High Density Foam vs. Memory Foam

High Density Foam

High density foam is a very firm foam that generally makes up the bottom layer of popular memory foam mattresses. Other types of mattresses such as innerspring or hybrid may also use high density foam to support the spring systems.

High density foams generally are not used to create the entire mattress because they are just too firm. So, generally they are used as a foundation for the bed or to provide edge support.

High density foam is made of a blend of polyurethane and has a tendency to off-gas. If you are susceptible to lung issues, please do additional research on the quality of foams before purchasing.

Pros: Structural firm foam used by many mattresses to provide foundation and shape.

Cons: Off-gassing problems with lower quality foams and it is too firm to make a mattress in its entirety.

Memory Foam

Memory foam is a blend of polyurethane (a polymer made as a byproduct of petroleum refining) and additional chemicals that give the memory foam its low-resilience. It was originally developed by NASA in the 1970s for airplane cushioning and has since become one of the widest materials used in mattresses and pillows.

In plain English, what makes memory foam is its ability to contour to pressure and return to its original shape slowly after pressure is released. This process allows for it to react to pressure differently across its surface and provide a contoured, but aligned feeling for sleepers.

In mattresses, older or lower quality memory foam may sag from the repetitive pressure of laying or sitting. For this reason, those that are heavier should do additional research about soft memory foam bedding as they will sink more than alternatives and could lead to discomfort for some body types.

Lastly, over the recent years, there has been reports of off-gassing and toxic odors released from memory foam. Some lower quality or treated memory foam may have this problem and cause respiratory inflamation. It is important to make sure that memory foam is high quality.

Pros: Contouring comfort, competitive pricepoints, and widespread options.

Cons: Sagging and off-gassing problems with lower quality foams.

Learn More About High Density Foam

Learn More About Memory Foam

See Our Top Mattress Choices

Material Scores

Overall Score:
High Density Foam: 8.9/10
Memory Foam: 9.3/10

Comfort:
High Density Foam: 8/10
Memory Foam: 9.4/10

Softness:
High Density Foam: 7.5/10
Memory Foam: 9.5/10

Cooling:
High Density Foam: 8/10
Memory Foam: 8/10

Hypoallergenic:
High Density Foam: 8.1/10
Memory Foam: 8.1/10

No Odor:
High Density Foam: 8.4/10
Memory Foam: 8.4/10

General Support:
High Density Foam: 9.3/10
Memory Foam: 8.7/10

Eco-Conscious:
High Density Foam: 8.5/10
Memory Foam: 8.5/10

Price Value:
High Density Foam: 9.4/10
Memory Foam: 9.4/10