I'm around 270 lbs and have been told extra firm is the way to go. But I tried one at a hotel and my shoulders were killing me. Are extra firm mattresses always the best for heavy sleepers, or is that just a myth?
Mattresses
Is an extra firm mattress always better for heavier sleepers
Extra firm is not automatically better. Support, and firmness are different things. You need something that keeps your spine aligned without creating pressure points. Pure extra firm can be terrible for side sleepers.
I'm 290 and slept on a brick for a year because of that advice. Worst decision. My hips hurt every morning. Switched to a medium-firm hybrid and it's way better.
Depends on sleep position. Back or stomach sleeper? Firmer might help. Side sleeper? You need some give. I'm 240 and side sleep, extra firm was a nightmare.
What mattress did you switch to? I'm similar weight and looking.
Went with a Titan Luxe.It's firm but has some cushion. Not cheap but my back stopped screaming.
Extra firm is just code for 'we didn't want to spend money on comfort layers.' Fight me.
Thats a bit harsh. Some heavy stomach sleepers genuinely need a very firm surface to prevent their hips from sinking. But yeah, the mattress industry oversimplifies it.
I'm 310 and I've had good luck with a firm innerspring with a latex topper. Gives support plus a little bounce. Extra firm alone was too much pressure on my shoulders.
The hotel mattress probably wasn't even extra firm, just old and broken in. Hotel beds are a terrible reference point.
Also, 'heavy sleeper' can mean weight or sleep depth. OP, are you a heavy person or a heavy sleeper in the sense of not waking up? Because that changes the answer.
I meant weight. I'm 270. Should have clarified.
At 270 you probably want a firm support core with a decent comfort layer. Not extra firm on the top. Look for something with a higher density foam or pocket coils.
Second the pocket coils. My Titan has them and it doesn't sag after 2 years. Previous ccheap extra firm had a body impression in 6 months.
So the answer is 'no, but also maybe yes depending on stuff.' Classic mattress forum.
You joke but that's literally the truth. There's no one-size-fits-all. OP, go try some in person if you can. Lie on them for 15 minutes, don't just poke them with your hand.