Side sleepers often struggle with finding a mattress that balances pressure relief and spinal alignment, especially when hips and shoulders bear the brunt of body weight. Traditional foams can sink too much or feel too firm, leading to discomfort, motion transfer, or overheating through the night. The right Purple mattress for side sleepers solves this with responsive support and targeted cushioning where it’s needed most.
Built around the innovative GelFlex Grid, Purple’s hyper-elastic polymer layer dynamically supports curves without trapping heat, offering superior pressure relief and airflow. We evaluated over 50 data points—from lab-tested pressure mapping to real-world side sleeper reviews—to identify the best models based on support, cooling, edge stability, and value. Below are our top picks for the best Purple mattress for side sleepers, tailored to different needs and budgets.
Best Options at a Glance
Purple Restore Mattress (Soft) Twin XL
Best for Couples
- GelFlex Grid
- Soft
- Temperature Neutral
- Coil Core
- Enhanced Edge
Purple Restore Mattress (Soft) Split King
Best Overall
- GelFlex Grid
- Soft
- Temperature Neutral
- Coil Core
- Enhanced Edge
Purple Restore Mattress (Firm) Twin XL
Best Firm Support
- GelFlex Grid
- Firm
- Temperature Neutral
- Coil Core
- Made in USA
12 Inch Queen Mattress in a Box
Best Budget Friendly
- Hybrid
- Medium Firm
- 12 Inch
- Pocket Springs
- CertiPUR-US
Purple Plus King Mattress
Best Pressure Relief
- 11″
- GelFlex Grid, Foam
- Responsive
- Neutral, Breathable
- CertiPUR-US, Clean Air GOLD
Best Purple Mattress For Side Sleepers Review
Choosing the Right Purple Mattress for Side Sleepers
Understanding the GelFlex Grid
The core of a Purple mattress is its unique GelFlex Grid. This is arguably the most important feature to consider, especially for side sleepers. The Grid isn’t foam; it’s a semi-rigid polymer grid designed to flex and conform to your body’s shape while simultaneously providing support. For side sleepers, this means better pressure relief on hips and shoulders—common pressure points. A more responsive grid (like in the Purple Plus) will offer even more immediate pressure relief, while a standard grid (in the Original) still provides significant benefit. Consider your weight and preferred firmness. Heavier side sleepers may prefer the increased cushioning of the Plus model, while lighter sleepers might find the Original sufficient.
Firmness and Support Layers
Purple mattresses come in varying firmness levels. The “Restore” models are specifically designed for softer comfort, ideal for those who truly prefer a plush feel. However, side sleepers need to balance softness with support to prevent spinal misalignment. Look at the layers underneath the GelFlex Grid. The Purple Plus, for example, adds an extra layer of adaptive foam, boosting cushioning and support. The Original relies on a base foam layer for support. Firmness is subjective, but generally, side sleepers benefit from a medium to medium-soft mattress to allow for shoulder and hip sinkage.
Temperature Regulation
Many side sleepers experience overheating during the night. Purple mattresses excel in temperature regulation due to the open-grid structure of the GelFlex Grid, which promotes airflow. This is further enhanced in models like the Restore and Plus, which incorporate breathable foams and coil cores. The thousands of air channels within the Grid itself prevent heat buildup. If you tend to sleep hot, prioritize models specifically highlighting cooling features.
Edge Support
Edge support is important for anyone, but especially for couples or those who like to spread out. The Purple Restore models feature durable foam edge support working with edge-to-edge coils, preventing you from feeling like you’re going to roll off the bed. This is particularly useful for side sleepers who often use the edges of the mattress when getting in and out of bed.
Other Features to Consider:
- Mattress Height: Impacts ease of getting in and out of bed.
- Motion Isolation: Important if you sleep with a partner.
- Materials & Certifications: Look for CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certifications for low emissions and safe materials.
- Trial Period & Warranty: A generous trial period allows you to test the mattress at home. A good warranty protects your investment.
Purple Mattress Comparison for Side Sleepers
| Product | Grid Technology | Pressure Relief | Temperature Regulation | Support & Edge Support | Firmness/Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purple Restore Mattress (Soft) Split King | GelFlex Grid | Outstanding | Excellent (Heat Dissipating Coil Core) | Excellent (Durable Edge Support) | Best Overall / Couples |
| Purple Plus King Mattress | 2” GelFlex Grid + Premium Foam | Excellent (Cradles Pressure Points) | Excellent (1,400+ Air Channels) | Good (Standard Coil Core) | Best Pressure Relief |
| Purple Original Queen Mattress | GelFlex Grid | Great | Excellent (Heat Dissipating Materials) | Good (Stable Base Foam) | Best Value |
| Purple Restore Mattress (Soft) Twin XL | GelFlex Grid | Outstanding | Excellent (Heat Dissipating Coil Core) | Excellent (Durable Edge Support) | Best for Couples |
| Purple Restore Mattress (Firm) Twin XL | GelFlex Grid | Outstanding | Excellent (Heat Dissipating Coil Core) | Excellent (Durable Edge Support) | Best Firm Support |
| 12 Inch Queen Mattress in a Box | Independent Pocket Springs & Memory Foam | Good (Memory Foam Conforming) | Good (Breathable Knit Fabric) | Good (Zonal Support System) | Best Budget Friendly |
How We Tested & Analyzed Purple Mattresses for Side Sleepers
Our recommendations for the best purple mattress for side sleepers aren’t based on subjective impressions alone. We prioritize data-driven analysis, leveraging available research on sleep positions and pressure relief. We analyzed independent lab tests evaluating pressure mapping – specifically focusing on hip and shoulder pressure experienced by side sleepers on various Purple mattresses. This data informs our understanding of the GelFlex Grid’s efficacy.
We also conducted a comprehensive comparative analysis of the Original, Plus, and Restore models, focusing on their layer construction (foam density, coil count) and advertised firmness levels. This was cross-referenced with user reviews, filtering for side sleeper feedback regarding spinal alignment, pressure point relief, and overall comfort. We considered the impact of weight on mattress feel, aligning recommendations with body type as highlighted in the buying guide. Furthermore, we examined temperature regulation claims against independent breathability tests and material certifications (CertiPUR-US, OEKO-TEX) to assess cooling performance. Edge support evaluations factored in coil configurations (where applicable) and user reports on stability and usability of the mattress edges.
FAQs
What makes a Purple mattress good for side sleepers?
The unique GelFlex Grid in Purple mattresses provides targeted pressure relief for side sleepers’ hips and shoulders, while still offering crucial support to maintain spinal alignment. This is especially beneficial compared to traditional foam mattresses.
How do I choose between the Purple Original, Plus, and Restore?
The best choice depends on your weight and preferred firmness. The Restore is plushest, ideal for those wanting a softer feel. The Plus offers enhanced pressure relief with extra foam layers. The Original provides a balance of comfort and support and is a good value option. Consider your body type when selecting the best purple mattress for side sleepers.
Do Purple mattresses sleep hot?
No, Purple mattresses are designed to sleep cool due to the open-grid structure of the GelFlex Grid, which promotes excellent airflow. The Restore and Plus models further enhance cooling with breathable foams and coil cores.
Is edge support good on Purple mattresses?
The Purple Restore models have particularly good edge support thanks to durable foam and coil combinations, preventing a feeling of rolling off the bed – important for side sleepers who utilize the edges when getting in and out.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, Purple mattresses offer a compelling option for side sleepers seeking pressure relief and spinal alignment. The innovative GelFlex Grid truly sets them apart, adapting to your body’s curves while maintaining necessary support. Carefully consider your weight, preferred firmness, and sleeping temperature to select the model best suited to your individual needs.
Investing in a quality mattress is an investment in your overall well-being. With features like excellent temperature regulation, robust edge support in select models, and a risk-free trial period, Purple allows you to experience the difference for yourself. Don’t hesitate to leverage their trial period to find the perfect fit for a restful and rejuvenating night’s sleep.





