect Sleeper Cascade Innerspring currently has an overall customer rating of 4.7. The majority are positive reviews praising the bedโs supportive feel and cushion up top. However, there are some complaints that the bed is firmer than advertised.
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 Signature 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
$665-$1,599 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short full, queen, short queen, king, short king, Olympic queen, California king, split California king, RV king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Couples
Good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a budget-friendly mattress. Itโs a good fit for shoppers looking for an affordable, versatile bed.
Combination sleepers will find it easy to change positions on this bed. Thanks to its bouncy coil construction, the Signature offers a very responsive surface.
Back and side sleepers under 230 lbs can expect great pressure relief and support on this bed.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
This bed doesnโt provide much motion isolation.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature isnโt a luxury mattress.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Youโll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day โbreak-inโ period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is an affordable, no-frills bed with a medium-firm feel that should work for a wide variety of sleepers. While itโs made with durable materials and should last up to 10 years, it isnโt the most luxurious option. If youโre looking for a premium bed, check out the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe. Learn more in our video review.
Testing Highlights
Motion isolation. For a hybrid mattress with coils, this bed absorbs motion well, earning a 4.7 in this category.
Pressure relief. The Signature Hybrid also earned a near-perfect 4.8/5 for overall pressure relief, indicating its suitability for both back and side sleepers.
Firmness. At 6.5/10 on our firmness scale, the Medium model of the Signature Hybrid has a true medium-firm feel, appealing to different sleeper types.
What Makes the Signature Hybrid the Best Hybrid for Back Pain
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a hybrid mattress that provides just the right amount of softness without sacrificing support. It features three layers of plush foam, complemented by a robust 8-inch support layer of individually wrapped coils. Our testers tried out the Medium model, which we think is perfect for sleepers who are after that sweet spot between comfort and support, and folks with limited mobility. We gave the Signature Hybrid a 4/5 or higher in every single category.
โThis bed is true medium-firm, in my mind. I feel balanced from nose to toes. Everything is adequately cushioned and supported, with neither element overshadowing the other.โ
Riley Otis, Mattress Expert
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Firmness: 6.5/10
We tested out the Medium model of the Signature Hybrid and found it had a medium-firm feel.
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Pressure Relief: 4.8/5
Exceptional. This mattress offers great pressure relief to both back and side sleepers.
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Edge Support: 4/5
Average. The top of the Signature Hybrid does compress a bit when you sit directly on the edge.
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Cooling: 3.5/5
Below average. Though the bed initially felt cool to the touch, the mattress did heat up quite a lot during our thermal gun test.
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Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Above-average. Most movement was stifled on the Signature Hybridโs surface.
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Response: 4/5
Average. You may encounter some resistance from the Signature Hybridโs plush pillow top.
Who Might Like the Signature Hybrid
Light sleepers. Though the Signature Hybrid is relatively bouncy, our tester noted she only felt a slight disturbance when another person was in the bed.
Sexually active couples. In the same vein, this bedโs bouncy feel and relatively solid edge support should also create the ideal playing field for sex.
Combination side and back sleepers. These folks should benefit from the bedโs responsiveness, as well as the pressure relief and support theyโll get in both positions.
Who Might Not Like the Signature Hybrid
Sleepers over 230 pounds. While most may find the Medium Signature Hybrid comfortable, weโd recommend these folks opt for the firmest model to get extra support.
Some hot sleepers. We thought the mattress felt cool at first, and though it did warm up slightly, we were surprised to see a near 10-degree increase in surface temperature. This could bode ill for sleepers who run hot.
Doctorโs Note
โSide sleeping on the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid feels good. Thereโs no real pressure buildup in my shoulder or hip, and you sink in quite nicely. Spinal alignment is good; it contours the spine well in this position.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
The Signature Hybrid currently has a 4.7-star rating on Brooklyn Beddingโs site. Reviews claim that each firmness level of the mattress feels as described, providing comfort and support. A few mention that the edge support isnโt as strong as theyโd like.
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 Hybrid
Multiple Firmnesses
Cooling
Motion Isolation
Summer Sale
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The Nolah Evolution is a hybrid mattress, which means it has coils at the bottom and memory foam on top.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model 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
Back Sleepers
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid offers great lumbar support for most back sleepers under 300 lb.
Hot Sleepers
This bed has graphite-infused foam, which helps dissipate body heat. It also has coils that promote airflow.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
It has great cooling features, such as graphite-infused foam and airflow-promoting coils.
Even though it has coils, it isolates motion well. This makes it a great mattress for couples.
Itโs available in three firmness levels, so it works for a variety of people.
Cons of the Nolah Evolution
It lacks a slow-moving feel.
Itโs not supportive enough for most people who weigh more than 300 lb.
Because itโs a luxurious mattress, it might be too pricey for some people.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Youโll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day โbreak-inโ period.
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid mattress is available in three firmness levels. The Luxury Firm model works well for many back and side sleepers. This mattress has many cooling features, and it isolates motion well. Itโs not a great option for most people who weigh over 300 lb, though. If you fall in this category, you may need more lumbar support. Watch our Nolah Evolution mattress review video to learn more.
Testing Highlights
Motion isolation. The Nolah Evolution earned a rare 5-star rating for motion isolation, meaning couples can rest side by side without being disturbed.
Edge support. When our tester lay on the perimeter of the mattress, it barely buckled under her weight.
Pressure relief. The Luxury Firm model of the Nolah Evolution earned a 4.5 overall for pressure relief, thanks to its cushiony top layers.
What Makes the Nolah Evolution the Best for Lower Back Pain
If lower back pain has been your nightly companion, the Nolah Evolution might just become your new best friend. The Evolution is designed with zoning technology that firms up the center to give your lower back the support it craves while still offering enough comfort for the rest of your body. Thanks to its hybrid construction, the Nolah also delivers a perfect combination of pressure-relieving foam and supportive coils. Our mattress testers gave this mattress a 4 or higher in all the essential categories for back pain, including pressure relief, edge support, and response.
โThe mattressโs pillow top gave me a little bit of contouring through the lumbar area and absorbed any pressure I might have felt there. My spine felt like it was supported and held in its neutral position, though my hips actually felt like they were almost elevated above my shoulders. There was absolutely zero sinking on this mattressโI felt like I just floated inside the doughy, pillow-top layer.โ
Lightweight Tester, Certified Sleep Science Coach
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Firmness: 6.5/10
The Luxury Firm Nolah Evolution has a true medium-firm feel.
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Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Above average. Both side and back sleepers should get pressure relief from the Evolution, but the latter will feel much more contouring.
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Edge Support: 4.6/5
Above average. When sitting on the edge of the Nolah Evolution, the pillow top compressed a bit but otherwise remained stable.
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Cooling: 4/5
Average. The Evolution isnโt actively cooling, but it should provide a comfortable temperature-neutral feel.
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Motion Isolation: 5/5
Above average. This mattress has exceptional motion absorption, so you shouldnโt feel any movement from your side of the bed.
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Response: 4/5
Below average. The doughy pillow top might slow down some sleepers as they switch positions on the Evolution.
Who Might Like the Nolah Evolution
Back sleepers. Our pressure relief testers representing each weight category all gave the Nolah Evolution a perfect rating for back sleeping.
Couples. Our tester claimed that her side of the mattress remained โstatic,โ regardless of what was happening on the other.
Older adults. These sleepers should appreciate the Nolah Evolutionโs contouring comfort layers, which should cradle sensitive joints without compromising on edge support. This will give added stability when transferring in and out of bed.
Who Might Not Like the Nolah Evolution
Budget shoppers. As a luxury mattress, a queen-size Nolah Evolution typically retails for over $1,000, even with frequent sales and coupons.
Fans of a bouncy bed. We thought this bed felt closer to the slow-moving nature of memory foam beds than true hybrid mattress.
Doctorโs Note
โI like this mattress for back sleepers. Iโm finding some nice sinkage and great support at my lumbar region. Additionally, my hips arenโt tilting uncomfortably and the space at my lower back is being completely filled in.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
On Nolahโs site, the Evolution has an overall rating of 4.6 stars. Customers praise the bedโs cushioning and cooling feel, while others claim itโs a bit too soft for their tastes.
Saatva Rx โ Best Mattress for Joint and Back Pain
Best for Joint and 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 Saatva Rx 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 a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1995 โ $4,390 (before discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, Cal king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers under 300 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bedโs cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
The mattress is designed specifically with pain in mind. Its unique design can prevent and easy future back pain.
It is a great luxury pick. If you want a mattress with all the bells and whistles, this is a good investment.
Cons
It doesnโt offer a memory foam feel.
It is a pricier mattress.
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Youโll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day โbreak-inโ period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Saatva Rx is a great fit for people with deal with pain issues. Its unique coil system offers some of the best contouring we have ever experienced. Learn more in our video review.
Testing Highlights
Pressure relief. The Rx earned multiple 5-star ratings for pressure relief among our testers, including those with differing body types and preferred positions.
Motion isolation. Our in-house tester believed the Saatva Rx exhibited the best motion isolation sheโd ever tested in a mattress.
Firmness. The Rx came in at a 5/10 on our firmness scale, making it one of the softest beds weโve tried.
What Makes the Saatva Rx the Best for Joint Pain and Back Pain
The Saatva Rxโs luxury construction and premium materials provide maximum support and pressure relief for folks with chronic back pain. Whether youโre sleeping on your back, side, or stomach, the Saatva Rx ensures proper support throughout the night. This mattress earned a 4/5 or higher in key categories for back and joint pain, including pressure relief and responsiveness.
Pressure relief is one of the most critical factors for easing back and joint pain, and the Saatva Rx earns a near-perfect 4.7/5 in this area. Its high-quality foam layers and coil system work together to reduce pressure, especially in sensitive areas like the lower back, hips, and shoulders.
โI really like it on my side. I feel very supported. There is a strong, sturdy base, but the top is plush and comfortable. I love how it feels on my extremities, and my spine is very aligned.โ
Riley Otis, Expert Mattress Tester
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Firmness: 5/10
The Saatva Rx has a super-soft feel.
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Pressure Relief: 4.7/5
Above average. This mattress provides exceptional pressure relief for both side and back sleepers.
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Edge Support: 3.4/5
Below average. When we sat down on the Saatva Rx, we felt like we could easily slide off.
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Cooling: 4/5
Average. We thought this mattress had a comfortable, breathable feel and kept temperatures from rising.
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Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Above average. Any movement you feel on the Saatva Rx should be very light or completely unnoticeable.
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Response: 4/5
Below average. The plush, dense feel of the Saatva Rx may require a little more effort to roll around on.
Who Might Like the Saatva Rx
Fans of soft mattresses. The Rx offers plenty of sinkage and contouring thanks to its super-plush upper layers.
Light sleepers. Sleeping alongside a restless partner or pet should go swimmingly, as the Rxโs slow-moving layers absorb motion before it can travel across the surface.
Sleepers under 130 pounds. The Rxโs soft feel will benefit lightweight sleepers who otherwise havenโt gotten the pressure relief they need from other mattresses.
Who Might Not Like the Saatva Rx
Folks who want bounce. While you shouldnโt feel โstuckโ in this bed, itโs not the easiest to move around on.
Fans of strong edge support. When seated on the edge of the mattress, youโll feel significant sinkage. But if you lie down along the perimeter, itโll feel more secure.
Doctorโs Note
โThis bed provides the perfect cushioning around the bony areas, such as the hip, shoulders, and knees. Thereโs no extra force being placed on these joints, which will help provide some pressure relief.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
The Rx currently boasts a 4.8 rating on Saatvaโs site. Multiple reviews praise the bedโs efficacy in reducing various aches and pains. A few mention that the mattress is a bit too soft for their sleeping position or warmer than expected.
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 Luxe is a hybrid mattress, meaning it contains both coil and foam layers.
Firmness
The Plank Firm Luxe is flippable, offering an 8/10 (firm) firmness on one side and 9/10 (ultra-firm) on the other.
Price
$693-$1,299 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, Olympic queen, king, short king, California king, split California king, RV king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Stomach Sleepers
Provides lots of support under hips for stomach sleepers.
Hot Sleepers
This bedโs optional cooling panel can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the Plank Firm Mattress
The mattress is flippable, giving you two different firmness options (firm and extra-firm) in one bed.
You can add a cooling cover to each side for a modest fee.
Cons of the Plank Firm Mattress
It doesnโt offer a slow-moving memory foam feel. Youโll feel more on-top of the bed, than sunken in.
Side sleepers may not be able to get enough pressure relief, even on the bedโs less firm side.
Shipping
Free shipping except for HI and AK
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
$99 return fee
The Plank Firm Luxe is a versatile ultra-firm mattress for sleepers who may typically struggle to find a bed that offers the level of firmness they need (heavyweight, stomach, and back sleepers in particular). Moreover, the bedโs dual firmness levels, and cozy, cool, yet durable construction, make the Plank Firm Luxe our favorite firm mattress for back pain.
Testing Highlights
Response. The Plank Firm Luxeโs super-firm feel makes it easy to move around on, as thereโs no chance of being stuck in the mattress surface.
Motion isolation. There was only some light motion transfer with two testers in the bed.
Cooling. Our testers noted the mattress had a cool-to-the-touch feel.
What Makes the Plank Firm Luxe the Best Firm Bed for Back Pain
If youโre in the market for the best firm mattress for back pain that provides serious, no-nonsense support, the Plank Firm Luxe is for you. Designed for heavier sleepers, stomach sleepers, and back sleepers who need extra support, this mattress ensures your spine stays in neutral alignment and reduces chronic pain. What sets the Plank Firm Luxe apart is its flippable design. One side delivers an 8/10 firmness (firm), while the other cranks it up to a 9/10 (extra firm). This gives sleepers the freedom to choose the level of support they need without committing to one set firmness. Our mattress testers gave this mattress a 4 or higher in pressure relief and response.
โI liked this mattress when I was on my side. The thicker layer of foam contoured nicely around my shoulders and hips. The coils did a good job keeping my hips elevated. Keep in mind that it is still a pretty firm bedโI think youโll get adequate cushioning, but itโs not exactly plush.โ
Sosha Lewis, Certified Sleep Science Coach
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Firmness: 7-8/10
The Plank Firm Luxe is flippable, featuring a traditionally firm-feeling side and extra-firm side.
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Pressure Relief: 4.2/5
Average. The traditional firm side of the Plank Firm Luxe will be better for relieving pressure.
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Edge Support: 3.2/5
Below average. Despite its extra-firm feel, the Plank Firm Luxe had some lackluster edge support on both sides.
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Cooling: 4/5
Average. Both sides of the Plank Firm Luxe feel relatively cool and performed well in our temperature test.
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Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Above average. We could only feel very slight motion from our fellow testers on the traditional firm side of the bed.
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Response: 4.5/5
Above average. Itโs very easy to switch positions on either side of the Plank Firm Luxe, though the traditional firm side is slightly less responsive.
Who Might Like the Plank Firm Luxe
Stomach sleepers. Either side of the Plank Firm Luxe should be firm enough to keep the hips lifted while you rest on the stomach.
Sleepers over 230 pounds. Similarly, heavyweight sleepers wonโt sink very far into this mattress, which could benefit those needing extra support.
Combination sleepers. On the less-firm side, you might encounter some resistance, but either side of the Plank Firm Luxe should make repositioning easier.
Who Might Not Like the Plank Firm Luxe
Lightweight sleepers. Most sleepers under 130 pounds will likely find this mattress too firm. But some stomach and back sleepers in this category may find comfort.
Sleepers with joint pain. These sleepers will need more pressure relief and a softer surface to cradle sensitive areas.
Doctorโs Note
โStomach sleepers with back pain should opt for a firm mattress and a thin pillow or none for the head. Maintaining the spineโs natural curve is crucial.โ โ Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM
Other User Reviews
The Plank Firm Luxe has a 4.6-star customer rating. Most reviewers enjoy how firm and supportive the mattress feels. A few complain that the mattress isnโt as extra-firm as advertised.
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 Core is a hybrid mattress. This means it has coils at the bottom and foam on top.
Firmness
The Titan Plus Core mattress is firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated it a 7/10.
Price
$699-$1,499 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
Heavyweight sleepers
This mattress has a thick comfort layer and sturdy coils that can handle heavier weights.
Stomach Sleepers
It offers lots of hip support, which can help stomach sleepers maintain the correct spinal alignment.
Couples
This mattress has great responsiveness paired with very good motion isolation.
Pros of the Titan Plus Core
It works well for people who weigh 230 โ 500 lb, thanks to its supportive feel.
This mattress has great responsiveness and motion isolation, a tough balance to pull off.
Itโs breathable and cool, so it works well for hot sleepers.
Cons of the Titan Plus Core
Lightweight people might not get enough pressure relief on this mattress.
Its edge support is pretty good, but not perfect.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Youโll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day โbreak-inโ period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Titan Plus Core mattress works well for back and stomach sleepers, and even most side sleepers (though lightweight people might want a softer bed). Itโs firm, coming in at 7/10 on our firmness scale, and has lots of bounce to help with repositioning.
Testing Highlights
Responsiveness. The Titan Plus Core earned a perfect score in this category because switching positions on its surface was โeffortless,โ per our tester.
Motion isolation. Despite its bounce, the Titan Plus Core effectively absorbs motion, which means you wonโt feel your partner moving on the other side of the bed.
Edge support. You should be able to spread out to your heartโs content on this mattress and lie along the edges without feeling unstable.
What Makes the Titan Plus Core the Most Supportive Bed for Back Pain
The ultra-supportive Titan Plus Core is the ideal choice for sleepers over 230 pounds who suffer from back pain or for anyone seeking a durable, long-lasting mattress. This hybrid mattress provides the support bigger bodies need, with sturdy materials and a robust coil system that helps keep the spine aligned.
For those who tend to sleep on their stomach, this bed will keep the hips elevated to minimize strain on the lower back. Sleepers with bigger bodies will likely find that the foam layers offer just the right amount of cushion while still providing the solid support necessary for back pain relief. Our testers were impressed with the Titanโs performance overall, awarding it a 4/5 or higher in edge support, response, and motion transfer.
โLying on my back, my body feels well-supported and in great alignment. My hips stay elevated, which really eases any tension in my lower back. Thereโs not much contouring through the lumbar area, but it still feels comfortable and balanced. If you prefer a mattress that keeps you in a straight, neutral position, this one does the job nicely.โ
In-House Tester, Mattress Expert
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Firmness: 7.5/10
The Titan Plus Core has a firmer feel to better support heavyweight sleepers.
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Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
Above average. Back sleepers of all weights should feel comfortable on this mattress.
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Edge Support: 4.2/5
Above average. We only noticed some slight sinkage while seated on the edge of the mattress.
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Cooling: 4/5
Average. The surface of the Titan Plus Core feels cool and wicks away excess heat.
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Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
Above average. We could feel some movement in our coupleโs test, but nothing too disruptive to interrupt sleep.
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Response: 5/5
Exceptional. Moving around on top of the Titan Plus Core is completely effortless.
Who Might Like the Titan Plus Core
Combination sleepers. Moving around on the Titan Plus Core goes off without a hitch, and so long as you like a firmer feel, it should accommodate multiple sleeping styles.
Stomach sleepers. While designed for heavyweight sleepers, stomach sleepers of all sizes should be able to rest comfortably on this bed.
Couples. Our tester could feel her partnerโs movements on the Titan but believed it wasnโt enough to wake her, so most sleepers who share the bed should rest undisturbed.
Who Might Not Like the Titan Plus Core
Lightweight sleepers. Though our lightweight testers liked the Titan Plus Core, some folks under 130 pounds may find it too firm to get the sinkage they need.
Some heavyweight side sleepers. Our heavyweight tester called the mattress โnot badโ in this position, citing some pressure in his hips.
Doctorโs Note
โThis mattress is very supportive and keeps your spine neutral in a back-sleeping position. For a back sleeper, this is pretty good; it keeps you lifted and doesnโt let you sink in much at all. I donโt feel any pressure buildup either, so I think the Titan Plus Core would be a good mattress for back sleepers.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
The Titan Plus line has a 4.5-star rating from customers. Most negative reviews are for the Luxe model, but complaints about the Titan Plus Core reflect a dissatisfaction with the bedโs edge support. However, most sleepers like the bedโs firm, supportive feel.
WinkBedโ Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Back Pain
Best Medium-Firm 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 WinkBed 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
$1,149-$2,049 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 130 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bedโs cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
It has a bouncy, responsive feel. This is great for combination sleepers who benefit from a bed that makes it easy to change positions at night.
The WinkBed features zoned support. With firmer foam at the top and bottom and more cushioning foam in the middle, this bed has excellent lumbar support.
This bed sleeps cool. Thanks to the breathable coils and gel-infused memory foam, hot sleepers can expect a cool nightโs rest.
Cons
This isnโt the best option for motion isolation.
The WinkBed doesnโt have a traditional โsink-inโ memory foam feel.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Youโll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day โbreak-inโ period.
The WinkBed is a versatile mattress that provides zoned support and cooling comfort for a fair price. This bedโs excellent responsiveness makes it a good fit for combination sleeper that want a bed thatโs easy to move around on. For couples looking for motion isolation, though, this probably isnโt the best choice. Instead, check out the Nectar Premier Copper. Learn more in our video review.
Testing Highlights
Firmness. The Luxury Firm model of the WinkBed came in at a 6.5/10, a true medium-firm feel thatโs versatile enough for multiple sleeper types.
Edge support. Our tester said that if her eyes had been closed during this test, she couldnโt tell she was resting along the perimeterโit was just as sturdy as the rest of the mattress.
Cooling. Throughout testing, not just our temperature evaluation, the WinkBed felt as cool as a cucumber.
What Makes the WinkBed the Best Medium-Firm Bed for Back Pain
The WinkBed offers a balanced blend of support and durability. We rated it a 6.5/10 for firmness, which places it in the industry standard of medium-firm. This mattress is engineered to support proper spinal alignment and help relieve tension and pressure where it matters most for sleepers with back pain. With individually wrapped coils designed to provide zoned lumbar support and a plush, gel-infused pillow top for extra comfort, itโs a true standout for anyone seeking pain relief and quality sleep.
The WinkBed also earned a 4.4/5 score for edge support. When sitting or lying near the edge, our testers didnโt feel like they were about to roll off or sink into the mattress. The solid edge support helps maintain a consistent sleeping surface and ensures youโre not compromising your spinal alignment, even if you tend to gravitate toward the perimeter of the bed.
โThe WinkBed has a very interesting feelโthe pillow top is lovely and plush, but you can feel an extremely sturdy and dense base underneath it. On my back, I wasnโt sinking as much, so I got the full plushness of the pillow top from head to toe, plus a reassuring sense of stability from the base of the bed.โ
Melanie Kassel, Certified Sleep Science Coach
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Firmness: 6.5/10
The Luxury Firm model of the WinkBed has a true medium-firm feel.
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Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
Below average. Back sleepers gleaned the most pressure relief on the WinkBed.
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Edge Support: 4.4/5
Above average. We only noticed some minor sinkage when seated on the edge of the mattress.
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Cooling: 4/5
Average. As we used our thermal gun to record the bedโs surface temperature, we could see the number going down, even after someone lay on it for seven minutes.
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Motion Isolation: 3.7/5
Below average. The WinkBed has just-alright motion isolation, as we could feel our partnerโs movements. However, they werenโt too egregious.
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Response: 3/5
Below average. The WinkBedโs thick pillow top impeded our ability to seamlessly move around on the bedโs surface.
Who Might Like the WinkBed
Hot sleepers. The surface temperature of the WinkBed barely rose 7 degrees after our tester took a short nap on it. It felt comfortably cool throughout, so she recommended it for sleepers prone to overheating.
Back sleepers. This sleeping position earned the highest ratings from our testers, particularly for pressure relief and support.
Older adults and those with mobility concerns. Getting in and out of the WinkBed is seamless, with no sagging or sliding to make it feel unstable.
Who Might Not Like the WinkBed
Lightweight side sleepers. The Luxury Firm WinkBed may be too firm for these sleepers. Iโd recommend the Soft model instead.
Combination sleepers. We had a hard time moving around on top of the WinkBed. This lack of bounce could make it difficult for sleepers to change positions.
Doctorโs Note
โThe WinkBed makes you feel very neutral and supports the spine while still providing some slight cushioning. I think people with back pain will enjoy the support system that keeps the spine very straight.โ โ Dr. Hannah Habeeb, DPT
Other User Reviews
The WinkBed sports an impressive 4.8-star rating on the brandโs website. Most negative reviews refer to personal gripes about the firmness received. However, the majority of reviews are positive and cite the bedโs ability to relieve pain and pressure buildup.
Latest Updates: In June 2026, we added the Serta Perfect Sleeper Innerspring Mattress to our panel as the best affordable mattress for back pain. Despite its price being below $1,000 for a queen-size bed, it still provided solid support and cushioning to strike a balanced feel that should be perfect for back sleepers.
Other Mattresses for Back Pain We Researched
After testing numerous models, my fellow testers and I narrowed it down to our top 11 picks for the best mattresses for back pain. However, there were a pair of fantastic mattresses that didnโt quite make it. Depending on your specific sleep needs, they could still be a great option for you. Learn more about them below.
Saatva LatexHybrid โ This mattress is a fantastic option for folks who frequently adjust their sleeping position throughout the night. Latex mattresses are super responsive and bouncy, so you donโt have to worry about straining yourself to maneuver on the Saatvaโs surface. Like the Saatva Classic and Rx, the Latex Hybrid has a strong perimeter, so you get consistent support no matter where you are on the mattress. I ultimately left it off this list because its motion isolation is easily the weakest of the Saatva mattresses, making it less than ideal for couples.
Avocado Green โ The Avocado Green is a mattress made with high-quality organic materials. Its bouncy latex, plush pillow top, and innerspring coils offer a balanced combination of responsive support and gentle contouring that is ideal for sleepers with back pain. However, it fell short of landing on my list because of its higher-than-average price tag.
How Can a Mattress Help with Back Pain?
Your mattress can definitely have an impact on your back pain, whether itโs easing your symptoms or making them worse. Here are some of the ways your bed can impact your experience of a sore back:
Properly Supporting Your Entire Spine
Beds with sturdy, balanced support keep sleepersโ spines in a neutral position, meaning that your spine retains its natural curvature, regardless of your sleeping position.
Dr. Neel P. Shah, an orthopedic surgeon, has personally experienced back pain caused by an unsupportive, sagging mattress. โI woke up with back pain because I was just sleeping in a divot the whole night. That can lead to not getting good sleep, not healing, feeling tired.โ When he sees patients who report back stiffness or pain in the mornings, he often asks them how old their mattress is and whether itโs developed any indentations. โIt comes down to supporting your back and not having any areas where thereโs sagging,โ he said.
Dr. Dasgupta agreed. โTo ease back pain, you need a mattress that supports your body type and sleep position so that your spine is aligned.โ
Unsupportive mattresses can allow sleepers to sink too far and cause awkward spinal positioning, worsening back pain. Support is typically generated from a mattressโs base unit, often composed of high-density foam or coils. This is why itโs important to pick a mattress that doesnโt sag after only a few years of use.
Lifting Your Lower Back
Lower back pain is one of the most common types of back pain. If you deal with it regularly, then youโll want to look at a mattress with specialized lumbar support. โThe divots in a mattress always happen around the waist or buttock area,โ said Dr. Shah. โThereโs a lot more pressure there. Especially if youโre a side sleeper, youโre putting a lot more pressure where your hip is.โ
Many of the mattresses on our list above, including our top pick, have special support โzonesโ to ensure the lumbar area has extra firmness and lift.
Relieving Pressure
A mattress that relieves pressure will feel like itโs gently cradling your joints rather than butting up against them. If you have back pain, you likely want some degree of pressure relief to balance out the bedโs support.
Counterintuitively, a firm or medium-firm mattress can indeed be pressure-relieving. A bed doesnโt need to be soft in order to counteract pressure buildup around sensitive areas, such as the shoulders, hips, and tailbone.
Responding to Movement
If you feel โstuckโ in your mattress, like youโve sunken down too deep into the upper layers, it will be hard to adjust your sleeping position throughout the night. People with back pain definitely donโt want their mobility limited in this way, lest they stay in an uncomfortable posture for too long and make their pain worse. They should seek out a responsive mattressโthat is, one that will facilitate movement with a certain amount of springiness.
How We Tested the Best Mattresses for Back Pain
When assessing which mattresses would be best for folks with back pain, my fellow mattress testers and I focused on the factors above: support, pressure relief, and responsiveness.
Support and Edge Support
We test a mattressโs overall support in each sleeping position by having testers rest on the mattress and scan themselves for any sagging, discomfort, or unevenness. Testers take detailed notes on their spinal alignment and whether they felt any areas of their body dipping too low.
We also evaluate edge support. Our mattress testers look at how well the perimeter of the mattress acts under pressure, particularly when seated or lying near the edge. We sit on the edge of the bed and then move in and out of position, noting how stable and supportive the edges feel during these transitions. Next, we use a tape measure to measure the sinkage along the edge when sitting on it. Minimal sinkage indicates better edge support, while deeper impressions suggest that the edge is less supportive.
Testing edge support on the WinkBed.
Robust edge support reduces the risk of sagging or collapsing along the perimeter, which can cause unnecessary stress on the spine. A mattress with weak edge support can exacerbate back strain by creating instability that leads to discomfort when sitting or lying near the edges. A sturdy perimeter can make it easier for folks with back pain to get in and out of bed without experiencing sharp movements or awkward pressure on the back.
Edge support also helps determine mattress quality. Dr. Dasgupta says, โThe hallmarks of a durable mattress are high-quality materials, a strong support core, good edge support, and minimal sagging. It should provide long-lasting support and maintain its structural integrity over time.โ
Hereโs how our top picks scored in edge support ranked from highest to lowest with our average score (4.1/5) included.
Model
Edge Support Score
Saatva Classic
5
Helix Midnight Luxe
4.8
Bear Elite Hybrid
4.6
Serta Perfect Sleeper Innerspring
4.6
Nolah Evolution
4.6
DreamCloud Classic
4.4
WinkBed
4.4
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
4.3
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
4.2
Titan Plus Core
4.2
Average Edge Support Score
4.1
Nectar Classic Hybrid
3.8
Saatva Rx
3.4
Plank Firm Luxe
3.2 (Average of Both Sides)
Pressure Relief
Our pressure map test allows us to assess how well a mattress can alleviate pressure for individuals with back pain. Using a specialized mat, we take a digital thermal reading to identify areas where pressure is relieved and where it accumulates on the body. We place the mat on the mattress and assess different sleeping positionsโside, back, and stomachโto see how each position affects pressure distribution. The results are displayed on a monitor.
Deep pressure relief is crucial for folks with back pain and side sleepers who often experience more pressure in areas like their hips and shoulders.
According to Dr. Dasgupta, a mattress with a medium-soft to medium-firm feel, made from memory foam or latex, will likely provide optimal pressure point relief.
Hereโs how our top mattresses for back pain scored in pressure relief, ranked from highest to lowest with our average score (3.9/5) included.
Model
Pressure Relief Score
Saatva Rx
4.7
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
4.5
Nolah Evolution
4.5
Saatva Classic
4.5
DreamCloud Classic
4.4
Bear Elite Hybrid
4.3
Serta Perfect Sleeper Innerspring
4.3
Titan Plus Core
4.3
Helix Midnight Luxe
4.2
Plank Firm Luxe
4.2 (Average of Both Sides)
Nectar Classic Hybrid
4
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
4
Average Pressure Relief Score
3.9
WinkBed
3.8
Responsiveness
To test responsiveness, we have testers literally roll around on top of the bed to see how easy it is to move around on its surface. We often refer to this as the โswitch testโ because it illustrates how seamlessly one can switch between sleeping positions. If the mattress has some bounce to it, and our testers can move without considerable effort, then it receives a high score.
Hereโs how our featured mattresses scored in responsiveness, ranked from highest to lowest with our average score (4.2/5) included.
Model
Responsiveness Score
DreamCloud Classic
5
Saatva Classic
5
Bear Elite Hybrid
5
Serta Perfect Sleeper Innerspring
4.5
Plank Firm Luxe
4.5 (Average of Both Sides)
Titan Plus Core
5
Average Responsiveness Score
4.2
Helix Midnight Luxe
4
Nectar Classic Hybrid
4
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
4
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
4
Nolah Evolution
4
Saatva Rx
4
WinkBed
3
How to Choose the Best Mattress for Back Pain
When shopping for a mattress for back pain, a couple of other factors impact how a bed feels. Before you hit add to cart, you should know how factors like body weight and firmness affect your experience on a mattress.
Below is a chart comparing each mattress in two of the most important factors for sleepers with back pain: firmness and pressure relief. Click on a point to see its rating in these two categories:
Now letโs talk about other factors in choosing an ideal mattress for back pain.
Firmness and Sleeping Position
When asked if heโd like to address any misconceptions about back pain and sleep, Dr. Shah didnโt hesitate: โThe first one is that if you have a bad back, you need a firm mattress. When I had a firm mattress, I was miserable. It was giving me back pain.โ He emphasized the importance of underlying support over firmness, and cautioned against going as firm and floor-like as possible.
Your ideal mattress firmness level varies depending on your sleep position and body type. Many sleepers prefer a medium-firm mattress (around 6.5/10 on the firmness scale) because these mattresses provide a good balance of support and pressure relief. In fact, a literature review regarding the type of mattress that helps you avoid back pain and improve sleep quality stated that โdifferent studies show that medium-firm surfaces might effectively reduce pain in individuals complaining of back pain.โ
Dr. Shah likewise told us, โFor most people, a medium-firm mattress is probably the best way to go.โ
Many back sleepers with back pain often prefer a medium-firm mattress because it strikes a balance between support and cushioning, which helps promote proper spinal alignment while relieving pressure. A mattress thatโs too soft can cause the body to sink too deeply, potentially misaligning the spine and increasing discomfort in the lower back. โIf you sleep on your back, I think you need a firmer mattress. You donโt want to sink in too much,โ said Dr. Shah.
Meanwhile, a mattress thatโs too firm may not provide enough contouring to support the natural curves of the body, which can also lead to pressure points and discomfort. Back sleepers should therefore look for a balance of softness and support, with special attention to some contouring at the lumbar spine (lower back).
However, side sleepers may find medium-firm mattresses uncomfortable. These individuals usually benefit from soft mattresses (6 or lower on the firmness scale), which provide better cushioning and contouring to alleviate pressure points at the hips and shoulders. As a side sleeper himself, Dr. Shah advised folks to look for โsomething with a little bit of give, but [with] a nice firm bottom to it.โ
Stomach sleepers generally require a firmer mattress (above 6.5) to maintain proper spinal alignment throughout the night. They need a bed thatโs super-supportive to keep the hips from sinking too low.
Body Weight
Body weight plays a significant role in finding your ideal mattress. As Dr. Shah explained, โIf youโre heavy, a soft or medium mattress is going to feel more like a very soft mattress. If you donโt weigh much, a firmer mattress is going to feel even firmer. Soft, medium, and firm are all relative.โ
Lightweight sleepers (under 130 pounds) will likely be most comfortable on a plush mattress with soft cushioning.
Sleepers in the 130- to 230-pound range will likely get the balance of support and pressure relief they need on a medium-firm mattress.
Folks weighing 230 pounds or more should look into firmer mattresses to ensure adequate support.
Regardless of sleeping position, youโll also want to ensure your mattress is comfortable enough to stave off back pain. I touched on what each sleeping position should look for in the firmness section above, and following those recommendations should yield positive results.
Mattress Type
People with back pain should also look at the types of mattresses available and the pressure relief each type provides. Each has pros and cons for those with back pain, so itโs important to know whatโs ideal for your specific needs. Ultimately, Dr. Shah had no horse in this race: โTo me, [the best mattress type] is whatever youโre going to get the best eight hours of sleep on. You want to wake up refreshed, get into deep sleep, and wake up without a lot of pain.โ
Innerspring
An innerspring mattress is built almost entirely of coils, making for a firmer, bouncier feel than other types of mattresses. Though the term is still commonly used, most online bed-in-a-box companies donโt offer traditional innerspring mattresses, which feature just one, thin comfort layer on top of the coils.
Because of their responsiveness, innerspring mattresses are great for combination sleepers who may switch sleeping positions throughout the night. They can also be an ideal choice for customers on a budget.
Foam
Memory foam mattresses are designed to provide a close contour to the body, which is great for pressure relief and cushioning. Many folks with back pain want deep pressure relief, so a memory foam mattress can provide that; nevertheless, itโs important to find the right firmness for you. Many people prefer medium firmness, as mattresses that are too soft may lack enough support for the lower back and hips, and mattresses that are too firm wonโt provide enough pressure relief.
Traditional memory foam can sleep hot, but newer models use aerated foams for improved airflow and gel or copper infusions to keep the mattress cooler.
Latex
Latex mattresses offer solid pressure relief and are made with natural materials, making them a great choice for eco-friendly shoppers who experience back pain while sleeping. Theyโre similar to memory foam mattresses, but theyโre bouncier and more expensive. Latex even has natural cooling properties, making it a good option for those who sleep hot.
Hybrid
As the name implies, hybrid mattresses combine any of the traditional materials of a mattress โ coils, memory foam, or latex foam. The idea is to combine the best of both coils and foam to make for a more supportive and comfortable bed. Since they often provide decent support and cushioning in a single mattress, hybrids can be a great option for those with back pain (and for many sleepers in general).
What Causes Back Pain?
Just as the symptoms of back pain can vary, there are numerous reasons why someone might be feeling back pain. Here are some of the most common:
Strain: If someone works a job that requires him/her to lift especially heavy objects, the repetition of this action can potentially lead to muscle and ligament strain. Also, simply lifting a heavy object without using the legs can potentially cause immediate strain in the lower back area. If someone is in poor physical shape, it increases the likelihood of pulling a muscle.
Ruptured or herniated discs: A herniated disc can be painful, and can result from a variety of causes, including injury, certain risk factors (including a sedentary lifestyle or genetics), and age-related degeneration of the discs between vertebrae.
Arthritis or scoliosis: Arthritis can have a direct impact on the lower back area in multiple ways. It can lead to spinal stenosis, for instance, wherein the spaces in the spine narrow and begin to put pressure on the nerves. (Check out our best mattresses for arthritis guide if youโre experiencing joint pain or our best mattresses for spinal stenosis guide.) Scoliosis, on the other hand, is an unnatural curvature of the spine. This can affect posture, stretching muscles, and pinching nerves, thereby causing back pain issues.
Injury: Car accidents, sports-related injuries, and workplace falls can all lead to pulled muscles, pinched nerves, and herniated discs. These are all associated with back pain.
Sciatica: The sciatic nerve goes through the buttocks and down the back of the leg. If this nerve is compressed, people could potentially experience back pain or numbness in the leg. If youโve been diagnosed with this condition, you may want to explore the best beds for sciatica.
An ill-suited mattress: If your mattress is too soft, too firm, too unsupportive, or nearing the end of its lifespan, it can be the reason for your back pain. As weโve mentioned, itโs important to get a mattress that helps align your spine. If your bed has begun to sag, it might be time to replace it; we recommend replacing a mattress every 5 to 10 years (or as needed). If youโd prefer not to buy an entirely new bed, though, a mattress topper could be a more affordable option. โIโve become a firm believer in mattress toppers. They enable you to customize the firmness of your mattress and theyโre easily changeable,โ said Dr. Shah.
Poor posture, in and out of bed: Dr. Shah mentioned that neglecting to maintain an upright, aligned posture can contribute to back pain. He cited hunching at your computer during the day as well as phone and laptop usage in bed as possible behaviors to try and curb. โThat can definitely contribute to upper neck, mid-back, and maybe even some lower back pain, because your back is rounded all the time.โ
Itโs important to note that back pain and the diagnoses behind it can look quite different from person to person. โIโll see two two MRIs that look exactly the same, and the patients present completely differently,โ said Dr. Shah. He explained that all of his recommendations start from what the patient at hand is experiencing, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating back pain (or choosing a mattress!).
Types of Back Pain
There are two main types of back pain: acute back pain, and chronic back pain.
Acute back pain is sharp and intense back pain that usually comes from some sort of back trauma like a fall or an injured muscle.
Chronic back pain is consistent back pain that lasts more than three months. Sometimes chronic back pain can be related to injury or trauma, but itโs usually not easy to pinpoint where the pain stems from.
Back Pain Location
Back pain can also affect the different areas of your back in different ways.
Lower back pain is the most common type of back pain. Lower back pain is often associated with strains in the muscles around your spine, and that strain can happen when youโre asleep. If your spine isnโt properly aligned at night, and you arenโt sleeping on a supportive mattress, you may feel an ache in your lower back.
Pain in the middle back isnโt as common as lower back pain and can sometimes be caused by an undiagnosed medical problem, but sometimes, you may feel sore in your mid back due to poor posture and lack of support and cushion on your body when you sleep.
Upper back pain can also be a sign of a health condition, and should prompt a visit your doctor. If you are experiencing this type of pain when you sleep, you also want to ensure that youโre sleeping on a pillow with the right loft for you.
Best Mattress for Back Pain FAQs
Should you sleep on a firm or soft mattress if you have back pain?
A firm mattress can certainly be good for back pain. But keep in mind that firmness has more to do with feel than it does foundation or support. There are also soft mattresses that can be good for back pain, as long as theyโre supportive enough. Itโs all about what you prefer as a sleeper.
Are hybrid mattresses good for back pain?
In general, we believe that a hybrid mattress tends to be the best for back pain. The coils at the bottom give the sleeper a lot of support and help keep the spine in a neutral alignment, while the foams up top create pressure relief.
What is the best mattress topper for back pain?
Your first stop should, naturally, be our roundup of the best mattress toppers for back pain. From there, youโll want to hone in on your individual sleep preferences and what specific kind of back pain you experience. Overall, weโd say that the best mattress topper for back pain (in general) is the Saatva.
What mattresses are not good for back pain?
Anything that doesnโt offer the proper level of comfort and support. If you feel the mattress sagging or think you might be sinking in too much, then it probably isnโt going to help your back pain. While you want it soft enough to feel comfortable and pressure-relieving, you also want to feel a slight lift.
Is memory foam good for your back?
Memory foam mattresses can be a good option for back pain, but not every memory foam mattress can be ideal. Memory foam provides solid pressure relief by contouring your body, but an overly soft mattress may allow for your back and hips to dip too low into it, causing discomfort. Likewise, an exceptionally firm mattress can lessen the pressure relief provided by a memory foamโs contouring.
Many consumers should look for a medium firmness, to have a good balance between pressure relief and support.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2000). Low back pain fact sheet | national institute of neurological disorders and stroke. Nih.gov. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Low-Back-Pain-Fact-Sheet
Caggiari, G., Talesa, G. R., Toro, G., Jannelli, E., Monteleone, G., & Puddu, L. (2021). What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature. Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s10195-021-00616-5
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Kenny Timper
Staff Writer
About Author
Kenny is a certified sleep science coach and staff writer at Mattress Clarity, where he reviews mattresses, bedding, and sleep accessories to help you skip the guesswork and enjoy a restful nightโs sleep. Heโs been featured as a sleep expert in publications such as Livingetc and U.S. News & World Report. As a natural tinkerer, he enjoys getting hands-on with each product to determine if it truly makes a difference in sleep quality. When heโs not testing out mattresses and other sleep products, you can find him hiking, biking, or trying out new local eats.
