So, we’ll break down some of the basic jargon-from top to bottom-to get you started. With any number of layers of polyurethane foams, gel-infused beads, latex, natural fibers, quilting and zoned support, it can be difficult to see the forest for the certified-organic-cotton-sourced-from-sustainably-harvested-trees. It’s the comfort layers up top where things get confusing. This means a simple slatted base is all you need beneath most hybrid mattresses. Though there is some variation in the spring setup, basically, this layer provides a flat, even surface and offers some bounce-replacing the traditional box-spring foundation. There are two main components to a hybrid mattress: the spring/coil core at the base and the comfort layer(s) of cushioning on top. We measured each mattress's performance based on impacts on sleep quality, overall comfort in various sleep positions, alignment and support, and pain relief. Our editors spent several weeks deciphering the jargon, as well as sleeping on and reviewing popular hybrid mattresses so you don’t have to. Start shopping around, however, and it can be hard to tell your Zoned Support™ Align Foam & Gel Pods from your HeatDelete™ Bands and AirScape® Technologies. Plus, they’ve been proven to improve sleep quality. The air pockets in the springs make them inherently breathable, and their solid construction and sag resistance make them inherently long-lasting. This is great for people who move around the bed, as well as couples whose sleep patterns (and even size) are markedly different. Ranging from firm to soft, hybrid mattresses have the added advantage of offering an excellent balance of support, comfort, and spine alignment for back, side, and stomach sleepers. Hybrid mattresses form a great middle ground between that familiar feel and stability of innersprings, topped with layers of the latest developments in memory foam, cooling gel, and cushioning.

When you’ve been raised on innerspring mattresses, the jump to the figure-hugging embrace of a full-foam mattress can be a leap too far.