How To Choose the Best Mattress for Side Sleepers in 2025

What is the best mattress for side sleepers? 

The Purple RestorePremier® is the best overall mattress for side sleepers, thanks to its 3 inches of GelFlex Grid® that provides adaptive pressure relief around shoulders and hips. Its hybrid design with CoolFlex™ Coils offers targeted support, promotes cooling, and helps maintain proper spinal alignment for a restful, pain-free sleep.

If you’re a side sleeper, you may have experienced discomfort in your hips and shoulders when getting out of bed in the morning. Fortunately, this pain is avoidable. All you have to do is choose the right mattress. The best mattress for side sleepers is one that cradles the right pressure points while supporting your spine.

Prioritizing firmness, pressure relief, and responsiveness can make a significant difference in your sleep quality when choosing a mattress. In this blog, we'll show you what to look for and introduce you to the best mattresses for side sleepers.

Read along to learn how to choose a mattress for your sleeping needs.

The Support and Relief You Deserve

Purple’s Restore Hybrid Collection combines GelFlex Grid® with coils for adaptive support and pressure relief.

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Best Type of Mattress for Side Sleepers

According to mattress expert Tyler Wright, Senior Product Manager of Mattresses at Purple, the most comfortable mattress for side sleepers is one that effectively relieves pressure points like those in the hips and shoulders while supporting proper spinal alignment. The proper position involves keeping the shoulders, hips, and spine in a neutral line to reduce strain and discomfort.

While personal preferences matter most, choosing a mattress that contours to your body’s curves and cushions key pressure zones in the hips, back, and shoulders will largely determine whether you wake up refreshed or sore. Below are the top Purple mattresses designed to prevent soreness. 

Keep reading to understand the key differences between Purple mattresses and choose the best model that meets your needs.

Best Overall Mattress for Side Sleepers: RestorePremier® Mattress

Alternative for: Helix Midnight Elite

The Purple RestorePremier® is the best hybrid mattress for side sleepers seeking ultimate pressure relief and support. According to Tyler, the 3 inches of GelFlex Grid®, combined with independent CoolFlex Coils™, contours the hips and shoulders to alleviate common pressure points.

This mattress has earned several accolades, including:

• NBC: Best Hybrid Mattress for Back Pain¹
• NY Magazine: Best Hybrid for Combination Sleepers²
• Rolling Stone: Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers Online³

Compared to the Helix Midnight Elite with a similar price point, the RestorePremier® delivers a cooler night’s sleep and more targeted pressure relief, especially in the hips and shoulders.

• Key Features: Adaptive GelFlex Grid®, maximum airflow
• Materials: GelFlex Grid®, Ultra Comfort Foam, Coolflex™ Coils, Antimicrobial Cover
• Sizes: Twin XL, queen, king, Cal king, split king
• Price: $3,499-$6,998

The RestorePremier® has received glowing feedback from side sleepers. Here's a firsthand account from someone who found their ideal mattress:

“I'm getting the best sleep of my life thanks to Purple. As a side sleeper, it's always been hard to find a mattress that supports my lower back and upper body at the same time. Purple has accomplished that excellently, and the result is a terrific night's sleep. Thanks, Purple!” — CV, RestorePremier® Hybrid Mattress review

Are you ready to try the best soft mattress for side sleepers? Shop the RestorePremier® and pair it with some of the best pillows for side sleepers to experience ultimate comfort.

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers Looking for Lower Back Support: RestorePlus® Hybrid Mattress

Alternative for: Saatva Contour5

The Purple RestorePlus® Hybrid is the top-rated mattress for side sleepers with lower back pain, thanks to its zoned support system and adaptable GelFlex Grid®. Its targeted support in the center third of the body relieves pressure points on hips and shoulders while maintaining proper spinal alignment.

This hybrid mattress is recognized with awards such as:

• Refinery29: Best Mattress for Sleeping Next to a Hot Sleeper⁴
• Forbes: Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Neck and Shoulder Pain⁵
• Good Housekeeping: Best Mattress for Heavy People with Back Pain⁶

Compared to alternative foam-heavy options like Saatva’s Contour5, the RestorePlus® offers superior pressure relief and enhanced cooling technology, while providing a durable, high-performance design that adapts to various sleep positions. 

• Key Features: Zoned support and adaptable GelFlex Grid® for comfort
• Materials: GelFlex Grid®, Ultra Comfort Foam, Edge-to-Edge Coils, Antimicrobial Cover
• Sizes: Twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king, split king
• Price: $2,799-$5,598

Many users have found this to be the best mattress for side sleepers with back problems, as one happy customer shared:

“Wonderful since night one! No more back pain even after lying on my back for 10 hours. I'm a side sleeper as well, and it works perfectly for both positions. My wife and I have [a 70-pound] weight difference, and the level of comfort is the same for both of us.” — Brandon, RestorePlus® Mattress review

If you’re ready to say goodbye to back pain, shop the RestorePlus® today and experience the benefits of zoned support and pressure relief.

Best Mattress for Shoulder and Hip Support: RejuvenatePremier® Mattress

Alternative for: Amerisleep Organica Plush

The RejuvenatePremier® is the best mattress for side sleepers looking for shoulder and hip support. According to Tyler, it uses two 2-inch GelFlex Grid® layers with ActiveResponse+ foam. This maximizes targeted pressure relief and deep cradling in key areas like the hips and shoulders, reducing discomfort and helping you get more deep sleep.

• Key Features: Layered GelFlex Grid® and responsive coil system for full-body support
• Materials: 2”+ 2” of GelFlex Grid®, Active Response+ Foam, Responsive Coil System
• Sizes: Twin XL, queen, king, Cal king, split king
• Price: $6,499-$12,998

Its combination of plush comfort and precise support surpasses many alternatives, including the Amerisleep Organica Plush. The RejuvenatePremier® offers a luxurious, adaptive sleep experience designed specifically for side sleepers seeking relief from hip and shoulder discomfort.

Sleepers looking for shoulder support find quick relief after using this mattress. Here's what one customer had to say:

"By the second night the bed had proven itself. No more shoulder or back pain." — Willard, RejuvenatePremier® Mattress review

Want to experience this relief yourself? Give RejuvenatePremier® a try and see why it’s the best mattress for side sleepers with hip pain!

Best Mattress for Pressure Relief: Purple Plus® Mattress

Alternative for: Leesa Sapira

The Purple Plus® is the best pressure relief mattress for side sleepers. Its innovative GelFlex Grid® instantly contours to your body, relieving pressure points in the hips and shoulders while maintaining excellent motion isolation. Designed with multiple foam layers, it cradles key pressure areas without sacrificing support or breathability.

• Key Features: GelFlex Grid® with excellent motion isolation
• Materials: GelFlex Grid®, Ultra Comfort Foam, Dual Support Foam Layers
• Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king, split king
• Price: $1,499-$3,198

Compared to competitors like the Leesa Sapira, the Purple Plus® delivers superior pressure relief in a mattress while ensuring a cooler, more supportive sleep experience.

This mattress has become a favorite among side sleepers, as one reviewer explains:

“Excellent mattress! My back and shoulder pains have decreased dramatically! Bed conforms to your body and feels like a supportive cloud. Price is 1000% WORTH IT.” — Amber R., Purple Plus® Mattress review

If you’re ready to experience unmatched pressure relief with one of the best mattresses for hot side sleepers, shop the Purple Plus® Mattress now!

Most Affordable Mattress for Side Sleepers: The Purple Mattress®

Alternative for: Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex

The Purple Mattress® stands out as an affordable yet highly supportive option for side sleepers, thanks to its innovative GelFlex Grid® that provides excellent pressure relief in key areas like hips and shoulders. Its adaptive support system ensures proper spinal alignment while cradling your pressure points. 

The Purple Mattress® has received several accolades, such as:

• Good Housekeeping: Best Cooling Mattress for Adjustable Beds⁷
• CNET: Best Mattress for Side Sleepers With Shoulder and Hip Pain⁸
• Tom’s Guide: Best Mattress on Amazon for General Aches and Pains⁹

Compared to other affordable mattresses like the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex, Purple’s unique grid design provides superior pressure point relief and cooler sleep at a lower price point. Plus, its easy delivery in a durable Purple bag makes setup a breeze!

• Key Features: Adaptive GelFlex Grid® with cooling technology
• Materials: GelFlex Grid®, Comfort Foam, Base Support Foam
• Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king, split king
• Price: $999-$2,198

The Purple Mattress® is the best firm mattress for side sleepers, as one reviewer said:

“Firmness is great for both back and side sleepers while in the same bed. Keeps movement to a minimum and you don't feel someone get up if you have another sleeping with you.” — Gray, Purple Mattress® review

Are you ready to try the best mattress in a box for side sleepers without breaking the bank?

What Makes a Good Side Sleeper Mattress?

Knowing how to buy a mattress online and what features to look for can help you find the best option for your needs. The best mattress for side sleepers offers the perfect balance of comfort, support, and pressure relief. Here’s a closer look at the factors you should prioritize when shopping.

Type of Mattress

Different types of mattresses exist for side sleepers with varying preferences. Understanding the differences between these types is key to choosing the best mattress for your needs.

Here are the different options you can choose from:

• Memory foam: Provides targeted pressure relief by conforming to your body’s curves
• Latex: Offers responsive support and bounce to keep your spine aligned
• Hybrid: Combines layers of foam with supportive coils, offering a balance of responsiveness, support, and comfort
• GelFlex Grid®: Delivers all of the above benefits plus temperature regulation and responsiveness for a personalized sleep experience

Firmness

The best firmness for side sleepers generally falls within the medium-soft to medium range on the mattress firmness scale. As Tyler says, “If the mattress is too firm, this could lead to pressure buildup in the shoulders and hips. If a mattress is too soft, it may allow the sleeper to sink too far into the mattress, thus providing poor spinal alignment.”

Ultimately, firmness is a personal preference, and the proper firmness levels are specific to body type and size. A mattress that strikes the right balance ensures you wake feeling refreshed and free of soreness.

Responsiveness

To enjoy a restful night, you should choose the best mattresses for your sleep position. If you’re a side sleeper, responsiveness is one of the features you should look for. A responsive mattress makes changing positions effortless, allowing you to shift and find your most comfortable posture during the night. 

It provides a quick bounce so you don’t feel stuck or sink too deeply into the mattress. This responsiveness also makes it easier to get in and out of bed from any sleeping position.

Support for Spinal Alignment

Proper spinal alignment is crucial for side sleepers to prevent back pain and stiffness. A mattress that supports the natural curves of your body helps maintain a neutral spine position.¹⁰

Tyler emphasizes that the right support reduces strain on your back and neck, preventing discomfort and long-term issues. When your spine stays aligned, you’re more likely to wake up energized and free of stiffness.

Pressure Relief and Contouring

Pressure relief is vital for side sleepers because it alleviates strain on sensitive areas like the hips and shoulders. A mattress that contours to your body's curves ensures these pressure points are supported without excessive sinking.

As Tyler explains, a good side sleeper mattress should allow key regions to sink just enough to relieve pressure while supporting the spine to prevent misalignment and discomfort.

Sleep Trials and Warranties

When choosing a mattress, make sure it comes with a solid sleep trial, preferably at least 90 to 120 nights. This trial period allows you to test the mattress in your usual sleep environment and assess comfort, support, and pressure relief. 

A generous return policy and warranty provide peace of mind, especially when buying online, so you can make a confident, informed decision without the risk of being stuck with a mattress you don’t like.

What Type of Mattress Should Side Sleepers Use?

The best mattress for side sleepers balances pressure relief and spinal support, allowing shoulders and hips to sink comfortably while keeping the spine aligned. Purple's GelFlex Grid® (also known as a Gel Matrix™) excels at contouring to your body’s curves and alleviating key pressure points. 

Choosing a supportive, pressure-relieving mattress ensures a better night’s rest, especially if you’re struggling to learn how to sleep with shoulder pain. But ultimately, personal preference plays the most significant role in your decision. Whether you prefer a softer or firmer feel, Purple has a mattress for you.

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