What is a Hybrid Mattress?

Hybrids combine the best features of innerspring and memory foam mattresses using both materials. If you don't want to give up the feel of a traditional spring mattress but need the pressure relief and support provided by foam, a hybrid is the perfect choice. The body contouring and back support make hybrids an excellent option.

What are the components of a hybrid bed?

The average hybrid mattress contains the following layers:

A base foam layer beneath the support core to provide extra padding and stability to the mattress. This layer is usually made of polyurethane foam and around 1 inch in height.

A coil support core of 6 to 7 inches that makes up the bulk of the bed's height. Hybrid mattresses feature a pocketed coil design which offers better support and less motion transfer.

A comfort layer made of memory foam and/or latex. The ratio of memory foam to latex will vary by manufacturer, as will the height, although it's usually around 3 to 4 inches. The comfort layer may also include gel or copper elements to enhance the cooling capability of the mattress.

Some hybrid beds also include a pillow top or euro top layer sewn to the top of the comfort layer. A pillow top is so-called because it's sewn with a gap between it and the comfort layer, making it look like a pillow above the mattress, while eurotops are sewn flush with the comfort layer. These range from 1 to 2 inches in height and vary in material components, including latex foam, memory foam, polyfoam, cotton, wool, or fiberfill.

What's the real difference from other mattress types?

Many sleepers prefer the contouring comfort of memory foam mattresses. The feeling of melting into the mattress or floating on top of it allows many sleepers to fully relax and fall into a deep, restful sleep. Sleepers who share a bed with a restless partner also appreciate the motion separation that memory foam provides. Since the foam reacts to each sleeper's individual shape and movements, less disturbance is felt when your partner moves or gets out of bed.

On the other hand, there are those who dislike the feeling of memory foam. Some refer to the conforming properties of memory foam mattresses as feeling like "quicksand" and express difficulty moving and getting comfortable in bed. Some sleepers also complain that memory foam mattresses retain more heat than innerspring mattresses, causing you to sleep hot.

When it comes to support, both memory foam and innerspring mattresses are capable of performing well. While there are those who prefer the conforming support of memory foam mattresses, and others who prefer the more traditional feel of an innerspring mattress, each type has its pros and cons. In general, side sleepers tend to lean towards memory foam mattresses and back and stomach sleepers often prefer the support of an innerspring system.

What are the benefits?

One of the layers of a hybrid mattress is an infused foam layer. This layer greatly contributes to pressure relief from the body during sleep. This causes you to wake up fresh every morning and stay active throughout the day without undergoing back pain or aching shoulders or a cramping neck.

Contouring is another quality that is provided by the foam layer of the mattress. The foam layer allows you to achieve a superior posture. It helps in keeping your spine extended, thus keeping your back straight and your shoulders erect.

The best quality of hybrid mattresses is that they provide the firmness of a good foam mattress without compromising on the bounciness and comfort provided by a coil and spring mattress. Hybrid mattresses have a great advantage of edge support. This allows ample space to sleep for both you and your partner.