Written by Lisa Bowman, Fortune Recommends Writer
There’s no better sleep than the one you have when your body’s depleted after a tough workout. How good does it feel when your head finally hits the pillow, and you’re out for the count? When we sleep, our brain and body go into rest and repair mode, preparing us for the next day. This promotes good heart health, allows the muscles to repair, boosts the immune system, and improves cognitive function, which is especially important for athletes, who stress their bodies greatly. (1)
Athletes need a bed that supports the spine, regulates body temperature, and provides plenty of pressure relief for aching joints to optimize sleep and recovery.
Don’t be put off by the term “athlete” You don’t need to be training at an Olympic level to reap the benefits of the best mattress for athletes. Anyone who exercises regularly or has a physically demanding job can benefit from a mattress that boosts recovery. We’ve tested over 60 of the best mattresses to find the top choices for athletes.
Best mattress for athletes overall
The Bear Elite Hybrid came out on top for athletic recovery, thanks to its zoned support, cooling features, soothing memory foam, and the option of a high-tech CELLIANT® recovery-boosting cover. With a choice of three firmness levels, this is an incredibly versatile mattress that could help enhance performance and hit those PBs.
Our picks for the best mattresses for athletes
- Best overall: Bear Elite Hybrid
- Best for athletes with joint pain: Nolah Evolution
- Best for weightlifters: Brooklyn Bedding Spartan
- Best for athletes with back pain: Saatva Classic
- Best for heavy athletes: Helix Midnight
- Best for recovery: WinkBeds The WinkBed
Compare mattresses for athletes
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| Bear Elite Hybrid | Nolah Evolution | Brooklyn Bedding Spartan | Saatva Classic | Helix Midnight | WinkBeds The WinkBed | |
| Rating | ||||||
| Best for | Overall | Athletes with joint pain | Weightlifters | Athletes with back pain | Heavy athletes | Recovery |
| Price | $2,305 | $2,499 | $1,999 | $2,095 | $1,332 | $1,799 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Trial period | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights | 100 nights | 120 nights |
Best overall mattress for athletes: Bear Elite Hybrid
Key product features
What you should know
The Bear Elite Hybrid could be a dream for athletes. It combines spinal support, joint cushioning, and cooling layers to help you recover faster for your next training session. Couples will appreciate the firm edge support and motion isolation.
- This quality hybrid combines sturdy coils with plush copper memory foam for a cool and comfortable night’s sleep.
- It comes at a higher price point of $2,305 for a queen but offers value with its premium materials, features, and durability.
- Three firmness options make this bed suitable for all body types and sleeping positions.
- Try the CELLIANT® cover upgrade for enhanced temperature regulation, muscle recovery, and better sleep.
- White glove delivery is available, starting at $100.
Why we like Bear Elite Hybrid as best overall
Athletes come in all shapes and sizes, which is why we love that the Bear Elite Hybrid offers three firmness levels: Soft, Medium, and Firm. We tested the Medium model, which we felt had a medium-firm feel. The top is so plush that it almost felt like a medium-soft, but not quite.
After much testing, we think the Medium model could be an excellent choice for average-weight sleepers in all positions. The zoned coil unit and ergonomic transition foam above it do a great job of responding to position changes and keeping the lumbar area lifted, which allows the spine to sit in healthy alignment. This is essential for everyone, but it’s especially beneficial for athletes who regularly strain their bodies, as poor sleep posture can lead to joint pain, which may then affect recovery and performance. (2) Some lightweight sleepers might prefer the Soft option for better pressure relief, while heavy-weight sleepers could find the Medium a bit soft and may get better support from the Firm option.
Although this mattress felt incredibly supportive, it still felt plush thanks to the quilted cover and memory foam, which gently contours the body without swallowing you in the mattress. The coils add to this by lifting you for a more ‘on top’ of the mattress feel. Pressure relief is excellent; there was slight pressure build-up when sleeping on our side, though we didn’t feel uncomfortable.
Couples and those with mobility issues will appreciate the significant edge support. We didn’t feel like we would roll off the side when sleeping close to the perimeter. While there was some sinkage when sitting on the edge, we still felt secure. The surface is fairly responsive, which makes it easy to move around. It is great for combination sleepers and sex, but motion isolation is still good. Though we felt a bit of movement when a partner changed position or got in bed, it didn’t disturb us too much.
Being too warm makes for an uncomfortable night’s sleep, but the Bear Elite Hybrid combats this with a cover featuring phase change material that’s designed to dissipate body heat. (3) The cover felt cool to the touch, and the copper-infused memory foam and coil unit enhanced the bed’s airy, cool feel. Copper is a heat conductor that absorbs and whisks away your body heat. We think most people should feel cool and comfortable on this mattress.
Athletic types might also appreciate the CELLIANT® cover upgrade, which currently costs $150, depending on bed size. This features all the cooling tech of the original cover but with CELLIANT® fibers that convert your body heat into far infrared energy that’s reflected back into your body. This is thought to increase blood flow temporarily, regulate body temperature, aid in muscle recovery, and promote more restful sleep. (4, 5, 6) Just what you need after a hard training session.
While this mattress has a pretty hefty price tag of $2,305 for a queen size, we think it’s absolutely packed with features that benefit athletes, like incredible support, pressure relief, and cooling. These should help you get a good night’s sleep ready for your next workout. Plus, it’s made with high-quality, durable materials that should stand the test of time. Watch for sales and discount codes if you want to save some cash.
To learn more about what this brand has to offer, check out our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review.
What customers are saying
Over on Reddit, lots of people rave about the comfort of the bed, with user “JordanFiveOh” writing, “I feel awake and ready to go in the morning, and the mattress sleeps pretty cool/neutral to me. I have experienced no shoulder/hip pains at all.”
“Competitive-Fudge-15” adds: “I have the Elite Hybrid and have owned it for two years. I am 5’5″ and weigh 150 lb. I had bad back and shoulder issues with my 14-year-old bed. The Bear Elite Hybrid is the most comfortable bed I have ever owned, and I have owned a lot of them. After 2 ½ years, it has not had any sinking or issues of any type.”
However, Redditor “ephrion” was disappointed with Bear’s return/exchange policy when they found their Medium hybrid too soft. Bear requires you to have slept on the mattress for at least 30 days before initiating a return/exchange (this is industry standard) and only allows one return/exchange per household. They write: “Their return policy is weird—they only do one return or exchange. Suppose I got the Firm, and it wasn’t what I wanted—I’m screwed!”
People also mention that the 120-night trial period is shorter than some others, warning that the feel of the mattress can change after that time. “Buyers beware!” writes user ”Mexidorian.” “This mattress softens significantly just past the trial where they allow a refund. I’d highly recommend searching for a different mattress, especially if you suffer from back pain.”
Specs
| Price (queen) | $2,305 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free delivery within the contiguous U.S., white glove delivery upgrade available |
| Weight (queen) | 110 lbs |
| Height | 14” tall |
| Made in the U.S. | Yes |
Best mattress for athletes with joint pain: Nolah Evolution
Key product features
What you should know
.We’re huge fans of this luxury hybrid, which offers zoned support, adaptive pressure relief, and excellent temperature regulation. Athletes with joint pain should love the plush, cooling Euro topper.
- The mattress’s zoned support helps keep your spine in healthy alignment.
- The Nolah Evolution is a luxury bed that warrants its higher price point of $2,499 with premium features, quality materials, and a lifetime warranty.
- With three firmness options, this bed can be customized to suit all body weights and sleeping styles.
- The mattress offers excellent motion isolation despite a super responsive surface—the best of both worlds.
- Hot sleepers will love all the cooling features that Nolah has packed into this bed.
Why we like Nolah Evolution as best for athletes with joint pain
This 15-inch hybrid is Nolah’s best-selling bed, coming in three firmness options to suit all kinds of sleepers. A choice of Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm should provide comfort for all types, but we tested the more versatile Luxury Firm for this review, which felt medium-firm.
The versatile feel of the mattress also works well for combo sleepers who shift between multiple sleeping positions, as the tri-zoned coils and foam do a great job at keeping the lumbar lifted. Plus, research shows that zoned mattresses help to reduce joint pain. (7) However, we think that lightweight side sleepers might prefer the Soft model for better pressure relief, while heavy-weight stomach sleepers will experience better support on the Firm model.
Additionally, the plush Euro-pillow top and responsive AirFoam™ make this bed’s surface super comfy. It allows joints to sink in without swallowing you, which should feel great on aching joints.
This mattress is incredibly bouncy, making it easy to move around and change positions. A small study on adult male athletes showed that sleeping on a more responsive surface allows you to exert less effort when changing positions and reduces muscle activity, which allows for more restorative sleep. (8) This is excellent news for physically active combination sleepers.
Testers report that this bed’s cooling capabilities are impressive for a mattress with so much foam. Nolah has gone all out to ensure this mattress doesn’t trap heat, with a breathable, heat—and moisture-wicking organic cotton and ArcticTex™ cover, aerated foams, and a coil unit that allows air to pass through. We were big fans of the AirBreath™ border gusset that lets body heat escape. We think most people should sleep comfortably cool on this mattress.
Couples will love the excellent motion isolation, exceptional edge support, and bouncy surface for sex.
The Nolah Evolution is an incredible bed, especially if you want something to soothe painful joints after a challenging workout. While it’s the most expensive bed on our list at $2,499 for a queen, we think it packs a punch with its lifetime warranty, premium features, and quality materials. Plus, those looking to save some cash can forego the 120-night trial and save up to $150, depending on the bed size.
What customers are saying
The Nolah Evolution is popular with many Reddit users, who love the plush feel and strong support.
“Nolah is an awesome bed; zero regrets! I have multiple past injuries, so a supportive but soft bed is ideal for me. I am a side sleeper, back sleeper, and occasional stomach sleeper. All positions are very comfortable.”
“Ribbitfan,” Redditor
Heavyweight reviewer “Cyriouslyslick” finds the bed soft at his weight but still supportive. “I’m a bigger guy, 350lb [and] 6′ tall, and a predominantly side sleeper,” he comments. “At my size, I find it very plush, but it is still supportive. The top layers of the mattress do a good job of ‘cradling’ me in one position for most of the night.”
The cooling features are also praised, although some have mentioned that the bed starts sagging after a few years. Reddit user “Wide_Background4570” writes, “Broke down within two years leaving us with horrible deep spots on the mattress and back/hip pain. I have been so incredibly disappointed to pay that much money for a mattress that broke down so quick.”
Some people also mention the depth of the mattress, which is on the tall side at 15 inches and may require deeper sheets than you currently own. “The pups are having a harder time jumping up into bed,” advises Redditor “jkmcf.” “It would be a great mattress for a low-profile bed frame because of the extra thickness.”
Specs
| Price (queen) | $2,499 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free delivery within the contiguous U.S., white glove delivery available from $125 |
| Weight (queen) | 115 lbs |
| Height | 15” tall |
| Made in the USA | Yes |
Best mattress for weightlifters: Brooklyn Bedding Spartan
Key product features
What you should know
The Brooklyn Bedding Spartan is a sturdy, durable 13-inch bed that works hard while you rest to wake you up rested and recovered. With soothing foams, multiple cooling features, and FIR technology for muscle recovery, it could be an athlete’s dream.
- Zoned support and adaptive foams cradle aching bodies to promote healthy spine alignment.
- At $1,999, it’s a good value for a luxury, durable bed packed with features that aid an athlete’s recovery.
- Athletes of all shapes and sizes will take advantage of the customization options, active recovery cover, and great balance of support and pressure relief.
- Couples should note that motion isolation is good, but edge support needs to be improved.
- A breathable cover, cooling foams, and breezy coil unit help this bed keep it cool.
Why we like Brooklyn Bedding Spartan as best for weightlifters
The Brooklyn Bedding Spartan was designed for maximum recovery while you sleep, and we agree. It comes in three firmness options—Soft, Medium, and Firm—making it ideal for sleepers and weightlifters of all sizes. We tested the Medium model, which we found to have a versatile medium-firm feel. Heavier weightlifters with more muscle mass might prefer the Firm option, depending on their softness preferences.
We found the Medium model had great support thanks to its sturdy tri-zoned coil unit, which offers extra lift for the heavier lumbar area. This should help keep your spine in healthy alignment and avoid aches and pains. A thin yet soft antimicrobial copper foam top layer helps cushion joints and soothe sensitive areas after a tough session in the weight room.
Of course, quality sleep is essential for everyone, but weightlifters have a further disadvantage of losing ZZZs as it can impair performance. Research shows that inadequate sleep can negatively impact muscle strength in resistance training like weightlifting, so they should sleep on a mattress that promotes optimal rest. (9)
The Spartan is an excellent choice for weightlifters as the cover is designed for active recovery. High-tech fibers in the fabric convert body heat into far infrared (FIR) rays that it sends back into the body as energy. Studies show that FIR rays can boost circulation, help muscles recover, and improve sleep quality. (4, 5, 6)
The cover is also breathable, which helps to keep the sleep surface cool. This is followed by a layer of copper-infused and gel-infused foam that works well to prevent heat build-up and a coil support unit that allows air to circulate the bed. Our testers found themselves at an ambient temperature on the Spartan, which is essential for deep, restful sleep and recovery. (3)
However, it’s not all good news. The edge support on this bed is pretty average, which may impact couples who like to spread out and use the whole surface area of the bed. The bed also isn’t very bouncy, having a more slow-moving feel, making it a little harder to move around on. This could be a disadvantage to combination sleepers and couples who like a responsive mattress for sex. However, the bed has excellent motion isolation, so you shouldn’t feel disturbed by a restless partner or pet moving around.
This mattress is also pretty heavy, at 110 pounds for a queen. While we imagine this won’t affect the weightlifters among you, the rest of us may struggle as Brooklyn Bedding doesn’t offer white glove delivery.
Despite some flaws, this bed could be a fantastic option for weightlifters and other athletes looking for a sturdy, durable bed that helps them get the rest and recovery they need to stay strong and energized.
What customers are saying
Many reviewers on Reddit speak highly of the Brooklyn Bedding Spartan, citing comfort as a huge reason for loving the mattress.
“The material on the mattress is great. I bought the queen Firm version as a side sleeper with a bad neck, and it has been great. I am 5′ 11″ at 230 lb. I would repurchase this bed in a heartbeat. I tried the Bear Hybrid before this and didn’t have enough support. Yes, this bed was expensive, but it was very worth it. It’s also very heavy.”
“Featherman88,” Redditor
Others like the good balance of comfort and support, with “Hollydolly088” writing, “The Spartan Medium is a good mix of soft yet firm and supportive. It is a very comfortable bed.”
As for the bed’s muscle recovery claims, the jury is out, as it cannot be accurately measured. Redditor ‘“TheMiracleLigament” writes: “Highly recommend. I won’t speak to the effects of the Spartan’s recovery claims. I’ve only had it for a week, and frankly, it’s not something that can objectively be measured. It’s certainly not pulling any miracles, but it might be an added variable that could help slightly.”
However, one user expressed frustrations about delivery taking a couple of days longer than advertised and customer service not replying when they asked for an update.
Some reviewers also warn that Brooklyn Bedding’s firmness scale is misleading, which led to them purchasing the wrong firmness level. Redditor “LadyWhistledown88” found her bed too firm and was sent a mattress topper, which she says didn’t help, although she says the bed seems high quality.
Specs
| Price (queen) | $1,999 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free delivery to the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (queen) | 110 lbs |
| Height | 13” tall |
| Made in the USA | Yes |
Best mattress for athletes with back pain: Saatva Classic
Key product features
What you should know
The Saatva Classic is a luxury hybrid built with high-quality materials that should stand the test of time. Saatva’s best-selling bed wins this accolade with targeted lumbar support, soothing pressure relief, and a comfy pillow top.
- This bed can be customized to suit your needs with three firmness options and two height options.
- A generous 365-night trial, lifetime warranty, and free white glove delivery add to the value of this $2,095 bed.
- Couples will love the bouncy surface and exceptional edge support but should be aware that motion isolation is lacking.
- There are no fancy cooling features on this bed, but we think most people should sleep temperature neutral.
- This bed comes with free in-home setup and old mattress/foundation removal.
Why we like Saatva Classic as best for athletes with back pain
The Saatva Classic is Saatva’s best-selling hybrid and comes with a choice of three firmness levels (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm), two height options (11.5 inches and 14.5 inches), and eight mattress sizes. We tested the Luxury Firm, which we think is a versatile pick as it offers a medium-firm feel.
Sleeping on a medium-firm surface for athletes with back pain is recommended, as research suggests that this firmness level can help reduce symptoms in the lower back. (10) Studies also show that mattresses with zoned support—like the Saatva Classic—can help alleviate back pain. (7) The support unit in this model features stronger, firmer coils in the center third of the bed and a memory foam lumbar crown, which help keep your hips lifted and spine in healthy alignment, reducing the risk of aches and pains. The plush pillow top offers cushioning for sore limbs.
Poor quality sleep can affect endurance, strength, and cognitive function in athletes, so it’s essential that they sleep on a mattress that optimizes rest. (11) A key factor in getting a good night’s sleep is optimal body temperature, so athletes will be pleased to hear that the Saatva Classic is pretty good at temperature regulation despite not having too many cooling features (3) We didn’t find the organic cotton cover to feel cool to the touch. Still, it feels soft and breathable, and the coil unit allows air to circulate the bed, preventing too much heat. If you tend to sleep hot, you may prefer a dedicated cooling mattress, but we think most sleepers should be fine.
We think the combination of cushioning and support in this Luxury Firm model could work as a treat for most sleepers, making it suitable for couples who need a bed that suits two different body types. However, some lightweight sleepers may prefer the Plush Soft option if this one feels a little firm. Heavier sleepers will sink further into this model, so may find it feels softer. If that doesn’t suit you, check out the Firm option.
Couples and those with mobility issues will appreciate the super bouncy surface, which is great for sex and makes it easy to move around on. Research also suggests that a responsive sleeping surface helps athletes enjoy more restorative sleep by reducing muscle activity. (8) Unfortunately, the flip side of all this bounce is the high-motion transfer. We felt it when our partner moved around on the other side of the bed. However, a plus point is the excellent edge support, which allows you to sleep and sit on the edge of the bed securely. This is ideal for those with mobility issues.
Overall, we think this mattress is a great all-rounder, especially if you’re athletic and suffer from back pain. At $2,095 for a queen, it’s not the cheapest mattress on our list, but with free white glove delivery, a lifetime warranty, and a generous 365-night trial (the most extended trial of all the brands in this roundup), we think this justifies the higher cost.
To learn more, visit our full Saatva mattress review or our list of the best mattresses for back pain.
What customers are saying
Reddit users speak highly of the Saatva Classic’s versatility, which makes it a good choice for couples.
“It was firm enough to support a big man (6’3 & 240 pounds) like me, and my girlfriend felt comfortable. The price wasn’t cheap, but it wasn’t budget-breaking like the upscale Tempur-Pedics. I decided to order it online, and since then, I don’t have any complaints; it’s the most comfortable mattress I’ve ever had.”
”WhenTheFunStops89,” Redditor
Another user, “B1ackfyre,” loves the mix of plushness and support, commenting, “It feels relatively soft yet extremely supportive. It feels comfortable in any sleep position. It sleeps cool. I love the pillow top.”
This mattress is available in two heights: 11.5 inches and 14.5 inches. Some users note that they purchased the taller option and regretted it because their existing sheets didn’t fit or it sat too high on their current bed frame. Redditor “Johnsankatana” writes: “My Saatva was pretty high, and I never found sheets to cover it. Still, I would recommend and love my Saatva.”
Some buyers have noticed the mattress support deteriorating over the years, experiencing sagging in the middle. ”The edges are still supportive and nice, but most of the rest of the bed is boggy,” comments user “madglee.” “There’s no resistance at all. It causes me to toss and turn all night and wake up with lower back pain.”
Specs
| Price (queen) | $2,095 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 365 nights |
| Shipping | Free white glove delivery within the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (queen) | 110 lbs (11.5” model) and 120 lbs (14.5” model) |
| Height | 11.5” tall or 14.5” tall |
| Made in the USA | Yes |
Best mattress for heavy athletes: Helix Midnight
Key product features
What you should know
The Helix Midnight is a quality hybrid with a medium-firm feel. Supportive steel coils, contouring foams, and memory foam work together to cradle you into restorative sleep.
- Heavier weights will experience this mattress as softer while still supportive—great for aching athletes.
- At $1,332 for a queen, we think this bed offers great value as it’s versatile, durable, and made with quality materials.
- Suitable for most body types and sleeping styles, the Helix Midnight is a great all-rounder.
- Edge support and motion isolation are average, which may affect couples.
- It offers minimal cooling features, but a GlacioTex™ cooling cover upgrade is available for $299.
Why we like Helix Midnight as best for heavy athletes
The Helix Midnight is a durable hybrid with a medium-firm feel that could work well for heavyweight athletes and sleepers weighing over 250 pounds. This mattress has a combined weight limit of 1,000 pounds when sharing and 500 pounds if solo sleeping.
Heavier body types need a bed with a strong support system to keep the spine in healthy alignment, and the Helix Midnight provides this with up to 1,000 steel coils (depending on bed size) in each innerspring unit. Mattresses with coil units tend to be better options for heavier sleepers as they’re usually sturdier and more durable than their foam counterparts.
We think this bed is a great choice for many heavy-weight athletes. They can sink deeper into the foam layers, experiencing a soothing cradle with pressure relief from the memory foam and ergonomic support from the double layer of responsive foams. This should feel great on aching, post-workout limbs, especially when back or side sleeping. However, our testers noted that this bed might not be supportive enough for heavier stomach sleepers or those weighing close to 300 pounds, who may need something with firmer support to keep the lumbar lifted.
Share your bed with a partner? The Helix Midnight is also well-suited to light to average-weight sleepers, making it a versatile choice for couples. However, something that may affect couples is the edge support. Extra-strong steel coils have been added around the lengthwise sides of the bed to reinforce the perimeter, but our testers found them slightly lacking. Sleeping close to the edge made some testers feel like they might roll off, which reduced the amount of surface area available for sleeping. However, while there was also sinkage when sitting on the side of the bed, our testers still felt supported.
This bed isn’t hugely bouncy, but it’s responsive enough to make it easy to move around. However, the foams don’t contain this slight bounce, so you’ll likely feel a partner’s movements from the other side of the bed.
Sleeping at an ambient temperature is a key factor in getting enough quality sleep, which is essential to allow your body to repair itself after exercise. (3) Research shows that a higher body weight is associated with increased body temperature in men and postmenopausal women. (12) One study also revealed that heavier body types who exercise regularly prefer cooler environments. (13) If you fall into one of these categories, you’ll be pleased to hear that the Helix Midnight regulated temperature well for our testers, with its breathable cover and breezy coil unit. You can even opt for the GlacioTex™ cooling cover upgrade, which costs $299. This features special fibers designed to draw heat away from the body and keep the sleep surface cool. However, if you’re a super-hot sleeper who regularly wakes feeling sweaty, you might prefer a bed with more cooling features.
To sum up, if you’re a heavyweight athlete looking for a supportive yet soft-feeling mattress to revitalize you for your next training session, you could do a lot worse than the great value, super-durable Helix Midnight.
If this isn’t the right mattress for you, see our complete guide on the best mattresses for heavy people. Or, check out our complete Helix mattress review for more insights.
What customers are saying
Reviewers on Reddit praise Helix as a responsive company that provides helpful customer service.
However, the short trial period of 100 nights has been an issue for some users, as a few have noticed that the feel of the bed changes after this period. By this time, it’s too late for a return or exchange. A Reddit user who goes by ‘Yumenio’ writes that the Helix Midnight initially felt “awesome,” and they were waking up each day with zero pain. “It offered the right support for both back and side sleeping, without being too soft or firm,” they write. “However, this changed after my first month with it. I started noticing that I sank way too much if I slept on my back, and began experiencing back pain consistently every morning.”
“We got a Helix Midnight and love it so far. It’s softer than I expected. So far (two weeks) it’s been great. No more back pain. I’m a side sleeper, 32-year-old male, 180lb, and my partner is a side sleeper, 170lb, 38 years old.”
”‘Impressive_Lab_4003,” Redditor
However, some users find the bed too warm, as it doesn’t contain many cooling features. A Redditor going by “BrandonR_24” writes: “I’ve been having issues waking up multiple times a night sweating profusely. I love the comfort of it, but if I’m sweating in January, I can’t imagine what it’d be like in June.”
Specs
| Price (queen) | $1,332 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Trial | 100 nights |
| Shipping | Free within the contiguous U.S., white glove delivery upgrade available in some areas |
| Weight (queen) | 100 lbs |
| Height | 11.5” tall |
| Made in the USA | Yes |
Best mattress for recovery: WinkBeds The WinkBed
Key product features
What you should know
The WinkBed is a top-quality hybrid made with zoned steel coils and soothing gel foam. It should help athletes get back to their best after pushing their bodies to the limits.
- We loved the subtle, yet soothing pressure relief provided by the gentle cradle of the pillow top.
- Featuring targeted lumbar support, cooling features, and durable materials, $1,799 for a queen seems like a pretty good value.
- This firm hybrid best suits average to heavyweight back and stomach sleepers.
- A breathable, moisture-wicking cover, gel foams, and a breezy coil unit help this bed stay cool.
- Couples will appreciate the excellent motion isolation but may be disappointed in the edge support.
Why we like The WinkBed as best for recovery
The WinkBed is a 13.5-inch hybrid that comes in four firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus. This means athletes of all shapes and sizes should be able to customize the bed to suit their needs best. We tested the best-selling Luxury Firm model, which had a firm feel.
The WinkBed is ideal for an athlete’s recovery as it’s been specially designed to soothe back, shoulder, and hip pain, which can occur through joint overuse while doing repetitive exercise like running. The bed’s coil support system is zoned to help cradle your body in its correct alignment, which can help prevent aches and pains. Research even shows that zoned mattresses are superior at reducing lower back pain. (7) We think this bed is supportive enough for most body weights, although lightweight sleepers may find it a tad too firm, potentially preferring the Softer option.
Comfort is also essential for an athlete’s recovery, and we found the WinkBed’s gel-infused Euro-pillow top offered subtle yet effective pressure relief on the joints. However, testers did note that due to this model’s firmer feel, it may not provide enough cushioning for side sleepers. If you’re light to average-weight and spend most of the night on your side, you might opt for the Softer model.
As this bed isn’t super cushioning, you feel more on top of the bed than ‘in it.’ This type of bed surface is great for athletic recovery as it exposes more of your body’s surface area, which allows your temperature to drop, facilitating deeper, more restorative sleep. (8) Cooling features have also been included in the bed, like a breathable TENCEL™ cover, gel foams, and a coil unit, all working together to allow heat to escape. Our testers didn’t find that the cover felt particularly cool, but they said that the bed was pretty good at regulating temperature, which should work for all but the sweatiest sleepers.
If you share your bed with a partner and want to spread out, be aware that edge support could be much better in this model despite a reinforced perimeter. We felt like we would fall off the side when sleeping near the edge, although we did feel secure when sitting on the edge, which is good for those with mobility issues. Motion isolation was pretty good, which couples will appreciate—you shouldn’t feel that much disturbance if your partner is moving around.
So, for athletes looking for a bed that allows optimal recovery, we think the WinkBed is a top choice, with its pressure-relieving gel foam, ergonomic support, and cooling system. At $1,799 for a queen, it’s the second cheapest bed in our roundup, and we think it offers excellent value with its durable, long-lasting construction.
For more insights, check out our comprehensive WinkBeds mattress review.
Specs
| Price (queen) | $1,799 |
| Material | Hybrid |
| Firmness | Firm (Luxury Firm option) |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 120 nights |
| Shipping | Free delivery within the contiguous U.S. |
| Weight (queen) | 135 lbs |
| Height | 13.5” tall |
| Made in the USA | Yes |
How we test mattresses
When you find the right mattress, it can feel like stumbling upon a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, but it can take some time to get there. That’s where we come in–our expert reviewers have spent years in the industry and spent hours testing each mattress to provide you with honest and unbiased reviews. Read our full mattress testing methodology if you are interested in learning more.
Performance (sleep experience)—30%
A high-quality mattress should feel like it’s designed to provide you with the best sleep of your life. They should also deliver on the promise of a great sleep experience. Our sleep science coaches assess various factors to reflect the functional aspects of the mattress as well as the user’s sleep experience. Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Temperature regulation
- Motion isolation
- Edge support
- Technology
Comfort and support—30%
Alongside the sleep experience, comfort and support are just as important for a healthy and restful sleep. A high-quality mattress should assist in providing relief with certain aches and pains a user may experience when sleeping. It should also help users wake up feeling energized and rested. Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Firmness
- Pressure relief
- Spinal alignment support
- Customization
Value—20%
Assessing value involves a meticulous examination of several key factors that contribute to a mattress’s worth. A mattress that is priced just within reach of its target audience yet surpasses competitors in terms of materials, performance, and support presents a compelling value proposition. However, value is not solely determined by the lowest price point. We also determine it by finding the balance between cost and the tangible benefits a mattress provides.
Customer experience—10%
Sometimes, the mattress can be great, but if the overall shopping experience wasn’t, that could easily put a sour taste in a user’s mouth about the mattress they just purchased. We put in the hours to determine how well the entire process of buying a mattress matches users’ expectations and what options are available when something goes wrong.
- Shipping
- Warranty
- Customer service
- Sleep trial
Health and safety—10%
It’s important to understand that a mattress is more than just a sleeping surface—it’s an environment where you spend a significant portion of your life. We meticulously assess critical aspects of mattresses that may directly impact your well-being and peace of mind.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Hypoallergenic materials
- Off-gassing and chemical exposure
- Safety certifications
Best mattress types for athletes
The best type of mattress for athletic people depends on many factors, including personal preference and body type, but below are some of the benefits of each type of mattress for athletes.
Hybrid mattresses
Hybrid mattresses are great for athletes as they combine sturdy coil support with pressure-relieving comfort layers, usually made of foam, memory foam, or latex. These provide healthy spine alignment and soothing cushioning that help reduce pain and relieve aching limbs. (10, 20) Hybrids are usually great at cooling, too, which helps promote restorative sleep.
Check out our top picks for the best hybrid mattresses.
Memory foam mattresses
Memory foam mattresses maximize pressure relief, which is ideal for athletes going to bed with sore bodies. Their ability to contour to the body’s shape can help reduce joint and muscle pain, allowing for better overnight recovery. (19)
See the best memory foam mattresses to find the best fit for you.
Latex mattresses
Latex mattresses usually have an extremely buoyant surface. This benefits athletes as it reduces muscle activity during sleep and helps cool the body down, which aids in deeper, more restorative sleep. (8)
Check out the best latex mattresses to find the right option for you.
Read our guide to see all mattress types for more information.
How to choose the best mattress for athletes
There’s no one-size-fits-all regarding athletes and mattresses, but here are some valuable features to look out for when choosing a mattress.
Support
Adequate spinal support is essential for athletes as poor sleeping posture can cause joint pain, affecting recovery and, crucially, performance. (2) This is essential for everyone, but especially for athletes who regularly strain their bodies, as poor sleep posture can lead to joint pain, which may then affect recovery and performance. Look for mattresses with targeted support if you experience back issues, as research shows that zoned mattresses can help reduce pain in this area. (7)
Pressure relief
The correct amount of pressure relief is important to athletes as it prevents pressure from building up at the joints, causing pain that could lead to injury or impaired performance. (10) Mattresses containing memory foam layers or latex tend to excel at pressure relief, which aids muscle recovery.
Cooling
An ambient sleeping temperature allows for deeper, more restorative sleep, which the body needs to recover from tough training sessions. (3) To avoid overheating at night, look for mattresses with cooling features like breathable, moisture-wicking covers, which also sometimes contain heat-dispersing fibers or phase change material (PCM).
Foam beds tend to trap heat, but many manufacturers combat this by adding gel, copper, or graphite to the foam, which helps dissipate body heat. They may also be made with open-cell foam, which increases breathability.
Mattresses with coil units often sleep cooler as the coils allow heat to escape the bed.
Active recovery
Some beds now feature CELLIANT® fibers in their covers, which convert your body heat into far infrared energy that it reflects at you, which is thought to boost an athlete’s recovery while they sleep. Studies show that this increases blood circulation, helps regulate your body temperature, accelerates muscle recovery, and allows for better sleep.
The importance of sleep for athletes
Getting enough good-quality sleep is important for everyone as it allows our bodies and brains to rest and repair. When we drift off into slumber, our body works overtime to repair muscles, strengthen our heart, regulate our immune system, and boost brain power. (1) This is of utmost importance for people who exercise regularly as this puts a strain on the body.
Not getting enough quality sleep can impair athletic performance, as it can affect strength and endurance. Studies show that poor sleep has a negative effect on muscle strength when resistance training. (9) Sleep deprivation also hugely affects cognitive function, which affects reaction time, decision-making, and coordination, which is important for sports like tennis, soccer, and basketball. (11) Decreased cognitive function can lead to a higher risk of sporting injuries. (14)
Sleeping for longer is also shown to positively affect athletic performance, especially during cardio activities. (15, 16)
FAQs
What type of mattress is best for recovery?
No one type of mattress is best for athletic recovery. Athletes and physically active people should find a mattress that offers the best balance of support, pressure relief, and temperature regulation for their body type and sleeping style, which will help promote restorative sleep. Look out for mattresses that contain CELLIANT® fibers, as these convert body heat into far infrared energy to help boost recovery.
What mattress firmness is best for athletes?
Mattress firmness is subjective, depending on body type, sleeping position, and comfort preference, regardless of whether you’re an athlete or not. Choosing the right firmness for you is important as an athlete as it will ensure your spine is in healthy alignment, preventing aches and pains that can negatively impact your performance. However, if you regularly experience back pain, experts recommend a medium-firm sleeping surface. (10)
Is memory foam good for athletes?
Memory foam can be a great choice for athletes as it has incredible pressure-relieving properties, contouring the body and soothing aching limbs after a tough workout. However, this type of foam is known for trapping heat, which can raise your body temperature and negatively impact sleep. (3) Look for a memory foam bed with cooling features, or consider getting a hybrid mattress, which usually sleeps cooler but can still offer great pressure relief.
What is the best sleeping position for athletes?
The best sleeping position for athletes is one where your body is in a neutral position, allowing your muscles and joints to rest without stress or strain. Sleeping on your back is ideal as this distributes body weight evenly. You can also sleep on your side, but you may need to pop a pillow between your knees to keep your hips in alignment. However, if you’re experiencing pain from over-exertion during training, the best sleeping position is the one that minimizes discomfort, as you don’t want to aggravate any existing injuries. (17)
What mattresses do NFL athletes use?
Sleep Number is the NFL’s official sleep and wellness partner, with 80% of NFL athletes sleeping on their beds. (18) Sleep Number manufactures innovative (and expensive) smart air beds that allow adaptable, customizable firmness, linked to a sleep tracking app that provides daily insight into sleep quality. Former NFL player Mitchell Schwartz posted on X (formerly Twitter): “80% of NFL players have a Sleep Number bed because they gave us a crazy stipend (plus discounts) to go buy whatever bed and accessories we wanted. Nice marketing, though!”
Our experts
Pete Nastasi, NASM
Pete Nastasi, the owner of Nastasi Nutrition, is a NASM certified Sports Nutrition Coach and Personal Trainer with a degree in Biochemistry currently residing in North Carolina. Pete helps individual clients achieve their sports performance and weight-loss goals through a personalized approach centered around diet optimization and easy-to-follow workout routines.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Lisa Bowman
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Lisa is a sleep writer for Fortune Recommends, which combines two of her greatest passions – writing and sleeping. She can also be found writing about fitness, sustainability, and vegan food.
Her life revolves around her two rescue dogs (who she shares her bed with) and if she’s not running around after them, she’s likely doing yoga, buying new plants, or enjoying a sunset rum at the beach.