Hybrid vs. Orthopedic

Hybrid

A hybrid mattress blends foam and pocket springs in one mattress. Usually this involves a more substantial foam layer than other mattresses that are marketed as innerspring.

A hybrid mattress offers a 'best of both worlds' type feel, where there is added support from the pocket coils and a comfortable, pressure point relieving surface.

Though there are latex and memory foam hybrids, the feel of them can be quite different because of the response of the latex vs the memory foam's slow response.

Pros: Best of both worlds with memory foam / latex and pocket coils provide ultimate comfort and support.

Cons: Beware of the foams being used as some hybrids still off-gas or sag because of lower quality materials.

Orthopedic

Orthopedic is a term that in the context of mattresses means supporting joints, bones, and the overall body. It is commonly used for mattresses that help with spinal alignment and recovery from joint or back issues.

In this way, there is no one material that is certified orthopedic, and the term can be used my manufacturers and marketers to help sell their mattresses.

For this reason, it is important to do additional research on any bed that claims to be orthopedic to make sure that it will actually help straighten the spine and alleviate pain.

Pros: For mattresses that stand true to the name, pain alleviation and better posture are some of the benefits.

Cons: It is difficult to decipher the truth from marketing on orthopedic mattresses.

Learn More About Hybrid

Learn More About Orthopedic

See Our Top Mattress Choices

Material Scores

Overall Score:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Orthopedic: 9/10

Comfort:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Orthopedic: 9.1/10

Softness:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Orthopedic: 9.1/10

Cooling:
Hybrid: 9.2/10
Orthopedic: 9/10

Hypoallergenic:
Hybrid: 9/10
Orthopedic: 9/10

No Odor:
Hybrid: 9.1/10
Orthopedic: 9/10

General Support:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Orthopedic: 9.3/10

Eco-Conscious:
Hybrid: 8.9/10
Orthopedic: 8.9/10

Price Value:
Hybrid: 8.4/10
Orthopedic: 8.8/10