Reader-supported: we earn a commission on some links, at no extra cost to you. It never changes our picks. How this works
Pillows by Sleep Position

Best Pillows for Side Sleepers with Broad Shoulders

ProductPickly is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes our picks.

The short answer

For side sleepers with broad shoulders, the Coop Home Goods Eden, the Sleep Number PlushComfort, and the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud are top picks. They offer the loft and support needed to keep your spine aligned.

?
How we picked

We compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.

At a glance

ModelBest forScore
Coop Home Goods EdenBest Overall9.4
Sleep Number PlushComfortBest Value9.0
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-CloudBest for Pressure Relief8.8
Brookstone BioSenseBest for Cooling8.7
MyPillow PremiumBest for Adjustable Loft8.5
Saatva Latex PillowBest for Natural Materials8.4
Xtra Comfort Neck PillowBest for Neck Pain8.2
TOP
PICK
1
Coop Home Goods Eden
Coop Home Goods Eden
★★★★★ 4.8 / 5 Best Overall
Check price on Amazon

The Eden features a blend of memory foam and microfiber that you can adjust. Its 5-inch loft suits broad shoulders. Owners report excellent neck support and durability.

Fill Shredded memory foam and microfiberLoft 5 inchesSize Queen and KingAdjustable Yes
  • Adjustable loft
  • High-quality materials
  • CertiPUR-US certified foam
  • May be too firm for some
  • Requires fluffing
Best for: Best Overall
2
Sleep Number PlushComfort
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best Value
Check price on Amazon

This pillow offers a plush yet supportive feel at a reasonable price. Its 4.5-inch loft works for many side sleepers. Owners like its softness and breathability.

Fill Polyester fiberLoft 4.5 inchesSize QueenMachine washable Yes
  • Affordable
  • Soft and comfortable
  • Easy to clean
  • May flatten over time
  • Not adjustable
Best for: Best Value
3
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best for Pressure Relief
Check price on Amazon

The TEMPUR-Cloud uses TEMPUR material that molds to your head and neck. Its medium firmness supports broad shoulders. Owners say it reduces pressure points.

Fill TEMPUR materialLoft 4.5 inchesSize Queen and KingCover Removable and washable
  • Excellent pressure relief
  • Durable
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Heavy
  • May retain heat
Best for: Best for Pressure Relief
4
Brookstone BioSense
Brookstone BioSense
★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best for Cooling
Check price on Amazon

BioSense features a cooling gel layer that draws heat away. Its 5-inch loft suits broad shoulders. Owners appreciate the cool sleep surface.

Fill Memory foam with cooling gelLoft 5 inchesSize Queen and KingCooling Yes
  • Cooling effect
  • Good support
  • Soft touch cover
  • Firmness not adjustable
  • May be too cool for some
Best for: Best for Cooling
5
MyPillow Premium
MyPillow Premium
★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best for Adjustable Loft
Check price on Amazon

MyPillow allows you to add or remove fill to get your perfect loft. Its patented interlocking fill provides support. Owners like the customizable comfort.

Fill Patented interlocking fillLoft AdjustableSize Queen and KingMachine washable Yes
  • Adjustable loft
  • Machine washable
  • Made in USA
  • May require trial and error
  • Not as plush as memory foam
Best for: Best for Adjustable Loft
6
Saatva Latex Pillow
Saatva Latex Pillow
★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best for Natural Materials
Check price on Amazon

This pillow uses natural latex that is responsive and supportive. Its 5-inch loft works well for side sleepers. Owners appreciate its eco-friendly materials.

Fill Natural latexLoft 5 inchesSize Queen and KingCover Organic cotton
  • Natural materials
  • Supportive
  • Breathable
  • Pricey
  • May be too firm for some
Best for: Best for Natural Materials
7
Xtra Comfort Neck Pillow
Xtra Comfort Neck Pillow
★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best for Neck Pain
Check price on Amazon

The contoured shape supports the neck and shoulders. Its medium firmness helps maintain alignment. Owners with neck pain report relief.

Fill Memory foamLoft 4.5 inchesSize One sizeCover Removable and washable
  • Ergonomic contour
  • Relieves neck pain
  • Good support
  • Not adjustable
  • May be too firm for back sleepers
Best for: Best for Neck Pain

What to Look For in a Pillow for Broad Shoulders

Look for a loft that matches your shoulder height. A pillow that is too low or too high can cause neck strain. Consider the fill material for support and comfort. Adjustable pillows let you fine-tune the loft. Check the size to ensure it fits your bed and sleeping style.

How Loft and Firmness Affect Shoulder Support

Loft is the height of the pillow when laid flat. Broad shoulders typically need a higher loft, around 5 inches. Firmness determines how much the pillow gives. A medium-firm pillow often provides the right balance. Memory foam offers more contouring, while down alternatives are softer.

Best Pillow Types for Side Sleepers

Memory foam pillows conform to the head and neck. Latex pillows are responsive and supportive. Down and down alternative pillows are soft but may lack support. Adjustable pillows allow customization. Each type has pros and cons for side sleepers with broad shoulders.

How to Choose Between Memory Foam and Latex

Memory foam provides pressure relief and contouring. Latex offers more bounce and breathability. Memory foam may retain heat, while latex sleeps cooler. Consider your preference for firmness and temperature. Both can work well for side sleepers with broad shoulders.

Questions people ask

What loft is best for side sleepers with broad shoulders?

A loft of 5 inches or more is often recommended. This height fills the gap between your shoulder and head. Measure your shoulder width to find the right loft.

Can I use a pillow with adjustable loft?

Yes, adjustable pillows let you add or remove fill. This helps you find the perfect height. Many side sleepers with broad shoulders prefer this option.

Is memory foam good for side sleepers?

Memory foam provides good support and pressure relief. It conforms to your head and neck. Choose a medium or medium-firm density for the best support.

What is the difference between a side sleeper pillow and a regular pillow?

Side sleeper pillows are typically higher and firmer. They are designed to keep your spine aligned. Regular pillows may not provide enough support for side sleepers.

How often should I replace my pillow?

Most pillows last 1 to 2 years. Over time, they lose support and can harbor allergens. Replace your pillow when it no longer provides adequate support.

Can a pillow help with shoulder pain?

A supportive pillow can help align your spine and reduce pressure. This may alleviate shoulder pain. Choose a pillow that keeps your neck in a neutral position.

What is the best fill material for side sleepers?

Memory foam and latex are popular choices. They offer good support and durability. Down alternatives are softer but may not provide enough support.

Is a contoured pillow good for side sleepers?

Contoured pillows can provide excellent neck support. They have a higher loft for the neck and a lower area for the head. This design helps maintain alignment.

The bottom line

So which one?

For side sleepers with broad shoulders, the Coop Home Goods Eden offers the best balance of adjustability and support. The Sleep Number PlushComfort is a great budget option. Consider your priorities, such as cooling or natural materials, to make the final choice.

More in this topic

More in Pillows by Sleep Position

See the full guide →