Pocket Spring vs Memory Foam: Which Mattress Type Suits You Best?

A good night’s sleep starts with the right mattress. In Singapore, where many people shop online for their bedding needs, two mattress types consistently stand out: the pocket spring mattress and the memory foam mattress. Each has its own unique way of supporting the body, offering comfort, and enhancing sleep quality.

This guide provides a clear, neutral comparison between pocket spring and memory foam mattresses, so you can decide which type best suits your sleep style and lifestyle.

What is a Pocket Spring Mattress?

A pocket spring mattress, sometimes called an individual pocket spring mattress, is built with hundreds (sometimes thousands) of small springs, each encased in its own fabric pocket. Unlike traditional spring mattresses where the coils are interconnected, these springs work independently.

This design allows the mattress to contour more precisely to your body while reducing the "ripple effect" when a partner moves. 

For instance, at Robinsons, the Dr. Maxis Grand Royale Pocketed Spring Mattress is equipped with a 7-zone individual pocketed spring system. This means different zones of the mattress are tuned to support specific parts of your body—softer where your shoulders need cushioning, firmer where your hips and lower back require extra support.

Why people choose pocket spring mattresses:

• They offer excellent body alignment with targeted support zones.
  

• Airflow moves more freely between the springs, keeping the mattress cooler.

• They provide a slight bounce that many sleepers associate with traditional comfort.

Available in sizes like single pocket spring mattresses for solo sleepers or pocket spring queen size mattresses for couples, these mattresses are a versatile choice for different lifestyles.

What is a Memory Foam Mattress?

A memory foam mattress is made with viscoelastic foam that responds to heat and pressure, allowing it to mold closely to the sleeper’s body. The foam "remembers" your shape temporarily, hence the name "memory" foam.

This deep contouring helps relieve pressure points on areas such as shoulders, hips, and knees—ideal for side sleepers or anyone with joint sensitivity. At Robinsons, the Hotel Comfort Memory Foam Mattress takes this further with four distinct memory foam cores. 

Each layer has a specific purpose, such as providing softness, pressure relief, stability, and overall support, creating a balanced sleeping experience.

Why people choose memory foam mattresses:

• They deliver body-hugging comfort that adapts to every curve.
  

• They minimise motion transfer, which is helpful for couples sharing a bed.
  

• They can support proper spinal alignment by distributing weight evenly.
  

Detailed Comparison: Pocket Spring vs Memory Foam

This side-by-side view shows how both mattress types have their strengths. The choice depends on whether you value support with airflow (spring) or contouring with motion isolation (foam).

Which Mattress Fits Different Sleeping Styles?

Back Sleepers

Back sleepers need balanced support to keep the spine in alignment. Pocket spring mattresses excel with 7-zone systems, giving firmer support under the hips and lumbar area. Memory foam, on the other hand, gently cradles the natural curve of the spine, reducing pressure without being too firm.

Side Sleepers

Side sleepers place extra weight on the shoulders and hips. Memory foam’s contouring abilities make it excellent for cushioning these points, while pocket springs with zoning also perform well by adjusting firmness where needed.

Stomach Sleepers

Sleeping on the stomach can strain the back if the mattress is too soft. Pocket spring mattresses often provide the firmer base stomach sleepers need. Memory foam can also work if the top layers are supportive enough to prevent hips from sinking.

Couples

For couples, both options are suitable. Memory foam provides near-complete motion isolation, while modern pocket spring mattresses with independent coils significantly reduce disturbance compared to older spring designs. The decision depends on whether you prefer a slightly bouncy feel (spring) or a still, quiet surface (foam).

Lifestyle Considerations Beyond Sleeping Position

When choosing between a pocket spring mattress and a memory foam mattress, it’s not just about sleeping position. Lifestyle and personal comfort preferences play a role too.

• Climate in Singapore
  Singapore’s humidity means breathability is key. Pocket spring mattresses allow natural airflow between coils, which many find cooler. However, advanced memory foams often feature gel or cooling layers to counter heat retention.
  

• Ease of Movement
  People who move frequently at night may prefer the responsive bounce of a pocket spring mattress. Memory foam absorbs movement, which can sometimes make repositioning feel slower.
  

• Edge Support
  Pocket spring designs generally provide stronger edge support, useful if you sit or sleep near the edge. Memory foam tends to compress more at the edges unless reinforced.
  

• Body Weight Considerations
  Heavier sleepers often find the support of pocket springs reassuring, while lighter sleepers may enjoy the cushioned contour of memory foam.
  
  

Explore Our Mattress Collection

At Robinsons Singapore, we provide premium mattress options to suit a wide variety of sleepers:

• Dr. Maxis Grand Royale Pocketed Spring Mattress – Featuring a 7-zone individual pocket spring system, it provides responsive support tailored to your body’s natural alignment.
  

• Robinsons Hotel Comfort Memory Foam Mattress – Built with four distinct memory foam cores, it offers body-contouring comfort, excellent pressure relief, and a balanced sleeping experience.
  

• Wes Cares 12" CoolMax® Deluxe Mattress – Designed with orthopedic pocket springs, it delivers pressure-relieving support while CoolMax® fabric technology enhances airflow for a cooler, more comfortable sleep.
  

• Luanna Comfort Plus Tight Top Mattress – Combining cool gel memory foam with a hybrid spring system, it offers contouring comfort, anti-mite protection, and a refreshing sleep experience.

Whether you’re considering a single pocket spring mattress, a pocket spring queen size mattress, or a foam option for deeper contouring, our collection is designed to help you rest better every night.

Final Thoughts

Both pocket spring mattresses and memory foam mattresses bring unique qualities to the table. Pocket springs excel in airflow, responsive support, and edge stability, while memory foam shines in pressure relief, contouring, and motion isolation.

The best mattress ultimately depends on your sleeping position, lifestyle, and comfort preferences. By understanding the differences, you can make a confident choice that ensures restful, restorative sleep.

Explore the full mattress collection at Robinsons Singapore and find the type that suits you best.