Best Mattress for Heavy People

Written by

Ben Trapskin

I have carefully studied and evaluated many mattresses, sheets, pillows, duvet inserts, comforters, sleep gadgets, and adjustable beds for over a decade. My insights and evaluations are grounded in both my extensive personal experience and valuable customer feedback. I have expertise and knowledge of the industry. I have used this to conduct detailed assessments of products. My insights and guidance have given consumers the best sleep experience. I am committed to quality and excellence in this field. EXPERT TESTED Every product is tested with a variety methods to give you the best assement of what it will actually feel like and if it is good quality. UPDATED REGULARLY Our reviews are updated daily and we strive to produce the most useful content so you can make an informed decision.

What to Look For When Shopping For a Mattress for Heavy People

When purchasing a mattress for heavy people, it’s essential to consider several factors that can provide the necessary comfort, support, and durability. Here are some key qualities to look for:

  1. Firmness: A medium-firm to firm mattress is generally more suitable for heavier individuals, as it provides better support and maintains proper spinal alignment. A mattress that is too soft may cause excessive sinking, leading to discomfort and potential back pain.

  2. Support: Heavier individuals require a mattress with adequate support to distribute their weight evenly and prevent pressure points. Look for a mattress with a strong, high-density support core (either innerspring, foam, or hybrid) to ensure proper support and spinal alignment.

  3. Thickness: A thicker mattress (12 inches or more) is typically better for heavier people, as it provides additional support and cushioning. Thinner mattresses may not provide enough support and may wear out more quickly.

  4. Edge support: Good edge support is important for heavy people, as it prevents sagging and helps maintain the mattress’s overall structure. Reinforced edges can also make it easier to get in and out of bed.

  5. Durability: Look for a mattress made with high-quality materials and strong construction, as it will be more likely to withstand the added weight and pressure over time. Check the warranty and customer reviews to gauge the mattress’s durability.

  6. Cooling properties: Heavier individuals may sleep hotter, so look for a mattress with temperature-regulating features such as breathable materials, gel-infused foam, or a design that promotes airflow.

  7. Motion isolation: If you share the bed with a partner, motion isolation can help prevent disturbances caused by movement. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses typically perform well in this regard.

  8. Weight limit: Check the manufacturer’s weight limit for the mattress. Ensure the mattress is designed to accommodate your weight and, if applicable, your partner’s weight as well.

  9. Trial period and warranty: A generous trial period allows you to test the mattress at home and make sure it’s a good fit. Additionally, a solid warranty can give you peace of mind in case of any issues with the mattress’s durability or performance.

Remember that personal preference plays a role in finding the right mattress, so it’s important to test different options and consult with a knowledgeable sales representative to make the best decision for your needs.

Best Memory Foam Mattress for Heavy People

People that are heavier set than the average sleeper will need a durable mattress that provides proper support. What may feel firm to a skinny sleeper may feel just right for a heavy sleeper. The list below is a curated list of mattresses among the hundreds you will find online that I think are particularly well suited to heavy sleepers.

Best Mattress for Heavy People 2023
Saatva HD
$2,745 (Queen)

Great for overweight people but has motion transfer.

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Best Mattress for Heavy People 2023

Helix Plus

Helix Plus Mattress

Looking for the Best Mattress for heavy people?  Look no further than the Helix Plus. Mattresses designed for heavy people are usually very firm because that’s the cheapest way to make a durable mattress. But that’s not the case with the Helix Plus. You can have your durability and comfort too! The Helix It’s a heavy sleeper’s dream! Read our full Helix Plus Mattress review and how it compares to the Winkbed Plus

Designed for Plus Size and Big & Tall

13″ hybrid mattress with an additional support layer and the highest density foam to provide optimal comfort, a medium-firm feel, and durability for heavier people and bigger sleepers. Learn More

Maximum Support

An extra layer of high-density, best in class 4-pound foam helps provide a sturdy support system for heavy people with high BMIs, regardless of preferred sleeping position.

Medium-Firm Feel & Body Contouring

Medium-firm memory foam provides optimal contouring while our proprietary Helix Dynamic Foam to react to your body shape and aid recovery. The perfect give and take for deeper sleep.

Next-Level Cooling Options

Select either an ultra breathable TENCEL™ cover, designed for maximum airflow, or our GlacioTex Cooling Cover, which effectively pulls heat away from your body for your most comfortable sleep, ever.

Shop Helix Plus

Best Performance Mattress for Heavy People

Purple Mattress

mattresses for heavy people

According to Purple, the weight threshold of their mattress is 300 lbs. per person. That means it can support 600 lbs. total assuming each person weights 300 lbs. What I especially like about this mattress is how cool it sleeps. Hot air passes right through the polymer elastic grid just below the mattress ticking so you won’t sleep hot at all on this mattress. It also supports you very well and won’t leave you sore in the morning. The Purple mattress uses a very unique technology at a very competitive price. Best of all they have a free trial money back guarantee so there’s no risk in trying it out. There is some bounce with this mattress since the grid will recover instantly which makes it super easy to change positions at night. I recommend the purchasing the Purple bed frame along with the mattress because the purple bed frame will support up to 4,600 pounds without bending or breaking!

The Purple Hybrid Premier mattress is considered the best option for heavy people or fat people, as it offers a combination of support, comfort, and durability that caters to the unique needs of heavier individuals. Here’s a breakdown of its features:

  1. Price: The price of a Purple Hybrid Premier mattress varies depending on the size and thickness. A Queen size mattress with a 3-inch Purple Grid layer costs around $2,499, while a 4-inch Purple Grid layer version costs around $3,299. Prices may vary, so it’s essential to check the Purple website or authorized retailers for the most up-to-date pricing.

  2. Trial period: Purple offers a 100-night trial period for their mattresses, giving you ample time to test it out and decide if it’s the right fit for your needs. If you’re not satisfied, you can return the mattress for a full refund within the trial period.

  3. Warranty: The Purple Hybrid Premier mattress comes with a 10-year limited warranty, which covers any material or workmanship defects, such as sagging, indentations, or issues with the cover’s zipper.

  4. Sleep positions: The Purple Hybrid Premier is suitable for all sleep positions – back, side, and stomach sleepers. The responsive Purple Grid layer adapts to your body’s shape, offering pressure relief and support, while the coil system provides additional support and maintains proper spinal alignment.

  5. Heavy people/fat people: This mattress is particularly well-suited for heavy people or fat people because it combines a thick, supportive coil system with the unique Purple Grid layer, offering excellent support and pressure relief. The Purple Hybrid Premier is available in two grid thicknesses (3-inch and 4-inch), with the 4-inch version providing even more cushioning and pressure relief for heavier individuals.

Shop Purple

OR

Get the Full Purple Mattress Review

Best Inner Spring Mattress for Heavy People

Winkbed PLUS

WinkBed for heavy people

There’s just no substitute for a good spring mattress. Some people just crave that bounce and beyond that, it is still the best material for support. You want to make sure that you get a quality mattress that has quality coils. The Winkbed has a pocket coil system with reinforced foam edge support so you won’t feel like you are rolling off your mattress. The micro-coils above the pocket coils provide extra support and enhance breathability. They also use a very light layer of foam for good cushioning without feeling stuck in the mattress. The cover is made of Tencel which a very breathable material, sleeps cooler than cotton and wicks away moisture. Many people compare the Winkbed to a luxury hotel mattress.

the WinkBed Plus is specifically designed for overweight people and those with larger body types. It offers additional support, durability, and comfort to accommodate the needs of heavier individuals. Here’s a breakdown of its features:

  1. Durability: The WinkBed Plus is built with high-quality materials and strong construction, which contribute to its durability. While the lifespan of a mattress can vary depending on usage and care, a well-made mattress like the WinkBed Plus should last around 7-10 years or even longer with proper care.

  2. Price: The price of a WinkBed Plus mattress varies depending on the size. For example, a Queen size WinkBed Plus costs around $1,799. Be sure to check the WinkBeds website or authorized retailers for the most up-to-date pricing.

  3. Trial period: WinkBeds offers a 120-night trial period for their mattresses. This gives you ample time to test the mattress and determine if it’s the right fit for your needs. If you’re not satisfied, you can return the mattress within the trial period for a full refund.

  4. Warranty: The WinkBed Plus comes with a lifetime limited warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship, such as sagging or body impressions deeper than 1.5 inches, and defects in the cover’s zipper or seams.

The WinkBed Plus is an excellent choice for overweight people due to its combination of a zoned support system, durable construction, and a comfortable pillow-top.

Get the full Winkbed Review

Best Natural Mattress for Heavy People:

Zen Haven

zen-haven-mattresszen haven mattress

The Zen Haven mattress is really two mattresses in one. This all-natural Talalay latex mattress can be flipped where one side is soft and the other firm. What I especially like about it is that it comes with a free trial period. This is very rare with all latex mattresses. If you are new to latex and want to experience it in your house, this is the way to go. All Talalay latex will feel pretty much the same because there are only a handful of manufacturers of this latex. That means it really comes down to price and trial period. Zen Haven comes with a 75-night free trial so you have nothing to lose. Latex is a very resilient material and you should easily get 20 years out of an all-natural latex mattress. Latex is instantly responsive and will provide a good bounce. No worrying about trying to change positions at night or feeling stuck. Talalay latex has holes in it to provide more breathability. Give Zen Haven a try if you are tired of constantly buying new mattresses and want something that will stand the test of time.

Shop Zen Haven

OR

Get the full Zen Haven Review 

Our Budget Pick for Natural Mattress for Heavy People

Awara Mattress

Awara

The Awara mattress is a natural mattress incorporating pocket coils, latex and organic cotton. A queen size retails for $1,299 after the automatic $200 discount. This is an incredible value considering the material. A skinny person may complain this mattress is too firm but for heavy sleepers, it’s heaven! It comes with a 365 night trial where you get to sleep on it for a year and if you don’t like it during that time, it’s a free return with all your money back. Should you decide to keep it, you are covered by their, “Forever Warranty”.  Shop the Awara Mattress

Best Mattress for REALLY Heavy People

Big Fig

Big Fig Mattress Side View
If you are looking for a good hybrid mattress for heavy people, check out the Big Fig. I just recently reviewed this mattress and it is made specifically for heavy people which means it won’t break down as fast as a traditional mattress and will give you the proper support.

The Big Fig mattress has gained popularity due to its design and features specifically tailored to meet the needs of heavier individuals or those with larger body types. Some factors that contribute to its popularity include:

  1. Support: The Big Fig mattress is built with a robust innerspring system that offers strong support for people with heavier body weights. The individually wrapped coils provide targeted support and help maintain proper spinal alignment.

  2. Durability: Big Fig uses high-quality, dense foams and a strong coil system to ensure the mattress can withstand the additional pressure and weight of heavier individuals. This focus on durability is a significant factor in its popularity.

  3. Cooling properties: The mattress incorporates a ThermoGel cooling technology in its cover, which helps regulate body temperature and keeps sleepers cool throughout the night. This is particularly beneficial for those who tend to sleep hot.

  4. Edge support: The Big Fig mattress has reinforced edges, providing additional support when sitting on the edge of the bed or sleeping near the edge. This feature is especially important for heavier individuals.

  5. Firmness: The mattress is designed with a medium-firm to firm feel, which is generally more suitable for people with heavier body weights, as it offers better support and maintains proper spinal alignment.

  6. Trial period and warranty: Big Fig offers a 120-night trial period, allowing customers to test the mattress and return it for a full refund if it doesn’t meet their needs. Additionally, the mattress comes with a 20-year warranty, providing peace of mind regarding its durability and performance.

  7. Marketing and customer review: The company has successfully marketed its product as a mattress designed explicitly for heavier individuals, which has helped it stand out in the crowded mattress market. Positive customer reviews and testimonials have further contributed to its popularity.

Shop Big Fig

OR

Check out the full Big Fig Mattress review

It gets confusing and overwhelming fast when trying to find a mattress. This guide is intended to help you cut through the noise. This is a curated list among the hundreds of mattresses I have reviewed to provide you the best choices for heavy sleepers.

Sleep Accessories for Heavy People

Several sleep accessories can enhance the sleep experience and provide additional comfort and support for heavy people. Here are some options to consider:

  1. Mattress topper: A high-quality, thick mattress topper can provide additional cushioning and pressure relief. Look for materials such as memory foam or latex, which can conform to the body and distribute weight evenly. A topper with cooling properties may also be beneficial for those who tend to sleep hot.

  2. Pillows: Choose a pillow with the appropriate loft (height) and firmness to maintain proper spinal alignment and provide adequate support for the head and neck. Memory foam or latex pillows can be particularly beneficial for heavier individuals, as they offer contouring support and pressure relief.

  3. Adjustable bed base: An adjustable bed base can provide customized support and comfort by allowing sleepers to elevate their head, feet, or both. This can help alleviate pressure on the spine, reduce snoring, and improve overall sleep quality.

  4. Mattress protector: A high-quality mattress protector can help protect your mattress from spills, stains, and allergens while also extending its lifespan. Look for a breathable, waterproof protector that will not interfere with the mattress’s comfort and support.

  5. Bedding: Choose breathable, moisture-wicking sheets and blankets made of materials such as cotton, bamboo, or Tencel to help regulate body temperature and promote a comfortable sleep environment.

  6. Weighted blanket: Some heavy individuals may find a weighted blanket comforting and beneficial for reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm. Be sure to choose an appropriate weight (usually around 10% of your body weight) and a breathable fabric to prevent overheating.

  7. Bed frame: A sturdy, supportive bed frame can ensure that your mattress is adequately supported and prevent sagging. Look for a frame with a high weight capacity and strong slats or a solid platform.

  8. Sleep apnea equipment: If you have sleep apnea, using a CPAP machine or other sleep apnea equipment can help improve your sleep quality and overall health.

Remember that individual preferences and needs can vary, so it’s essential to test different sleep accessories to determine which ones work best for you.

Will an Adjustable Bed Help?

Adjustable beds can provide several benefits for heavy people, as they offer customizable support and comfort. Some of the advantages include:

  1. Improved spinal alignment: An adjustable bed allows you to raise the head and/or feet, which can help maintain proper spinal alignment and alleviate pressure on the back, hips, and shoulders. This is especially beneficial for heavy people, as it can help reduce the risk of developing back pain or discomfort.

  2. Reduced pressure points: By adjusting the bed to a comfortable position, you can alleviate pressure on certain areas of the body, reducing the risk of developing pressure sores or experiencing discomfort during the night.

  3. Better circulation: Elevating the legs can improve blood flow and help reduce swelling in the lower extremities. This is particularly beneficial for those who experience leg swelling or discomfort due to poor circulation.

  4. Enhanced support: Adjustable beds often come with features such as head and foot massage, lumbar support, and customizable firmness levels. These features can provide targeted support and comfort for heavy people, improving overall sleep quality.

  5. Ease of movement: Adjusting the bed’s position can make it easier to get in and out of bed, which can be particularly helpful for heavy individuals or those with mobility issues.

  6. Reduced snoring and sleep apnea: Elevating the head can help open up the airways and reduce snoring or symptoms of sleep apnea. This can lead to better sleep quality and overall health for heavy people who may be more prone to these issues.

  7. Customizable sleep positions: Adjustable beds allow for personalized sleep positions that cater to individual preferences and needs. This can be especially beneficial for heavy people, as finding a comfortable sleeping position can help improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of developing sleep-related issues.

I’m always available by email to answer any specific questions at: [email protected]

17 thoughts on “Best Mattress for Heavy People”

  1. My parents sleep in the middle of the bed and that creates a crater in the middle. They bought a mattress 4 months ago and it has already broken down. He weights 215 and she weights 140. Any suggestions?

    Reply
  2. Whats your top 3 brands for a big guy? I am 7′ tall and weight 325lbs. My wife is 170 5’6″. I have been going thru your reviews and it seems big fig or winkbed? Not sure if that is 100% correct though (thats why i asked for top 3).

    We live in the twim cities and I want to go check out your show room in edina, it looks like you have wink bed there, but not big fig.

    Would appreciate your input!

    Thank you
    Jason

    Reply
    • Forgot to mention i am nervous about the mattress be too firm for my wife – however she isnt that picky and can seem to sleep on anything.

      I am not a good sleeper – we currently have a way over priced piece of junk temperpediac – my lower back and sholders kill every morning…ready to stop torchering myself.

      Thanks again

      Reply
  3. I need a bed for a 350+ person and it needs to be a Full XL. Is there a manufacturer that makes one?

    Reply
  4. I’m 6’9” and 325 pounds, mostly a side sleeper (Occasionally back) and I has occasional lower back pain. Any suggestions or key differences between the wink bed and the big fig? Thanks for the site and the help.

    Reply
  5. I am surprised to see the Purple mattress being recommended for heavy sleepers. I have had the standard Purple mattress for 1.5 years, and it lost its firmness and sags terribly after ~8 months (I’m 220 lbs, 6′). The company agreed to replace the mattress with minimal hassles. However, take a look at customer reviews – the sagging is a common issue with the mattress and suggests a design flaw. I’ve had terrible back pain, and don’t want another one of these mattresses only to have the same problem occur. Waste of money – do not recommend. Sleep sherpa – please evaluate these mattresses with durability in mind!!

    Reply
    • Thank you for your review. That beautiful s a great recommendation and will help a lot of buyers.

      Reply
  6. Hi I’m a 270lb female and am 5”2. My bottom half and bust are larger than my waist with most of the weight being in my hips. Because of that, I have a a deep arch in my lower back above my bottom and it causes a lot of back pain.

    My boyfriend is 270lbs as well and is 5”11. He played football and is heavy in the gym so he is sore a lot. He is a Pharmacist and stands a lot during the day, while I sit most of the day.

    My boyfriend can stick his arm through the space where my arch is when I am laying down because it does not touch the bed. So I am forced to sleep on top of pillows in various positions. He does not live with me but I’d like a bed that takes his weight and issues in to account because he tosses and turns on my current mattress keeping me up.

    I am a combo sleeper. I mostly sleep on my side, but will start on my stomach. When my back hurts I will add more pillows and can go back to sleep semi comfortably on my back. I have sleep apnea and narcolepsy and am going to law school in the fall. My neurologist thinks that me having a better mattress is crucial to my ability to sleep.

    Right now I am sleeping on a crappy memory foam mattress and have no experience buying mattress.

    Do you have a suggested mattress for my long list of issues?

    Reply
    • @KW – Given both of your sizes I would normally suggest either the Big Fig or WinkBeds Plus, since as Yawnder has stated they’re best suited for heavier sleepers. However with your self described curves and deep arch in your back I’d definitely go with the WB Plus over the Big Fig, since it has much more conformance. The BF is very firm and more rigid with less compliance so the WB Plus would better accommodate and support you with better comfort. It’s still on the firm side of medium, but the thicker quilting in its cover and the 2.5″ layer of latex are much more body hugging to provide you a higher level of comfort.

      Reply
  7. What do you recommend for a 420 pound 5 feet 9 inches tall disable person. She loves the more soft mattress and not the firm. How much would a queen size Big Fig mattress cost. Thank you!

    Reply
  8. How high is the Big Fig off the ground. We don’t want a high getting off the bed as she gets up we want her to touch the floor. Thank you.

    Reply
  9. I am a big guy (6ft 300lbs) My Girlfriend is 5 ft 120lbs. I am looking at either a Winkbed or Big Fig. Do either of these work better for partners who are both side sleepers, and vastly different body sizes and types?

    Reply
  10. Hi, Thank you for answering our inquiry.
    VERY frisky Couple, her 5’9 weighs 300 with back, shoulders, and loves to sleep on her side or back. I, 5’6 weighs 445, side sleeper, loves to cuddle with very stiff joints due to lupus. Back and hips especially. We have researched our butts off literally. Torn between the WinkBed plus, Nectar lush, and the Bear. What would you recommend?

    Reply

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