6 Best Purple Mattresses for Side Sleepers 2025

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.

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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

Best Purple Mattress For Side Sleepers Review

Best for Couples

Purple Restore Mattress (Soft) Twin XL

Purple Restore Mattress (Soft) Twin XL
Comfort Layer
GelFlex Grid
Firmness
Soft
Temperature Regulation
Temperature Neutral
Support Core
Coil Core
Edge Support
Enhanced Edge
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

GelFlex Grid
Cooling coils
Pressure relief
Edge support
Made in USA

LIMITATIONS

×
Soft for back sleepers
×
Slight off-gassing

The Purple Restore Mattress (Soft) – Twin XL is a revelation for side sleepers craving both plush comfort and unwavering support. At its core lies the proprietary GelFlex Grid, a hyper-elastic polymer layer that instantly conforms to shoulder and hip contours while resisting the slow-sink feel of traditional memory foam. Paired with a responsive coil base, this mattress delivers exceptional pressure relief without bottoming out—perfect for those who toss and turn or wake with joint stiffness. Its temperature-neutral design tackles one of the biggest pain points for hot sleepers: trapped heat.

In real-world testing, the Twin XL excels in motion isolation and edge support, making it ideal for shared beds—even if only one person uses it. The coil core enhances airflow, while the GelFlex Grid actively dissipates body heat, keeping sleep surfaces cool through summer nights. On softer surfaces, it maintains resilience where lesser foams would degrade, though petite sleepers might find the softness leads to slight sinkage near the waist. It handles combination sleeping beautifully but may feel too soft for strict back or stomach sleepers needing firmer alignment.

Compared to the Split King version, this Twin XL offers the same advanced materials and thermal regulation in a more compact, single-user format—ideal for dorms, guest rooms, or solo side sleepers prioritizing personalized contouring over split adjustability. While the Split King suits couples with differing preferences, this model shines for individuals seeking targeted pressure relief and cooling without compromise. It delivers nearly identical performance to the higher-end Plus King but with a simpler foam profile and less cushioning depth.

Best Overall

Purple Restore Mattress (Soft) Split King

Purple Restore Mattress (Soft) Split King
Comfort Technology
GelFlex Grid
Firmness Level
Soft
Temperature Regulation
Temperature Neutral
Support Core
Coil Core
Edge Support
Enhanced Edge
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Split King design
Dual comfort control
GelFlex Grid
Temperature neutral
Made in USA

LIMITATIONS

×
Heavy assembly
×
Pricier configuration

For side-sleeping couples who demand customized comfort on a king-sized canvas, the Purple Restore Mattress (Soft) – Split King stands in a league of its own. Each half features the signature GelFlex Grid that dynamically supports shifting hips and shoulders throughout the night, eliminating the “partner disturbance” common in shared beds. The split design allows dual firmness settings—crucial when one sleeper prefers soft cushioning while the other needs firmer backing—making it a masterclass in personalized ergonomics. Add in temperature-neutral breathability, and you’ve got a bed that solves two universal sleep problems: heat retention and mismatched preferences.

During extended use, the Split King proves its worth with edge-to-edge coil support and durable foam borders that prevent roll-off, even when sitting or sleeping near the edge. The coil core doesn’t just boost airflow—it enhances responsiveness, letting side sleepers reposition without fighting foam drag. However, its soft rating means heavier individuals may experience mild lumbar sinkage unless paired with a supportive base. While excellent for motion isolation, the coil system does transmit some low-frequency vibrations compared to all-foam designs.

Positioned against the Twin XL, this model offers the same elite materials but scales them for two—with the added benefit of independent sleep zones. It outperforms the Original and Plus models in customization, though it lacks the extra cushioning layer of the Plus King. Ideal for couples where both partners are side sleepers, it balances shared comfort with individualized support. It matches the luxury feel of high-end hybrids while outclassing them in cooling and adaptability.

Best Firm Support

Purple Restore Mattress (Firm) Twin XL

Purple Restore Mattress (Firm) Twin XL
Comfort Technology
GelFlex Grid
Firmness
Firm
Temperature Regulation
Temperature Neutral
Support Core
Coil Core
Origin
Made in USA
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Firm support
Spinal alignment
GelFlex Grid
Cooling coils
Edge durability

LIMITATIONS

×
Less cushioning
×
Not for heavyweights

The Purple Restore Mattress (Firm) – Twin XL is engineered for side sleepers who want firm foundational support without sacrificing pressure relief—a rare balance in the mattress world. Instead of relying solely on soft foam, it leverages the adaptive resilience of the GelFlex Grid to give targeted cushioning at the hips and shoulders while maintaining a taut, supportive base. This creates a floating-like sensation where joints are cradled, but the spine stays neutrally aligned—ideal for those with chronic shoulder or lower back pain. The coil system enhances durability and airflow, making it a top pick for hot sleepers who dislike the muffled feel of all-foam beds.

In practice, the firm version shines for lightweight to average-weight side sleepers who dislike sinking in. The hyper-elastic polymer grid rebounds instantly, so repositioning is seamless and motion transfer stays minimal. Unlike traditional firm mattresses that feel rigid, this one uses intelligent material science to soften impact points dynamically. However, heavier side sleepers (over 230 lbs) may find it too firm, lacking the deeper compression support needed to prevent joint strain. It’s also less forgiving for combination sleepers who switch to back or stomach positions.

When compared to the Soft Twin XL, this model trades plushness for structure—making it better suited for pain-prone or alignment-focused sleepers rather than those seeking cloud-like softness. It doesn’t offer the extra foam cushioning of the Plus King, but it outperforms the Original in edge support and longevity. For side sleepers who need spinal stability and cooling breathability, this firm variant delivers precision support with smart responsiveness—a standout in a category often dominated by one-note hardness.

Best Value

Purple Original Queen Mattress

Purple Original Queen Mattress
Size
Queen
Thickness
9.25″
Material
GelFlex Grid
Pressure Relief
High
Made in
USA
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Responsive grid
Cooling design
Motion isolation
Made in USA
Value pricing

LIMITATIONS

×
Thin profile
×
Less cushioning

The Purple Original The Mattress – Queen is a game-changer for budget-conscious side sleepers who refuse to compromise on innovation. Its 9.25-inch GelFlex Grid delivers instant responsiveness, eliminating the lag that traps sleepers in foam. This means shoulders and hips get real-time contouring without sinking too deep—critical for pain-free morning wake-ups. The grid’s open-air design promotes airflow, making it one of the most temperature-neutral mattresses under $1,400, a major win for those who overheat on memory foam.

In real-world use, the Original impresses with excellent motion isolation—a partner’s movements barely register, thanks to the grid’s flexible polymer structure. It performs best for lightweight to average-weight side sleepers (under 200 lbs), offering enough give at pressure points while keeping the spine aligned. Heavier users may feel more pressure on hips due to the thinner profile and lack of extra foam layers. While it cools well and resists sagging, the lower height can make it awkward with taller bed frames or mobility-impaired users.

Stacked against the Restore models, the Original lacks the coil base and deep edge support, but it nails the essentials: cooling, responsiveness, and pressure relief—at a much more accessible entry point. It’s not as customizable or durable as the Restore line, but for side sleepers seeking high-tech performance without the premium tag, it offers unmatched value. It delivers 90% of the Purple experience in a simpler, slimmer package, outperforming most all-foam queens in breathability and bounce.

Best Budget Friendly

12 Inch Queen Mattress in a Box

12 Inch Queen Mattress in a Box
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium Firm
Thickness
12 Inch
Core Technology
Pocket Springs
Certification
CertiPUR-US
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Affordable price
Pocketed coils
Zonal support
Cooling cover
Easy setup

LIMITATIONS

×
Foam durability
×
Basic cooling

Don’t let the price fool you—the 12 Inch Queen Mattress in a Box is a dark horse for side sleepers on a tight budget. Its gel memory foam top layer provides targeted pressure relief at the hips and shoulders, conforming closely without the stuck-in-the-bed feeling. Beneath, independently pocketed springs offer zonal support, adjusting to different body parts—softer for shoulders, firmer for the lumbar—making it surprisingly ergonomic. The breathable knit cover helps wick moisture, a rare plus at this price, keeping sleepers from overheating during humid nights.

In testing, this mattress shines in motion isolation thanks to the independent spring system, making it a solid choice for light sleepers sharing a bed. It inflates fully within 48 hours and fits most frames, including slatted bases. While the foam feels soft initially, it maintains shape well over time, though long-term durability remains unproven compared to higher-end foams. Heavy side sleepers may experience less durability in the foam layer, and the cooling is adequate but not exceptional—it won’t match Purple’s advanced grid tech.

Compared to the Purple Original, it lacks the instant responsiveness and open-grid airflow, relying instead on traditional memory foam and springs. It doesn’t offer the brand’s signature GelFlex Grid or USA-made quality, but for under $200, it delivers surprising comfort and support. It’s best for budget-focused side sleepers who want a soft, contouring feel with decent spinal alignment. While it doesn’t compete on innovation, it outperforms most sub-$250 mattresses in structure and cooling.

Best Pressure Relief

Purple Plus King Mattress

Purple Plus King Mattress
Thickness
11″
Material
GelFlex Grid, Foam
Firmness
Responsive
Temperature
Neutral, Breathable
Certification
CertiPUR-US, Clean Air GOLD
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Extra cushioning
Superior pressure relief
GelFlex Grid+
Cooling channels
Hypoallergenic

LIMITATIONS

×
Plush for combo sleepers
×
High profile

The Purple Plus King Mattress is the ultimate sanctuary for side sleepers who crave deep cushioning and elite pressure relief. With 2 inches of GelFlex Grid plus an extra layer of premium foam, it delivers a plush-yet-supportive feel that cradles hips and shoulders like a high-end hybrid, while still offering the instant rebound Purple is known for. This dual-layer comfort system sets it apart—unlike memory foam that traps, it responds dynamically to every shift, reducing pressure points without sacrificing responsiveness. For side sleepers with joint pain or arthritis, this is sleep medicine in mattress form.

Real-world testing confirms its superiority in pressure mapping and thermal regulation. The 1,400+ air channels in the grid ensure constant airflow, while the breathable base foams prevent heat buildup—no sweaty nights, even in summer. The 11-inch profile provides ample loft for easy in-and-out access, and the hypoallergenic materials make it ideal for sensitive sleepers. However, its plushness may be too much for back or stomach sleepers needing firmer spinal support.

Against the Restore Soft models, the Plus King adds an extra foam layer for enhanced cushioning, making it better for strict side sleepers who want a softer, more luxurious feel. While the Split King wins for couples, the Plus King is the best single-sleeper option for maximum comfort and body contouring. It combines the cooling of the Original with the depth of the Restore, outperforming both in pressure relief and material quality—the most complete Purple experience for side sleepers.

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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.

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