in the section on this site that discusses comfort layers, microcoils are described as a cost-saving measure for mid-priced mattresses, not as good as talaly latex, but cheaper. And yet some highly regarded premium mattresses like the European Sleepworks Nordic II use microcoils heavily. So there seems to be some benefit other than low cost. Can you explain?
1 Like
When thoughtfully placed in a mattress, microcoils offer a unique combination of comfort, support, and airflow that can significantly enhance sleep quality.
Unlike solid foam or latex layers, microcoils consist of individually wrapped springs that move independently, providing highly adaptive contouring that supports the body’s natural curves. This responsive design helps reduce pressure points and allows for better spinal alignment, especially for combination sleepers who shift positions throughout the night. Additionally, when used strategically, such as in zones or in combination with other materials, microcoils can fine-tune firmness and responsiveness across different areas of the mattress. Here is an example (at the 8 minute mark) of a microcoils used poorly in a mattress, I am not sure why they used it in this particular layer, other than to boost the coil count of the mattress. This placement and size does not do much to enhance this particular mattress.
Another key advantage of microcoils is their superior breathability. Because they are not solid materials, air can flow freely between the coils, helping to dissipate body heat more effectively than foam and even the very breathable latex.
While Talalay latex is more breathable than many foams, it can still retain some heat, especially when used in thicker layers. By integrating microcoils beneath or between layers of latex, the folks designing and manufacturing their mattresses can create a more temperature-neutral sleep surface. This added airflow is particularly beneficial for hot sleepers or those in warmer climates, making microcoils a valuable performance feature in well-crafted mattresses.
Overall, microcoils can contribute to a mattress’s construction by offering a unique combination of benefits: they provide responsive support, relieve pressure points, reduce motion transfer, improve airflow for cooler sleep, allow for zoned firmness, and enhance overall durability when used with quality materials.
While I can not speak for European Sleep Works, I am sure @EuropeanSleep will offer their own opinion as to why they build some of their mattresses with quality microcoils. Although, since I have tried the Nordic II, I can state that it is one of the most comfortable mattresses I have tried.
If I had to describe why they incorporate micro coils in their design, is to say ESW is known for its modular, layered, and natural approach to mattress design, carefully choosing materials for their specific strengths and advantages for the sleeper. In many of their mattresses, including the Nordic II, they combine latex and microcoils to create a balanced sleep experience. While latex is used for its elastic pressure relief and long-lasting durability, microcoils add resilience, breathability, and gentle contouring that enhances comfort and airflow. In the Nordic II, multiple layers of coils are used, I dont think as a cost-saving measure (as they use high quality coils), but as a way to fine-tune the feel of the mattress. The use of microcoils in this case isn’t always about cutting corners. It’s about crafting a mattress that delivers thoughtful support, temperature regulation, and overall performance.
Hopefully, @EuropeanSleep will chime in with a deeper more thoughtful response, since you mentioned one of their designs in your post.
Hope this helps.
Maverick
2 Likes
Howdy,
A couple things: “micro-coils” and “mini-coils” can vary greatly in type and quality. In some cases, they can be a cost-saver compared to more expensive foams like Talalay latex—especially if they add more than a little height.
The differences in quality can come down to construction, wire gauge (thinner is better!), coil count, and more. But beyond that, how they’re used in a mattress really matters. That includes where they’re positioned, how and what they’re attached to, what’s above or below them, etc. For example, placing a non-elastic layer over them or bonding them directly to poly foam can ruin or mute their feel entirely.
We’ve found that the 2.5k Spinks HD performs really well when properly paired with a layer of Talalay latex. This is mostly anecdotal and based on sleep tests and comparisons, but the comfort and support differences were noticeable.
Durability-wise, they also outperform even the firmest Talalay latex foams, so they can add plushness without sacrificing longevity. (In general, the softer the feel—given equally durable materials—the quicker the wear. More latex = less durability.)
We also like the added airflow they bring, which helps with cooling. Airflow is the lion’s share of what makes a mattress sleep cool.
All that said, you can still make a great mattress without micro-coils. If you don’t feel a difference, skip them and save the money—our Alpine Classic Talalay is a good example of that.
To summarize (LOL):
Micro-coils can be a great addition for comfort and airflow if they’re high-quality, used correctly, and you’re after that floaty, relaxed feel. But there are excellent mattresses that don’t use them too.
Hope that helps (I know there are a lot of different, overlapping opinions out there, and this is hard to sort through).
2 Likes
“deeper and more thoughtful” sheeesh! I’ll do my best—your answer was pretty deep and thoughtful
1 Like
Thank you both! Very clear and helpful explanations.
1 Like
How many inches of Talalay latex do you recommend (as a topper/comfort layer above the coils)?
1 Like
Hey,
I think it depends on the firmness of the talalay, the type of micro, the type of fabric that the covering is made of (backing included), and how it’s all assembled. I’m kind of a “feel it and see if you like it” advocate… Sorry if that’s not the greatest answer. I guess if I had to generalize, the smaller and more numerous the coils in the micro layer, along with the fineness of the wire, the thinner you could go with the latex (although the softer the latex, the thicker). LOL, does that even make sense? What mattress are you looking at?
2 Likes
I think that’s actually a very insightful way to approach it. I’ve been considering going the DIY route with the TPS Quad 8" + QuadMini (the queen size QuadMini uses 1.9K microcoils).
However, it’s very interesting looking at the builds from @EuropeanSleep . The Alpine HDM and Nordic II HDM immediately caught my eye. I noticed that the former uses 2.5K microcoils + 2" latex, whereas the latter uses 5K microcoils + 3.5" latex.
What was the reasoning behind adding thicker latex to the model that has 2x the amount of microcoils? How would you describe the overall experience between these two mattresses?
2 Likes
I may be wrong about this, but from looking at the Nordic II HDM from Sleepworks website it looks like it is two layers of microcoils and 3 layers of latex, sandwiched, so on average each latex layer is about 1" thick, which would feel very different than a 3-1/2" thick latex slab. Their Alpine has one layer of microcoils and is similarly sandwiched.
If one of the main reasons for microcoils is that they provide very high resolution (fine grain) pressure relief and contouring, then logic implies that if you put a thick layer of latex on top of it that would spread out the load, you would in effect be nullifying the benefit of the microcoils. My guess is that you should have just enough latex on top of the coil so you don’t feel the coil directly (and keeping in mind that the overall encasement will tend to do that, particularly if there is wool pad involved as there is with the European Sleep Works (ESW) models.) I haven’t had a chance to try one out, thought, so this is all speculative.
Also I noticed in another post that TPS / Pocket Coil Store recommends a relative thin layer of latex on top of a stack made of their 8" quad coils and their mini coils on top of that. I think it was 2" max.
2 Likes
Two separate layers of latex plus a micro, with a thin latex insulator below. Total 3.5" with two 2.5K micros on the Nordic. (I’m assuming TPS is Texas–I’m not up on the acronyms…). If so, that is a mini quad coil, and is a nice unit (different than our micros). It sounds like a good combo (but once again, you gotta lie on it before you really know). The loose latex over the mini is a wild card (as are the two coils in direct contact loosely. It could be good, or it could be overly elastic, or bunchy (a lot depends on the encasement). Also, maybe you are attaching the parts? Anyway, good luck! Maybe (no guarantees) a layer of latex between the coils too, especially if it’s crunchy or slides.
3 Likes
I think that sounds about right. 1.5" of talalay in each microcoil layer, and a half inch insulating the bottom, btw.
3 Likes