Hybrid vs. Polyurethane Foam

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.

Polyurethane Foam

Polyurethane foam is a blanket term that includes any foam that is synthesized using polyol and diisocyanate. These include but are not limited to: memory foam, high resilience foam, and high density foam. Since polyurethane foam can contain additives, a manufacturer that comes up with a new formula can name the new foam whatever they like.

Many memory foam mattresses are a combination of polyurethane foams, layered from dense on the bottom to less dense on the surface layers.

Polyurethane is a synthetic blend of organic compounds 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: Many different types of foams exist under the polyurethane umbrella -- some are excellent for bedding and offer different firmness varieties!

Cons: Off-gassing and durability problems with lower quality foams.

Learn More About Hybrid

Learn More About Polyurethane Foam

See Our Top Mattress Choices

Material Scores

Overall Score:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.4/10

Comfort:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.4/10

Softness:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10

Cooling:
Hybrid: 9.2/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8/10

Hypoallergenic:
Hybrid: 9/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.1/10

No Odor:
Hybrid: 9.1/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.4/10

General Support:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10

Eco-Conscious:
Hybrid: 8.9/10
Polyurethane Foam: 8.5/10

Price Value:
Hybrid: 8.4/10
Polyurethane Foam: 9.5/10