With so many mattress options available, there is certainly a lot of choice! A helpful first step is exploring two of the most popular types of mattresses: spring or foam.
At Sealy New Zealand, we’ve broken down the differences to help you find the perfect fit for your sleep and comfort needs.
Spring vs foam: know the difference
Foam mattresses
Foam mattresses are crafted from materials such as memory foam, latex, or polyfoam. These materials contour to the body, offering pressure relief and comfort that can be beneficial for side sleepers and those seeking reduced motion transfer.
Pros:
- Low motion transfer – great for couples
- Pressure relief and comfort – contours to your body
- Soft, cushioned feel
Cons:
- Heat retention in denser foams
- May lack long-term support structure
- Can be prone to sagging or indentation
Types of foam
Polyfoam: Affordable and soft, but lower durability
Memory Foam: Excellent pressure relief, but can trap heat; gel-infused versions offer cooler sleep
Latex: Dense, hypoallergenic, and durable – though heavier and warmer than other foams
Spring mattresses
Spring (innerspring) mattresses use metal coils to provide structure and support. These coils are arranged in different configurations, each influencing how the mattress responds to pressure, distributes weight and maintains durability. The structure of the coil system is what gives spring mattresses their signature responsiveness, helping to balance comfort layers with reliable spinal alignment. Spring mattresses are an excellent choice for those who prioritise spinal alignment.
Pros:
- Superior back support – ideal for spinal health
- Promotes airflow
- Responsive support
Cons:
- Some motion transfer
- Springs may lose tension over time
- Potential to generate noise
Types of springs
Pocket Coils: Individually wrapped for responsiveness and reduced motion transfer
Bonnell Coils: Traditional, affordable option with hourglass-shaped springs
Offset Coils: Hinged design for firmer, body-conforming support
Continuous Coils: Durable single-wire design with less motion transfer, but reduced responsiveness
Advanced coil technology: Sealy + Sealy Posturepedic
Here at Sealy, we have a long history of innovation and research. We have spent countless hours designing, testing and refining our coil technology to deliver the world’s most advanced sleep system.
CoreSupport: Single-stage coil with extra turns for deep-down support.
Available in: Sealy Advantage
AlignSupport®: Two-stage system that senses your weight and maintains natural alignment.
Available in: Sealy Posturepedic Acclaim & Acclaim Ultra
RestSUPPORT™: Three-stage coil system combining contouring comfort, responsive support, and long-term durability.
Available in: Sealy Posturepedic Crown Jewel + Sealy Posturepedic Exquisite
Comparing Foam vs Spring
Spring vs Foam mattresses
Choosing the right mattress for you
Your best mattress depends on your sleep style, comfort preferences, and lifestyle.
- Side sleepers often benefit from medium or plush comfort feels
- Those with back pain may prefer spring mattresses with more advanced support systems
- Hot sleepers should consider spring or gel-infused foam for cooling comfort
- Couples may prefer foam for reduced motion transfer
Keep in mind that your comfort preferences may shift over time, so testing mattresses in-store is the best way to discover what feels right. You can find Sealy New Zealand stockists nationwide, who can help you find your perfect match.
Final word
Whether you prefer the cushioned feel of foam or the structured support of springs, Sealy New Zealand offer a range of mattresses that are designed to meet your sleep needs.
Experience the Posturepedic difference at your local Sealy stockist.
Simply answer a few quick questions and we’ll recommend the best mattress for your sleep profile. We can also send you a customised report, which you can take into a local Sealy stockist so you can experience your recommended bed.
FAQs
High-quality memory foam or latex can last 12–15 years, while well-made spring mattresses typically last 8–10 years.
Most hotels use medium-to-firm spring mattresses, as they suit a wide range of sleepers.
Yes – memory foam contours to the body, relieving pressure on hips and shoulders.
