Latex vs. Pocket Spring

Latex

Latex is made from the sap of a rubber tree. Over generations, people have learned how to tap the trees without having to cut them down. This means that it is one of the most eco-conscious and sustainable ways to create bedding.

After the latex is harvested from the rubber tree, it is treated to create foam. The two most common ways of treating latex for bedding is Dunlop and Talalay. The result is a high response and heavy piece of foam that can be used for bedding. By changing the density, the latex can be more or less responsive.

Those that are used to a memory foam feel (a slow response) will be surprised to know that most latex is highly responsive, meaning that although it will react to ones body, it has a natural bounce. Some sleepers prefer this, though others not so much.

Recently, there has been an explosion in latex bedding with the higher demand for eco-conscious foam alternatives. Though latex is natural, there are some that mix it with memory foam. For those that are looking for pure latex bedding, be careful to do your research on the entire bed.

Pros: High response, differing firmness options.

Cons: High expense vs memory foam, some don't like the latex responsive feel.

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 Latex

Learn More About Pocket Spring

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Material Scores

Overall Score:
Latex: 9.7/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Comfort:
Latex: 9.4/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Softness:
Latex: 9.4/10
Pocket Spring: 9.4/10

Cooling:
Latex: 8.5/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

Hypoallergenic:
Latex: 9.4/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

No Odor:
Latex: 8.9/10
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10

General Support:
Latex: 8.8/10
Pocket Spring: 9.6/10

Eco-Conscious:
Latex: 9/10
Pocket Spring: 8.7/10

Price Value:
Latex: 8.4/10
Pocket Spring: 8.4/10