Hi there Kingsearch,
Welcome to the Mattress UnderGround,
It’s understandable that you and your partner are seeking a mattress that offers the right balance of comfort and support, especially considering your chronic back and hip issues. Narrowing down your decidion for the Avocado Green Firm Standard mattress, seems to be a good choice from the options presented. This mattress option seems to provide the support you need for your lower back while avoiding the sinking sensation you experienced with the pillow-top version.
Regarding your question about adding a latex foam mattress topper later on, this is definitely a viable option. Latex toppers are known for their durability, breathability, and ability to provide an additional layer of comfort without compromising support. Additionally, I am an advocate of using a topper to add longevity to the mattress, even if the topper maintains the same current comfort level of the mattress. By comparison, replacing a topper at whatever interval you may need, is certainly a better option than replacing an entire mattress.
The good news is that a latex topper, especially from a reputable brand, can be an excellent way to customize the feel of your mattress either now or in the future. If you find that you need more cushioning or plushness, a topper can be added to adjust the comfort level without having to purchase an entirely new mattress. This is a great way to get the flexibility of a softer surface when needed, while still having the option to remove it for a firmer feel.
As for the concern about toppers sliding around, latex is actually quite effective at staying in place. I use a skirted mattress protector over my topper, plus I have paired with DreamFit sheets, which once placed on the mattress, they are next to impossible to slip off and really keeps your topper in place. These sheets are designed to fit snugly around the mattress and topper, keeping everything in place without shifting. So, you likely won’t have an issue with the topper sliding, as long as the topper and sheets fit properly.
If you intend to only buy based on a trial in a store, then you really need to spend at least 25-35 minutes on the mattress. A 10 minute test is not long enough to allow for heat transfer, any sinking, posture and pressure point issues to begin to present itself.
While your approach of wanting to test the mattress in-store is completely valid, especially when it comes to something as important as sleep comfort, even a 30 minute store exercise will not determine long term comfort. It does offer a sense of what can be eliminated, particularly when a mattress comes in too soft.
Spending time on a mattress in-store can give you a preliminary sense of whether it meets your needs, but keep in mind that the store environment is not always the same as your home setup. Mattress comfort can feel different once you’ve spent several nights on it, so it’s beneficial to work with a mattress professional who can help guide you toward a mattress that suits your preferences, even if it’s purchased online. Many seasoned mattress professionals can gather information from what you have slept on in the past, what you have “tested” currently, discuss your PPP’s (Personal Preferences, Posture and Alignment and Pressure Relief concerns) to predict with more than 90% certainty what will work for most any mattress seeker.
With your careful approach, including considering the addition of a topper later on, you’re setting yourself up for a good mix of comfort, durability, and longevity.
Best of luck on your mattress selection journey. You may want to speak with @My_Green_Mattress as their kiwi mattress aligns well with the characteristics and criteria your are looking for.
Maverick