Cooling Mattresses
Cooling Mattresses Without Memory Foam: Top Picks
7 picks compared
6 min read
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 answerThe best temperature regulating mattresses without memory foam are the Saatva Classic, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe, and the Nolah Evolution 15. Each uses coils and breathable foams to keep you cool.
?How we pickedWe 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.
Saatva Classic
★★★★★ 4.8 / 5 Best Overall
The Saatva Classic uses a dual coil system for support and airflow. It has a breathable organic cotton cover and a euro pillow top. Owners report it sleeps cool and offers excellent edge support.
Type InnerspringHeight 11.5 inchesFirmness Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, FirmTrial 365 nights
- Excellent airflow from coils
- Organic cotton cover is breathable
- Three firmness options
- Premium price
- Heavy to move
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best Value
The Aurora Luxe combines coils with a top layer of TitanCool foam. This foam uses phase change material to draw heat away. It also has a stretchy knit cover that promotes airflow.
Type Hybrid (coils + foam)Height 11.25 inchesFirmness Soft, Medium, FirmCooling Phase change material
- Effective cooling technology
- Multiple firmness levels
- Reasonable price for features
- Some foam layers may retain heat
- Not as breathable as pure innerspring
Nolah Evolution 15
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best for Pressure Relief
The Nolah Evolution 15 uses a high-density foam that is not memory foam. It provides pressure relief without the heat retention. The coil base increases airflow and support.
Type Hybrid (coils + foam)Height 15 inchesFirmness Plush, Luxury Firm, FirmCooling AirFoam + breathable cover
- AirFoam sleeps cooler than memory foam
- Good pressure relief for side sleepers
- Tall profile with sturdy coils
- Higher price point
- May be too soft for some
Best for: Best for Pressure Relief
WinkBed
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best for Back Pain
The WinkBed features a zoned coil system that provides extra lumbar support. It has a breathable Tencel cover and a gel-infused foam layer. Owners with back pain report improved alignment.
Type Hybrid (coils + foam)Height 13.5 inchesFirmness Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm, PlusSupport Zoned coils
- Zoned support for lower back
- Breathable Tencel cover
- Multiple firmness options
- May be too firm for side sleepers
- Heavy and hard to move
Best for: Best for Back Pain
Bear Elite Hybrid
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best for Athletes
The Bear Elite Hybrid uses a Celliant cover that reflects body heat as infrared energy. It also has a copper-infused foam layer for cooling. The coil base provides responsive support.
Type Hybrid (coils + foam)Height 14 inchesFirmness Medium, FirmCooling Celliant cover + copper foam
- Celliant cover may aid recovery
- Copper foam conducts heat away
- Responsive coils
- Limited firmness options
- Premium price
Best for: Best for Athletes
Helix Midnight Luxe
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best for Side Sleepers
The Helix Midnight Luxe is designed for side sleepers with a medium feel. It has a breathable Tencel cover and a gel-infused foam layer. The zoned lumbar support helps maintain spinal alignment.
Type Hybrid (coils + foam)Height 12 inchesFirmness MediumCooling Gel-infused foam + Tencel cover
- Good pressure relief for hips and shoulders
- Zoned support for lower back
- Cooling cover
- Only one firmness option
- Not ideal for stomach sleepers
Best for: Best for Side Sleepers
Big Fig Mattress
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best for Heavy Sleepers
The Big Fig Mattress is built for heavier individuals, supporting up to 1,100 pounds. It uses a coil system with a breathable, moisture-wicking cover. The foam layers are designed to resist sagging.
Type Hybrid (coils + foam)Height 12 inchesWeight Capacity 1,100 lbsCooling Breathable cover + airflow coils
- High weight capacity
- Strong edge support
- Cooling cover
- Very firm feel
- Heavy and difficult to move
Best for: Best for Heavy Sleepers
We compared coil systems, breathable covers, and cooling foams. We also considered owner feedback on temperature and comfort. Our picks suit different budgets and sleep styles.
Why Avoid Memory Foam?
Memory foam is known for heat retention. It conforms closely to the body, reducing airflow. This can make sleepers feel hot and sweaty. Many cooling mattresses use memory foam, but some do not. We focused on models that use alternative foams or innersprings.
Key Cooling Features to Look For
Look for breathable covers like cotton, Tencel, or wool. These materials wick moisture and allow air circulation. Coil systems provide more airflow than foam bases. Some foams, like gel-infused or copper-infused, help dissipate heat. Phase change materials actively absorb and release heat.
How to Choose the Right Firmness
Firmness affects both comfort and temperature. A firmer mattress may sleep cooler because it reduces body contact. Side sleepers often prefer softer mattresses for pressure relief. Stomach sleepers need firmer support to keep the spine aligned. Consider your weight and sleeping position when choosing.
Budget Considerations
Cooling mattresses vary widely in price. Innerspring models like the Saatva Classic are premium. Hybrids like the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe offer a balance. Budget options may use fewer cooling features. Remember that a good trial period and warranty add value.
Questions people ask
What is the best mattress without memory foam for hot sleepers?
The Saatva Classic is a top choice due to its innerspring coils and breathable cover. The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe also performs well with phase change material.
Do hybrid mattresses sleep cooler than memory foam?
Yes, hybrids with coils allow more airflow. The foam layers are thinner and often infused with cooling gels.
How can I tell if a mattress has memory foam?
Check the materials list. Memory foam is often labeled as 'memory foam' or 'viscoelastic foam'. Look for terms like 'latex', 'polyurethane foam', or 'coils'.
Is latex a good alternative to memory foam for cooling?
Yes, latex is naturally breathable and sleeps cooler than memory foam. It also provides a responsive, bouncy feel.
What is the best firmness for side sleepers without memory foam?
A medium or plush firmness is often best. The Helix Midnight Luxe offers a medium feel with good pressure relief.
Can a mattress without memory foam still provide pressure relief?
Yes, many hybrids use latex or specialized foams like AirFoam. These materials conform to the body without trapping heat.
What is the lifespan of a non-memory foam mattress?
Innerspring and hybrid mattresses typically last 7 to 10 years. High-quality coils and foams can extend longevity.
Are there cooling mattresses without foam at all?
Yes, pure innerspring and latex mattresses have no foam. The Saatva Classic is an innerspring, and latex options are available from brands like Avocado.
The bottom lineSo which one?
For most hot sleepers, the Saatva Classic offers the best combination of cooling and support. If you want a balance of value and features, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is a strong pick. Consider your sleep position and budget to find the right fit.