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Best Mattress for Athletes

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Team sports and exercise have been an essential part of my life since childhood. I took that love of sports in my college career, where I played volleyball for Queens University and the University of North Carolina Charlotte.

Although I enjoy pushing my body to its physical limits, I learned early on that one of the most important aspects of physical fitness, however, happens when I’m largely immobile: sleep. 

An active lifestyle must be balanced by an investment in rest. Because athletes are often specialists in their sport of choice, their mattresses should be specialized as well. A muscular weightlifter or long-distance runner may not need the same features in a bed as me, a former collegiate volleyball player, for example.

In collecting this list of the best mattresses for athletes, I focused on beds that encourage comfort after a vigorous workout, but I also wanted to acknowledge that the word “athlete” contains multitudes. I selected mattresses that cater to a range of sports and exercise modalities in hopes that you’ll find the right match for your nightly cool-down.

Best Mattress for Athletes

Dr. Raj Discusses the Importance of Sleep for Athletes

Compare the Best Mattresses for Athletes

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Helix Midnight Mattress Nectar Premier Copper Mattress DreamCloud Original Mattress WinkBed Plus Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Saatva Mattress Bear Original Mattress
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Helix Midnight Mattress Nectar Premier Copper Mattress DreamCloud Original Mattress WinkBed Plus Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Saatva Mattress Bear Original Mattress
Rating
4.3
4.1
4.0
4.5
4.6
4.4
4.8
4.2
3.9
Firmness Medium-firm: 6/10 Medium-firm: 6/10 Medium: 5/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Firm: 7/10
Material Hybrid Hybrid Foam Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Innerspring Foam
Cooling
Warranty Lifetime Warranty 10-year warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty 10-year warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty
Shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free white glove delivery Free shipping
Trial Period 120 nights 100 nights 365 nights 365 nights 120 nights 120 nights 120 nights 365 nights 120 nights
Best For Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors Couples, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers Joint Pain, Back Pain, Side Sleepers Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain

How We Chose the Best Mattress for Athletes

At Sleep Advisor, we physically bring mattresses into our studio and put them through a battery of in-person tests for categories such as edge support, pressure relief, and cooling. We also have multiple people lie on top of each bed so that we can know how they feel to different body types.

For this list, I paid the most attention to factors that are relevant to athletes who want to recuperate well at night. I tried to find beds that matched well with a mix of scenarios and sports, including ones that cradled commonly injured areas.

I also consulted several experts to help get an idea of what athletes need from their beds. 

Lastly, I chatted with some of my athletic colleagues about what kind of beds they prefer and how sleep helps them perform better. They include:

  • Caine Wilkes – 2020 Olympian and competitive weightlifter
  • Kate Meier – Competitive weightlifter, certified weightlifting coach (USAW-L1), and certified personal trainer.
  • Elizabeth Whaley –  Current Wake Forest University track and field and cross country athlete
  • Carter Coughlin – Former Wake Forest University cross country athlete, current elite competition runner
  • Rachel Harris – Former collegiate soccer player
  • Sosha Lewis – Competitive Master’s CrossFitter
Sosha Lewis is a writer at Sleep Advisor and avid athlete
Sosha Lewis is a senior staff writer at Sleep Advisor and amazing athlete. Our team of writers and testers is full of current and former athletes, so you know we’re here to help you get a good night’s rest.

Components We Want to See in a Mattress for Athletes

Based on feedback from athletes themselves and our extensive knowledge of the mattress marketplace, we looked for the following traits in the mattresses we chose for this roundup:

Support Over Softness

Athletes need stable support and spinal alignment from their beds, lest they experience back pain in addition to the soreness from training.1 A sturdy innerspring unit or base foam should provide this bracing foundation, while comfort foams up top help with pressure relief.

Decent Cooling

No one wants to feel overheated at night, and athletes can run even hotter than the average person.2 A mattress with effective cooling components helps to stave off sweating and restlessness.

Enhancements that Target Sore Muscles

Some of the beds on the list below feature special textiles (e.g. Celliant®) that claim to promote muscle recovery via infrared energy. These technologies may boost your athletic routine nightly (though we should add the caveat that research on their efficacy is sparse).

Best Mattress for Athletes

Bear Elite Hybrid – Editor’s Pick

High-Tech Fibers that May Help Muscles Recharge

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.

Score 4.3/5
Read Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime Warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
High-Tech Fibers that May Help Muscles Recharge

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.

Score 4.3/5
Read Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime Warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
High-Tech Fibers that May Help Muscles Recharge

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

With coils and foam layers, this Bear mattress offers zoned support without taking away from the pressure-relieving properties. The bed also has copper infusions to ensure the best cooling for hot sleepers and athletes.

Score 4.3/5
Read Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime Warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Support – 5
Pressure Relief – 4.5

Why the Bear Elite Hybrid Earned Best Mattress for Athletes Overall

The word “athlete” covers a wide range of sports and specialists. To decide on a bed that could satisfy a large slice of the active world, I thought about mattresses that have a versatile feel, features that can help with pain relief, and a structure that suits most body types. 

The Bear Elite Hybrid quickly rose to the top of the pack. It’s the most luxurious mattress made by a brand that already markets to athletes. 

You can pick between a Firm, Medium, or Soft version of the hybrid. You can also choose to add a special ingredient to the cover (which already features phase change material for cooling): Celliant® fibers. According to Bear, by transforming body heat into infrared energy, Celliant® reportedly cuts down on inflammation and helps to oxygenate the body’s tissues, promoting muscle recovery.

Bear Elite Hybrid mattress image

The individually wrapped coils have built-in lumbar support. I love this feature for athletes since they often experience a lot of wear and tear on their backs. 

What’s the Bear Elite Hybrid Made Of?

The Bear Elite Hybrid is 14 inches high and has five total layers. You can order it in Firm, Medium, or Soft, depending on your preferences.

Inside the Bear Elite Hybrid

  • Layer 1 – Cover. The bed’s cover is made with phase change material (PCM) that absorbs and releases excess heat. For a bit more money, you can also add Celliant®, a performance textile that may boost your body’s ability to recover after a tough workout.
  • Layer 2 – Copper-Infused Memory Foam. A pressure-relieving foam that boasts the cooling and antimicrobial properties of copper.
  • Layer 3 – Dynamic Transition Foam. A firmer foam layer that shields you from feeling the innersprings below.
  • Layer 4 – Coils. Individually wrapped springs with a reinforced lumbar zone so your lower back feels bolstered. The coils along the perimeter of the bed are also stronger for enhanced edge support.
  • Layer 5 – High-Density Support Foam. A sturdy base.

Our Take: The  Bear Elite’s hybrid spinal alignment was nearly perfect for our lightweight, average-weight, and heavyweight testers. Also, we were very impressed with the built-in lumbar support, feeling little to no sinking or sagging. 

Pros
Cools like a champ – With copper-infused foam and the option of adding Celliant® to the cover, this mattress is an MVP for hot sleepers.
Zoned springs – The Bear Elite Hybrid’s zoned coil system can help relieve pressure and provide extra support, especially in the lumbar region.
Cons
Might be too cool for some -Sleepers who don’t run hot may find that the cooling technology of this bed brings their temperature down too much.
Cost may be a roadblock – Without an active sale, this bed will cost about $2,300 for a Queen, making it cost-prohibitive for some.

Customer Reviews of the Bear Elite Hybrid

According to Bear’s website, the Bear Elite Hybrid scores about 4.5 out of 5 stars. Some customers find the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress too firm for their liking, but it receives praise in its reviews for its advanced

Need more info? Check out our in-depth review of the Bear Elite Hybrid or discover the best mattresses of 2024.

Helix Midnight – Best Mattress for Weightlifters

Medium-Firm Hybrid with the Right Support for Strength Training

Helix Midnight Mattress

Helix Midnight Mattress

Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.

Score 4.1/5
Read Helix Midnight Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

100 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Medium-Firm Hybrid with the Right Support for Strength Training

Helix Midnight Mattress

Helix Midnight Mattress

Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.

Score 4.1/5
Read Helix Midnight Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

100 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Helix Midnight Mattress
Medium-Firm Hybrid with the Right Support for Strength Training

Helix Midnight Mattress

Part of Helix’s core line of mattresses, the Midnight has a hybrid construction that’s particularly suited to back and side sleepers.

Score 4.1/5
Read Helix Midnight Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

100 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type couples
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Support – 5
Pressure Relief – 3

Why the Helix Midnight Earned Best Mattress for Weightlifters

Weightlifters need a mattress that readily supports their large muscle mass and facilitates muscle recovery. Because not every weightlifter has the same body type or comfort preferences, a bed with a versatile medium firmness and sturdy, hybrid construction is an ideal starting point for your mattress search. This is because a medium feel typically accommodates most people, and hybrids have the advantage of enhanced support from the coils and pressure relief from foam layers.

The Helix Midnight is a medium-firm hybrid at an affordable price point. Our testing team gave it perfect scores in support and pressure relief. We think it’s a well-balanced bed for weightlifters and athletes who specialize in strength training.

Helix Midnight Mattress in the Sleep Advisor studio

“I think competitive weightlifters are going to want something supportive after heavy lifting sessions, to help keep joints supported overnight,” said former Olympian and competitive weightlifter Caine Wilkes. “Since Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting are weight-class sports, though, I think smaller athletes would probably prefer a medium firmness instead.”

What’s the Helix Midnight Made Of?

The Helix Midnight has six layers if you count its top cover, and stands 11.5 inches tall. All of its foams are certified by CertiPUR-US®.

Inside the Helix Midnight

  • Layer 1 – Top Cover. The Midnight comes standard with a “soft touch” cover, but you can upgrade to a GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover for a bit more money.
  • Layer 2 – Memory Plus Foam. The first comfort layer is a proprietary “Memory Plus” foam. It relieves pressure without causing sleepers to sink too deeply into the bed.
  • Layer 3 – Helix Responsive Foam. A foam that responds and reforms more quickly than the one above it.
  • Layer 4 – Helix Responsive Foam. A slightly firmer version of the foam above that functions as a transition layer between the bed’s foams and springs.
  • Layer 5 – Coils. Individually wrapped springs compress independently of one another. They’re slightly stronger on the long edges of the bed.
  • Layer 6 – DuraDense Foam. The dependable base layer of the mattress.

Our Take: We love how this mattress keeps the spine in a neutral, healthy alignment for side and back sleeping. Also, we weren’t expecting this mattress to be a motion-isolation superstar, but it definitely is!

Pros
A medium-firm icon – At a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, this bed epitomizes the comfy yet supportive feel that characterizes a medium-firm mattress.
Pressure relief is even and reliable – Our pressure map readings of the Helix Midnight showed no accumulation of pressure around the hips and shoulders, which can be common pain points for weightlifters.
Cons
Not for heavier stomach sleepers – I think the Helix Midnight is a little too soft for plus-size stomach sleepers since they’ll likely sink too far into the mattress, potentially causing spinal misalignment.
Edge support isn’t stellar – Although the Midnight’s edges are reinforced, they still buckled when we sat on them during testing.

Customer Reviews of the Helix Midnight 

The Helix Midnight has over 6,500 reviews on Helix’s website, scoring a 4.5 out of 5. Some negative reviews mention feeling a dip in the middle of the bed when it’s shared with a partner. But overall, most users say they’re getting a great night’s sleep along with some pain relief.

Want to learn more? Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review.

Nectar Premier Copper – Best Mattress for Athletes with Shoulder Pain

Editor’s Note: The Nectar Premier Copper mattress is no longer available. Our review of the brand’s newest model, the Nectar Luxe, is coming soon.

Slow-Sinking Foam for Sore Joints

Nectar Premier Copper Mattress

Nectar Luxe

The Nectar Premier Copper mattress delivers a fantastic ratio of softness, support, and pressure relief thanks to its foam layers and cooling technologies.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nectar Premier Copper Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium: 5/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Slow-Sinking Foam for Sore Joints

Nectar Premier Copper Mattress

Nectar Luxe

The Nectar Premier Copper mattress delivers a fantastic ratio of softness, support, and pressure relief thanks to its foam layers and cooling technologies.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nectar Premier Copper Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium: 5/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Nectar Luxe
Slow-Sinking Foam for Sore Joints

Nectar Premier Copper Mattress

The Nectar Premier Copper mattress delivers a fantastic ratio of softness, support, and pressure relief thanks to its foam layers and cooling technologies.

Score 4.0/5
Read Nectar Premier Copper Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium: 5/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Support – 4.5
Pressure Relief – 3.5

Why the Nectar Premier Copper Earned Best Mattress for Athletes with Shoulder Pain

If you play tennis, baseball, or any sport with a lot of shoulder involvement, you’re probably no stranger to joint pain. You’ll want a mattress that can cradle these sensitive body parts without sacrificing a stable, supportive base. 

The Nectar Premier Copper is an all-foam bed that welcomes your shoulders with a hug-like plushness and sink. However, its base layer is strong and dense—good for spinal alignment.

Nectar Premier Copper mattress image

What’s the Nectar Premier Copper Made Of?

The Nectar Premier Copper is 14 inches thick and has three primary foam layers, plus a top and bottom cover. 

Inside the Nectar Premier Copper
  • Layer 1 – Top Cover. This top cover is what gives the mattress its name, as it’s infused with real copper fibers that make the surface cool to the touch. 
  • Layer 2 – Gel Memory Foam with ActiveCool (4 inches). Memory foam contours to your curves and surrounds your joints with softness. Meanwhile, ActiveCool phase change material adds to the bed’s cooling properties.
  • Layer 3 – Dynamic Response Foam (3 inches). A bouncier, firmer foam than the memory foam above.
  • Layer 4 – ActiveSupport Foam (7 inches). The strong foundation of the bed. It encourages spinal alignment and gives the mattress its medium-firm feel.
  • Layer 5 – Lower Cover. The bottom cover is made of stitched polyester to mitigate slipping.

Our Take: Nectar is often our mattress brand of choice for people who enjoy the signature sink of memory foam. The cooling elements in this one also counteract one of the biggest drawbacks of the flagship model.

Pros
Balance for back and side sleepers – The combination of pressure relief and support suits back and side sleepers well.
Outstanding policies – Nectar mattresses are protected by a lifetime warranty, and you can try one out for a year.
Cons
Lightweight sleepers may feel some pressure – Petite sleepers may find this all-foam bed too unyielding around their shoulders.
Not for stomach sleepers – I wouldn’t recommend this bed to stomach sleepers, whose hips will likely sink too much to preserve proper spinal alignment.

Customer Reviews of the Nectar Premier Copper

According to Nectar’s site, the Nectar Premier Copper has over 2,200 reviews and a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Customers find the Nectar Premier Copper mattress comfortable and supportive, but some have noted that it may have an initial off-gassing odor when unpacked.

Need more info? Check out our in-depth Nectar Premier Copper mattress review or the best mattresses for shoulder pain.

DreamCloud – Best Mattress for Runners

Super Support for the Spine and Lower Body

DreamCloud Original Mattress

SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Super Support for the Spine and Lower Body

DreamCloud Original Mattress

DreamCloud Original Mattress

Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.

Score 4.5/5
Read DreamCloud Original Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Super Support for the Spine and Lower Body

DreamCloud Original Mattress

Luxurious hybrid at a great price with a lifetime warranty.

Score 4.5/5
Read DreamCloud Original Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Support – 5
Pressure Relief – 4

Why the DreamCloud Earned Best Mattress for Runners

Runners place a lot of stress on their lower bodies. Your hips, legs, and feet can all experience soreness after a long run (and injuries to these areas can occur if you overtax yourself). A new mattress probably won’t shrink your average mile time, but it can ensure that you’re well-rested before your next race or practice.

“As a collegiate distance runner who trains at a high intensity year-round, recovery is equally important, if not more so, than my actual workouts. I make sure to prioritize quality sleep so that I can avoid injury, maximize the benefits of my training, and be optimally energized for practice and racing. Because of our energy-intensive training, my coach and trainers recommend around 70 hours of sleep a week, which is no small feat.” -Elizabeth Whaley,  current Wake Forest University track and field and cross country athlete

When it comes to mattress shopping as a runner, support for your spine, hips, and legs should be paramount. Whaley looks for a firm mattress that keeps her hips elevated and her spine aligned. “If I sleep on too soft of a mattress, my hips sink, my back arches and I often wake up with discomfort and lower back pain.” Given her feedback, I recommend the DreamCloud for runners; it’s a medium-firm hybrid mattress with lots of spine-aligning lift.

Exploring the layers of the DreamCloud Premier mattress
Exploring the layers of the DreamCloud mattress.

What’s the DreamCloud Made Of?

The DreamCloud is 12 inches tall and has eight total layers if you count its top and lower covers. 

Inside the DreamCloud

  • Layer 1 – Cashmere Blend Cover. A cover made of a luxurious and comfortable cashmere blend.
  • Layer 2 – Contouring Quilted Foam. A foam layer quilted into the bed’s cover for initial softness.
  • Layer 3 – Supportive Quilted Foam. This foam is also quilted into the cover and is slightly firmer than the layer above it.
  • Layer 4 – Gel-Infused Memory Foam. A pressure-relieving layer that molds to the shape of your body.
  • Layer 5 – Dynamic Transition Layer. This layer shields you from feeling any of the innersprings beneath and also encourages your spine to rest in its natural curvature.
  • Layer 6 – Coils. Steel coils that support the full expanse of the mattress, including reinforced edges.
  • Layer 7 – Base Layer. A thick foundation of standard foam.
  • Layer 8 – Lower Cover. The bottom cover prevents slippage and sports handles for easy transport.

My Take: No matter what sleep position I chose—side, stomach, back—I felt supported in each one. Also, I love how affordable this well-rounded mattress is.

Pros
An affordable option – When discounts are active, it can retail for under $1,000 for a Queen.
Top-notch motion isolation -Given the amount of bounce and support this mattress offers, we were pleasantly surprised by how well it isolates motion.
Cons
Weaker edges -When we sat or laid on the edges of the bed during testing, the sides buckled a lot.
Not the best contouring – This bed will keep you on top of its surface rather than cradled within its layers.

Customer Reviews of the DreamCloud

The DreamCloud Original scores a solid 4.6 out of 5 stars among customers on its site. While some customers appreciate the mattress’s value and affordability, others find it to be on the heavier side, which could make moving or rotating it more challenging.

Looking for more info? Read our full DreamCloud review.

WinkBed Plus – Best Mattress for Plus-Size Athletes

A Strong Hybrid that Won’t Sag

WinkBed Plus Mattress

WinkBeds Plus Mattress

WinkBed’s quality design and support make the Plus an exceptional option for heavier folks.

Score 4.6/5
Read WinkBed Plus Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
A Strong Hybrid that Won’t Sag

WinkBed Plus Mattress

WinkBeds Plus Mattress

WinkBed’s quality design and support make the Plus an exceptional option for heavier folks.

Score 4.6/5
Read WinkBed Plus Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
WinkBeds Plus Mattress
A Strong Hybrid that Won’t Sag

WinkBed Plus Mattress

WinkBed’s quality design and support make the Plus an exceptional option for heavier folks.

Score 4.6/5
Read WinkBed Plus Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Support – 5
Pressure Relief – 4

Why the WinkBed Plus Earned Best Mattress for Plus-Size Athletes

Plus-size and heavyweight athletes need a bed that will reliably support them without sagging. The WinkBed Plus was made for sleepers who weigh more than 250 pounds and is one of the first mattresses designed specifically for larger bodies.

The WinkBed Plus provides an excellent combination of pressure relief and support that should be appealing to plus-size athletes. They may also enjoy its multiple cooling elements, strong edges, and zoned coils.

Sean tests WinkBeds Plus for heavyweight sleepers

What’s the WinkBed Plus Made Of?

The WinkBed Plus is 13.5 inches tall. Unlike the traditional WinkBed model, it incorporates latex foam into its design,

Inside the WinkBed Plus

  • Tencel™ Cover – A breathable, wood-derived cover that feels pleasantly soft.
  • High-Density Anti-Sag Foam – WinkBeds claims that this foam is more than 50% denser than traditional comfort layers, and shouldn’t sag after long-term use.
  • Latex Support Layer – A 2.5-inch layer of springy latex that’s divided into seven support zones. These zones lend a precise amount of support to the body parts underneath them, and the latex itself runs naturally cooler than synthetic foams.
  • Coil Unit – Individually wrapped coils designed to support more weight than traditional innerspring units. They’re also reinforced along the bed’s edges.

Our Take: The WinkBed Plus is a mattress unicorn in that it is specifically designed for heavy people, but it also works for many average-weight folks.

Pros
Supportive and responsive – The WinkBed Plus’s innerspring system kept our heavyweight tester buoyant, and the latex was responsive and bouncy when repositioning.
Isolates motion well – Although it is a very bouncy mattress, it also isolates motion surprisingly well.
Cons
Not meant for lighter folks – The firmness level will most likely make this bed too firm for lightweight sleepers.
It’s tough to move – Once unboxed, this bed is thick and heavy, making it difficult to move it from one location to another.

Customer Reviews of the WinkBed Plus

With a score of 4.8 out of 5 stars the WinkBed Plus is a hit with sleepers seeking a firm and supportive mattress. Customers appreciate the WinkBed Plus mattress for its exceptional support for heavier individuals, but some have mentioned that it may be too firm for those seeking a softer sleep surface.

Interested in more details? Read our complete WinkBed Plus review, or scope out the best beds for heavy people.

Brooklyn Bedding Spartan – Best Mattress for Muscle Recovery

Advanced Infrared and Cooling Tech

Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress

Spartan Mattress

The Spartan Hybrid features the brand’s Nanobionic RE-3™ technology to help you renew energy and rest better. The bed combines foam and coils, so it’s bouncy but supportive enough to prevent you from sinking in.

Score 4.4/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type joint pain
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Advanced Infrared and Cooling Tech

Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress

Spartan Mattress

The Spartan Hybrid features the brand’s Nanobionic RE-3™ technology to help you renew energy and rest better. The bed combines foam and coils, so it’s bouncy but supportive enough to prevent you from sinking in.

Score 4.4/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type joint pain
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Spartan Mattress
Advanced Infrared and Cooling Tech

Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress

The Spartan Hybrid features the brand’s Nanobionic RE-3™ technology to help you renew energy and rest better. The bed combines foam and coils, so it’s bouncy but supportive enough to prevent you from sinking in.

Score 4.4/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

10-year warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type joint pain
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Support – 5
Pressure Relief – 5

Why the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Earned Best Mattress for Muscle Recovery

Athletes looking to rest their hardworking muscles may need more from their mattress than the standard foams and fabrics. Luckily, the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan has a trick up its sleeve—or, more precisely, in its cover. 

The cover’s fibers boast far infrared ray (FIR) technology. According to the brand, this technology can shift your body heat into infrared energy, which in turn boosts blood flow and aids muscle recovery as you sleep. To complement this feature, the foam just below the cover is infused with a phase change material, which helps to cool you off if you’re running warm. 

What’s the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Made Of?

The Brooklyn Bedding Spartan is 11.5 inches tall and contains six key layers. The thickness of the foam layers changes depending on which firmness you order: Soft, Medium, or Firm. 

Inside the Spartan

  • Cover – Inside the high-tech cover, fibers convey far infrared rays (FIR) that may enhance your post-workout recovery.
  • CopperFlex™ Foam –  A cooling foam infused with phase change material for temperature regulation, as well as antimicrobial copper.
  • Supreme Response Comfort Foam (1.5 inches) – A responsive, springy foam with firmness that corresponds to the model you ordered (Soft, Medium, or Firm).
  • Gel Swirl Memory Foam (Soft/Medium Models) or VariFlex™ Transition Foam (Firm Model) – This transitional layer separates the comfort foams above from the springs below.
  • Zoned Coils – Individually wrapped coils split into three zones, with reinforced edges. Each zone is meant to give the corresponding region of your body the appropriate amount of support.
  • Base Foam – A strong foam foundation.

Our Take: We dig the Brooklyn Bedding brand for their reasonably priced yet technologically advanced and durable beds. This is one of their most specialized models, and we’d recommend it to any athlete who’s picky about their firmness level and wants to truly pamper their muscles.

Pros
Marketed to athletes specifically – The brand touts its “active recovery” capabilities as its main selling point.
Not as pricey as comparable beds – Given the state-of-the-art materials inside this bed, we think the Spartan is a stellar deal.
Cons
Motion isolation could be better – The 8-inch coil unit means that you’ll probably feel a co-sleeper’s movements.
Won’t cradle you like an all-foam model – Don’t expect much body contouring from this hybrid bed.

Customer Reviews of the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan

The Spartan scores 4.8 out of 5 stars among reviewers on the Brooklyn Bedding site. Customers appreciate the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan mattress for its advanced cooling features, but some have noted that its price may be on the higher side for budget-conscious shoppers.

Interested in more details? See our complete Brooklyn Bedding Spartan mattress review.

Nolah Evolution – Best Cooling Mattress for Athletes

Breezy AirFoam™ Amidst Luxurious Layers

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress

Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.

Score 4.8/5
Read Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Breezy AirFoam™ Amidst Luxurious Layers

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress

Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.

Score 4.8/5
Read Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Breezy AirFoam™ Amidst Luxurious Layers

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress

Nolah’s innovative pressure-relieving abilities should be an excellent fit for side-sleepers, and if you struggle with overheating, the AirFoamICE™ technology should keep you cool all night long.

Score 4.8/5
Read Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Hybrid

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Support – 5
Pressure Relief – 5

Why the Nolah Evolution Earned Best Cooling Mattress for Athletes

If you’re an athlete who spends a lot of time sweating, you’d probably prefer to stay cool and dry in bed. Unfortunately, feeling overheated at night is a common problem, and it can drastically reduce the quality of your sleep. 

To combat it, you might consider the Nolah Evolution. This hybrid mattress stands an imperial 15 inches high, and many of those inches are dedicated to cooling components. It even has a specialized gusset that surrounds the top 4 inches of the bed and vents out excess heat. 

I timed how quickly the bed could cool off after I had rested on it for five minutes, and it only took two minutes to regain its starting temperature (a refreshing 68 degrees). This efficiency earned it a perfect 5 out of 5 from me in the cooling category. 

Nolah Evolution pressure relief testing

What’s the Nolah Evolution Made Of?

The Nolah Evolution has seven layers total if you count its top cover. It stands 15 inches high and can be ordered in Plush, Luxury Firm, or Firm.

Inside the Nolah Evolution

  • Layer 1 – Top Cover. Made of organic cotton and ArcticTex™ cooling fibers, the cover creates a refreshingly soft and chill sleep surface.
  • Layer 2 – Euro Topper (2 inches). The plush topper features breathable foam and quilting with high thermal conductivity, which should help redirect unwanted warmth.
  • Layer 3 – AirFoamICE™ (2 inches). Nolah’s proprietary alternative to memory foam is infused with cooling graphite and full of tiny air bubbles. According to the brand, it relieves pressure and resists heat much better than traditional foams.
  • Layer 4 – High-Resilience Foam (2 inches). A firmer foam that girds the foams above it.
  • Layer 5 – High-Density Transition Foam (1 inch). A responsive foam that separates the comfort layers from the coil unit.
  • Layer 6 – Coils (8 inches). Zoned, individually wrapped springs that up their support beneath the lumbar region. They’re also strengthened around the sides of the bed for edge support.
  • Layer 7 – Recycled Plant Fiber Foundation. A durable base layer.

Our Take: “I love what a great job the Nolah Evolution does at keeping my husband and me cool, but as a 47-year-old competitive CrossFitter with a nagging hip injury, I also have to shoutout the pressure relief it provides my hips.” Sosha Lewis, Senior Staff Writer

Pros
Choose your firmness – The Nolah Evolution is available in three firmness levels.
Amazing edges – Folks who sleep or sit on the perimeter of the bed, will likely feel very supported with this mattress.
Cons
Finding bedding may be more difficult – Due to the height of the Evolution, you’ll probably want fitted sheets with deep pockets.
Not firm enough for stomach sleepers – As a stomach sleeper, I found that this bed’s plushness allowed my hips to dip too low.

Customer Reviews of the Nolah Evolution

The Nolah Evolution rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on Nolah’s website. Customers frequently commend the Nolah Evolution mattress for its exceptional pressure relief and cooling properties, but some have observed that it may produce slight off-gassing upon unboxing.

Need more info? Check out our in-depth Nolah Evolution mattress review or browse the best mattresses for hot sleepers.

Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Athletes with Back Pain

Two Spring Units to Buoy Your Spine

Saatva Mattress

Saatva Classic Mattress in Sleep Advisor

Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.

Score 4.2/5
Read Saatva Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Innerspring

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Two Spring Units to Buoy Your Spine

Saatva Mattress

Saatva Classic Mattress in Sleep Advisor

Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.

Score 4.2/5
Read Saatva Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Innerspring

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Saatva Classic Mattress in Sleep Advisor
Two Spring Units to Buoy Your Spine

Saatva Mattress

Coil-on-coil structure gives this elevated innerspring bed a luxurious feel and versatility.

Score 4.2/5
Read Saatva Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Innerspring

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

365 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type seniors
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
SA sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Support – 5
Pressure Relief – 4

Why the Saatva Classic Earned Best Mattress for Athletes with Back Pain

Whether it’s from twisting, lifting, or getting tackled, back pain is a common and aggravating problem for athletes and active folks. If your mattress doesn’t have enough active support to fill the gap between your lower back and the bed, this pain can be even more severe. Enter the Saatva Classic: a bed with two innerspring systems that leads the pack in lumbar support. 

The Saatva Classic perfectly lifted my midsection when I was on my back and stomach. Other team members were impressed by how the lumbar support eased their back pain. 

Saatva Mattress Side view in Sleep Advisor's testing studio.

What’s the Saatva Classic Made Of?

The Saatva Classic is available in two heights (11.5 or 14.5 inches) and three firmness levels (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm). 

Inside the Saatva

  • Euro Top – An organic cotton cover protects the 3-inch Euro top, which has been quilted in the middle third to feel firmer under your lumbar spine.
  • Memory Foam Lumbar Crown – A strip of memory foam positioned just under the lower back for a combination of pressure relief and lift.
  • Pocketed Coils – The first coil unit consists of individually wrapped “comfort coils,” which flex easily to match the shape of your body. They’re strengthened under the lower back for more lumbar support.
  • Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire – A wire within the innerspring units that further braces the lumbar region and encourages proper spinal alignment.
  • Interconnected Coils – A more traditional innerspring unit that adds to the bed’s longevity and support.
  • High-Density Foam Rails – Thick foam rails along the bed’s perimeter keep the edges sturdy.

My Take: It’s pretty on par with a hotel mattress. You have a cushy Euro pillow top to sink into, along with extra lumbar support foam and two types of coils for full-body support.

Pros
Built to your specs – Two height options and three firmness options mean you can truly customize this bed to fit your preferences.
Eco-friendly – Saatva uses a variety of sustainable and natural materials in its beds, including a plant-based flame retardant instead of a synthetic one.
Cons
No impressive cooling materials – The Classic feels cool enough, but it doesn’t showcase any dedicated cooling materials.
Motion travels easily – Two spring units translates to a lot of bounce and a fair amount of motion transfer.

Customer Reviews of the Saatva Classic

The Saatva Classic rates 4.8 stars out of 5 on Saatva’s website. One negative aspect customers found with the Saatva Classic mattress is that it may feel too firm for some users, while a notable advantage is its high-quality materials, providing durability and support.

Need more info? Check out our in-depth Saatva mattress review or explore the best mattresses for back pain.

Bear Original – Best Firm Mattress for Athletes

Firm, Spine-Aligning Foam

Bear Original Mattress

Bear Original mattress

This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.

Score 3.9/5
Read Bear Original Mattress Review
CHECK PRICE
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Firm: 7/10

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Firm, Spine-Aligning Foam

Bear Original Mattress

Bear Original mattress

This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.

Score 3.9/5
Read Bear Original Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Firm: 7/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Bear Original mattress
Firm, Spine-Aligning Foam

Bear Original Mattress

This flagship model was thoughtfully crafted and assembled to be an attractive all-foam option for athletes who need better rest.

Score 3.9/5
Read Bear Original Mattress Review
SA Brand Icon MattressMaterial

Material

Foam

SA Brand Icon PropertyFirmness

Firmness

Firm: 7/10

SA Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod

Trial Period

120 nights

SA Brand Icon MattressWarranty

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

SA Brand Icon PropertyShipping

Shipping Method

Free shipping

SA Brand Icon PropertyPrice

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

SA sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SA sleeper type hip pain
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
SA sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
SA sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Support – 4.5
Pressure Relief – 3

Why the Bear Original Earned Best Firm Mattress for Athletes

A firm mattress puts support first, sacrificing plushness for more pronounced spinal alignment and lift. If you’re an athlete who doesn’t mind a less-than-pillowy bed, then you may benefit from a firm model like the Bear Original—it should keep your back and hips from dipping too low and exacerbating any pain or soreness. 

Although this bed is made entirely of foam, it’s firmer than most all-foam beds, which is great news for folks who like an all-foam bed but still want something more solid.

Bear Original side sleeper testing
Julia, a former college athlete, testing the Bear Original.

“I recently got the Bear Original because it said it was great for athletes. It also appealed to me because I sleep hot, and I wanted a quality, cooling mattress that didn’t cost thousands of dollars. I’ve slept on subpar mattresses, and they have affected my sleep and how my body feels the next day, and I’m glad to have one that promotes sound sleep and recovery.” – Kate Meier, competitive weightlifter and owner of Endless Strength Weightlifting. 

What’s the Bear Original Made Of?

The Bear Original is 10 inches tall and has four main layers. 

Inside the Bear Original
  • Layer 1 – Tencel™ Cover. A breathable cover made of Tencel™, a fabric derived from wood pulp.
  • Layer 2 – Cooling Gel Memory Foam. Foam that relieves pressure by conforming to your body, infused with gel to help it resist heat.
  • Layer 3 – Bear Dynamic Foam. A more supportive and responsive foam than the memory foam above for a balanced feel.
  • Layer 4 – High-Density Support Foam. A strong foam foundation.  

My Take: The firmness of this bed helps with responsiveness. I had no issues moving around and you shouldn’t either. This is a great feature for combination sleepers. 

Pros
Foam absorbs motion – The Bear Original will isolate motion far better than a hybrid bed.
Option to add Celliant® – You can add a Celliant®, a performance textile that Bear claims can enhance your nightly muscle recovery and quality of sleep, cover for an additional fee.
Cons
Edges slow to inflate – The sides of the Bear Original we tested in our studio took more than a month to fully inflate.
Lower profile – At 10 inches tall, this is one of the thinnest beds in our lineup, meaning heavier people above 230 pounds may not derive enough support from this one.

Customer Reviews of the Bear Original

On Bear’s website, the Bear Original has more than 10,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Bear Original mattress for its cooling features, yet some express concerns about a potential initial off-gassing odor.

Need more info? Check out our in-depth Bear Original mattress review or our list of the best firm mattresses.

Sleep Advice from Accomplished Athletes

“I sleep pretty evenly between my back and side, so I prefer [a bed] that’ll provide overall support on my back, hips, or shoulders. I prefer a firm mattress because I want that support, especially because I’m a bigger athlete; I’ll sink a little too much on anything softer.”

— Caine Wilkes, 2020 Olympian, 3-time Pan American Weightlifting Championships Gold Medalist

My number one priority for recovery when choosing a mattress is comfort because if I’m not comfortable, I won’t sleep well. Next is firmness because anything softer than a medium firmness won’t support my back. On the flip side, a mattress that’s too firm gives me shoulder pain, which inhibits my ability to lift weights or perform exercises that use my shoulders, neck, and back.”

— Rachael Harris, former member of the Northwest University soccer team.

“Sleep is the most important (and cheapest) recovery tool available, and finding the mattress that helps you get the best sleep is vital.”

— Kate Meir, USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach

I absolutely think a comfortable bed can help you recover. Not only can it help you get better sleep, but it can also provide support for your muscles to relax and heal overnight. Two birds, one stone.”

Carter Coughlin, former Wake Forest University cross-country runner.

How to Choose the Best Mattress for Athletic Performance

As an athlete, you’ll want a mattress that helps you recuperate and feel refreshed for your next game, workout, race, or movement of choice. Look through the considerations below as you search for your next bed, and read on to learn how to get quality sleep that can boost your athletic performance.

Support

Finding the right amount of mattress support is crucial for athletes. However, support isn’t a one-stop shot, as it will vary depending on an athlete’s body type, sleep position, and even any injuries that they may be dealing with. Athletes will want to look for a mattress that is solidly built and provides excellent spinal alignment and lumbar support.

We look at how a bed provides support in each sleeping position: side, back, and stomach. Do we feel like we’re sinking into the mattress too much or do we feel comfortably lifted? If we feel lifted, that tells us the bed is supportive.

Bear Elite Hybrid average weight back sleeper test
Testing our editor’s pick, the Bear Elite Hybrid.

Cooling Elements

A good cool-down isn’t just an essential phase of your workout—it’s also important for getting restful sleep. One of my biggest sleep issues during my playing days was how hot I would get at night, and apparently, I am not alone in this. Many elite and sub-elite athletes attribute poor sleep quality to feeling too hot while in bed.3

Staying at a comfortable temperature at night is easier when your mattress has effective cooling elements. Keep an eye out for phase change material—a fancy term for a substance that absorbs and releases heat as the molecules inside it shift between solid and liquid—and other heat-dissipating or breathable fabrics, such as cotton or Tencel™. 

Take a closer look at the mattress construction of the original DreamCloud mattress
During our testing, the DreamCloud mattress scored a 4 out of 5 for cooling.

Mattress type also plays a role in cooling. Typically, memory foam mattresses are going to retain the most heat, whereas a bed with latex and/or springs will allow for cooling airflow.  

Mattress Enhancements

A few mattresses we featured above have special fibers in their construction that allegedly promote muscle recovery, such as Celliant®. This textile reportedly converts body heat into infrared energy to increase blood flow, decrease inflammation, and generally help your body recuperate after a workout. 

The hard science on these technologies is lacking, as the studies on their efficacy are few and have small sample sizes. But some athletes say that they make a difference, and we encourage you to try these beds to see for yourself if the performance textiles work for you.

“At this point, I would say Celliant® fiber is a ‘nice to have’ feature, but definitely not necessary. The mechanism of action is that our body heat is able to activate the ceramic particles (quartz, silicon oxide, titanium oxide) embedded in the Celiant fabric, which then remit the heat energy as far-infrared radiation. Based on the clinical studies, this does seem to affect the oxygenation of the areas of the body that are in contact with the Celliant® fiber.4, 5 Higher oxygenation levels may help improve the cell renewal rate in the body and enhance recovery.6 

“So, for those high-level athletes seeking to optimize every facet of their lives, then I would suggest going for the options with Celliant® fiber or possibly getting Celliant® bed sheets with the hopes of seeing some marginal benefits. However, it’s likely not necessary for the average athlete (depending on the added expense).”

Pete Nastasi, CNC, CPT

Your Sports or Athletic Goals

The demands on your body will depend on your preferred sport or form of exercise, and your mattress should pair well with your goals. For example, if you’re trying to bulk up and lift heavier, you’ll want a bed with a high weight capacity; if you’re focusing on your hips and legs as you train for a marathon, you’ll want plenty of lumbar support. 

If you have a trainer, they’ll be a wonderful resource as you set goals for yourself and map them onto your mattress. Decide what’s most important to you as you hone your skills, and then look for beds that seem to address these priorities.

Kate Meir is a competitive weight lifter who works at Sleep Advisor's parent company
Kate Meir is a competitive weight lifter who works for Sleep Advisor’s parent company.

Sports Injuries

If you play a high-impact sport, or if any of your athletic pursuits leave you open to injuries (acute or chronic), you’ll want a mattress that doesn’t make things worse. 

Look at beds that have enough pressure relief, as athletes’ joints are particularly vulnerable. In fact, in a study published in 2022, one in four former Olympic athletes was later diagnosed with osteoarthritis.7

It’s not just elite, professional athletes who experience joint pain, either; athletes of all ages can experience joint pain and injury, particularly those who play high-impact sports or do high-impact workouts.8

This is where a mattress with good pressure relief can come in. Pressure-relieving materials such as memory foam and latex foam will gently cradle the joints and other sensitive zones of the body, reducing tension and potentially offsetting pain in those areas.

The height of the bed might also make a difference, as it’s easier to get in and out of beds more suited to your height (especially if your mobility is compromised).

Finally, you may want to look into adjustable bed frames. These allow you to raise your head and feet into a variety of postures and can be useful for elevating injured limbs. 

Read More: Best Mattresses for Pressure Relief

Your Weight and Body Type

Depending on your sport, your body weight may have a bearing on your athletic performance, and might even be used as a metric for sorting you into a certain competitive class. For some athletes, such as football players, basketball players, and weightlifters, being larger or taller can have its advantages. 

Your weight also affects your perception of your mattress’s firmness level. The “average” body type feels just peachy on the best medium-firm mattresses. (That’s any bed that falls between a 5 and a 7 on our firmness scale). However, heavier athletes may need more support in the form of a firm mattress, and lightweight ones, such as people under 130 pounds, will feel better atop a plush mattress. 

Additionally, heavyweight athletes may need stronger support materials, such as springs, whereas average- and lightweight folks may feel supported enough on an all-foam bed. (If you’re a larger athlete in need of a bed that will support you without sagging, check out our list of the best beds for heavy people.) 

WinkBeds Plus Mattress Construction
The WinkBed Plus earned our pick for the Best Mattress for Plus-Size Athletes.

No matter what you weigh, you’ll want your spine to feel neutral and well-aligned when you lie down. If you feel like parts of your body are too elevated or too sunken, and that your weight is being distributed unevenly, you should look for a different bed.  

Mattress Type

From our mattress studio, images of our tested mattresses in different materials
Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses have a thin comfort layer on top of a primary layer of steel innerspring coils. They feel bouncy and supportive, but they don’t have a lot of cushion. 

Innerspring beds tend to sleep cooler than beds that include memory foam, which can be a plus for athletes who work up a sweat during the day. They’re also reliable when it comes to preserving healthy spinal alignment. 

On the other hand, they don’t offer much pressure relief for sore muscles and joints, because they lack the thicker comfort foams of other mattress types.

See our picks for the best innerspring mattresses.

Taking a look at the Bear Elite construction in the lab
The hybrid construction of the Bear Elite Hybrid.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses include a layer of innerspring coils as well as several comfort layers on top. They combine the benefits of traditional innerspring mattresses and all-foam mattresses so they can both support the spine and relieve pressure on the joints. This combination makes them a great pick for athletes of any stripe.

“I like a hybrid mattress because memory foam feels most comfortable to me, but innerspring provides the most support,” Coughlin said.  

Browse the best hybrid mattresses.

Memory Foam Mattresses

When you lie down on a memory foam mattress, you can expect to sink into the bed to some degree. You might feel a “deep hug” from the foam or more of a gentle cradling sensation. Memory foam can help reduce soreness and pressure buildup for athletes with joint pain or certain injuries. 

However, memory foam tends to trap heat. It can also feel less supportive for athletes who weigh more than 230 pounds or so. If that’s you, but you’re still set on a mattress with memory foam in its construction, we’d recommend a hybrid that contains memory foam in its comfort layers. 

See our recommendations for the top memory foam mattresses.

Latex Mattresses

Natural latex foam is made from the sap of rubber trees. It’s a breathable, cool, and bouncy material with more eco-friendly credentials than synthetic foams. It’s also quite durable, and should last you for several years—a big benefit if you’re an athlete who wants a long-lasting bed that won’t sag. 

Although it provides a nice balance of support and pressure relief, it doesn’t have the same “sinking” feel of memory foam, and some people don’t like its springiness. It’s also one of the priciest mattress materials on the market today. 

Read through our list of the best latex mattresses.

Your Sleeping Position

Our testers test each sleeping position to make sure each mattress fits the right sleeper

If you consistently sleep on your side, you’ll want a mattress that feels softer and relieves pressure around your shoulders and hips. If your mattress is too unyielding, it’ll create tension in these “sharper” areas – a big problem for athletes.

If you sleep on your back, you’ll want a bed that isn’t too soft and isn’t too firm. A medium-firm bed helps the spine to stay in neutral alignment through the night, staving off lower back pain.

If you sleep on your stomach, your mattress will need to be pretty firm. A firmer, more supportive construction keeps the hips from dipping so low that your spine falls out of its ideal alignment.

Budget

Deciding how much to spend on a new mattress can be a fraught process. But if you’re an athlete, a quality bed is extremely important—your investment in your sleep can be directly reflected in your energy levels and performance during the day. 

While ultra-budget beds can be very cheap upfront, they often aren’t as durable or well-made, so don’t just go for the lowest price you find. Typically, innerspring mattresses and all-foam beds are less expensive, whereas hybrids and latex mattresses cost more.

Additionally, some eco-friendly models may run higher in price as they incorporate more natural and organic materials.

If you shop during key holidays or when deals are active, you can often save hundreds of dollars on your new bed. Shopping online also allows you to access high-end mattresses at lower prices than you’d see in stores because they’re sold directly from the manufacturer.

Anything Else that Helps You Achieve Restful Sleep

We’ve covered some of the key considerations for athletes in need of a new mattress, but you’re the true expert on your sleep and comfort needs. There are many more aspects that can make a mattress feel awesome—or awful.

For example, if you’re a light sleeper, you’ll want a bed that isolates motion well, and if you spread out a lot during the night, then edge support will be an important factor. 

Finally, some mattress features will benefit any sport or exercise. Always look for a bed that encourages your spine to rest in its natural, neutral curvature, with no uncomfortable or uneven spots. Good spinal alignment is important for preventing back pain, regardless of whether you’re an athlete or not.9

Advice from a Medical Expert

We also reached out to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, who has over 20 years of experience in the medical field, to see his thoughts on what key qualities athletes need in a mattress.

Athletes need a mattress that supports their body, relieves pressure, stays cool, lasts long, minimizes motion transfer, and feels right in terms of personal firmness preferences to help them recover and perform their best.”

How Can a Mattress Help with Athletic Performance?

A mattress that works well for your body will enhance the quality of your sleep, which in turn helps with your recovery after exercise, your athletic performance the next day, and your overall health. “Sleep is very important to me as a strength athlete, mostly because it’s the simplest and easiest way to help recover from daily training, and it probably helps the most, too,” said Caine Wilkes.

When we sleep, we go through two sleep phases: non-REM and REM sleep. During non-REM sleep, your body builds bone and muscle, repairs tissues, and strengthens your immune system.10 Therefore, a good mattress can improve your sleep quality and your body’s ability to recuperate. 

Caine Wilkes is an former olympic weight lifter who works with Sleep Advisor's parent company
Caine Wilkes competing at the Olympics

Athletes, in particular, stand to gain a lot from improving their sleep hygiene. Increasing the time you spend sleeping has been shown to have a positive effect on multiple athletic skills, from the accuracy of a tennis serve or basketball free throw to the efficiency of kicks while swimming.

On the other hand, sleep deprivation can drastically hinder your physical and mental performance. It affects your reaction time, endurance, and many other faculties essential to athleticism.11  

What Causes Sleep Problems in Athletes?

It’s common for athletes to experience more disturbed sleep – especially elite or professional athletes.3

At the same time, though, athletes actually need more sleep than an average person for multiple reasons, including muscle recovery, carbohydrate metabolism, appetite, food intake, protein synthesis, and even the kind of fast, reflexive thinking that enables you to catch a quick pass.12

Some of the external factors that can cause sleep problems in athletes include competition schedules, travel, stress, academic demands (in student athletes), and overtraining.12

There is research that suggests overtraining is linked to worse sleep, and doing an intense workout one hour before bed has been shown to decrease sleep quality.13, 14

Learn more: Sleep and Exercise – How Timing These Two Can Improve Your Health

Sleep Apnea in Athletes

Multiple athletes and celebrities, including Shaquille O’Neal, have spoken about their experience with sleep apnea. This condition can become dangerous if left untreated, as it disrupts your breathing during sleep. It can also negatively affect your athletic performance.

“A few years ago I took a sleep test, found out I had sleep apnea, and have been using an APAP ever since,” said Caine Wilkes. APAP stands for Automatic Positive Airway Pressure device, a machine that helps to keep your airway open during sleep.

Once he began using an APAP at night, Wilkes got more and better sleep, the benefits of which extended to his weightlifting. “While my lifts didn’t suddenly jump up 10 kilograms or anything like that, I did notice an immediate difference in that I could stay focused during my training sessions and came just a bit more energized.”

How To Get Better Sleep as an Athlete

Make Sleep a Part of Your Athletic Practice

  • Develop a regular sleep schedule – Going to bed and waking up at the same time each night and morning can do wonders for your body and energy levels. If you’re an athlete, sleep is especially vital to your recovery, so we recommend trying to nail down a sleep routine.
  • Get outside as early as you can – While we’re on the subject of sleep schedules, you should know that exposing yourself to morning sunlight when you start your day is a simple hack for resetting your circadian rhythm. A morning walk is a great way to get sunlight exposure while staying active.
  • Take a rest day – Overtraining can lead to sleep disturbances.15 Experts recommend that you rest a minimum of one day per seven to 10 days, though many athletes who engage in high-intensity exercise will need more.16

Wind Down Before Bed

  • Make your room like a cave – Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool, much like a cave. This is the best environment for getting a good night’s sleep. If you live in a noisy area, a white noise machine could help tamp down auditory distractions.
  • Don’t work out one hour before bed – Research from Harvard Health tells us that high-intensity exercise just before bed can negatively impact sleep quality.14 Move your training to earlier in the day, and do some gentle stretching at night instead.
  • Take magnesium before bed – Magnesium is touted as “nature’s calming agent” for its ability to reduce anxiety and insomnia in many people. Luckily for athletes, research shows it’s also great for muscle recovery.17 We’ve compiled some of the best magnesium supplements for sleep to help you integrate it into your nightly routine.

Adjust Your Diet to Improve Your Sleep

  • Eat more complex carbs – Favor complex carbs (like whole grains or sweet potatoes) over simple carbs (like bread or pasta). Complex carbs raise serotonin levels and lower cortisol levels, which can help you sleep.18
  • Make sure you’re getting enough calories – Athletes need more calories than the average person because they burn more calories on a daily basis. If you’re training too strenuously without keeping pace with your food intake, you may also start sweating a lot at night due to low blood sugar.19 It’s recommended that competitive endurance athletes eat anywhere from 3,000 to 5,000 calories per day.20
  • Reduce your intake of caffeine and alcohol – Studies show that consuming caffeine up to six hours before bedtime can negatively impact your sleep.21 Likewise, consuming alcohol can not only negatively impact your sleep quality, but it can also inhibit your athletic performance. 22, 23

Try Additional Recovery Techniques

  • Practice meditation before bed – If you’re experiencing anxiety or stress, falling asleep is often difficult. Meditating before bed is one way to calm your mind in preparation for better sleep.
  • Treat your muscles to a cold plunge – Many athletes swear by the positive effects of cold plunges on their recovery and performance. A dip in body temperature near bedtime can also prime you for sleep, so these watery therapies are doing double duty. Read up on the best cold plunge tubs if you’re curious about adding one to your home.
  • Sit in a sauna – A session in a home sauna can relax your muscles as well as your mind. These heated spaces have myriad potential benefits, from easing soreness to facilitating sleep, though the extent of their effects is still being studied.
  • Stretch – Stretching before bed can help you wind down. However, the benefits extend beyond this since regular stretching can keep the muscles flexible and reduce the risk of strain or injury.24

Best Mattress for Athletes FAQs

What type of mattress is best for athletes?

A hybrid mattress often represents the best ratio of pressure relief to support for athletes.

In general, an athlete’s mattress should be supportive for the spine, pressure-relieving on the joints, and pleasantly cool. Finding a mattress with zoned support can also be beneficial, as it provides specialized degrees of resistance to different parts of the body (such as the lower back). 

What mattresses do pro athletes use?

Professional athletes often use custom-designed mattresses that have been built to suit their bodies. They may also use a certain mattress brand that’s partnered with their sports organization. Sleep Number, for example, is an official partner of the NFL, and many pro football players use Sleep Number beds in their homes.

Otherwise, just like the general public, pro athletes can use their own discretion when shopping for a mattress—though they probably have a larger budget than most! If you’re looking for a more affordable option, check out our recommendations for Sleep Number alternatives.

Are firm mattresses better for athletes?

A firm mattress will definitely be better for an athlete than a very soft one, which could lead to uneven support and poor spinal alignment.

However, comfort should always be a factor in selecting your mattress, so we suggest aiming for a good balance of supportive firmness and pressure-relieving cushion. Hybrid mattresses often have softer foams at the surface paired with a strong innerspring unit at the base, and this combination works well for many athletes. 

What’s the best sleeping position for athletes?

Back sleeping is recommended as the best sleeping position for athletes (and for most people), especially if you have any shoulder, hip, back, or joint issues.15

In this position, your spine should be straight and well-supported, and your pillow should be just low enough to keep the natural curvature of your spine – just as it would be when standing up straight. Another variation is the hook lying position, which is when you’re on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat.

Back sleeping can also allow your hip flexors and core to straighten and relax, which are often trouble areas for runners and lifters.

The only real downside to back sleeping is it can increase snoring and sleep apnea, as well as acid reflux. If you deal with any of these, side sleeping is a good second choice for athletes.

We don’t recommend stomach sleeping if you can help it. It can create tension and pain in the neck and back, which certainly won’t help your athletic performance.

What mattress doesn’t make you sweat?

Mattresses that contain coils and advanced cooling foams will sleep the coolest and help to prevent sweating the most. Latex foam and breathable covers can also regulate temperature. 

That being said, it’s always good to read reviews before buying to see how effective a certain mattress is at cooling.

Final Breakdown: The Best Beds for Athletes

MattressBest ForPrice (Queen Size)Review
Bear Elite HybridEditor’s Pick$2,305Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Review
Helix MidnightWeightlifters$1,332Helix Midnight Mattress Review
Nectar Premier CopperAthletes with Shoulder Pain$1,949Nectar Premier Copper Mattress Review
DreamCloudRunners$1,483DreamCloud Mattress Review
WinkBed PlusPlus-Size Athletes$1,999WinkBed Plus Mattress Review
Brooklyn Bedding SpartanMuscle Recovery$1,999Spartan Mattress Review
Nolah EvolutionCooling$2,499Nolah Evolution Mattress Review
Saatva ClassicAthletes with Back Pain$2,095Saatva Classic Mattress Review
Bear OriginalFirm$998Bear Original Mattress Review
Julia Forbes

Julia Forbes

Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester

About Author

Julia is a product tester at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.

Stomach Sleeper

Education & Credentials

  • Certified Sleep Science Coach

References:

  1. Du, Shu-Hao., et al. “Spinal posture assessment and low back pain”. EFORT Open Reviews. 2023.
  2. Singh, Gurpreet., et al. “Core body temperature responses during competitive sporting events: A narrative review”. Biology of Sport. 2023.
  3. Doherty, Rónán., et al. “The Sleep and Recovery Practices of Athletes”. Nutrients. 2021.
  4. Athonvarangkul, Diana., et al. “Improved extremity tissue oxygenation with short-term exposure to textiles embedded with far infrared light emitting thermoactive particles in patients with diabetes mellitus”. Diabetes and Vascular Disease Research. 2023.
  5. Gordan, Ian L., et al. “Effect of Shirts with 42% Celliant™ Fiber on tcPO2 Levels and Grip Strength in Healthy Subjects: A Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial”. National Library of Medicine. 2019. 
  6. Chen, Trevor C., et al., Effects of far-infrared radiation lamp therapy on recovery from muscle damage induced by eccentric exercise”. National Library of Medicine. 2023. 
  7. “Elite sport linked with osteoarthritis risk”. University of Edinburgh. 2022.
  8. Amoako, Adae O., Pujalte, George Guntar A. “Osteoarthritis in young, active, and athletic individuals”. Clinical Medicine Insights: Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2014.
  9. “Improve Posture & Alignment for Your Spine”. National Spine Health Foundation. 2020.
  10. “Sleep.” Cleveland Clinic. Last modified June 19, 2023. 
  11. Vitale, Kenneth., et al. “Sleep Hygiene for Optimizing Recovery in Athletes: Review and Recommendations”. National Library of Medicine. 2019.
  12. Halson, Shona. “Sleep and Athletes”. Gatorade Sports Science Institute. 2017.
  13. Cho, Unjung., Im KyoungBin. “Adolescent athletes’ sleep problems and overtraining: A case study”. Sports Psychiatry: Journal of Sports and Exercise Psychiatry. 2024.
  14. “Does exercising at night affect sleep?”. Harvard Health Publishing. 2024.
  15. Lastella, Michele., et al. “Can Sleep Be Used as an Indicator of Overreaching and Overtraining in Athletes?”. Frontiers in Physiology. 2018.
  16. Ansorge, Rick. “Rest and recovery are critical for an athlete’s physiological and psychological well-being”. UCHealth Today. 2022.
  17. Córdova, Alfredo., et al. “Impact of Magnesium Supplementation in Muscle Damage of Professional Cyclists Competing in a Stage Race”. Nutrients. 2019.
  18. Nisar, Maheen., et al. “Influence of Dietary Intake on Sleeping Patterns of Medical Students”. Cureus. 2019.
  19. “Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) in People Without Diabetes”. University of Michigan Health. Last modified October 2, 2023. 
  20. “Winning Sports Nutrition”. University of California San Francisco Health. Webpage accessed July 31, 2024. 
  21. Drake, Christopher., et al. “Caffeine effects on sleep taken 0, 3, or 6 hours before going to bed”. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. 2013.
  22. Thakkar, Mahesh M., Sharma, Rishi., Sahota, Pradeep. “Alcohol disrupts sleep homeostasis”. Alcohol. 2015.
  23. “Alcohol and Athletic Performance”. California State University Chico. Webpage accessed June 11, 2024.
  24.  “The importance of stretching”. Harvard Health Publishing. 2024.