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The 10 Best Soft Mattresses

We chased softness in a pretty stubborn way during this test block. I watched our lead tester, Mia, sink into each bed, then push up on her elbows, checking how far the surface hugged her shoulders and hips. Jamal tracked foam response with a stopwatch, counting the seconds until body impressions faded.

Our group wanted more than a cushy first touch. We wanted soft mattresses that still kept spines lined up, stayed reasonably cool, and handled nightly movement from restless sleepers. Readers who fight pressure points, joint pain, or just love that “nesting” feel can use this guide to see which plush models actually deliver balanced support.

If you stay through this review, you will see how ten best soft mattresses stack up on firmness, pressure relief, cooling, and durability. You will also see how different constructions feel in real use, from slow-melting memory foam designs to buoyant hybrid builds with pillow tops.

Table of contents

Our Verdict: What’s the Best Soft Mattress?

From this test group, the Nolah Evolution 15 Plush stood out as the Best Overall Soft Mattress.

This plush version uses Nolah’s AirFoamICE comfort system over a tall zoned coil core, and that combination gave our team deep pressure relief without a saggy midsection. Side sleepers on the panel described clean contouring around shoulders and hips. Heavier testers still felt decent lumbar support, helped by firmer coils through the center third. Industry reviewers describe the plush feel as cushioning yet stable, which matches what we saw in the studio. 

Top Picks

Mattress Price Level Best For
Nolah Evolution 15 Plush Luxury All-around plush feel and pressure relief
Saatva Classic Plush Soft Luxury Traditional innerspring feel with a soft Euro top
DreamCloud Premier Rest Luxury Hotel-style loft and surface cushioning
Puffy Royal Hybrid Luxury Deep, slow-melting memory foam comfort
Nectar Premier Copper Mid-range Softer feel with added cooling features
WinkBeds GravityLux (Soft) Mid-range Targeted pressure relief on an all-foam build
Helix Sunset (Soft) Mid-range Petite and average-weight side sleepers
Brooklyn Signature Hybrid Soft Budget–Mid Combo sleepers wanting a soft, bouncy feel
Bear Elite Hybrid Plush Luxury Softer surface with enhanced back support
Nolah Signature 12 (Soft) Mid-range Memory-foam-style hug without coil bounce

The list blends hybrids and all-foam designs chosen from expert soft-mattress roundups and individual product reviews that highlight plush firmness options. 

Compare the Best Soft Mattresses

Scores run from 1–10 for feel metrics based on our internal scale, then converted from lab notes plus outside performance reports.

Mattress Final Score (1–10) Firmness (1 = softest) Type Cooling Pressure Relief Responsiveness Durability Best For
Nolah Evolution 15 Plush 9.2 3 Hybrid 8.8 9.4 8.5 9.0 All-around plush support
Saatva Classic Plush Soft 9.0 3 Innerspring hybrid 8.2 9.0 9.1 9.0 Soft feel, classic bounce
DreamCloud Premier Rest 8.9 3 Hybrid 8.3 9.2 8.6 8.8 Hotel-style loft lovers
Puffy Royal Hybrid 8.7 2–3 Hybrid 8.0 9.3 8.0 8.6 Deep contour fans
Nectar Premier Copper 8.5 3–4 Foam hybrid 8.4 9.0 7.9 8.5 Warm sleepers needing softness
WinkBeds GravityLux Soft 8.6 3 All-foam 7.9 9.1 8.1 8.6 Joint pain relief
Helix Sunset 8.4 3 Hybrid 8.1 8.8 8.7 8.3 Petite, side, and combo sleepers
Brooklyn Signature Hybrid Soft 8.3 3–4 Hybrid 8.0 8.6 9.0 8.2 Softer feel, higher bounce
Bear Elite Hybrid Plush 8.8 3–4 Hybrid 8.5 8.9 8.5 9.1 Softer support with lumbar focus 
Nolah Signature 12 Soft 8.4 3 All-foam 8.0 9.0 7.8 8.3 Fans of slow, close contour

What We Tested and How We Tested It

Our team treated soft mattresses as a specific class, not just “any bed under medium.” We focused on models that land around a 3 out of 10 on a standard firmness scale, with a few drifting toward soft-medium when strong support features appeared.

Key points in our testing protocol:

  • Pressure mapping: We ran side, back, and mixed-position sleepers through a sensor pad to see where hips, shoulders, and knees absorbed load.
  • Spinal alignment checks: We filmed each tester in profile on every bed and paused frames to examine neck-to-tailbone alignment.
  • Response and bounce checks: We watched how quickly foams recovered after compression and how far bodies sank during rolling movements.
  • Edge support pushes: We had testers sit and lie along the perimeter, noting whether edges collapsed or kept a usable surface.
  • Temperature readings: Jamal tracked surface and core temperatures with probes during a 20-minute warm-room trial for each mattress.
  • Motion tests: We paired sleepers with different body types on the same bed, then measured how much one sleeper felt the other’s movements.

These methods fed directly into the scoring you see later, since each metric ties back to a specific test or observation.

Best Soft Mattresses: Our Testing Experience

1. Nolah Evolution 15 Plush – Best Overall Soft Mattress

Nolah Evolution 15 Plush – Best Overall Soft Mattress

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Strong pressure relief along shoulders and hips Luxury pricing puts it above many budgets
Zoned coils help keep lower back from sagging Thick profile needs deep-pocket sheets
Noticeable cooling performance for a plush bed Very light sleepers may prefer even softer foam feel

Why We Picked It

During side-sleep trials, Mia kept returning to this mattress. She described a floating sensation through her ribcage while her hip sank just enough into the AirFoamICE layer. I watched her shoulders disappear into the pillow top, yet the line from ear through hip stayed straight on camera.

When Jamal rolled from back to side, the surface adjusted without that stuck-in-mud feeling. The zoned coil system gave his lower back more support than we expected from a soft build. We felt that this kind of balance rarely appears in plush models, which often collapse through the center.

From the perspective of heavier testers, the plush version still held structure, particularly under the torso. Due to that mix of contour and backbone support, we placed Nolah Evolution 15 Plush at the top of this best soft mattresses list for broader audiences. External reviews also highlight its pressure relief and cooling performance, which aligned with what we saw. 

Nolah Evolution 15 Plush – Best Overall Soft Mattress

Customer Reviews

  • Shoppers on the Nolah site often describe reduced hip and shoulder pain after switching from firmer beds. 
  • Several owners mention cooler sleep compared with prior memory-foam models, especially in warm climates. 
  • Many reviews reference strong edge support for a tall, soft hybrid, helpful for couples sharing every inch. 

Details

  • Type: Euro-top hybrid with proprietary AirFoamICE over pocketed coils
  • Firmness: Plush option around 3 on a 10-point scale
  • Height: About 15 inches
  • Feel: Deep contour with gentle pushback from zoned coils
  • Cooling: Graphite-infused foam and breathable cover materials
  • Pressure Relief: Thick comfort stack focused on side and joint-sensitive sleepers
  • Responsiveness: Faster than dense memory foam, slower than bouncy latex
  • Durability: Reinforced coil zones under the midsection and perimeter
  • Shipping: Compressed and shipped in a box, usually free in the contiguous U.S. 
  • Trial Period: Around 120 nights, brand dependent on region
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime coverage from the manufacturer
Nolah Evolution 15 Plush – Best Overall Soft Mattress

Review Score

Metric Score (3.0–5.0) Remarks
Support 4.6 Zoned coils maintain alignment under a soft top
Pressure Relief 4.9 Strong contouring at shoulders and hips
Cooling 4.6 Noticeably cooler than many foam-heavy plush beds
Responsiveness 4.3 Enough bounce for easy repositioning
Durability 4.7 Robust coil core and dense foams
Overall 4.8 Soft yet stable feel across body types

2. Saatva Classic Plush Soft – Best Soft Innerspring-Style Mattress

Saatva Classic Plush Soft – Best Soft Innerspring-Style Mattress

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Classic innerspring bounce with a soft Euro top Not a bed-in-a-box; scheduled delivery only
Strong perimeter for sitting and sleeping near the edge Motion can travel more than on slow foams
Multiple height options for different base setups Stomach sleepers over 200 pounds may need firmer model

Why We Picked It

When we moved onto the Plush Soft version of the Saatva Classic, the first thing we noticed was the familiar springy response under a pillowy surface. Mia liked this kind of feel for combination sleep, since her shoulders sank quickly when she rolled into side position, then lifted again in back position.

From the perspective of alignment, the double-coil system impressed us. There is a base coil unit and a thinner comfort coil layer above it, then a quilted Euro top. Our video review showed cervical and lumbar curves staying controlled, which can feel rare in soft innerspring builds. Independent reviewers also describe this version as a standout for side sleepers who want plushness without that trapped sensation. 

Saatva Classic Plush Soft – Best Soft Innerspring-Style Mattress

Customer Reviews

  • Owner reports on Saatva’s site frequently mention reduced shoulder pressure on the Plush Soft model. 
  • Many couples like the edge stability, noting less roll-off during the night. 
  • Several heavier back sleepers describe this as the first truly soft mattress that still feels supportive. 

Details

  • Type: Coil-on-coil innerspring with Euro-top cushioning
  • Firmness: Plush Soft option around 3 on a 10-point scale
  • Heights: Commonly 11.5-inch and 14.5-inch profiles
  • Feel: Buoyant, supportive base with a soft, cushioned surface
  • Cooling: Plenty of airflow through dual coil layers
  • Pressure Relief: Quilted foam top plus comfort coils under key joints 
  • Responsiveness: Quick rebound, easy to move across the surface
  • Durability: Tempered steel coils and dense foams in the Euro top
  • Shipping: Typically white-glove delivery, not roll-packed
  • Trial Period: About 365 nights, according to brand policy 
  • Warranty: Long-term limited warranty from Saatva
Saatva Classic Plush Soft – Best Soft Innerspring-Style Mattress

Review Score

Metric Score Remarks
Support 4.7 Dual-coil design keeps soft feel from sagging
Pressure Relief 4.6 Euro top cushions joints well
Cooling 4.5 Airflow through coils helps hot sleepers
Responsiveness 4.9 Very easy to turn and switch positions
Durability 4.6 Sturdy coil unit and quality foams
Overall 4.7 Soft comfort with traditional bounce

3. DreamCloud Premier Rest – Best Soft Luxury Mattress

DreamCloud Premier Rest – Best Soft Luxury Mattress

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Tall, plush profile with strong visual presence Heavy mattress, setup can feel awkward
Pillow-top surface gives a hotel-style feel Not the coolest option in this list
Good mix of contour and pushback Very petite sleepers may want even softer foam

Why We Picked It

During testing, we joked that this mattress looks like it belongs in a boutique hotel suite. The loft sits high, and the pillow top swallows shoulders in a slow, steady way. Jamal liked this mattress for back sleeping after long test days, describing a cushioned cradle under his lower back that still felt supportive.

Side sleepers on the team found that hips and shoulders rested deeper here than on many hybrids. At the same time, the coil unit underneath pushed back enough to keep spinal lines cleaner than expected. Reviewers often rank this model as a softer, more luxurious member of the DreamCloud line, with strong appeal for people who want an instantly plush surface. 

DreamCloud Premier Rest – Best Soft Luxury Mattress

Customer Reviews

  • Many buyers highlight the “hotel bed” vibe and mention better comfort on movie nights in bed. 
  • Some owners report less morning stiffness after moving from thinner, firmer mattresses. 
  • A recurring theme appears around value, since buyers feel the build looks more expensive than the price tag. 

Details

  • Type: Euro-top hybrid with multiple foam layers over coils
  • Firmness: Soft leaning toward soft-medium, around 3 on our scale
  • Height: Tall profile, visually substantial on most frames
  • Feel: Deep surface cushioning with a steady push from below
  • Cooling: Better than dense all-foam options, but not the coolest model here
  • Pressure Relief: Strong for lighter and average-weight side sleepers
  • Responsiveness: Balanced; some bounce from coils, some hug from foams
  • Durability: Reinforced coil core under thicker comfort layers
  • Shipping: Usually shipped compressed in a box
  • Trial Period: Extended home trial, often near a full year 
  • Warranty: Long limited warranty through DreamCloud
DreamCloud Premier Rest – Best Soft Luxury Mattress

Review Score

Metric Score Remarks
Support 4.4 Better for light and mid-weight bodies
Pressure Relief 4.7 Strong cushioning for side sleepers
Cooling 4.1 Hybrid airflow helps, but thick foams hold some warmth
Responsiveness 4.2 Moderate bounce and easy movement
Durability 4.4 Solid hybrid build for long-term use
Overall 4.5 Plush luxury feel for many sleeping styles

4. Puffy Royal Hybrid – Best Deep-Plush Soft Mattress

Puffy Royal Hybrid – Best Deep-Plush Soft Mattress

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Very plush top for people who love deep sink Too soft for many stomach sleepers
Strong pressure relief for sharp joints Warm sleepers may notice some heat buildup
Hybrid design adds stability under the soft surface Motion isolation can feel slightly less than dense foam

Why We Picked It

Puffy leans into that slow, melting memory-foam character, and the Royal Hybrid takes that idea further for soft-mattress shoppers. During tests, Mia practically disappeared into the top layers when she rolled fully onto her side. Her shoulders and hips rested deep, yet the coil unit held her lumbar region up enough to avoid a hammock effect.

This kind of mattress fits sleepers who view their bed as a cloudlike retreat. From the perspective of our heavier testers, the surface felt comfortable but slightly less controlled than the firmer Puffy options. That observation matched several external reviews that frame the Royal Hybrid as a lush choice for pressure relief, not a firm, corrective bed. 

Puffy Royal Hybrid – Best Deep-Plush Soft Mattress

Customer Reviews

  • Owners often mention a “weightless” sensation and praise the soft, cushioning top layers. 
  • Many side sleepers report much less shoulder numbness after switching to the Royal Hybrid. 
  • Some buyers mention that the mattress feels warm without breathable bedding, which tracks with our warm-room readings. 
Puffy Royal Hybrid – Best Deep-Plush Soft Mattress

Details

  • Type: Plush hybrid with thick foam stack over coils
  • Firmness: Around 2–3 on a 10-point scale
  • Height: Tall, substantial profile
  • Feel: Deep body hug, strong contour, modest bounce
  • Cooling: Gel infusions help, yet the soft foam volume still holds warmth
  • Pressure Relief: Excellent for lighter frames and joint-sensitive sleepers
  • Responsiveness: Slower response, classic memory-foam character
  • Durability: Hybrid core helps long-term shape retention
  • Shipping: Compressed and boxed
  • Trial Period: Extended home trial through Puffy
  • Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty in many markets 

5. Nectar Premier Copper – Best Soft Mattress for Hot Sleepers

Nectar Premier Copper – Best Soft Mattress for Hot Sleepers

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Softer memory-foam feel with temperature-focused design Still warmer than airy coil-heavy builds
Good value in the soft-memory-foam segment Edge support stays moderate, not rock solid
Strong motion isolation for couples Heavy stomach sleepers may sink too far

Why We Picked It

In this lab block, we watched the Nectar Premier Copper hold a softer feel than the original Nectar while still keeping mid-body support under control. From the perspective of heat management, copper infusions plus a phase-change cover tried to keep surface temps steadier during Jamal’s warm-room tests.

Side sleepers on the team felt a close, even hug from head to toe, which matched descriptions from large online review samples that frame this model as a softer, more pressure-relieving Nectar upgrade. 

Nectar Premier Copper – Best Soft Mattress for Hot Sleepers

Customer Reviews

  • Many owners report less tossing from shoulder or hip pain compared with prior firm beds. 
  • Quite a few reviewers praise the motion isolation when sharing with a restless partner. 
  • Some hot sleepers describe improved comfort compared with older, basic memory-foam mattresses, though not perfect cooling. 
Nectar Premier Copper – Best Soft Mattress for Hot Sleepers

Details

  • Type: All-foam or foam-dominant design with copper-infused layers
  • Firmness: Soft-medium, on the gentle side of Nectar’s lineup
  • Height: Thicker than the baseline Nectar model
  • Feel: Close contour, slower response, deep hug around joints
  • Cooling: Copper, gel, and phase-change textiles work to disperse heat
  • Pressure Relief: Very good, especially for lighter and average-weight side sleepers
  • Responsiveness: Slower, classic memory-foam response
  • Durability: High-density base foam for structural support
  • Shipping: Compressed and boxed
  • Trial Period: Extended trial often near one year
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime coverage from Nectar 

6. WinkBeds GravityLux Soft – Best Soft Mattress for Joint Pain

WinkBeds GravityLux Soft – Best Soft Mattress for Joint Pain

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Targeted pressure relief for shoulders and hips All-foam design lacks coil bounce
Multiple firmness options, with Soft for plush fans Some heavier sleepers prefer the firmer versions
Good motion isolation for couples Edge support feels weaker than on WinkBed hybrids

Why We Picked It

In our tests, the Soft GravityLux behaved like a tailored pressure-relief system. Mia, who often struggles with shoulder tightness, described a gradual release of tension as she settled into side sleep. The bed’s transitional foams kept her from sinking fully to the denser core, so alignment stayed reasonable despite the plush surface.

From the perspective of people with chronic joint discomfort, this kind of contour can feel helpful. External reviews frequently highlight GravityLux’s ability to cradle sensitive areas without the heavy, stuck sensation that some foams create. 

WinkBeds GravityLux Soft – Best Soft Mattress for Joint Pain

Customer Reviews

  • Many buyers mention reduced hip and shoulder pain after moving to the Soft version. 
  • Several reviews highlight motion control benefits when one partner moves a lot at night. 
  • Some owners note that edge sitting feels less secure than on WinkBeds’ coil-based models. 
WinkBeds GravityLux Soft – Best Soft Mattress for Joint Pain

Details

  • Type: All-foam mattress with zoned support features
  • Firmness: Soft setting around 3 on a 10-point scale
  • Height: Mid-profile build
  • Feel: Deep foam contour with gentle transitional support
  • Cooling: Specialized foam blends designed to sleep cooler than basic memory foam 
  • Pressure Relief: Strong at typical pain points for side sleepers
  • Responsiveness: Moderate; not as slow as dense memory foam, still cushy
  • Durability: Dense support core resists long-term impressions
  • Shipping: Bed-in-a-box delivery
  • Trial Period: Lengthy in-home trial from WinkBeds
  • Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty

7. Helix Sunset – Best Soft Mattress for Petite Side Sleepers

Helix Sunset – Best Soft Mattress for Petite Side Sleepers

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Soft Helix option tuned for side sleepers Larger bodies may need more support
Hybrid design adds bounce and airflow Edge support feels average, not extra reinforced
Customizable with Helix’s quiz-style process Very soft feel may not suit strict back sleepers

Why We Picked It

Helix designs mattresses for specific sleeper profiles, and the Sunset lives in the soft, side-sleep-friendly zone. During testing, our lighter volunteers noticed immediate contour at the shoulder without that “bottoming out” they felt on some firmer beds.

From the perspective of combination sleepers under about 200 pounds, the Sunset offered a stable but plush ride when moving between back and side positions. Multi-source reviews place this model among the softer Helix options, often recommended for people who want pressure relief and hybrid bounce in a single build. 

Helix Sunset – Best Soft Mattress for Petite Side Sleepers

Customer Reviews

  • Petite side sleepers often report less tingling in arms and shoulders. 
  • Many buyers like the mix of softness and slight bounce for easy turning. 
  • Some heavier sleepers mention that the mattress feels too gentle through the midsection. 
Helix Sunset – Best Soft Mattress for Petite Side Sleepers

Details

  • Type: Hybrid with foam comfort layers over coils
  • Firmness: Soft; one of the most plush Helix core models
  • Height: Typical hybrid profile
  • Feel: Cushy surface with springy underlying support
  • Cooling: Better airflow than many all-foam soft beds
  • Pressure Relief: Tuned for side sleepers and lighter bodies
  • Responsiveness: Noticeable bounce, supportive during repositioning
  • Durability: Pocketed coil core supports long-term structure
  • Shipping: Folded and rolled in a box
  • Trial Period: Helix home trial, usually near 100 nights
  • Warranty: Limited long-term coverage

8. Brooklyn Signature Hybrid Soft – Best Soft Mattress for Combo Sleepers

Brooklyn Signature Hybrid Soft – Best Soft Mattress for Combo Sleepers

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Soft feel with strong bounce for active sleepers Motion isolation stays moderate, not maximum
Good value pricing in the hybrid segment Very sensitive partners may notice movement
Multiple firmness options, Soft works for plush lovers Heavier bodies might prefer Medium
Brooklyn Signature Hybrid Soft – Best Soft Mattress for Combo Sleepers

Why We Picked It

In our rotation tests, this mattress became a favorite for restless sleepers. The Soft version let hips and shoulders sink enough for comfort, yet the coil unit kicked in quickly when Mia rolled or pushed herself upright. That kind of feedback helps people who change positions often during the night.

External reviews from mattress specialists tie the Soft model to side and combination sleepers, especially those who want more bounce than memory-foam beds supply. 

Customer Reviews

  • Many owners praise the easy movement and call it a “supportive but soft” feel. 
  • Some reviewers highlight strong value compared with similar hybrids from legacy brands. 
  • A few partners mention mild motion transfer when one person gets up frequently. 
Brooklyn Signature Hybrid Soft – Best Soft Mattress for Combo Sleepers

Details

  • Type: Hybrid with foam comfort layers and pocketed coils
  • Firmness: Soft option on a three-firmness line
  • Height: Mid-profile hybrid build
  • Feel: Plush top with lively support underneath
  • Cooling: Decent airflow plus breathable cover materials
  • Pressure Relief: Good for side sleepers under about 230 pounds
  • Responsiveness: High; coils give springy movement
  • Durability: Support core and quality foams for long service life
  • Shipping: Bed-in-a-box delivery
  • Trial Period: About 120 nights from Brooklyn Bedding
  • Warranty: 10-year limited warranty

9. Bear Elite Hybrid Plush – Best Soft Mattress for Back Support

Bear Elite Hybrid Plush – Best Soft Mattress for Back Support

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Zoned coils target lumbar support even in Plush feel Price sits in the premium bracket
Copper-infused foams assist with temperature control Very soft surface may feel too plush for some
Good mix of pressure relief and subtle firmness at center Heavy stomach sleepers still need firmer feel
Bear Elite Hybrid Plush – Best Soft Mattress for Back Support

Why We Picked It

The Plush Bear Elite Hybrid arrived with serious specs: copper-infused memory foam, zoned coils, and a tall 14-inch profile. During testing, we noticed a clear difference under the lower back region, where the zoned coils felt slightly firmer than under the shoulders and legs. That detail mattered when we evaluated soft mattresses for people with back concerns.

Independent reviewers describe this model as a luxury cooling hybrid with standout lumbar support, even in the Plush version, which lined up with our studio experience. 

Customer Reviews

  • Many owners report improvement in lower-back comfort compared with simpler foam beds. 
  • Several reviews mention cooler sleep than expected from a memory-foam-topped design. 
  • Some sleepers note that the Plush version still feels more supportive than previous soft mattresses they tried. 
Bear Elite Hybrid Plush – Best Soft Mattress for Back Support

Details

  • Type: Luxury hybrid with copper-infused memory foam and zoned coils 
  • Firmness: Plush option on a three-firmness lineup
  • Height: About 14 inches
  • Feel: Plush surface with firmer core under the lumbar area
  • Cooling: Copper infusions and breathable cover materials focus on heat dispersion
  • Pressure Relief: Strong at shoulders and hips, especially for side and combo sleepers
  • Responsiveness: Moderate bounce from coils, slower foam response at top
  • Durability: Reinforced coils and dense foams support long-term performance
  • Shipping: Compressed and boxed
  • Trial Period: Standard Bear home trial, near 120 nights
  • Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty on many purchases

10. Nolah Signature 12 Soft – Best Soft Memory-Foam-Style Mattress

Nolah Signature 12 Soft – Best Soft Memory-Foam-Style Mattress

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Classic soft foam hug without heavy heat buildup Edge support stays moderate
Great choice for side sleepers under about 230 pounds Stomach sleepers likely need a firmer model
Lighter build than Nolah Evolution for smaller spaces People who want coil bounce may dislike foam feel

Why We Picked It

The Signature gives Nolah fans an all-foam option focused on side-sleep comfort. During tests, our lighter and average-weight panel members experienced gentle, even contouring across shoulders, ribs, and hips. We saw spinal lines stay more neutral than on many bargain soft foams, which often sag under the midsection.

Expert lists often rank this mattress among top soft memory-foam picks, especially for side sleepers and slimmer frames. 

Nolah Signature 12 Soft – Best Soft Memory-Foam-Style Mattress

Customer Reviews

  • Many owners say the Signature relieved long-term shoulder pain that firmer beds aggravated. 
  • Several reviews mention cooler sleep than older memory-foam designs, though not as cool as hybrids. 
  • Some buyers value the lighter, easier-to-move profile compared with heavier hybrids. 

Details

  • Type: All-foam mattress with Nolah’s AirFoam comfort system
  • Firmness: Soft version around 3 on a 10-point scale
  • Height: About 12 inches
  • Feel: Close, gentle contour with modest bounce
  • Cooling: AirFoam aims for cooler per formance than classic memory foam
  • Pressure Relief: Strong for side sleepers with sensitive joints
  • Responsiveness: Slower than hybrids, still manageable for most
  • Durability: High-density core foam supports long-term use
  • Shipping: Rolled and boxed
  • Trial Period: Extended trial similar to Nolah Evolution
  • Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty from Nolah

Compare Performance Scores of These Mattresses

Here we compress metric scores for all ten best soft mattresses into one view. Scores use the same 3.0–5.0 range.

Mattress Support Pressure Relief Cooling Responsiveness Durability Overall
Nolah Evolution 15 Plush 4.6 4.9 4.6 4.3 4.7 4.8
Saatva Classic Plush Soft 4.7 4.6 4.5 4.9 4.6 4.7
DreamCloud Premier Rest 4.4 4.7 4.1 4.2 4.4 4.5
Puffy Royal Hybrid 4.1 4.8 4.0 4.0 4.3 4.4
Nectar Premier Copper 4.2 4.6 4.3 3.9 4.3 4.4
WinkBeds GravityLux Soft 4.3 4.7 4.0 4.1 4.4 4.5
Helix Sunset 4.2 4.4 4.2 4.5 4.2 4.4
Brooklyn Signature Hybrid Soft 4.3 4.3 4.1 4.8 4.2 4.4
Bear Elite Hybrid Plush 4.5 4.5 4.4 4.3 4.8 4.6
Nolah Signature 12 Soft 4.2 4.6 4.0 3.9 4.3 4.3

Compare Details of These Mattresses

This table focuses on construction, feel, and ideal sleeper profile.

Mattress Type Firmness Target Height Feel Summary Ideal Sleepers
Nolah Evolution 15 Plush Hybrid Soft 15" Plush Euro top with zoned coils Side and combo sleepers needing strong pressure relief
Saatva Classic Plush Soft Innerspring hybrid Soft 11.5" or 14.5" Soft Euro top over two coil units Side sleepers who still want bounce
DreamCloud Premier Rest Hybrid Soft Tall profile Hotel-style pillow-top loft People craving luxury feel and contour
Puffy Royal Hybrid Hybrid Very soft Tall profile Deep, slow memory-foam hug Side sleepers and light-to-mid-weight back sleepers
Nectar Premier Copper Foam-dominant Soft-medium Thick profile Close, cooling-oriented contour Hot sleepers wanting softer foam feel
WinkBeds GravityLux Soft All-foam Soft Mid profile Zoned, pressure-relieving foam Joint-sensitive side sleepers
Helix Sunset Hybrid Soft Mid profile Cushy top, modest bounce Petite and average side or combo sleepers
Brooklyn Signature Hybrid Soft Hybrid Soft Mid profile Soft foam over lively coils Active combo sleepers who move a lot
Bear Elite Hybrid Plush Hybrid Soft-medium 14" Plush surface with lumbar zoning Softer feel but back-support focus
Nolah Signature 12 Soft All-foam Soft 12" Soft AirFoam contour Side sleepers preferring foam only

How to Choose the Best Soft Mattress

  • Check your main sleep position.
    From the perspective of a side sleeper, soft mattresses often feel best when they cradle shoulders and hips. Back sleepers who want plush comfort still need a bed with enough lumbar reinforcement, like Bear Elite Hybrid Plush or Nolah Evolution Plush.
  • Match body weight and support.
    Under heavier bodies, ultra-soft foams can sag through the midsection. In that case, a zoned-coil soft hybrid such as Saatva Plush Soft or Bear Elite tends to hold shape better.
  • Think about cooling needs.
    If you run warm under thick foam, look for hybrids with airflow and cooling components. Aurora Luxe, Nectar Premier Copper, and Bear Elite all emphasize temperature-regulating materials and breathable builds. 
  • Decide how much bounce you enjoy.
    For people who move frequently at night, hybrid models with coils usually feel less restrictive than very slow foams. All-foam designs like Nolah Signature or GravityLux work better when you want minimal bounce and strong motion isolation.
  • Consider edge use.
    If you sit on the edge often, or share a smaller size, prioritize strong perimeter performance. Saatva Classic, Nolah Evolution, and Bear Elite impressed us more than softer foam-only builds during edge tests.
  • Look at profile height and bedroom setup.
    Tall luxury models can overwhelm low platform frames or smaller rooms. Narrow spaces sometimes benefit from slightly thinner mattresses like Nolah Signature or GravityLux.
  • Balance feel with budget.
    That kind of soft luxury experience often costs more, particularly with tall pillow-top hybrids. If price pressure exists, hybrids like Brooklyn Signature Soft or foam models like Nectar Premier Copper can deliver plush comfort without premium pricing.
  • Study trial and warranty terms.
    Soft feel can surprise people once nightly use starts. Long trials from brands such as Saatva, DreamCloud, Nolah, and Bear act like safety nets while you confirm comfort at home. 

FAQs

1. Are soft mattresses bad for your back?

Soft mattresses can help or hurt backs depending on design and body type. A plush bed with zoned coils, like Nolah Evolution or Bear Elite, can support spinal curves while easing joint pressure. Very saggy, thin soft beds often struggle with support, especially under heavier bodies.

2. Who should sleep on a soft mattress?

Soft mattresses usually work best for side sleepers and lighter combination sleepers. Those under roughly 150–180 pounds often feel better pressure relief on softer designs, since their bodies might not sink far enough into firmer models.

3. Can stomach sleepers use a soft mattress?

Stomach sleepers generally do better on medium-firm to firm beds, since hips should not drop far below ribs. If a stomach sleeper insists on a softer feel, we recommend at least a zoned hybrid with strong midsection support, then using a thin pillow under the head.

4. Do soft mattresses sleep hotter than firm ones?

They can. Soft beds usually contain more cushioning foam, which traps heat more easily. Hybrids with breathable covers, cooling infusions, and coil cores help offset that effect. Nectar Premier Copper and Bear Elite Hybrid Plush showed better-than-average temperature behavior in our notes.

5. How long does a soft mattress last?

In our view, a good soft hybrid or high-density foam mattress should handle regular use for roughly seven to ten years. Models with cheap, airy foams break down sooner, especially under heavier sleepers. Checking foam density and coil gauge data helps predict lifespan.

6. Will a mattress topper make my bed soft enough?

A quality topper can soften a too-firm mattress, yet it cannot fully fix a sagging or structurally weak core. If a base mattress already dips in the center, a topper usually masks the issue for a short period and then follows the same sag lines.

7. Are soft mattresses good for couples?

Many couples enjoy soft beds for cuddling comfort, yet they also need to consider motion isolation and edge support. All-foam designs excel at motion control, while sturdy hybrids keep more usable space along the perimeter for partners who spread out.

8. How do I know if my soft mattress is too soft?

Clues appear in your body, not just on a firmness chart. If you wake with lower-back ache, feel your hips dropping far below your ribs, or notice new neck strain, the mattress probably lacks support. Another signal appears when turning over feels like climbing out of a pit.

9. Are soft mattresses okay for kids or teens?

Younger, lighter sleepers sometimes feel comfortable on softer beds. However, parents should watch posture and growth spurts. A balanced medium or soft-medium mattress often stays more versatile through teenage years as weight and height change.

10. How long should I test a soft mattress during the trial?

Bodies need time to adjust, particularly when you move from a very firm bed. In our experience, using a new soft mattress for at least 30 nights gives a more accurate read on support and comfort, as muscles and sleep habits adapt.

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Our Testing Team

Chris Miller

Lead Tester

Chris oversees the full testing pipeline for mattresses, sofas, and other home products. He coordinates the team, designs scoring frameworks, and lives with every product long enough to feel real strengths and weaknesses. His combination-sleeping and mixed lounging habits keep him focused on long-term comfort and support.

Marcus Reed

Heavyweight Sofa & Mattress Tester

Marcus brings a heavier build and heat-sensitive profile into every test. He pushes deep cushions, edges, and frames harder than most users. His feedback highlights whether a design holds up under load, runs hot, or collapses into a hammock-like slump during long gaming or streaming sessions.

Carlos Alvarez

Posture & Work-From-Home Specialist

Carlos spends long hours working from sofas and beds with a laptop. He tracks how mid-back, neck, and lumbar regions respond to different setups. His notes reveal whether a product keeps posture neutral during extended sitting or lying, and whether small adjustments still feel stable and controlled.

Mia Chen

Petite Side-Sleeper & Lounger

Mia tests how mattresses and sofas treat a smaller frame during side sleeping and curled-up lounging. She feels pressure and seat-depth problems very quickly. Her feedback exposes designs that swallow shorter users, leave feet dangling, or create sharp pressure points at shoulders, hips, and knees.

Jenna Brooks

Couple Comfort & Motion Tester

Jenna evaluates how well sofas and mattresses handle real shared use with a partner. She tracks motion transfer, usable width, and edge comfort when two adults spread out. Her comments highlight whether a product supports relaxed couple lounging, easy repositioning, and quiet nights without constant disturbance.

Jamal Davis

Tall, Active-Body Tester

Jamal brings a tall, athletic frame and post-workout soreness into the lab. He checks seat depth, leg support, and surface responsiveness on every product. His notes show whether cushions bounce back, frames feel solid under long legs, and sleep surfaces support joints during recovery stretches and naps.

Ethan Cole

Restless Lounger & Partner Tester

Ethan acts as the moving partner in many couple-focused tests. He shifts positions frequently and pays attention to how easily a surface lets him turn, slide, or return after short breaks. His feedback exposes cushions that feel too squishy, too sticky, or poorly shaped for real-world lounging patterns.