I’m 6’4” 205lbs 100% side sleeper and have been losing my mind trying to find a mattress over the last year. I tried DIY, full latex, latex hybrids, multiple online brands and have not been able to find an adequate bed. With many that are too firm I get a lot of crunching and grinding feelings in my back and neck, while with softer ones I feel I do not get enough support. I am heavily considering the back science series 2 hybrid given that they will work with me if it is not the right firmness and I am wondering if the lumbar zoning is for me since when there is too much pressure on the shoulders I get so much discomfort in the spine. Any other suggestions are greatly appreciated
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Totally understand where you’re coming from. It can be incredibly frustrating when you’ve tried so many options and still haven’t found that right balance of comfort and support. That pressure relief at the shoulders combined with enough spinal support can be an elusive combination.
Given everything you’ve already explored from DIY setups to latex hybrids and popular online brands, it’s tough to say what will absolutely work next. Lumbar zoning might be worth trying, especially if you’ve exhausted most other configurations and you’re still waking up with discomfort. For some people, targeted support in the midsection can help take pressure off the back, but as with everything in the mattress world, it’s hit or miss.
One thing that’s often overlooked is the pillow. Shoulder and neck pain aren’t always just about the mattress—a pillow that worked great on one mattress might be totally wrong on another. The alignment between your head, neck, and back is important, especially when you’re sleeping on your side.
Also, double check everything under your mattress. The support system—whether it’s a slatted frame, box spring, bunkie board, or platform—can have a surprisingly big impact on both feel and long-term comfort. Don’t cut corners here. Even the best mattress can feel awful if the foundation beneath it is off.
You’ve probably looked already, but if it’s at all feasible, testing something locally could give you better clarity—even if you just use it as a point of reference. That said, I completely understand that trying in-store doesn’t always translate to long-term comfort either.
For folks like you who’ve been through the ringer, I get it—mattresses are tricky. What’s perfect for one person can be a total disaster for someone else. Hang in there. You’re not alone in this, and I hope you find something that finally works for your back and shoulders.
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