Hybrid vs. Visco Elastic 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.
Visco Elastic Foam
Visco elastic foam is another term for memory foam. It is a blend of polyurethane foam that was developed for airplane cushions by a NASA contract in the 1970s.
The difference between visco elastic foam and other types of polyurethane foam is its slow response and low resistance. Its soft surface allows for contouring and its slow response lowers bounce.
Visco elastic foam, like all polyurethane foam, is made from a blend of substances and has a tendency to off-gas. Those with lung sensitivities should do additional research about the quality of foam to ensure that it won't aggravate them.
Pros: Contouring comfort, competitive pricepoints, and widespread options.
Cons: Sagging and off-gassing problems with lower quality foams.
Learn More About Hybrid
Learn More About Visco Elastic Foam
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Material Scores
Overall Score:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.3/10
Comfort:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.4/10
Softness:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.5/10
Cooling:
Hybrid: 9.2/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8/10
Hypoallergenic:
Hybrid: 9/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.1/10
No Odor:
Hybrid: 9.1/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.4/10
General Support:
Hybrid: 9.8/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.7/10
Eco-Conscious:
Hybrid: 8.9/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.5/10
Price Value:
Hybrid: 8.4/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.4/10