Battle of the Bears: Evaluating the Purple Mattress in 2023

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Bear and Purple have experienced a rapid and remarkable increase in popularity in recent years as online mattress companies. These companies offer a range of all-foam and hybrid models that incorporate special features to attract shoppers who seek a departure from the ordinary. Additionally, both companies have expanded their offerings to include various other sleep products like bed frames and pillows.

Purple stands out for its utilization of the Purple Grid, an elastic polymer with exceptional flexibility that delivers innovative pressure relief. In addition to their flagship Purple Mattress, Purple also offers the Purple Hybrid and Purple Hybrid Premier mattresses, which combine the Purple Grid with a support core of pocketed coils.

Bear focuses on catering their mattresses to individuals with active lifestyles. The company incorporates specialty foams and Celliant technology into the covers of all their mattresses, aiming to accelerate muscle and tissue recovery. Bear’s current lineup of mattresses includes the all-foam Bear Original, the slightly more sophisticated Bear Pro, and the Bear Star Hybrid.

If you are in search of a new mattress, Bear and Purple are both strong contenders. To assist you in finding the mattress that suits your needs best, we have compiled a comprehensive overview of the Purple vs. Bear mattresses, which includes specifications, pricing, sleeper ratings, and more.

We have put in considerable effort to provide you with insights into which mattresses are the most suitable for you. Take a look at our complete list of mattress guides below!

Price Range (Queen):

Firmness Options:

Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6)

Standout Features:

– A Celliant cover specifically designed to facilitate muscle and tissue recovery

– Exceptional pressure relief from multiple layers of foam

– Availability of multiple profiles

– A hyperelastic polymer grid that offers unique pressure relief

– Outstanding temperature regulation

– A responsive surface that minimizes motion transfer

Models:

Sleep Trial & Warranty:

  • 120 nights (30-night trial period)
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • 100 nights (21-night requirement)
  • 10-year limited warranty

Customer Support

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Before finalizing your choice of mattress, it’s important to consider how it will fit into your existing bedroom setup. Key factors to consider are the mattress’s dimensions, height, and weight.

Most mattress manufacturers offer their products in six standard sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king. Some companies also provide a split king option, which allows couples to customize each side of the bed according to their comfort preferences.

If you anticipate moving frequently, it may be preferable to choose a lighter mattress that is easier to maneuver. The weights provided below are for queen-sized mattresses.

The height of a mattress is determined by its internal layers, so you should consider whether the construction of the mattress justifies its profile for your personal needs. Many individuals find it more convenient to get in and out of a taller mattress, but keep in mind that this can also be affected by the height of the foundation or bed frame. Thicker mattresses may require deep-pocket fitted sheets, which could result in an additional expense.

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Size Options

Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King

Size Options

Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Bear Pro

Size Options

Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King

Size Options

Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Size Options

Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Size Options

Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Bear and Purple, like many other manufacturers, offer a range of all-foam and hybrid models designed to cater to diverse shoppers. Bear’s focus is primarily on their all-foam offerings, with just one hybrid model available. On the other hand, Purple offers one all-foam option and three hybrid options, including the Hybrid Premier 12-inch and 13-inch versions.

The weights of the mattresses are similar for all-foam and hybrid models, with the hybrid versions being slightly heavier due to the pocketed coils. Customers interested in the Purple Hybrid Premier should take note of its considerable weight, which may make it less convenient to move.

When it comes to size options, Bear mattresses are available in all the standard sizes. Customers have the choice between a standard 10-inch or a higher 12-inch all-foam mattress, as well as a 14-inch hybrid mattress. This range of thicknesses may appeal to those who prefer a taller bed.

On the other hand, Purple does not offer a regular twin size for its hybrid models, which could pose a problem for individuals who already have a twin-size bed frame. However, all Purple mattresses are available in a split king option. The Purple mattresses have a slightly lower profile, but still provide a variety of choices, especially in the hybrid models that range from 11 inches to 13 inches.

The main objectives of a mattress are to offer support and relieve pressure. To achieve these goals, most mattresses are constructed with one or more comfort layers on top of a support core.

As the name suggests, the comfort layers primarily determine the surface feel of the mattress. Commonly used materials for comfort layers include memory foam, polyfoam, latex, micro-coils, and fibers like wool or cotton. In contrast, support cores are typically made from more durable materials such as high-density polyfoam, firmer latex, or pocketed coils.

Mattresses can be categorized based on the materials used in the comfort and support layers. Mattresses of the same category usually share certain characteristics due to their similar construction. However, individual models can vary significantly depending on their unique design and the quality of their materials.

The flagship Bear and Purple mattresses fall into the category of all-foam mattresses, as their support cores are made of high-density polyfoam. Both companies also offer hybrid mattresses, which consist of one or more comfort layers on top of a base of pocketed coils.

In addition to providing pressure relief and support, Bear mattresses utilize specialty foams that effectively dissipate heat from the mattress surface.

Furthermore, all Bear mattresses feature a cover that incorporates Celliant fibers. These fibers are designed to reflect the body’s heat back to the sleeper in the form of infrared energy. This serves to minimize heat retention and accelerate muscle recovery after physical activity.

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Bear Original:

The Bear Original mattress is designed with simplicity in mind and consists of three layers:

– 2 inches of memory foam infused with graphite-gel

– 2 inches of transitional polyfoam

– 6-inch high-density polyfoam base

Engineered specifically for athletes, the graphite-gel infusions help dissipate heat from the sleeper. The mattress has a firm feel and provides mild contouring to alleviate pressure points, while still offering some responsiveness for easy movement.

Bear Pro:

The Bear Pro is a step up from the Bear Original, featuring an additional layer of copper-infused polyfoam on top:

– 1 inch of copper-infused polyfoam

– 1.5 inches of gel-infused memory foam

– 2.5 inches of transitional polyfoam

– 7-inch high-density polyfoam support core

Copper has antimicrobial properties and conducts heat away from the mattress surface, ensuring a cool sleeping environment. This mattress has a medium firm feel and offers slightly more support compared to the Bear Original.

Bear Star Hybrid:

The Bear Star Hybrid mattress shares a similar construction in its comfort layers but replaces the polyfoam base with pocketed coils:

– Copper-infused memory foam

– Transitional polyfoam

– Pocketed coils

– Polyfoam base

As with most hybrid mattresses, the pocketed coils add bounce and enhance edge support. They also facilitate heat dissipation, helping to maintain a neutral temperature throughout the night. Similar to the Bear Pro, this mattress has a medium firm feel. The quilted Celliant cover adds initial cushioning.

All Bear mattresses are certified by CertiPUR-US for being low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Additionally, the Bear Star Hybrid holds Greenguard Gold certification for low emissions. Based on our testing, Bear mattresses offer an average lifespan compared to similarly priced models. Bear does not disclose the foam density in their mattresses, which makes it slightly more challenging to assess the quality.

Purple stands out from other mattresses by utilizing a hyper-elastic polymer grid instead of polyfoam in the top layer. This distinctive grid responds to pressure by flexing and contouring to the sleeper, effectively relieving pressure points. Additionally, the Purple mattress line prides itself on its exceptional breathability, ensuring temperature neutrality. To optimize the capabilities of the Purple grid, all Purple mattresses come with a stretchy viscose-polyester cover.

Purple Mattress Composition

The original Purple mattress features a layer of Purple grid positioned above a supportive polyfoam core. The detailed composition of this mattress includes:

– 2 inches of Purple grid

– 3.5 inches of transitional polyfoam

– 4 inches of high-density polyfoam

In contrast to the majority of foam mattresses, Purple has allocated more space to the transitional polyfoam layer instead of a thicker polyfoam support core. This design choice provides immediate support to sleepers after they sink through the Purple grid, preventing excessive sinkage in heavier body parts.

Purple Hybrid and Hybrid Premier

The Purple Hybrid mattress replaces the polyfoam support core with pocketed coils. Its composition comprises:

– 2 inches of Purple grid

– 1 inch of transitional polyfoam

– 7.5-inch pocketed coil support core

Compared to the original Purple mattress, the Purple Hybrid offers enhanced durability and support. Additionally, the pocketed coils contribute to a significant amount of pushback, facilitating movement on the mattress.

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Furthermore, Purple offers the Purple Hybrid Premier mattress, which provides customers with the option of a thicker Purple grid layer. Customers can choose between 3 inches or 4 inches of Purple grid, while the rest of the mattress remains identical to the Purple Hybrid. The increased thickness of the Purple Grid layer proves beneficial for side sleepers, especially individuals weighing over 230 pounds, by offering deeper pressure relief and preventing the formation of pressure points in the hips and shoulders.

Unlike memory foam, the Purple Grid is less inclined to develop permanent body indentations, and the use of high-density foams in the support layers further enhances the longevity of Purple mattresses. This is particularly evident in the hybrid models, as the coils provide a sturdy foundation.

Apart from support and pressure relief, various factors influence a mattress’s performance. While personal preference plays a role in determining comfort, understanding these factors can assist in prioritizing specific categories during the mattress selection process.

A mattress’s durability is determined by the quality of its materials and design. A high-quality mattress can provide support and pressure relief for up to 7 or 8 years before needing replacement. Opting for a mattress with durable components allows for long-lasting benefits and maximizes the return on investment.

Motion isolation refers to a mattress’s ability to prevent movement from one side of the bed from disturbing the other side. Materials that conform closely, such as memory foam or the Purple Grid, excel in motion isolation and can minimize disturbances for couples.

Most individuals prefer a mattress with some bounce for a satisfying sexual experience. Responsive surfaces facilitate movement, preventing a feeling of being stuck in bed. Additionally, some couples appreciate a surface with traction, like polyfoam. Furthermore, strong edge support, temperature neutrality, and a quiet surface contribute to optimal mattress performance during intimate activities.

Temperature regulation is crucial, especially for individuals prone to overheating during sleep. Achieving temperature neutrality can be accomplished through the use of breathable materials like latex, cotton, and wool, or components that promote airflow, such as a pocketed coil support core. All-foam mattresses tend to trap heat, but they can be infused with cooling materials like gel, graphite, or copper to counteract this issue. It’s important to note that close-conforming mattresses tend to retain more heat, making this a consideration for individuals who experience excessive warmth while sleeping.

  • Pressure Relief: One of the primary functions of any mattress is to evenly distribute body weight and prevent the accumulation of pressure on the sleeper. When certain heavier body parts, like the hips and shoulders, stay in contact with the firmer layers of a mattress for extended periods, pressure points can arise. The selection of a close-conforming mattress that provides cushioning to sensitive areas can alleviate these pressure points. Furthermore, adequate contouring can help alleviate strain on the lumbar area, which can be susceptible to pressure build-up when the mattress is either too firm or too soft.
  • Off-gassing: Upon arrival, many mattresses emit a distinct “new mattress” odor. This occurrence is completely normal and is not considered harmful, although it may cause discomfort for individuals who are sensitive to smells. The most common source of this odor is polyfoam and memory foam mattresses, as they release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air after being unpacked. Allowing the mattress to air out in a well-ventilated room can expedite the dissipation of the smell.
  • Ease of Movement: Sleepers who frequently change positions may find that mattresses with close-conforming comfort layers and slow pressure response impede their ability to switch positions comfortably. Consequently, combination sleepers often prefer mattresses that are more responsive, such as latex or hybrid mattresses. Firmer surfaces that keep the sleeper “on” rather than “in” the mattress can also facilitate movement.
  • Edge Support: It is not uncommon for mattresses to significantly compress around the edges, especially plush memory foam models. This issue may be exacerbated for individuals weighing over 230 pounds. Weak edge support can lead to feelings of roll-off and make it challenging or impossible to sit on the edge of the bed. Customers who share a smaller-sized mattress or prefer sleeping near the edge should consider mattresses with reinforced edge support. This can be achieved through sturdier coils or a foam encasement around the perimeter, often found in hybrid models.
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    Based on our comprehensive research and testing, we have assigned ratings for each category to help you make an informed decision between the Bear and Purple mattresses.

    Mattress prices can vary greatly, making it challenging to understand why certain mattresses command a higher price tag compared to others. Additionally, frequent discounts offered by mattress retailers further complicate price comparisons across different brands.

    While pricier mattresses are often associated with higher quality, it is important to note that higher prices do not always guarantee superior quality. Given that a mattress represents a significant investment, it is essential to understand the factors influencing the price. The key determinants include:

    • The mattress type and the materials utilized.
    • The number of layers and overall height of the mattress.
    • The quality and certifications of the materials, including organic certifications.
    • The source of raw materials and manufacturing location of the mattress.
    • The inclusion of proprietary materials and unique features that enhance the sleep experience.
    • Additional delivery options, such as White Glove delivery or old mattress removal.

    The flourishing online mattress industry has resulted in a wide range of options available across various budgets. The Bear mattress lineup offers attractively priced options. Purple also provides mattresses at appealing price-points but also has luxurious alternatives for those willing to indulge. Both companies frequently offer discounts off the suggested retail price.

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    The price range for the flagship Bear and Purple mattresses falls within the average range for all-foam models. However, the Bear Original leans more towards the lower end of this range. The Bear Pro is priced almost identically to the Purple mattress, which is reasonable considering that both mattresses incorporate exclusive features that elevate them above basic all-foam models.

    Similarly priced and providing good value for money considering the quality of materials and design, the hybrid Bear and Purple models offer a compelling choice. Hybrid mattresses, while typically more expensive, offer enhanced durability and support, making them particularly appealing for individuals weighing over 230 pounds.

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    The greatest disparity in pricing between Bear and Purple mattresses can be found in the appropriately named Purple Hybrid Premier models. These luxurious 12-inch and 13-inch mattresses come with higher price tags due to their thicker layers of the unique Purple Grid material.

    What sets the Purple Hybrid Premier mattresses apart even further is the inclusion of free White Glove delivery and old mattress removal. These services often come with an additional cost of over $100 when dealing with other manufacturers, making this an exceptional deal for customers in need of assistance with setup.

    Both Bear and Purple offer generous sleep trials. Bear provides a 120-night sleep trial with a required 30-night break-in period, while Purple offers a 100-night trial with a suggested 21-night minimum to allow for adjustment. In the event that customers wish to exchange their mattress for a different model, Bear requires returning the original mattress before ordering the new one, while Purple allows for an exchange without a refund.

    Shipping is a key consideration in the online mattress industry. Most companies provide free shipping within the contiguous U.S., with delivery typically taking a few business days. Shipping times may vary depending on the origin of the mattress. Setting up the mattress involves moving the box to the desired room, carefully removing the packaging, and allowing the mattress to expand. It is advisable to have two people to facilitate the process.

    Both Bear and Purple offer free shipping to the contiguous U.S. through FedEx Ground. However, additional charges may apply for shipping to Hawaii, Alaska, Canada, or other locations outside the contiguous U.S. Delivery options such as White Glove service may also be limited in these areas.

    White Glove delivery involves a team setting up the mattress for customers. This service usually comes at an extra fee, takes longer to complete, and may not be available outside the contiguous U.S. Purple offers optional White Glove delivery for its hybrid mattresses, and this service is included for free with the Purple Hybrid Premier and any models weighing over 150 pounds. Bear offers White Glove delivery for an additional $100, which includes old mattress removal for a total cost of $150.

    When it comes to warranties, most mattress companies offer coverage for at least 10 years to protect against manufacturing and workmanship defects. The warranty may include repair or replacement of the mattress, with some warranties being prorated, meaning the customer may have to bear some of the cost after a certain period. Common warranty coverage includes visible indentations and foam defects, while comfort preferences, normal wear and tear, stains, improper care, and mattress abuse are usually not covered. It is important to adhere to any specific requirements, such as using a supportive foundation or keeping law tags attached, to avoid voiding the warranty.

    Bear provides a lifetime warranty for all its mattresses, while Purple offers a 10-year non-prorated warranty for all its mattresses, along with a separate 2-year warranty for the covers.