High Density Foam vs. Pocket Spring

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.

Pocket Spring

Pocket springs are individually wrapped coil systems that are stitched into mattresses below a comfort layer of foam or other material. Unlike traditional innerspring systems that are interconnected, pocket springs are entirely independent allowing for added contour and pressure point relief than older innerspring models.

The general rule on pocket coil systems is the more coils, the more responsive and motion controlled the mattress is, while still providing support. This directly translates to more comfort.

In most pocket spring beds, there is a layer of memory foam or latex foam above the pocket spring array so that the sleeper gets both the benefits of contouring foam and the comfort of the pocket springs.

Pros: Durable materials and superior comfort to traditional innerspring systems.

Cons: Sleepers should be equally as interested in the foam that is wrapped around the coil system - if that is low quality, the bed still may be uncomfortable.

Learn More About High Density Foam

Learn More About Pocket Spring

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Material Scores

Overall Score:
High Density Foam: 8.9/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Comfort:
High Density Foam: 8/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Softness:
High Density Foam: 7.5/10
Pocket Spring: 9.4/10

Cooling:
High Density Foam: 8/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Hypoallergenic:
High Density Foam: 8.1/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

No Odor:
High Density Foam: 8.4/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

General Support:
High Density Foam: 9.3/10
Pocket Spring: 9.6/10

Eco-Conscious:
High Density Foam: 8.5/10
Pocket Spring: 8.7/10

Price Value:
High Density Foam: 9.4/10
Pocket Spring: 8.4/10