Confused by Coils? Decoding the 4 Main Mattress Types (And Who They’re Actually For)

Walking into a mattress store—or scrolling through endless online options—can feel less like shopping and more like an exam you didn’t study for. With terms like "viscoelastic foam," "pocket coils," and "talalay latex" thrown around, it is easy to lose sight of the simple question: Which one will actually help me sleep?

The truth is, there is no single "best" mattress. There is only the best mattress for your specific body type and sleep style. To save you hours of research, we have broken down the four major mattress categories and who they are designed to serve.

1. Memory Foam: The "Body Hugger"

What it is: Made from viscoelastic polyurethane foam, this material softens when it comes into contact with body heat, molding perfectly to your curves.

Best For:

• Side Sleepers: It offers superior pressure relief for hips and shoulders.
• Couples: Foam absorbs movement almost entirely. If your partner tosses and turns, you won’t feel a thing.
• Chronic Pain Sufferers: The contouring effect aligns the spine and reduces stress on joints.

The Trade-off: Traditional memory foam can retain heat ("sleep hot") and may make you feel like you are stuck in quicksand. If you hate that "sinking" feeling, this isn't for you.

2. Hybrid: The "Best of Both Worlds"

The fastest-growing category in sleep. Hybrids combine a support core of steel coils (springs) with a thick comfort layer of memory foam or latex on top.