Physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. It has many mind and body benefits that positively impact your quality of life. However, it’s also important to give your body time to rest and recover after a workout, training session, or other physical activity.
Selecting a mattress designed with recovery in mind can help active individuals optimize their sleep. We’ll take a look at the best mattresses for athletes, exploring components that can speed recovery, enhance sleep health, and set the body up for athletic success. We’ll also highlight how to select the best mattress for your sleep needs and preferences, the benefits of sleep on athletic performance, and how to create a healthy sleep environment geared to maximize your rest.
The Best Mattresses for Athletes
Find Your Perfect Mattress
We know mattresses work differently for different types of sleepers. Use the filters below to help narrow down your options for your best bed.
Read on to see why the following six options made our top picks list of 2024’s best mattresses for athletes.
Sleep Doctor’s Picks
Best Overall
Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Essential
Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Essential is a thick hybrid mattress that offers an excellent balance of pressure relief and support. We found the construction caters to athletes by easing pressure off achy joints while maintaining strong spinal alignment.
Buy From Brooklyn Bedding
Combination Sleepers
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Plush, Supportive Surface
Great
Pros
- Three firmness options to suit multiple sleep positions and body types
- A 4.5-inch comfort layer with cooling foams
- Zoned, individually wrapped coils that deliver responsive support
Cons
- May be too thick for those who enjoy low beds
- Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may prefer a firmer bed
- May feel too soft for sleepers who don’t enjoy the “hug” of foam
Why We Like It
The Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Hybrid Luxe consists of six layers, each designed for a comfortable, restorative sleep.
The Spartan Hybrid has a 13-inch profile and comes in three firmness levels. All three firmness options feature the same cover and upper comfort layer. The Smart Fabric Performance Cover integrates far infrared technology into its fibers, which is designed to transform body heat into recovery-aiding energy. The upper comfort layer consists of a 1.5-inch layer of proprietary CopperFlex, a highly responsive latex alternative foam infused with antimicrobial copper and a water-based TitanCool surface treatment — each of which are engineered to draw away heat from the sleeper.
In the Luxe Soft, the softest firmness option, the CopperFlex layer is followed by a 2-inch layer of soft TitanFlex, a proprietary latex alternative foam designed for responsive contouring. The model has a medium soft (4) feel, while the Luxe Medium has a medium firm (6) feel. Both models feature a 1-inch layer of cooling gel-swirl memory foam, which our testing team noticed provided very good pressure relief.
The Luxe Firm uses 1.5 inches of TitanFlex foam and replaces the gel-swirl memory foam with 1.5 inches of VariFlex transition foam for more support, giving it a firm (7) feel.
How Does It Feel?
All three versions of the Spartan Hybrid feature a support core consisting of individually wrapped coils. The 8-inch coils are zoned, delivering more support to the middle third of the mattress where most sleepers tend to carry the most weight. A .75-inch base of polyfoam creates a solid foundation.
We found the Spartan Hybrid Luxe excelled in several performance categories, including pressure point relief, temperature control, and durability. The Luxe Medium was a particular stand out in these categories, with the Luxe Soft surpassing it only in motion isolation.
The Luxe Firm rated well in ease of movement. Our back and stomach sleepers, particularly those over 130 pounds, favored this model. The Luxe Medium earned high marks from side sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds as well as lighter back and stomach sleepers. Our side-sleeping testers under 130 pounds preferred the Luxe Soft.
Best Value
Bear Original
Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Bear Original offers excellent contouring and pressure relief for sleepers with active lifestyles, but it stands apart from other all-foam models with a noticeably firmer feel. The price-point is also lower than average, which we think will appeal to shoppers on a budget.
Buy From Bear
Combination Sleepers
Firm (7)
Plush, Supportive Surface
Great
Pros
- Memory foam in the comfort layer is infused with graphite and cooling gel
- Cover woven with Celliant fibers
- CertiPUR-US certified foams
Cons
- Edges offer less support than some hybrid competitors
- Only one firmness option available
- Foam may feel too warm for sleepers who run very hot
Why We Like It
The Bear Original Mattress features three layers of open-cell, pressure-relieving foam as well as a cover designed to boost recovery for active individuals.
A layer of graphite gel memory foam gently contours the body and draws heat away from the sleeper. Our testers found the transitional layer of polyfoam provided responsive support while maintaining enough pushback to prevent sinkage. The mattress’ support core consists of high-density polyfoam, creating a durable foundation. Together, the layers give the mattress a firm (7) feel.
How Does It Feel?
Sleepers seeking added cooling properties in a mattress benefit from the cover’s Celliant technology. Natural minerals woven into the polyester-blend fibers absorb the body’s energy and reflect it back as infrared light. This process is engineered to boost tissue oxygenation, helping sleepers wake up with more energy.
During testing, our side sleepers weighing over 230 pounds found the Bear Original balanced the foam’s conforming capability with support, providing pressure relief while still keeping them on top of the mattress. Back sleepers over 130 pounds and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also noticed the mattress maintained spinal alignment without sacrificing comfort.
Most Comfortable
Brentwood Home Crystal Cove
Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Brentwood Home Crystal Cove is a hybrid mattress with a flippable design offering a different firmness level on each side. We found the unique construction makes this bed comfortable for an impressive range of sleepers across all body types and sleep positions.
Buy From Brentwood
Side Sleepers
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6)
Plush, Supportive Surface
Great
Pros
- Flippable design lets sleepers choose between a softer or firmer feel
- Charcoal infused into the memory foam
- Zoned, pocketed steel coils offer focused, responsive support
Cons
- Profile may be too thick for sleepers who prefer low mattresses
- Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may need a firmer bed
- Mattress weight is above-average
Why We Like It
Sleepers can select their preferred sleep surface with the Brentwood Home Crystal Cove Mattress’ flippable hybrid design. The mattress’ thoughtful construction and high-quality materials prioritize comfort and a restorative sleep for a wide range of sleeper types.
The medium soft (4) side of the mattress has an 1-inch upper layer of plush Flow Foam for deep contouring. This is followed by 2 inches of activated charcoal-infused memory foam designed to absorb toxins and provide responsive pressure point relief. The firmer side uses 2 inches of organic Dunlop latex in place of memory foam to achieve a medium firm (6) feel. Known for its responsiveness, latex reacts quickly to movement for lightly conforming support.
Our testers found the recycled 8-inch pocketed steel coils provided a strong core for both sides of the mattress. Zoned support through the middle third creates targeted pushback in the hips and torso regions. Reinforced coils along the perimeter of the mattress strengthened the edge, which we noticed offered support for testers across the entire surface.
How Does It Feel?
Our testing confirmed the Crystal Cove’s excellent edge support, especially on the firm side. The soft side excelled in pressure point relief, with the significant contour of the foam working best for lightweight side sleepers. Side and back sleepers in the average weight category preferred the lighter conforming of the firmer side, which also suited our stomach-sleeping testers under 230 pounds.
With two firmness options, charcoal-infused memory foam, and recycled steel coils, we found the Crystal Cove Mattress suited a wide range of sleepers looking for the balance of comfort and support hybrids provide.
Best Luxury
Loom & Leaf
Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Loom & Leaf is an all-foam model with a more sophisticated design than other foam beds we’ve tested. The foam is zoned to enhance lumbar support, plus you can choose between a medium firm (6) or firm (8) transitional layer. It’s perfect for sleepers who enjoy firmer foam.
Buy From Saatva
Side Sleepers
Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Plush, Supportive Surface
Great
Pros
- Customizable transition layer lets shoppers choose from two firmness levels
- Extra support through the middle third of the mattress helps support the lumbar region
- Free White Glove delivery and setup
Cons
- Might be too soft for stomach sleepers over 130 pounds
- Foam produces less edge support than latex models
- Some hot sleepers may find foam too warm
Why We Like It
With a 12-inch profile, the Loom & Leaf Mattress has six all-foam layers that combine plush comfort and excellent support.
A breathable organic cotton cover with Lumbar Zone Quilting combines two layers of foam in the middle third of the mattress for added spinal support. Our testing team found the gel-infused memory foam lumbar pad wicked away heat and provided additional contouring for the lower back and hips. An additional 2 inches of gel memory foam with microperforations creates pressure point relief while helping sleepers stay cool.
The final comfort layer is made up of 2.5 inches of high-density memory foam that provides deep contouring. A 2-inch transitional loft pad comes in two firmness options, allowing sleepers to choose between a medium firm (6) or firm (8) feel. A 5.5-inch polyfoam layer makes up the support core of the mattress, which our testers noticed added durability and prevented sinkage.
How Does It Feel?
Our side sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds were particularly impressed with the medium firm version, noting its very good pressure point relief and motion isolation. Heavier side and back sleepers as well as stomach sleepers over 130 pounds preferred the firm version. Our testers liked that the mattress provided deep contouring while promoting spinal alignment.
We found the comfort layers provided support for an effective mix of contouring with responsive pushback, making the Loom & Leaf a good option for sleepers seeking a high-end mattress with multiple firmness options and a foam feel.
Best for Side Sleepers
Nectar Mattress
Sleep Doctor’s Review
The all-foam design of the Nectar Mattress is perfect for cushioning your shoulders, hips, and other areas prone to painful pressure buildup. The above-average firmness helps support your lumbar region better than other foam models we’ve tested.
Buy From Nectar
Side Sleepers
Medium Firm (6)
Close-Conforming Foam
Excellent
Pros
- Cool-to-the-touch cover and gel-infused foam designed for a cooler sleep
- Three layers of foam provide contouring without excessive sinkage
- Year-long sleep trial and limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may not receive enough support
- Only available in one firmness option
- Not everyone enjoys the feel of foam
Why We Like It
The Nectar Mattress’ medium firm (6) feel and all-foam construction offer pressure point relief and support that work especially well for side sleepers.
A quilted polyester-blend fabric in the cover incorporates cooling technology, which is designed to keep sleepers cool. Our testers noticed the 3-inch comfort layer of gel memory foam helped wick away heat and regulate temperature. Additionally, a 2-inch layer of polyfoam provides enough pushback to prevent sleepers from sinking too low into the mattress.
How Does It Feel?
Seven inches of polyfoam form the support core, creating a stable foundation for the upper layers. The lower cover is shift-resistant to keep your mattress in place.
Moderate contouring combined with slight pushback makes the Nectar a good option for a wide range of sleepers. In particular, our side-sleeping testers benefited from the mid-range comfort and support. They also cited the mattress’ noticeable pressure point relief, which provided some give around the shoulders, back, and hips.
With a balance of contouring and support, we found the Nectar’s foam layers offered excellent pressure point relief and temperature regulation, making it a particularly good fit for side sleepers who sleep hot.
Best Cooling
Molecule 2 AirTEC Mattress
Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Molecule 2 AirTEC Mattress is composed of foam that’s been specially engineered to help reduce heat retention. The side sleepers on our team recommend this bed for its balance of pressure relief and targeted support to the lower back.
Buy From Molecule
Side Sleepers
Medium Firm (6)
Close-Conforming Foam
Excellent
Pros
- Comfort layer designed to promote recovery
- Proprietary Air-Engineered AirTEC polyfoam engineered to increase airflow
- CertiPUR-US certified free of harmful chemicals and guaranteed low VOC emissions
Cons
- Stomach sleepers over 130 pounds may need a firmer model
- Foam design provides less edge support than latex models
- Only one firmness option
Why We Like It
Proprietary materials in the Molecule 2 Airtec Mattress’ foam layers incorporate recovery, alignment, and airflow enhancing designs.
A 1-inch layer of BioCharge polyfoam is infused with natural crystals that are designed to promote muscle recovery and increase circulation. Below that, 2 inches of aerated AirTEC polyfoam that incorporate Air-Engineered open-cell structure are intended to increase airflow and mimic the responsiveness and gentle contouring of latex. Our testers noticed the 3-inch layer of zoned RecoveryFlo polyfoam in the transition layer delivered targeted support, uplifting the heavier parts of the body to promote alignment.
How Does It Feel?
ContourFlo in the 6-inch polyfoam support core creates a durable foundation, which we found prevented sinkage and stabilized the upper layers. The mattress is wrapped in a polyester and Lycra blend cover infused with Microban treatment, which is designed to prevent bacteria, mold, and mildew buildup.
The Molecule 2 Airtec’s medium firm (6) feel combined with light contouring and pressure point relief made it a favorite with our side-sleeping testers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds. These sleepers also highlighted the mattress’ better-than-average thermoregulation, which allowed them to sleep cooler.
With tech-heavy polyfoams in the Molecule 2 Airtec maximizing temperature regulation and targeted support, we found the mattress to be a good option for side sleepers of average weight seeking a cool and restorative sleep.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our testing team represents a diverse range of individuals so we can accurately determine which mattresses best suit different body types and sleep positions. We have personally researched and tested hundreds of mattresses, performing the same set of tests on each mattress to analyze how they perform in multiple sleep categories. To find the best mattress for athletes, our team paid special attention to pressure point relief, contouring, firmness level, and quality of materials.
Our extensive experience in the sleep products industry ensures our top picks meet rigorous standards for quality, comfort, and support. We also regularly update our findings so you can determine the best mattress for you available on the market today.
More Mattress Options for Specific Needs
What Do Athletes Need for a Good Night's Sleep?
Getting good quality sleep is a significant part of an athlete’s training regimen. We’ll take a look at the key considerations of establishing and maintaining sleep health best practices. This includes selecting the right mattress, creating a relaxing sleep environment, and understanding the beneficial effects of sleep on recovery and performance.
Find the Type of Mattress That Works for You
We’ll explore the types of mattresses that work best for athletes, discussing materials, construction, and the sleep positions each mattress type best supports.
Pick the Right Thickness and Firmness
Thickness and firmness level work together to create the overall feel of a mattress. The ideal balance between these two characteristics varies for individual athletes with different body types and sleep preferences.
Benefits of Sleep for Recovery and Performance
Sleep plays a huge role in an athlete’s performance. Understanding the processes that take place during sleep can help reinforce the importance of rest and positive physiological impacts of sleep.
The Ideal Sleep Environment for Athletes
Selecting a mattress that fits your needs is one aspect of getting a good night’s rest. Practicing good sleep hygiene and using the right sleep accessories also contribute to your sleep quality.
Best Mattress Types for Athletes
All athletes benefit from a mattress that delivers the right combination of comfort and support. However, there is no combination that works for every athlete. Your sleep position preference and body type determine what the right balance is for you. We’ll explore the most common types of mattresses and look at which sleepers may benefit the most from their unique features.
Foam Mattresses
Foam mattresses feature comfort layers of contouring memory foam or gently conforming polyfoam above a high-density polyfoam support core. Occasionally, foam mattresses include a middle layer that eases the transition between comfort and support layers.
With a foam bed, sleepers experience pressure point relief, motion isolation, and the signature hug of foam. These qualities generally benefit side sleepers under 230 pounds the most, although firmer foam mattresses also suit back and stomach sleepers as well as heavier side sleepers.
Hybrid Mattresses
With a coil support core, hybrid mattresses are similar to innerspring mattresses. However, hybrids feature a more substantial comfort layer, which are usually made of polyfoam, memory foam, or latex. This provides a balance of comfort and support that can have broad appeal across sleep positions.
Additionally, increased airflow throughout the coils allows hybrids to sleep cooler than other mattress types.
Should Athletes Consider Innerspring Beds?
Manufacturers often use the terms hybrid and innerspring interchangeably. Sleepers searching for a hybrid should look for multiple comfort layers beyond a cushioned or quilted pillow top. While many people enjoy the feel of a traditional innerspring, active individuals looking for pressure point relief and conforming layers might find a hybrid mattress better suits their needs.
Latex Mattresses
Derived from the sap of the rubber tree, natural latex has an ultra-responsive feel. With similar pressure-relieving capabilities, it’s a good alternative to memory foam. Latex mattresses offer lighter contouring, greater ease of movement, and a temperature neutral sleep surface.
Back and stomach sleepers who want the close contouring of foam and minimal sinkage may find latex works well for them. The material’s balance of gentle contouring with responsive pushback can also be beneficial for those with back pain. Additionally, heavier side sleepers or those who prefer the feeling of sleeping on rather than in a mattress might find a latex model meets their needs.
Airbed Mattresses
Airbed mattresses typically consist of foam or latex comfort layers above an air chamber support core. Sleepers can inflate or deflate the air chamber to customize the firmness level. The ability to easily change the feel of the mattress makes airbeds a good choice for combination sleepers as well as couples with different firmness preferences. Airbeds also work well for athletes whose preferred sleep position may change depending on their training regimen.
The Right Mattress Thickness and Firmness for Athletes
The thickness of a mattress is not necessarily an indicator of its firmness level and vice versa. However, a thicker mattress can accommodate thicker comfort layers as well as more of them. This often creates a mattress with a softer feel. Mattresses that are less thick tend to have fewer or thinner comfort layers as well as a firmer feel.
Ideal levels of thickness and firmness vary given individual needs, but the right combination promotes good spinal alignment. Materials and the sleeper’s desired firmness level also play a role in determining the right thickness level.
What Mattress Thickness is Best for Athletes?
Most of a mattress’ profile consists of the comfort and transition layers. Mattresses that incorporate more memory foam in these layers are often softer than mattresses that use more polyfoam or latex. Similarly, mattresses that use thinner layers of memory foam will be firmer than those that use thicker layers.
The best thickness level depends on each sleeper’s preferences. Most side sleepers as well as lighter back and stomach sleepers benefit from thicker mattresses. Additionally, average and heavier back and stomach sleepers experience better alignment from thinner mattresses.
Is There a Mattress Firmness That is Best for Athletes?
While personal preference plays a role in selecting the best firmness level for your mattress, it’s important to take body type and sleep position into account. Heavier sleepers — as well as stomach and back sleepers — can find better alignment from a firmer mattress. Lighter sleepers usually benefit more from a softer mattress.
Mattress firmness is measured on a 10-point scale, with 10 being extra firm and 1 equating to extra soft. Most mattresses made today fall between soft (3) and firm (8). We’ll highlight mattress firmness recommendations based on weight categories below.
Sleepers under 130 pounds
Mattresses rating between soft (3) and medium (5) allow lighter sleepers to experience the contouring and pressure point relief of a mattress’ comfort layers. Mattresses with a firmer rating than medium (5) can have too much pushback, resulting in a rigid, uncomfortable sleep surface for sleepers in this weight category.
Sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds
Average-weight sleepers do best with mattresses that rate between medium soft (4) and medium firm (6). This firmness level offers a good balance of comfort and support that works especially well for side sleepers. Back and stomach sleepers on the higher end of this weight range may want to consider firmer mattresses for more pushback and better alignment.
Sleepers over 230 pounds
Firmer mattresses that fall between medium firm (6) and extra firm (9) typically feature light contouring and strong support. This combination prevents sinkage and promotes spinal alignment for heavier sleepers. Side sleepers on the lower end of this weight range who prefer a close contour may want to opt for a softer mattress.
How Does Sleep Affect the Performance and Recovery of Athletes?
Due to the demands of training, workouts, and athletic performances, getting enough sleep is crucial for athletes. Along with a comprehensive cool down routine and proper nutrition, sleep supports well being and helps keep the body healthy.
During sleep, your body regenerates tissues, regulates hormones, and replenishes other chemical messengers that are integral to physiological feedback mechanisms. Poor sleep cuts this recovery process short, which can result in drowsiness, poor reaction times, and impaired recovery on a cellular level.
How Much Sleep Do Athletes Need?
When actively training and performing, athletes require longer periods of sleep to recover. The extra energy expenditure combined with the added strain on internal functions demands an extended and consistent sleep schedule.
Athletes need 9 to 10 hours of sleep each night. This allows the body sufficient time for repair and regulation. A proper amount of sleep also allows athletes enough time to enter the rapid eye movement (REM) stage. Athletes experience longer periods of REM latency than non-athletes. This is the time between falling asleep and the beginning of REM sleep. Carving out time for more sleep can help account for this delay.
Additionally, maintaining a nightly routine sets sleepers up for success by training the body to expect sleep at a certain time. This helps athletes fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer so they can wake up feeling refreshed.
Set Yourself Up for Better Sleep and Recovery
A mattress that complements your unique sleep needs and preferences is just one part of an ideal sleep environment. For an undisturbed night’s sleep, consider your bedtime routine or adding helpful accessories to your bed, such as mattress toppers, pillows, or a solid mattress foundation.
Practice Good Sleep Hygiene
Sleep hygiene describes the daily practices that help you fall asleep, sleep soundly, and wake up feeling rested. Key elements of effective sleep hygiene include:
- Setting and sticking to a consistent bedtime and wake time
- Following the same bedtime routine each night to signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down
- Dimming the lights and turning off screens
- Making sure your sleep environment is quiet and cool
- Avoiding late-night meals as well as afternoon and evening caffeine consumption
Use Accessories to Customize Your Sleep Experience
Sleep accessories can customize and improve your sleep environment. You can rest easier with pillows, mattress toppers, and bed foundations that supplement the performance and comfort of your mattress.
Extra Pillows Can Be Your Friend
Using extra pillows can relieve tension and provide extra pressure point relief. Optimal pillow placement varies according to your favored sleep position.
- Side sleepers: Between your knees to help keep them stacked and your hips square
- Back sleepers: Under your knees to take pressure off the back
- Stomach sleepers: Beneath your hips for added support and improved alignment
Try a Mattress Topper to Provide Extra Contouring and Pressure Relief
Mattress toppers are designed to enhance a mattress’ comfort layers. Mattress toppers incorporate materials like memory foam and latex to provide extra cushioning and contouring. Adding a mattress topper can be a cost-effective strategy for sleepers who want to fine-tune the firmness of their mattress or find that a temporary change in sleep position improves their overall comfort.
Proper Support for the Win
A solid foundation ensures your mattress provides the most support and comfort. Make sure your bed frame is strong enough to prevent your mattress from sagging, as a sagging mattress can create pressure points and throw your spine out of alignment. The right foundation optimizes mattress performance so you can take full advantage of its comfort layers and support system.
About The Author
Staff Writer, Product Testing Team
Garen is a health and lifestyle content creator. She realized the importance of sleep when her children made getting a good night’s rest more challenging. Garen is always learning something new about the wide world of sleep and sleep products. Married with two girls, ages 7 and 11, she is a book nerd and a lover of pop music, travel, and the Pacific Northwest.
- POSITION: Side sleeper
- TEMPERATURE: Neutral Sleeper
- CHRONOTYPE: Wolf
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