Pocket Spring vs. Visco Elastic Foam

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.

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 Pocket Spring

Learn More About Visco Elastic Foam

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Material Scores

Overall Score:
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.3/10

Comfort:
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.4/10

Softness:
Pocket Spring: 9.4/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.5/10

Cooling:
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8/10

Hypoallergenic:
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.1/10

No Odor:
Pocket Spring: 9.8/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.4/10

General Support:
Pocket Spring: 9.6/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.7/10

Eco-Conscious:
Pocket Spring: 8.7/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 8.5/10

Price Value:
Pocket Spring: 8.4/10
Visco Elastic Foam: 9.4/10