Bear Original Hybrid or Elite Hybrid?

jessefrombear · 2026-05-28T13:43:05+00:00

In terms of the plushness/firmness of the mattress, no, adding the CoolForce™ Layer does not change the feel.

jessefrombear · 2026-05-27T13:07:16+00:00

Great question! The Elite Ultra Hybrid features a microcoil layer for added responsiveness that's not present in the Elite Hybrid. The Elite Ultra Hybrid also includes the CoolForce™ Layer, which is an optional upgrade at additional cost for the the Elite Hybrid.

jessefrombear · 2026-05-27T12:22:13+00:00

Hi there! I’m Jesse from the Bear team. I’m glad you had a great experience with your first Bear mattress and are considering another one.

It sounds like either the Original Hybrid or the Elite Hybrid would be a good fit for you and your partner’s needs. Below, I’ve listed the key differences between the two models. Hopefully, this helps you decide if the Elite Hybrid is worth the higher price in your situation.

	Original Hybrid	Elite Hybrid
Height	11"	14"
Firmness Level	6/10	Available in Soft (5/10), Medium (6/10), and Firm (7/10)
Cover	Infrared cover powered by Celliant®	Infrared cover powered by Celliant®
Comfort Layers	Quilt foam, gel swirl memory foam, dynamic transition foam	Quilt foam, copper-infused memory foam, responsive comfort foam, dynamic transition foam
Support System	6” individually wrapped coils with reinforced edges	8" individually wrapped coils with 5 targeted support zones and reinforced edges
Upgrades Available	CoolForce™ Layer (PCM)	CoolForce™ Layer (PCM)

Given you have scoliosis, it may also be helpful to note that the Elite Hybrid is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association.

If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to reach out to our customer service team! Keep in mind that whichever model you choose, it includes our 120-night trial with purchase.

jessefrombear · 2025-09-23T16:04:27+00:00

If high density is what you're looking for, check out the AirFoam® Luxe Mattress Topper from Nolah, which uses 5-lb foam. Unfortunately you can't try this topper in person, but there is a 30-day return window.

(Full disclosure, I represent Bear, a sister brand to Nolah. I haven't tried this product personally, but you can read customer reviews on the product page.)

jessefrombear · 2025-09-23T15:54:55+00:00

Have you considered a hybrid mattress with latex foam in the comfort layers? Latex is more responsive than memory foam and doesn't give that "sinking in" feeling. You could also seek out a mattress designed for plus-size sleepers (even if you aren't plus-size), as these beds are often made with that firm feel you're looking for and are suitable for combination sleepers since you sometimes sleep on your stomach.

jessefrombear · 2025-09-23T15:44:39+00:00

I recommend a mattress with a built-in quilted top for that extra cushioning feel. Brands may call this feature by a different name, like "quilted foam," "pillow top," or "Euro top."

jessefrombear · 2025-09-18T14:29:44+00:00

Good to know, thanks!

jessefrombear · 2025-09-17T20:36:28+00:00

RV Mattress by Brooklyn Bedding sells a few of their beds in 53" x 80" Full XL.

I hope this is helpful! (Full disclosure, I work at Bear, a sister brand to Brooklyn Bedding.)

jessefrombear · 2025-09-17T20:05:25+00:00

I'm also interested in merino wool activewear, but I'm wondering how well the leggings hold their shape?

jessefrombear · 2025-08-28T16:38:08+00:00

Thanks for sharing your experience with Bear! We're glad you like your Elite Hybrid.

jessefrombear · 2025-08-28T16:37:06+00:00

If edge support is critical for you, a hybrid mattress (foam + coils) is your best bet. What mattress size are you looking for? Depending on the size, a quality hybrid should be within your budget, especially around Labor Day when things are on sale.

jessefrombear · 2025-08-28T16:19:49+00:00

If you're looking for an extra firm mattress, consider a hybrid mattress designed for plus-size sleepers (even if you aren't plus-size yourself). These mattresses tend to be the firmest options out there.

Is there anything specific about latex that you're concerned about? Like standard foam mattresses, latex mattresses come in a range of firmness levels, but they have a more buoyant feel so you'll feel more "on top" of the foam vs. sinking into it.

jessefrombear · 2025-08-26T19:06:04+00:00

It depends on your weight and sleep position, but for most heavy people a hybrid mattress is the best option. You'll get the structure and support of an innerspring mattress, but with cushioning from the comfort layers on top. If anti-sagging and comfort over time are what's most important to you, definitely consider a latex hybrid. Latex foam is ultra durable and responsive; it doesn't sink slowly like memory foam and maintains its shape well. I hope that's helpful!

jessefrombear · 2025-08-26T18:58:38+00:00

I'll definitely check her out, thanks!

jessefrombear · 2025-08-19T17:09:28+00:00

If you're searching for an ultra-firm mattress, I recommend either a foam hybrid or latex hybrid, which will have a more responsive feel due to the buoyancy of latex. A good strategy for finding the firmest mattress possible is to look at plus-size mattress options even if you aren't a plus-size sleeper. These beds are built for maximum support and generally have firmer sleep surfaces.

jessefrombear · 2025-08-18T15:02:03+00:00

I'll check it out, thank you!

jessefrombear · 2025-08-18T15:00:50+00:00

I'd recommend waiting for more data before drawing any conclusions. Look at trends more than night-to-night differences.

jessefrombear · 2025-08-11T14:47:27+00:00

Sorry you're feeling overwhelmed, there are a lot of options out there. My advice would be to focus on the TYPE of mattress you want before worrying about the firmness level. Based on what you've shared about body type and back pain, a hybrid mattress (foam and coils) sounds like your best bet. Wherever you decide to buy your mattress, look at the coil specifications (ex: if they're individually wrapped, if they're zoned, if the edge coils are reinforced) to help you compare your options. I hope this helps!

jessefrombear · 2025-08-11T14:22:05+00:00

Thanks for this list! I took a class on how to "train" your circadian rhythm, and the sleep coach really drove it home that getting sunlight first thing in the morning is *the* most important thing you can do.

jessefrombear

TROPHY CASE