Memory Foam vs Pocket Sprung vs Hybrid Mattresses: Which is Right for You?

By Colourbank on February 12th, 2026

Choosing a mattress is a long-term investment not only in your home but in yourself. Making the wrong choice can affect your sleep quality. Knowing which mattress suits you can be difficult. 

There are three main types of mattresses. These are memory foam mattresses, pocket sprung mattresses and hybrid mattresses. Each of these provides comfort, but they can feel very different. 

At Colourbank, we help customers choose the right mattresses. In this article, we will discuss the different types of mattresses as well as who may suit each one. So you can make the best decision with confidence. 

Is a Memory Foam Mattress Right for You?

A memory foam mattress is made from viscoelastic foam. This is a temperature-sensitive material that moulds to your body shape. It softens in response to heat and pressure, meaning it will contour around hips and shoulders. Once the pressure is removed, it will return to its original shape. 

Benefits Drawbacks
Releases pressure in joints (hips, shoulders)Some foams can retain heat
Great for back painSlow responsiveness
Motion isolation (good for couples)Not ideal for people who prefer a bouncier feel
Cocooned feeling (sunk-in)

Memory foam mattresses suit side sleepers, people with joint pain and couples. As the mattress is extremely supportive and takes pressure off the joints, it is more comfortable for people who experience daily pain. 

What Is a Pocket Sprung Mattress?

A pocket sprung mattress is made up of individual springs that are sewn into fabric pockets. Each of these springs moves individually. Allowing the mattress to respond to pressure in specific areas. The structure of the mattress creates a supportive base, allowing for natural airflow between springs. 

BenefitsDrawbacks
Responsive support Less contouring than memory foam
Better airflow (cooler sleep)Can transfer movement
More traditional mattress feel
Strong edge support 

This mattress is great for back sleepers, hot sleepers and people who prefer a firmer, more supportive feel. Pocket spring mattresses are often long-lasting, which makes them great value for money. 

Hybrid Mattresses: The Best of Both Worlds?

Hybrid mattresses have a combination of pocket springs and foam layers, often memory foam or comfort foam. The pocket spring base provides structured support while the foam layer provides comfort. Making it the perfect mattress for someone who wants some contouring but doesn’t like mattresses that they sink deeply into. It’s a good middle ground for people who are unsure of which mattress type to choose. 

BenefitsDrawbacks
Balanced supportUsually more expensive 
Good pressure relief Can be heavier 
Improved airflow compared to full foam 
Medium-firm feel 

A hybrid mattress is perfect for people who are unsure between foam and springs. It is a great option for couples with different preferences and people who want a balance of comfort and support.

Which Mattress is Best?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It depends on many factors such as sleeping position, comfort preference and specific health concerns. It is beneficial to test mattresses. We have two Leicester locations where you can test our mattresses in-store. This allows you to get a better understanding of what each mattress feels like. 
Ready to improve your sleep? Visit our mattress store Leicester or contact us to speak to our team for expert advice on choosing the right mattress for you.

Written by

Colourbank

We have built a Nationwide reputation on great service and prices. Our carpet sales teams are well known for their expert advice and in depth knowledge of all types of flooring, from deep, luxurious carpets to solid hard flooring like Karndean.

Request a measure appointment

Arrange a member of our team to measure for you