When ComparingTop Models | Comparisons | Memory Foam | Gel Memory Foam | Summary | FAQ
Our evaluations entail meticulous and groundbreaking assessments of each reviewed mattress (learn more about our testing process here). We meticulously record and analyze 33 distinct data points for every mattress.
Among the top 5 performing memory foam mattresses, three are of the gel memory foam variety, while two are non-gel memory foam mattresses.
These mattresses have already been mentioned above, but it is worth highlighting them again in order of their overall performance scores.
As the name implies, a memory foam mattress refers to any mattress where the comfort layers predominantly consist of memory foam.
Novosbed Materials
The deeper support layers may include a transitional poly foam or high-density support foam, but the key aspect is that the mattresses provide a clear memory foam sensation.
Memory foam is an artificial foam produced by combining polyurethane and other chemicals, resulting in a notable level of contouring and embracing when lying on the mattress. Occasionally, memory foam is labeled as viscoelastic polyurethane foam.
The defining characteristic of memory foam is its viscoelasticity, which gives it the distinctive embrace and body-contouring properties.
Memory foam has a unique sensation that most sleepers can identify when they lie on it. This type of foam offers a deeper level of embrace and contouring, thanks to its viscoelastic nature.
Viscoelasticity refers to the stretchability of memory foam and its ability to return to its original shape.
Imagine pressing your hand into memory foam. Once you remove your hand, the impression or memory remains for a few seconds before the foam restores its initial state.
Traditional memory foam often provides a more pronounced embrace and contouring. This is particularly beneficial for side sleepers as the foam can effortlessly conform to the shape of their spine.
Amerisleep AS3 Foam side sleeping with vest
Enhancements to support and pressure relief occur in these situations as the weight is distributed evenly across the surface of the mattress.
Memory foam is recognized for its ability to minimize motion transfer. It has a tendency to absorb and dampen energy, movement, and noise within its layers, rather than transmitting that energy throughout the mattress.
This can be highly advantageous for individuals who are sensitive sleepers or easily disturbed by the tossing and turning of their partners.
Motion Transfer Chart for the BedInABox Eco Lux
The accompanying chart illustrates the level of motion transfer in our testing of the BedInABox Eco Lux, an 11-inch high memory foam mattress. As depicted, there is an initial spike in energy when the ball is dropped during our tests, but the energy quickly dissipates.
Motion Transfer Chart for the Emma ComfortAdapt Hybrid
For comparison, here is a similar chart demonstrating motion transfer on the Emma Hybrid, which combines memory foam with coils. As you can observe, there is a more pronounced energy spike and the energy continues to rebound across the mattress for over one full second.
One of the most well-known drawbacks of traditional memory foam is its tendency to retain heat and poor cooling performance. The deeper contour and denser cell structure of memory foam often restrict airflow and create a sensation of being “stuck.”
Your browser does not support the video tag.
The video above showcases heat retention on the SweetNight Dreamy memory foam mattress, which is one of the warmest memory foam mattresses we have tested to date.
However, many memory foam manufacturers incorporate special features into their foams to address heat retention, and these efforts have been largely successful.
Memory foam can be enhanced with:
By incorporating these additives into the composition of the foam, performance is improved on multiple levels, helping to counteract some of the disadvantages of traditional memory foam.
In addition to additives, memory foam can also be shaped differently to enhance its performance. Some of the most common structural alterations include:
It is worth noting that memory foam can occasionally result in weaker edge support, as foam tends to be more compressible.
In our extensive memory foam mattress testing, we have observed a wide range of performance. While many memory foam mattresses struggle in certain aspects, not all of them do.
Both the BedInABox Eco-Lux and the Novosbed mattress demonstrate exceptional edge performance, scoring in the high 9’s out of 10.
A remarkable type of foam, known as gel memory foam, shares similarities with traditional memory foam mattresses as it consists of 100% foam. However, it distinguishes itself by incorporating a layer of gel foam.
The incorporation of gel into memory foam is a popular technique used to enhance cooling properties.
There are two ways in which gel memory foam can be defined. One method involves the infusion or swirling of gel within the memory foam itself, as exemplified by the SweetNight Dreamy Hybrid gel memory foam mattress. Another approach is through the infusion of gel beads that are suspended within the memory foam, which achieves a similar effect despite its different appearance, as seen in the 5 Little Monkeys gel memory foam mattress.
Some mattresses take a different approach and include a separate layer of exclusive gel material on top of the memory foam, such as the Loom and Leaf mattress.
When it comes to gel, the amount used is a critical factor. The more gel present, the greater the potential for cooling benefits. Consequently, a solid gel layer, like the one found in the Loom and Leaf mattress, provides superior cooling performance compared to a few dispersed gel beads within a foam layer.
In terms of overall feel, gel memory foam closely resembles traditional memory foam, offering deep contouring, embrace, and viscoelastic properties. However, the addition of gel helps regulate temperature and prevents sleepers from becoming uncomfortably warm.
Although gel memory foam shares many advantages and disadvantages with traditional memory foam, it excels in one area: cooling performance.
For example, the BedInABox Tranquillium mattress demonstrates remarkable cooling capabilities, as illustrated by its cooling effect while lying on the mattress.
Introducing Tranquillium by BedInABox – maintaining coolness (heat held after 5 minutes)
In most instances, gel-infused memory foam boasts superior cooling capabilities compared to traditional memory foam.
However, there are exceptions to this rule, and it is essential to acknowledge them.
Consider Novosbed’s edge support as an example, particularly when it comes to sitting. A conventional memory foam mattress that utilizes convoluted foams, copper, graphite, or charcoal can match the performance levels of gel memory foam.
Alternatively, even without these additional materials, memory foam can incorporate design features that enhance its performance, such as convoluted foam, perforated foam, or channel foam.
So you’ve come this far… but how can you determine which mattress is the perfect fit for you? The answer may depend on various factors, beyond the mere presence of gel.
The quality of materials, mattress firmness, and other performance elements like bounce, sinkage, and response can all influence the selection of the right mattress for your needs.
At NapLab, we have an endless passion for discussing mattresses. If you’re uncertain about the ideal mattress for you, take just 5 minutes to explore our mattress finder quiz.
This straightforward questionnaire includes crucial inquiries about your sleep habits, and the responses are reviewed by a real person right here at NapLab.
We would be delighted to assist you in discovering the perfect mattress, whether it be memory foam, gel memory foam, or something completely unique.
Is gel more cooling than memory foam? The answer is sometimes, but not always. Gel is often infused into memory foams to offer an enhanced version of traditional memory foam, preserving its admirable qualities while compensating for any drawbacks.
Is gel memory foam suitable for side sleepers? Absolutely. All memory foam, including gel memory foam, is well-suited for side sleepers. The deeper contour and viscoelasticity of memory foam provide great benefits for those who prefer sleeping on their sides. Moreover, the gel infusion adds the advantage of cooler surface temperatures and minimizes heat retention.
Does gel memory foam cause leaks? No, not at all. Gel memory foam typically goes through a process of infusing the gel during its production, as it transforms from a liquid state to a solid form. It’s comparable to an ingredient in a cake. Once the foam has solidified, it becomes inseparable from the entirety of the material.
Does memory foam retain heat during sleep? Conventional memory foam possesses a propensity for generating warmth, yet contemporary memory foam confronts this predicament head-on through a myriad of innovative strategies such as employing gel, copper, graphite, charcoal, or modifying the structure of the foam itself (e.g., employing convoluted or perforated foam).
What is the average lifespan of memory foam? Memory foam mattresses, including those infused with gel, generally endure for a span of 8-10 years. In some instances, hybrid memory foam mattresses may boast an extended lifespan of approximately 8-12 years, given adequate maintenance.
