mattresses comparison
Pocket sprung vs Memory foam
Evergreen URL: /compare/pocket-sprung-vs-memory-foam
In short
A pocket sprung mattress supports with individual in fabric pockets steel coils; a memory foam mattress contours with memory foam that softens with heat. Pocket units usually feel bounceier with more airflow paths; memory foam contours more slowly and can sleep warmer unless open-cell. Choose by support mechanism, not brand slogans.
This comparison is about construction physics, not product rankings. Pocket sprung and memory foam solve pressure and alignment differently. Many modern mattresses combine both as hybrids — see that comparison separately if you need a mixed stack.
Key differences
| Criterion | Pocket sprung | Memory foam |
|---|---|---|
| Primary support | Individual steel coils in fabric pockets | memory foam foam core or thick comfort layers |
| how it moulds to your shape | Coils compress locally; surface fillings add cushioning | Foam yields under heat and pressure with slow recovery |
| movement felt from a partner | Typically lower than open coil; layers can still couple movement | Usually low movement felt from a partner through foam damping |
| heat behaviour | Air paths through the spring unit aid ventilation | Can retain heat; open-cell or gel variants increase airflow |
| Typical lifespan band | About 7–10 years under normal use | About 6–8 years for many consumer foams |
| Base notes | Works on divans and suitably spaced slats | Needs solid or closely spaced slats (often ≤7 cm gaps) |
Pocket sprung may suit if…
- You want spring push-back and easier repositioning
- You share a bed and want relatively independent coil response
- You prefer more air flow through the core
Memory foam may suit if…
- You want slow-moulding to shape cushioning at pressure points at shoulders and hips
- You prefer a “hug” feel with minimal bounce
- You accept thermal trade-offs or choose open-cell formulations
Frequently asked questions
- Is pocket sprung better than memory foam?
- Neither is always better. Pocket sprung and memory foam use different support physics. Match the mechanism to sleep preference, temperature sensitivity, and base type — or consider a hybrid that layers foam over pockets.
- Can you combine pocket sprung and memory foam?
- Yes. Hybrid mattresses place foam or latex comfort layers above a pocket spring core. That stack is a third build type, not a pure pocket or pure foam mattress.