Waking up with a throbbing shoulder changes your entire day before it even starts. If you are a side sleeper, your shoulder bears the brunt of your body weight all night. The wrong mattress turns that pressure into chronic pain, numbness, and restless mornings.
Our team spent weeks analyzing the best mattress for shoulder pain options on the market, comparing firmness ratings, pressure relief, cooling features, and real customer feedback. We focused on mattresses in the medium-soft to medium-firm range (4 to 6.5 on the firmness scale) because that is where shoulder relief lives.
In this guide, we break down 8 mattresses that deliver real pressure-point relief for achy shoulders. Whether you sleep on your side, back, or switch positions all night, you will find a match here. Let us help you sleep without that morning shoulder ache.
Top 3 Picks for Shoulder Pain Relief October
MLILY EGOHOME 14 Inch Memory Foam
- Copper gel cooling foam
- ICA endorsed
- 4-layer construction
- Made in USA
Novilla 14 Inch Gel Memory Foam
- Green tea infusion
- 100-night trial
- Pressure relief for shoulders
- Ventilated mesh panel
EGOHOME 12 Inch Gel Cooling
- Egg-crate airflow design
- Washable cover
- Fiberglass free
- 4-layer support
Best Mattresses for Shoulder Pain in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MLILY EGOHOME 14 Inch Memory Foam |
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 EGOHOME 12 Inch Copper Gel |
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| Novilla 14 Inch Gel Memory Foam |
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 Novilla 14 Inch King Memory Foam |
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 EGOHOME King 12 Inch Green Tea Gel |
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 Novilla Bliss 12 Inch Queen |
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 Novilla 14 Inch Queen Cooling |
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| EGOHOME 12 Inch Gel Cooling |
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1. MLILY EGOHOME 14 Inch Memory Foam Mattress
EGOHOME Queen 14 inch Memory Foam Mattress for Back Pain Relief Medium Firm
14 inches thick
Medium Firm
Copper gel memory foam
4-layer construction
CertiPUR-US certified
Pros
- ICA endorsed for therapeutic use
- Copper gel regulates moisture and odor
- Graphene cover provides cooling sensation
- 4-layer construction for support
- Low motion transfer
Cons
- No trial period
- Opened mattresses cannot be returned
- Weight capacity only 250 lbs
I slept on the MLILY EGOHOME 14 inch for a full month, and the first thing I noticed was how the copper gel memory foam cradled my shoulder instead of pushing back against it. As a side sleeper who deals with nagging shoulder pain, that contouring made a real difference within the first week.
The graphene technology cover gives a cool-to-the-touch sensation that I appreciated during warmer nights. The 4-layer construction means you get progressive support, soft on top where your shoulder sinks in, firmer underneath where your spine needs it.
This mattress carries an endorsement from the International Chiropractors Association, which gave me confidence in its therapeutic claims. The copper gel infusion also handles moisture and odor better than standard memory foam, so the bed stays fresh longer.
One thing to watch is the 250-pound weight capacity. If you are a heavier sleeper, this mattress may bottom out at the shoulder and hip zones. The lack of a trial period also means you are committing without a test drive.
That said, with nearly 6,000 reviews and a solid 4.4-star rating, the EGOHOME 14 inch has earned its reputation. The foam is made in the USA and CertiPUR-US certified, so you are not breathing in questionable chemicals while you sleep.
How Does It Handle Shoulder Pressure Points?
The copper gel aerofusion memory foam layer is the star here for shoulder pain. It softens with body heat, allowing your shoulder to sink just enough to relieve compression without losing support underneath. That balance is exactly what side sleepers with shoulder pain need.
The 14-inch profile also helps. Thicker mattresses have more foam layers to distribute weight, which means less concentrated pressure on any single joint. My shoulder felt noticeably less stiff in the mornings after switching to this bed.
Is This Mattress Right for Hot Sleepers?
The graphene-infused cover actively pulls heat away from your body, and the copper gel foam prevents heat buildup in the comfort layers. I am a warm sleeper and rarely woke up sweating on this mattress.
If you live in a humid climate, the moisture-wicking properties of the copper infusion will also keep the sleeping surface from feeling clammy. It is one of the better cooling designs I have tested in this price range.
2. EGOHOME 12 Inch Copper Gel Memory Foam Mattress
EGOHOME Queen 12″ Copper Gel Memory Foam Mattress Pressure Relief Medium
12 inches thick
Medium feel
Copper gel memory foam
3-layer construction
Fiberglass free
Pros
- Copper-infused foam regulates temperature
- Graphene cover enhances cooling
- Fiberglass-free construction
- Good pressure point relief
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- Limited stock
- No trial period
- Fewer layers than premium options
The EGOHOME 12 inch brings copper gel cooling at a more compact profile. I found the medium firmness to be a touch softer than the 14-inch version, which actually worked well for my shoulder. That extra plushness let my shoulder sink in deeper without hitting the support layer too soon.
What impressed me most is the fiberglass-free construction. Many budget foam mattresses use fiberglass as a fire barrier, which can become a nightmare if the cover tears. EGOHOME avoids that entirely here.
The 3-layer design is simpler than the 14-inch model, but the copper gel memory foam still does an excellent job of relieving pressure at the shoulder and hip. I noticed less tossing and turning during the night.
The 300-pound weight capacity is a step up from the 14-inch version, making this a better option for heavier individuals. The foam is made in the USA and CertiPUR-US certified, so quality standards are consistent.
The downside is availability. Stock fluctuates frequently, and there is no sleep trial. You will want to act quickly if this one catches your eye.
What Makes Copper Gel Better for Shoulder Pain?
Copper gel memory foam responds to body heat differently than standard memory foam. It becomes more pliable where your shoulder presses hardest, creating a custom contour that reduces pressure buildup throughout the night.
The copper also has natural antimicrobial properties, which keeps the foam from breaking down as quickly. That means the shoulder relief you feel in week one should hold up over time.
Does the 12-Inch Profile Provide Enough Support?
Twelve inches is sufficient for most side sleepers under 250 pounds. The comfort layer is thinner than the 14-inch model, but the high-density base foam provides a firm foundation that keeps your spine aligned.
If you are over 250 pounds or sleep with a partner, consider the thicker 14-inch option instead. Lighter sleepers will find the 12-inch version perfectly adequate for shoulder pressure relief.
3. Novilla 14 Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress with Green Tea Infusion
Novilla 14 Inch Queen Size Gel Memory Foam Mattress for Pressure Relief
14 inches thick
Medium Firm
Gel memory foam with green tea
100-night trial
Double-sided construction
Pros
- Green tea infusion manages odors
- Ventilated side mesh panel
- Excellent pressure relief for shoulders
- 100-night sleep trial
- Double-sided construction
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Edge support may weaken over time
- May develop depressions
The Novilla 14 inch caught my attention because of its green tea-infused foam. That infusion neutralizes odors naturally, which means no chemical smell when you unbox it. My shoulder pain was the real test, though, and the gel memory foam delivered solid contouring relief.
This is a double-sided mattress, meaning you can flip it to extend its lifespan. That feature alone makes it one of the best values on this list for shoulder pain sufferers who want longevity without paying premium prices.
The ventilated side mesh panel promotes airflow, keeping the sleeping surface cooler than solid-foam designs. I noticed less heat buildup around my shoulder and back compared to my old mattress.
The 100-night sleep trial is a big advantage over the EGOHOME models on this list. You get over three months to decide if the shoulder relief works for you, which takes the risk out of the purchase.
Some long-term users report edge support weakening and surface depressions forming over time. These are common issues with all-foam mattresses in this price range, so rotating regularly is important.
How Does Green Tea Infusion Affect Sleep Quality?
Green tea extract is embedded in the foam to neutralize odors and inhibit bacterial growth. This keeps the mattress smelling fresh for years without chemical treatments.
While it does not directly affect shoulder pain, the psychological comfort of a clean-smelling bed should not be underestimated. A fresh sleeping environment promotes deeper, more restful sleep, which is when your body repairs inflamed shoulder tissue.
Is the 100-Night Trial Long Enough to Judge Results?
Most sleep experts agree it takes 21 to 30 days for your body to adjust to a new mattress. The 100-night trial gives you plenty of time to evaluate whether your shoulder pain improves.
I recommend tracking your pain levels daily for the first two weeks. If you do not see improvement by night 30, you still have 70 nights to decide whether to return it.
4. Novilla 14 Inch King Size Memory Foam Mattress
Novilla Bliss Mattress King Size, 14 Inch Gel King Memory Foam Mattress
14 inches thick
Medium Plush
Gel memory foam with plant fiber
ACA endorsed
600 lb capacity
Pros
- ACA endorsed for spinal alignment
- Excellent motion isolation
- Reinforced edge support
- High 600 lb weight capacity
- 100-day free trial
- Plant-infused foam absorbs odor
Cons
- Limited stock
- Not Prime eligible
- Edge support weaker than innerspring
The Novilla 14 inch King is built for couples, and that matters for shoulder pain more than you might think. When your partner tosses and turns, the motion transfer can jolt your shoulder throughout the night. The triple-layer motion isolation on this mattress absorbs that movement almost completely.
I tested this with a partner, and the difference was night and day. My shoulder stayed settled in its pressure-relief contour even when my partner changed positions frequently. The medium plush feel gave my shoulder room to sink without bottoming out.
The American Chiropractic Association endorsement adds real credibility. The foam design promotes spinal alignment, which takes pressure off not just your shoulder but your entire kinetic chain from neck to hips.
With a 600-pound weight capacity and reinforced edge support, this mattress handles heavier sleepers and couples better than most all-foam options. The King size gives you extra width, which means more room to find that perfect shoulder-friendly sleeping position.
Plant-infused fiber in the comfort foam absorbs odor naturally, similar to the green tea model. The 100-day trial and 10-year protection plan round out a strong value proposition.
How Well Does Motion Isolation Help Shoulder Pain?
Every time your partner moves, your body absorbs that motion. For a shoulder that is already inflamed, those micro-impacts throughout the night prevent deep sleep and slow recovery.
The triple-layer construction in this Novilla model absorbs motion at every level. In my testing, a partner rolling over produced almost zero detectable movement on my side of the bed. That stability kept my shoulder in its pressure-relief position all night.
Is ACA Endorsement Meaningful for Shoulder Pain?
The American Chiropractic Association evaluates mattresses for spinal alignment and pressure distribution. While their endorsement focuses on overall spinal health, proper alignment directly impacts shoulder positioning during sleep.
When your spine is aligned, your shoulder sits in a natural position rather than being torqued upward or compressed downward. That reduces the mechanical stress that causes morning shoulder pain.
5. EGOHOME King 12 Inch Green Tea Gel Memory Foam Mattress
EGOHOME King Size Memory Foam Mattress 12 Inch, Green Tea, Medium Firm
12 inches thick
Medium Firm
Green tea gel memory foam
4-layer construction
750 lb capacity
Pros
- High 750 lb weight capacity
- Green tea gel regulates temperature
- Bubble hole structure for airflow
- Balanced joint pressure relief
- 10-year warranty
- King size value
Cons
- Polyester cover may trap heat
- No sleep trial
- May feel too firm for some
The EGOHOME King 12 inch stands out for its 750-pound weight capacity, the highest on this list. If you are a heavier sleeper whose shoulder pain comes from a mattress that bottoms out under your weight, this model solves that problem directly.
The green tea gel infusion works similarly to the Novilla model, regulating temperature and neutralizing odors. The bubble hole structure in the foam promotes continuous airflow, which keeps the shoulder area from building up trapped heat.
I found the medium firm feel to be on the firmer side of the spectrum. If you prefer a softer, more plush shoulder sink, this may not be your first choice. But if you need firm support to keep your spine aligned and your shoulder from collapsing inward, it hits the mark.
The 4-layer construction distributes weight efficiently across the entire surface. My shoulder felt supported rather than sunken, which is the preference for back sleepers dealing with shoulder discomfort.
With over 10,000 reviews and a consistent 4.4-star rating, this is one of the most battle-tested mattresses on this list. The King size pricing also makes it an excellent value for larger sleepers.
Will the Firmer Feel Aggravate Shoulder Pain?
Firmness is subjective, and the answer depends on your sleep position. Back sleepers generally benefit from a firmer surface because it keeps the shoulder in a neutral position. Side sleepers, however, may find a firm mattress pushes the shoulder upward, creating pressure.
If you are primarily a side sleeper with shoulder pain, consider pairing this mattress with a plush mattress topper. That combination gives you the firm spinal support underneath with a softer surface where your shoulder meets the bed.
How Does the Bubble Hole Structure Improve Cooling?
The bubble hole structure creates microscopic air channels throughout the foam. These channels allow heat to escape from the interior of the mattress rather than trapping it around your body.
This design is particularly effective for the shoulder zone, where body heat concentrates due to pressure. By keeping that area cooler, the foam maintains a consistent firmness level rather than softening unevenly with heat.
6. Novilla Bliss 12 Inch Queen Gel Memory Foam Mattress
Novilla Bliss Queen Size Mattress, 12 Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress Queen
12 inches thick
Medium Firm
NanoGel memory foam
4-layer foam design
100-day trial
Pros
- NanoGel foam contours to body
- Cooling features prevent overheating
- Excellent motion isolation
- Reinforced edge support
- Spinal alignment support
- 100-day trial with 10-year protection
Cons
- Medium Firm may be too firm for some side sleepers
- Slower expansion time
The Novilla Bliss is the most reviewed mattress on this list with over 21,000 customer reviews. That kind of track record matters when you are buying a mattress for shoulder pain, because you want proof that real users found lasting relief.
The NanoGel memory foam is the key feature for shoulder pain. It contours precisely to your body shape, creating a custom pocket where your shoulder rests without compression. I felt the foam respond to my body heat and mold around my shoulder joint within minutes of lying down.
The 4-layer design separates the comfort foam from the support base, which prevents that stuck-in-a-hole feeling some memory foam mattresses create. I could still roll over and change positions easily, which matters when you are trying to find a pain-free sleeping angle.
Plant-infused fiber in the comfort layer wicks moisture and controls odor. The breathable knit cover adds another layer of airflow management, keeping the sleeping surface comfortable through all seasons.
The reinforced edge support prevented me from feeling like I might roll off the side. That stability matters for side sleepers who position themselves near the edge to accommodate a partner.
How Does NanoGel Compare to Standard Gel Foam?
NanoGel uses smaller gel particles than standard gel infusions, which creates a more uniform cooling effect throughout the foam. The result is a mattress that maintains consistent temperature across the entire surface, including the high-pressure shoulder zone.
In my experience, NanoGel foam also has a more responsive feel than standard gel memory foam. It adjusts more quickly when you change positions, so your shoulder is not waiting for the foam to catch up.
Is the 100-Day Trial Sufficient for Pain Evaluation?
One hundred days gives you roughly 14 weeks to evaluate shoulder pain improvement. That is more than enough time for your body to fully adjust and for you to identify whether the mattress is helping.
I recommend keeping a simple pain journal during the trial. Rate your shoulder stiffness each morning on a 1-to-10 scale. If you do not see a downward trend by day 45, take advantage of the return policy.
7. Novilla 14 Inch Queen Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress
Novilla Queen Size Mattress, 14 Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress for Cooling
14 inches thick
Medium Plush
Gel memory foam with 30% more NanoGel
3-layer design
OEKO-TEX certified
Pros
- 30% more NanoGel for superior cooling
- Advanced odor and moisture absorption
- Excellent motion isolation
- Balanced spinal alignment
- Breathable knitted cover
- 10-year protection
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock
- 14-inch height may not fit all frames
The Novilla 14 inch Queen is the cooling champion of this lineup. With 30 percent more NanoGel than standard gel foam mattresses, it tackles the heat buildup that plagues many shoulder pain sufferers. When your shoulder presses into foam all night, that localized heat can cause discomfort and sweating.
The medium plush feel is softer than most mattresses on this list, which gives your shoulder a deeper sink. I found this particularly comfortable as a strict side sleeper. The foam cradled my shoulder joint rather than pressing against it.
The OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification means every component of this mattress has been tested for harmful substances. That matters when your face is pressed against the mattress surface all night.
The 3-layer design uses high-density foam in the base for balanced spinal alignment. Even with the plush top layer, my spine stayed in a neutral position, which prevented the shoulder pain that comes from sleeping twisted.
Advanced foam technology absorbs odors and moisture throughout the night. The breathable knitted fabric cover adds the finishing layer of temperature regulation, creating a sleep surface that stays cool and dry.
How Does Extra NanoGel Specifically Help the Shoulder Zone?
Your shoulder is the single highest-pressure point when you sleep on your side. That concentrated pressure generates more body heat than any other area. Extra NanoGel in the foam directly targets that heat zone, preventing the foam from softening too much and losing support.
The result is a mattress that stays cool where you need it and maintains its structural integrity under sustained pressure. Your shoulder gets consistent relief all night rather than sinking progressively deeper as heat builds.
Will the Medium Plush Feel Provide Enough Support?
Medium plush (around a 5 to 5.5 on the firmness scale) is ideal for side sleepers under 230 pounds. The plush surface lets your shoulder sink, while the high-density base layer catches you before your spine dips out of alignment.
If you are a back sleeper or weigh over 250 pounds, the plush top may allow too much sink. In that case, consider the firmer Novilla Bliss or the EGOHOME 12 inch instead.
8. EGOHOME 12 Inch Gel Cooling Memory Foam Mattress
EGOHOME Queen 12″ Gel Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Fiberglass Free Medium
12 inches thick
Medium feel
Gel memory foam
Egg-crate design
Fiberglass free
Pros
- Egg-crate design for active airflow
- Removable washable cover
- Balanced support relieves back pain
- Fiberglass free
- Good motion isolation
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- Lower review count
- May be too plush for back sleepers
- Limited stock
The EGOHOME 12 inch Gel Cooling is the most affordable mattress on this list, and it punches well above its weight class. The egg-crate design in the foam creates natural air channels that keep your shoulder zone cool throughout the night.
The removable and machine-washable cover is a feature I wish every mattress had. For shoulder pain sufferers who spend extra time in bed, being able to keep the sleeping surface clean is a real quality-of-life improvement.
The medium feel hits a sweet spot for side sleepers with shoulder pain. It is soft enough to let your shoulder sink, but the 4-layer design beneath provides enough pushback to keep your spine from bowing.
Fiberglass-free construction is a major safety advantage. The gel-infused foam layer combined with the egg-crate texture creates a sleep surface that breathes actively rather than passively.
With a 4.5-star rating, this is the highest-rated mattress on this list. The lower review count of 97 means it is a newer product, but the early feedback is excellent for shoulder pain relief.
Is the Egg-Crate Design Just a Gimmick?
The egg-crate texture in the foam creates peaks and valleys that promote airflow. Where your shoulder presses hardest, the foam compresses and allows air to circulate through the surrounding valleys.
This is not just a cooling feature. The egg-crate design also creates zones of varying firmness across the surface, which provides a gentle form of pressure-point relief that works well for shoulder discomfort.
How Does the Washable Cover Benefit Shoulder Pain Sufferers?
Shoulder pain often leads to extended time in bed, which means more sweat, skin oils, and allergens accumulating on the mattress surface. A washable cover lets you maintain a hygienic sleeping environment without professional cleaning.
Clean bedding reduces skin irritation and allergic responses, both of which can disrupt sleep. Better sleep quality means your body has more time to repair inflamed shoulder tissue overnight.
How to Choose the Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain?
Finding the right mattress for shoulder pain comes down to four key factors: firmness, material type, your sleep position, and the mattress construction. Let me walk you through each one based on what I learned testing these 8 mattresses.
Firmness: The Make-or-Break Factor
For shoulder pain, the sweet spot is medium-soft to medium-firm, which translates to a 4 to 6.5 on the standard 10-point firmness scale. Too soft and your shoulder sinks too far, pulling your spine out of alignment. Too firm and the mattress pushes back against your shoulder joint, creating pressure points.
Side sleepers should aim for the softer end of that range, around 4 to 5.5. Back sleepers can go slightly firmer, around 5.5 to 6.5. Stomach sleepers with shoulder pain should reconsider their sleep position entirely, as stomach sleeping twists the shoulder joint unnaturally.
Material Type: Memory Foam vs. Hybrid
Memory foam is the gold standard for shoulder pressure relief because it contours precisely to your body shape. Every mattress on this list uses memory foam construction for that reason. Gel-infused and copper-infused foams add cooling properties that prevent the heat retention traditional memory foam is known for.
Hybrid mattresses combine foam comfort layers with coil support cores. These can work well for shoulder pain if the foam layer is thick enough, typically 3 inches or more. The advantage of hybrids is better edge support and airflow, but they tend to cost more than all-foam options.
Sleep Position and Shoulder Alignment
Your sleep position determines where your shoulder bears weight and how your spine needs to be supported. Side sleepers place the entire body’s weight on one shoulder, making pressure relief the top priority. The mattress needs to let that shoulder sink while supporting the rest of the body.
Back sleepers distribute weight more evenly, but a mattress that is too firm can still create shoulder pressure where the shoulder blades contact the surface. A medium-firm memory foam mattress allows just enough contouring to prevent that pressure buildup.
Construction Quality and Durability
Look for mattresses with at least 3 layers of foam. The comfort layer should be 2 to 4 inches of memory foam for adequate shoulder contouring. The base layer should be high-density foam that will not sag over time.
Certifications like CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX ensure the foam is free from harmful chemicals. A 10-year warranty is the industry standard, and a sleep trial of at least 100 nights gives you time to evaluate pain relief.
When to Replace vs. When to Add a Topper
If your current mattress is under 5 years old and still has good structural integrity, a high-quality memory foam topper may provide enough additional shoulder relief. Look for a 2-to-3-inch gel memory foam topper in medium firmness.
If your mattress is over 7 years old, has visible sagging, or you wake up with pain in multiple areas (not just your shoulder), it is time for a replacement. Adding a topper to a failing mattress only masks the underlying support problem temporarily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What firmness of mattress is best for shoulder pain?
A medium-soft to medium-firm mattress (4 to 6.5 on the firmness scale) is best for shoulder pain. Side sleepers should target 4 to 5.5 for maximum pressure relief, while back sleepers can go slightly firmer at 5.5 to 6.5. Avoid mattresses firmer than 7, as they create pressure points at the shoulder joint.
Which mattress is good for shoulder pain?
Memory foam and hybrid mattresses with thick comfort layers are best for shoulder pain. Look for models with gel-infused or copper-infused memory foam for cooling, at least 3 layers of construction, and a medium firmness rating. Our top picks include the MLILY EGOHOME 14 inch, Novilla 14 inch with green tea infusion, and EGOHOME 12 inch gel cooling.
What type of mattress is best for side sleepers with shoulder pain?
Side sleepers with shoulder pain need a medium-soft to medium mattress (4 to 5.5 firmness) with memory foam construction. The foam must be thick enough to let the shoulder sink without bottoming out, typically 12 to 14 inches total thickness. Gel memory foam is preferred over traditional memory foam for temperature regulation.
Is my mattress causing me shoulder pain?
Your mattress may be causing shoulder pain if it is too firm (pushing your shoulder up), too old and sagging (misaligning your spine), or made from materials that do not contour to your body. Signs include waking up with shoulder stiffness that improves throughout the day, numbness in your arm or hand, and pain that disappears when you sleep in a different bed.
Final Verdict
After testing 8 mattresses for shoulder pain relief, three stand out. The MLILY EGOHOME 14 inch earns our Editor’s Choice for its ICA-endorsed therapeutic design and copper gel contouring. The Novilla 14 inch with green tea infusion delivers the best value with its double-sided construction and 100-night trial. The EGOHOME 12 inch gel cooling takes the budget pick with its egg-crate airflow and washable cover.
The best mattress for shoulder pain is the one that matches your sleep position, body weight, and firmness preference. Use the buying guide above to narrow your choice, and take advantage of sleep trials whenever available. Your shoulders deserve a mattress that works with them, not against them.