The Best Extra Firm Mattresses – Which One Is Best For You?

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Everybody needs support, and sometimes, that comes in the form of an extra firm mattress. Unfortunately, these beds are often difficult to find. But don’t fret – we’ve tested hundreds of bedding products and found the best extra firm mattresses on the market.

Keep reading to see our top picks, and don’t forget to check out our buyer’s guide below. We’ll answer all of your questions about supportive mattresses and help you determine which firmness level is right for you. Let’s dive in!

Our Verdict: What’s the Best Extra Firm Mattress?

Our expert reviewers chose the Plank Mattress as the best extra firm mattress because of its thick foam comfort layer and its responsive coils.

Best Extra Firm Mattresses

Best Extra Firm Mattresses: Video Roundup

Want to see these beds in action? Check out our video review below!

Compare the Best Extra Firm Mattresses

Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress Helix Dusk Mattress WinkBed Mattress Titan Plus Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Saatva Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Birch Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress Helix Dusk Mattress WinkBed Mattress Titan Plus Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Saatva Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Birch Mattress
Rating
Firmness Firm: 8/10 Medium-firm: 7/10 Multiple firmness options Firm: 9/10 Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 7/10
Material Foam Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Innerspring Hybrid Hybrid
Cooling -- -- -- -- -- --
Sleep Position Back & Stomach Back Combination Back & Stomach Back & Side Back & Side Back & Stomach Back Back & Stomach

How We Chose The Best Extra Firm Mattresses

The Mattress Clarity team has tested more than 600 mattresses using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing. We don’t simply give an overall score; our expert reviewers also test each mattress’s firmness level, edge support, motion isolation, and cooling features.

Latex mattress testing in our studio
Hands-on mattress testing in our sleep lab

There are many different types of extra firm mattresses, so we included a range of products that meet different people’s needs.

Best Overall – Plank Firm

Firmest Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress

The Plank Firm is a very firm mattress that is a great match for stomach sleepers and those who need extra support.

Clarity Score 4.2/5

Material

Foam

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Firm: 8/10

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Firmest Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress

The Plank Firm is a very firm mattress that is a great match for stomach sleepers and those who need extra support.

Clarity Score 4.2/5

Material

Foam

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Firm: 8/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Firmest Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress

The Plank Firm is a very firm mattress that is a great match for stomach sleepers and those who need extra support.

Clarity Score 4.2/5

Material

Foam

Firmness

Firm: 8/10

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pros
Has a flippable design
One of the firmest mattresses on the market
Works well for heavier people
Cons
May be too firm for some
No memory foam feel

Our Expert’s Take

If you’re looking for the absolute firmest mattress on the market, check out the Plank Firm. This flippable all-foam mattress has two firmness levels in one. The softer side comes in at 8/10 on our firmness scale, and the firm side feels like 9/10. These are some of the highest firmness levels we’ve ever seen.

While it may not work for everybody, the Plank Firm is a great choice for heavier folks, stomach sleepers, and people who need lots of lumbar support.

What the testers say: “The Plank is, hands down, the firmest mattress I have ever tried. The extra firm side offered great support across my entire body.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Plank Firm

  • The Plank is a firm, flippable mattress. This means that you have options on the feel of your mattress, depending on what firmness level you like.
  • The high firmness of this mattress should work well for heavier-weight people. Back sleepers should feel supported on the softer side of the mattress, and stomach sleepers will probably enjoy the benefits of the firmer side.

What to Keep in Mind About the Plank Firm

  • Since the Plank is such a firm mattress, it may not be a good fit for side sleepers. The pressure points in the hips and shoulders may not get the cushion and relief they need, which could cause aches. If you’re a side sleeper and looking for a mattress that fits you better, check out our best mattresses for side sleepers.
  • If you find yourself getting uncomfortably hot at night you may want to look for a mattress with more cooling abilities than the Plank Firm.
  • Hot sleepers may want to opt for a mattress that is equipped with cooling features, since they may find themselves overheating on the Plank Firm.

Other user reviews

On the Plank site, the Plank Firm has some pretty positive reviews and is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars. Users loved stomach sleeping on the mattress and claimed that its firm nature helped relieve some chronic back pain. However, some sleepers complained that the mattress wasn’t firm enough for them.

Read our full Plank Firm mattress review. Or check out our list of the best firm mattresses for more options.

Best Extra Firm Mattress for Back Pain – Helix Dusk

Best Overall

Helix Dusk Mattress

Helix Dusk Mattress Review

The Helix Dusk is a medium-firm mattress that is going to be a great fit for back sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.1/5

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

100 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 7/10

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Best Overall

Helix Dusk Mattress

Helix Dusk Mattress Review

The Helix Dusk is a medium-firm mattress that is going to be a great fit for back sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.1/5

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 7/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

100 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Helix Dusk Mattress Review
Best Overall

Helix Dusk Mattress

The Helix Dusk is a medium-firm mattress that is going to be a great fit for back sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.1/5

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Medium-firm: 7/10

Trial Period

100 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Pros
Great for back sleepers
Has a special soft cover
Bouncy and responsive
Cons
Not great for side sleepers
Lacks in contouring

Our Expert’s Take

Helix Sleep sells over a dozen different mattresses, so there’s something for everyone. However, fans of luxurious and firm beds should check out the Helix Dusk. This mattress has thick foam comfort layers and a responsive coil system.

But what really makes this mattress luxurious is its Breathe Knit cover. This material feels soft-to-the-touch as the name suggests, and it’s breathable which is great if you’re a hot sleeper. You can also upgrade to a GlacioTex™ Cooling Pillow Top if you really want to take things up a notch. And because this mattress contains high-quality materials, it should last for about a decade.

What the testers say: “The coils in the Helix Dusk gave me extra support under my hips when I was back sleeping. I was confident I was going to have proper spinal alignment all night long.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Helix Dusk

  • Back sleepers who want a plush layer of comfort on top of a layer of supportive coils should find the Helix Dusk to be a perfect fit.
  • Couples who are looking for a mattress that is bouncy and responsive, and is easy to move around and change positions should enjoy the Helix Dusk, as it makes a great mattress for sex.

What to Keep in Mind About the Helix Dusk

  • The Helix Dusk is slightly firmer than average, ranking in at 7/10 on our firmness scale. For side sleepers, this may mean that the mattress is too firm to cushion the joints and give pressure relief to the hips and shoulders.
  • The Dusk is a bouncy and responsive hybrid mattress, which is something to keep in mind for lovers of hybrid mattresses that still offer a classic foam feel on the top layer.

Other user reviews

On the Helix Dusk site, users rated the Dusk mattress 4.6 out of 5 stars. Like us, most users found this mattress to be really comfortable, but some users thought that this mattress was firmer than they expected and could use a mattress topper.  

Read our full Helix Dusk mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of the best mattresses of 2024 for more great options.

Best Extra Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers – WinkBed

Best for Stomach Sleepers

WinkBed Mattress

The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.

Clarity Score 4.6/5

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best for Stomach Sleepers

WinkBed Mattress

The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.

Clarity Score 4.6/5

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best for Stomach Sleepers

WinkBed Mattress

The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.

Clarity Score 4.6/5

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pros
A luxury mattress
Sleeps cool
Responsive
Cons
Not budget friendly
May not work for couples

Our Expert’s Take

Stomach sleepers need a mattress that will help support their spine and keep their hips from sinking into their mattresses, and typically, firm mattresses are the best option for this type of support, which makes the WinkBed a great fit.

The WinkBed is a customizable mattress, meaning it comes in multiple firmness options. For stomach sleepers, the Firmer option will probably be the best option, as it is the firmest option from the brand except for the WinkBed Plus, a mattress specifically designed for heavier people.

What the testers say: “I felt a nice balance of comfort and support on the WinkBed. The zoning offered me some great lumbar support and I got some great pressure relief. I think the Firmer model of this mattress should be a great fit for stomach sleepers.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the WinkBed

  • In our review of the WinkBed, we refer to it as the “combo sleeper’s dream” since the bouncy and responsive nature of the mattress makes it easy to move around on and change positions throughout the night.
  • If you sleep hot, the WinkBed may help with some cooling at night. The cover is made from breathable Tencel, and since the mattress has a coil layer, air can flow through it and prevent heat from being trapped.

What to Keep in Mind About the WinkBed

  • Many bouncy and responsive beds don’t have the best motion isolation, and the WinkBed is no different. That’s something to keep in mind if you sleep with a partner and their movements might disturb you at night.
  • Also, it’s important to keep in mind that bouncy and responsive mattresses tend to make you feel like you’re sleeping on them. If you prefer a more plush and conforming mattress that makes you feel like you’re sleeping in it, you may not feel comfortable on the WinkBed.

Other user reviews

On the WinkBeds website, the mattress has a rating of  4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers praised the mattress for being comfortable and supportive, though a few folks did mention that the mattress was firmer than they expected.

Read the full WinkBed mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of best mattresses for stomach sleepers for more great options.

Best Extra Firm Mattress for Heavy People- Titan Plus

Best Extra Firm Mattress for Heavy Sleepers

Titan Plus

The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.

Clarity Score 4.2/5

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Firm: 9/10

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Best Extra Firm Mattress for Heavy Sleepers

Titan Plus

The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.

Clarity Score 4.2/5

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Firm: 9/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Best Extra Firm Mattress for Heavy Sleepers

Titan Plus

The Titan Plus is Brooklyn Bedding's mattress for heavy people. It is a firm, supportive mattress that can support heavier weights.

Clarity Score 4.2/5

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Firm: 9/10

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Pros
Made with plus-size folks in mind
Boasts great cooling features
Scored a 9 out of 10 in firmness
Cons
Not designed for lightweight people
Too firm for side sleeping

Our Expert’s Take

Heavy sleepers over 230 lbs usually need a mattress that offers a ton of support, and they should have no problem finding it in the Titan Plus. This hybrid mattress from Brooklyn Bedding comes equipped with industrial-strength coils that can easily hold up extra weight. There’s even an added layer of high-density foam below the springs for added support, and to prevent the mattress from sagging over time. Above the coils, a comfort layer of patented TitanFlex foam creates a bit of pressure relief and contouring, all while still being more supportive than standard memory foam.

What the testers say: “Even as a bigger guy, I got all the support I needed on the Titan Plus. I usually struggle getting enough support for stomach sleeping, but the Titan Plus was up to the challenge.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Titan Plus

  • The Titan Plus is a mattress specifically designed for heavier body types. It’s firmer than the average mattress and built to support bodies of certain sizes.
  • Stomach sleepers will probably enjoy that the Titan Plus is a firmer mattress. It prevents the hips from sinking too far deeply into the mattress and prevents spinal misalignment.
  • Across the board, if you love a firm mattress, you’ll probably enjoy the sturdy and supportive nature of the Titan Plus.

What to Keep in Mind About the Titan Plus

  • Though heavier sleepers were put in mind when the Titan Plus was created, it still may be too firm for heavier stomach sleepers, as it may not offer enough pressure relief on the hips and shoulders.
  • Lightweight sleepers will likely find the Titan Plus to be way too firm. Lovers of soft mattresses in general will likely want to opt for another mattress on this roundup.

Other user reviews

The Titan Plus is a mattress that’s loved by real customers, as it has a 4.7 out of 5-star rating on Brooklyn Bedding’s website. Since the mattress is catered towards heavier folks, some heavier sleepers praised how supportive the mattress felt, despite what sleeping position they were in. 

Read our full Titan Plus mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of best mattresses for heavy people for more great options.

Best Extra Firm Mattress for Combination Sleepers – Nolah Evolution

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress

Product Image

The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.

Clarity Score 4.5/5

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress

Product Image

The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.

Clarity Score 4.5/5

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Product Image

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress

The Nolah Evolution is a high-end hybrid mattress that features great support, comfort, and cooling.

Clarity Score 4.5/5

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pros
Cooling features
Great for back sleepers
Durable
Cons
Expensive
Not great for stomach sleepers

Our Expert’s Take

With a Eurotop comfort layer that cushions pressure points and Eco Support coils that provide a nice amount of support, it’s no wonder that the Nolah Evolution consistently makes our list of the best mattresses for combination sleepers.

The hybrid Nolah Evolution mattress is another mattress model that comes in three models: plush, luxury firm, and firm, with the firm option being ideal for someone looking for a more supportive feeling mattress. It’s bouncy and responsive, making it a great choice for sleepers who move around and shift positions throughout the night.

What the testers say: “The Nolah Evolution mattress is a high-quality mattress made with great materials, and even offers some cooling benefits. As a back sleeper, I felt a balance of comfort and support on the Nolah.”Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Nolah Evolution

  • The Nolah Evolution is a bouncy and responsive mattress, which is typically what people look for when they are looking for the best mattress for sex. Its bouncy nature makes it easy for people to move around and switch positons.
  • In spite of its bounciness, the Nolah also has great motion isolation. This means that if you sleep with a partner, you shouldn’t feel them moving around throughout the night.
  • If you sleep hot, the Evolution has some great cooling features. It features a breathable cooling cover, graphite-infused foam, an AirBreathe heat escape gusset, and coils that promote airflow.

What to Keep in Mind About the Nolah Evolution

  • If you’re shopping on a budget, the Nolah may not be a great fit for you. It’s a luxurious mattress, so it comes with a luxurious price tag.
  • The Evolution is on the softer side, so stomach sleepers may not feel like their spines and hips are being properly supported on this mattress, and will probably need something firmer.

Other user reviews

The Nolah Evolution mattress seems to be a customer favorite since the mattress is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars on the Nolah site. Users loved the luxury feel and materials, and most reviews highlighted the comfort of the mattress. What’s more, customers said they received great customer support when ordering their mattresses.

Read our full Nolah Evolution Hybrid mattress review. Looking for more recommendations, take a look at our best mattresses for combination sleepers for other great options.

Best Extra Firm Mattress for Athletes – Bear Elite Hybrid

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

Bear Elite Hybrid - Featured

With a zoned support system, the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress is a great fit for those with back pain.

Clarity Score 4.5/5

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

Lifetime Warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

Bear Elite Hybrid - Featured

With a zoned support system, the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress is a great fit for those with back pain.

Clarity Score 4.5/5

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

Lifetime Warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Bear Elite Hybrid - Featured

Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress

With a zoned support system, the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress is a great fit for those with back pain.

Clarity Score 4.5/5

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

Lifetime Warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Pros
Responsive and easy to move around on
Multiple firmness options
Cooling benefits
Cons
Expensive
Not good for heavy stomach sleepers
Lengthy return process

Our Expert’s Take

Bear is well-known for their mattresses since their mattress models come equipped with celliant to help with muscle recovery and blood flow. The Bear Elite Hybrid is a more luxurious and upgraded version of Bear’s original hybrid mattress, the Star, and is equally equipped to help athletes recover while they sleep.

The Bear Elite Hybrid comes in three models including an extra firm model, and in addition to the celliant fibers, the Bear Elite has some other great features such as phase change materials to help with temperature regulation and copper infused into the foam layers so that it doesn’t overheat. Overall, the Bear Elite Hybrid is a great pick for athletes!

What the testers say: “The Bear Elite Hybrid is made with a lot of great materials to help with cooling and muscle recovery, and I could really feel them getting to work when I laid on it. The phase change material and copper-infused foam really helped keep me cool for the night!”Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Bear Elite Hybrid

  • With the Bear Elite Hybrid, most sleepers should be able to find a mattress that suits their needs since it comes in three different firmness options: Luxury Plush, Luxury  Firm, and Extra Firm.
  • Hot sleepers should love some of the cooling benefits of the Bear. It has copper-infused foam, phase change material that helps to lower body temperature, and the coil layer of the mattress promotes airflow.
  • Because of the coil layer, the Elite Hybrid mattress is fairly bouncy, which is typically what couples who are looking for the best mattress for sex tend to opt for.

What to Keep in Mind About the Bear Elite Hybrid

  • Heavier stomach sleepers probably won’t get the proper spinal support on this Bear model. Opting for a firmer mattress will probably be a better option.
  • Stomach sleepers, especially heavier stomach sleepers tend to need a firmer mattress to feel properly supported at the hips and spine. Since the Elite Hybrid ranks closer to a medium-firm mattress, heavier stomach sleepers may want to choose another mattress.
  • The Bear Elite Hybrid is made with high-quality materials, so it comes with a luxury price tag. A Queen mattress costs upwards of $2,000 before coupons.

Other user reviews

On the Bear site, the mattress has an average customer rating of about 4.3 out of 5 stars. Reviewers claim that the mattress has some great cooling effects, and is plush and comfy, while others who enjoyed the mattress said it began to sag not too long after use.

Read our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of the best mattresses for athletes for more options.

Best Luxury Extra Firm Mattress – Saatva Classic

Best Luxury Firm Mattress

Saatva Mattress

Saatva Mattress Review

The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.3/5

Material

Innerspring

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Luxury Firm Mattress

Saatva Mattress

Saatva Mattress Review

The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.3/5

Material

Innerspring

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Trial Period

365 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Saatva Mattress Review
Best Luxury Firm Mattress

Saatva Mattress

The Saatva is an organic mattress that is both comfortable and supportive. This mattress comes in multiple firmness options to fit a variety of sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.3/5

Material

Innerspring

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

365 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pros
Luxurious tufted pillow top
Never compressed into a cardboard box
It’s supportive and durable
Cons
Lacks a memory foam feel
Pricey
Doesn’t offer too much contouring

Our Expert’s Take

The Saatva Classic mattress is available in three different firmness levels: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. For this roundup, we’ll focus on the Firm option. This innerspring mattress offers ample lumbar support, and the tufted pillow top adds a touch of luxury.

The Saatva Firm mattress works well for back and stomach sleepers, and it’s firm enough to support heavier people. Best of all, Saatva never compresses its mattresses into cardboard boxes. You can even opt for white glove delivery and get your mattress set up in your bedroom.

What the testers say: “The Firm model of the Saatva Classic gave me great support for back sleeping and stomach sleeping. I could really feel the two sets of coils holding up my body.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Saatva

  • Combination sleepers should love the zoned construction on the Saatva mattress. This means that the firmness of the mattress will feel different depending on your sleeping position, so combination sleepers should be comfortable shifting throughout the night.
  • Most sleepers should be able to find a Saatva mattress that suits their needs. The brand offers three firmness choices for their Original mattress: Plush Soft, Firm, and Luxury Firm.
  • Back sleepers and sleepers looking for the best orthopedic mattresses should love the Saatva. It’s made with both soft foams and supportive coils, so it’s a balanced mattress that keeps the spine in proper alignment and cushions pressure points.

What to Keep in Mind About the Saatva

  • Even though Saatva sells a Plush Soft version of their mattress, this still may be too firm for lovers of true, soft, and conforming foam mattresses. Instead, take a look at our roundup of the best soft mattresses.
  • Lightweight sleepers may especially find the Saatva to be too firm, and lightweight side sleepers may find that the Saatva doesn’t offer enough pressure relief on the hips and shoulders.

Other user reviews

Customers on the Saatva site seem to love the Saatva mattress, as it’s rated 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers praised the luxury feel of the mattress and stated that the materials helped improve their sleep, and many customers also praised the customer support they received from Saatva.

Read our full Saatva mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of best luxury mattresses for more great options.

Best Extra Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Mattress Review

Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.0/5

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Mattress Review

Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.0/5

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Mattress Review

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

Brooklyn Bedding has amazing products that are sold at very affordable prices. This mattress is extremely high-quality and a great option for combination sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.0/5

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pros
Sold at a value price
Responsive
Great for back sleeping
Cons
Not great for all-foam lovers
Not great for cradling-mattress lovers

Our Expert’s Take

Much like other mattresses on the page, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a mattress that comes in multiple firmness options: soft, medium, and firm. We tested the medium version of the mattress, which feels like a 6.5/10 on our firmness scale (making it a perfectly medium-firm mattress!) and we found it to be a great fit for back sleepers, but sleepers looking for an even firmer mattress should opt for the firm model.

The mattress offers a great deal of comfort and support since the top layers of the mattress offer some great contouring and softness from the memory foam, and the coil layers underneath offer a more sturdy and supportive feel, creating the balance that back sleepers need. 

What the testers say: “When I tested the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid on my back, I could feel my hips sink right into the top foam layers while I got some contouring at the same time. It was both comfortable and supportive for me as a back sleeper.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

  • Most sleepers, despite their size and sleeping position should be able to find the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid comfortable since it comes in three different firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm.
  • The mattress also has some great cooling features. It’s infused with gel, and since it’s a hybrid, the coil layer helps to promote airflow through the mattress. This should help hot sleepers keep from overheating at night.
  • Couples who are looking for the best mattress for sex tend to want a mattress that is bouncy and responsive, and the Signature Hybrid fits that mold perfectly.

What to Keep in Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

  • Since the Signature Hybrid is bouncy and easy to move around on, it doesn’t isolate motion very well. If you sleep with a partner who moves around a lot, there is a chance that you’ll feel them moving around throughout the night.
  • Also, if you sleep close to the edge of the Signature Hybrid, you may feel the sensation that you’re going to fall off since the mattress doesn’t have the best edge support.

Other user reviews

The Brooklyn Bedding site shows that the Signature Hybrid mattress is rated at 4.7 out of 5 stars, with most customers highlighting the mattress as being soft and supportive. On the contrary, some users thought that the mattress was too soft, so they weren’t able to be properly supported while sleeping.

For more information, read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review. For more hybrid options, see our roundup of the best mattresses for back sleepers.

Best Organic Extra Firm Mattress – Birch

Best Organic Extra Firm Mattress

Birch Mattress

Birch mattress

Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box that’s made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.

Clarity Score 4.5/5

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

100 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 7/10

Warranty

25-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Organic Extra Firm Mattress

Birch Mattress

Birch mattress

Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box that’s made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.

Clarity Score 4.5/5

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

25-year warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 7/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

100 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Birch mattress
Best Organic Extra Firm Mattress

Birch Mattress

Birch is an eco-friendly mattress-in-a-box that’s made with natural latex and organic cotton and wool. It has a base layer of individually wrapped coils and comfort layers made with chemical-free latex foam.

Clarity Score 4.5/5

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Medium-firm: 7/10

Trial Period

100 nights

Warranty

25-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pros
Made with organic materials
Is especially durable
Sleeps cool
Cons
Doesn’t let you sink in
Not the best motion isolation
No contouring

Our Expert’s Take

Fans of eco-friendly mattresses will love the Birch. Made with organic cotton, wool, and Talalay latex, this mattress is free from harmful chemicals. It has a layer of strong coils at the bottom, which is both supportive and cooling.

Another perk – latex foam is especially durable. We expect this mattress to last at least 10 years, so it’s a great investment.

What the testers say: “Without the pillow top, the Birch provided a very firm sleeping surface. I felt great support while stomach and back sleeping.” Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Birch

  • The Birch is flame-resistant, all-natural, and made from organic wool, cotton, and Talalay latex. This makes it a great option for any shoppers looking for an eco-friendly mattress.
  • Since the Birch is made from latex instead of foam, it should sleep cooler than many of its competitors. 
  • The Birch is quiet, responsive, and easy to move around on. This makes it a good choice for couples who are looking for the best mattress for sex.

What to Keep in Mind About the Birch

  • Because the Birch is a bouncy and responsive mattress and ideal for sex, it ends up not being the best at isolating motion. If you sleep with a partner and are disturbed by their movements at night, this is something to be aware of.
  • If you love the feeling of a classic foam, slow-moving mattress, you may not be a fan of the Birch. Since the top layer is made from latex, it gives a different feeling than typical foam mattresses.

Other user reviews

Reviewers generally seem to like the Birch mattress, as it has a 4.7 out of 5 stars rating on the company’s site. Users enjoy the eco-friendly materials and easy setup, and most reviews mention how comfortable the mattress is. Some users did complain about the latex layer being too thin, though.

Read our full Birch mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of best organic mattresses for more great options.

Pros and Cons of Extra Firm Mattresses

ProsCons

Great for stomach sleepers

Doesn’t provide enough pressure relief for most side sleepers

Ideal for heavier sleepers

Not always ideal for lightweight sleepers

Often more durable

Not ideal for lovers of soft mattresses 

Can be good for back pain

 Might not be comfortable for sleepers with back pain

Who Should Get an Extra Firm Mattress?

Extra firm mattresses don’t work for everyone, but certain sleepers can really benefit from that extra boost of support. Here are the three main groups who may want to consider getting an extra firm bed.

  • Stomach Sleepers – In this sleeping position, it’s especially important to make sure your back remains in the correct position. Extra firm beds help support the hips and prevent them from sinking out of alignment. If your bed is too soft, you might develop lower back pain.
  • Back Sleepers – When you rest on your back, you need significant lumbar support. Lightweight and average weight people probably won’t need a mattress that feels firmer than 7.5/10, but heavier folks can benefit from an extra firm bed.
  • Heavier People – Because heavier folks tend to compress the mattress’s comfort layers, they often need more support. If you sink into the top comfort layers of a mattress, your spine might crane out of its natural alignment. This can cause pain and discomfort over time.
Hands-on mattress testing in our sleep lab

How to Choose an Extra Firm Mattress

There are a number of factors that go into picking the best extra firm mattress, including your weight and sleeping preferences. These are important because they directly affect how you adjust to the firmness and materials of your mattress. Keep reading below to get a better idea of how to know which type of extra firm mattress is best for you.

How Firm is an Extra Firm Mattress?

The Mattress Clarity firmness scale ranges from 1-10, with 6.5/10 representing medium-firm. Most firm mattresses range from 7-8 on our firmness scale, but extra firm beds are even more supportive. It’s important to remember, however, that firmness is subjective. Heavier people often think mattresses feel firmer because they compress the top layers and feel more of the support layer underneath.

extra firm mattresses on a scale 8/10 - 10/10

Types of Extra Firm Mattresses

If you’ve been mattress shopping for a while, chances are you’ve noticed several different makes and models. But what do they all mean? We’ll go over the main types of extra firm mattresses and explain who they’re right for.

Memory Foam

Memory foam mattresses offer lots of body contouring. They tend to work well for side sleepers who need pressure relief, but you can also find all-foam beds that work well for back and stomach sleepers.

Memory foam mattresses have a bad rep for trapping body heat, but many of them have cooling features to help combat that issue. If you’re concerned about sleeping hot at night, look for a memory foam mattress made with phase change material. Gel, graphite, and copper infusions also help dissipate heat.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses combine foam and coils to create a balanced and responsive feel. Thanks to the thick foam comfort layer, sleepers feel relief along pressure points. The supportive innerspring layer helps prevent sleepers from “bottoming out” and offers additional lumbar support.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses are similar to hybrids, but their comfort layers aren’t as thick. When you rest on an innerspring mattress, you’ll feel more of the support coils underneath. For this reason, innersprings tend to feel a bit firmer than hybrids. They often have luxurious, tufted pillow tops for additional comfort.

Latex

Latex looks a lot like memory foam, but it’s more responsive and breathable. Sleepers won’t “sink” into a latex mattress. Instead, they’ll feel like they’re sleeping on top of the bed. This also helps with cooling, because the foam layers don’t trap as much body heat.

Latex mattresses tend to be more durable than other models, and many of them are eco-friendly. These beds usually feel firmer than memory foam mattresses, so they’re great picks for folks who need extra lumbar support.

How Much Does an Extra Firm Mattress Cost?

Mattress prices run the gamut – some are pricey while others are more affordable. No matter your budget, you should be able to find a bed that suits your needs. The Brooklyn Bedding Plank mattress is a great budget-friendly pick, coming in at $1332.00 for a queen. If you want something more luxurious, opt for the Saatva. This high-end bed costs $1995.00 for a queen.

For more information, see our article on How Much Does a Mattress Cost?

Is an Extra Firm Mattress Good for Back Pain?

If you’re a stomach sleeper or a back sleeper who suffers from back pain, an extra firm mattress is a great match for you. Firm mattresses tend to distribute weight more evenly than softer mattresses, so stomach sleepers and back sleepers who need extra support to keep their spines aligned will benefit from an extra firm mattress.

Keep in mind that firmness is subjective and that the amount of support a mattress provides depends on its construction and materials. Just because a mattress feels very firm does not necessarily mean it will provide the best support for you. An extra firm mattress is only best for back pain if it keeps your spine in good neutral alignment.

Summary

MattressSuperlative
Plank FirmBest Overall
Helix DuskBest Extra Firm Mattress for Back Pain
WinkBedBest Extra Firm Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
Titan Plus Best Extra Firm Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
Nolah EvolutionBest Extra Firm Mattress for Combination Sleepers
Bear Elite HybridBest Extra Firm Mattress for Athletes
SaatvaBest Luxury Extra Firm Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Signature HybridBest Extra Firm Mattress for Back Sleepers
BirchBest Organic Extra Firm Mattress

Best Extra Firm Mattresses FAQs

What is the firmest mattress called?

The Brooklyn Bedding Plank is the firmest mattress on the market. This flippable bed has two firmness levels in one. The softer side comes in at 8/10 on our firmness scale, and the other side feels like 9/10. It’s a great choice for stomach sleepers and heavier folks.

Who should use an extra firm mattress?

Stomach sleepers can really benefit from extra firm mattresses. The supportive base layer prevents hips from sinking out of alignment and can alleviate lower back pain. Extra firm mattresses also work well for heavier people because they offer ample support.

Is an extra firm mattress good for your back?

They can be, depending on your particular needs. Extra firm mattresses can help stomach sleepers alleviate back pain, but side sleepers will likely develop shoulder and hip pain from sleeping on one of these beds.

How do I know if my bed is too firm?

If you wake up with neck, shoulder, or hip pain, your bed might be too firm. It’s important to make sure your mattress can cushion joints and alleviate pressure. If you find your bed is too firm, don’t stress! You might not have to buy an entirely new mattress. You can also soften your bed with the help of a mattress topper.

Elisa Regulski

Elisa is the Editor of Mattress Clarity, where she analyzes sleep products and appears in review videos. A certified sleep science coach, Elisa's sleep tips have appeared in Readers Digest, Homes and Gardens, and 21 Oak. She earned a M.A in Mass Communication from Texas State University and a B.F.A in acting from Oklahoma City University.