Hi Josh,
So, regarding both the Flaxby Master Guild 4450 and 8450, they do seem quite similar but with some important differences. The 4450 mattress, as you’ve noted, has had some reports of premature sagging in the pillowtop, which could be a concern for long-term durability. Typically, sagging issues can arise due to factors like the material quality, construction, and whether the mattress is able to support the body evenly over time.
The 8450 version, which has more layers, likely offers a different construction that might be better at distributing weight and providing more overall support, reducing the risk of sagging. The extra layers could include added comfort and support zones that help the mattress last longer, especially with heavier usage. It might also have a more robust pillowtop or a denser core to handle the pressure better over time.
That said, while more layers might reduce sagging, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee it won’t happen. Factors like how much weight is placed on it, your sleeping position, and the quality of materials used still play significant roles. The 8450 might be worth the extra investment if you’re concerned about longevity and sagging, but it’s also a good idea to check for any reviews or reports that specifically mention sagging on the 8450 as well.
While your height, weight and sleeping position is not yet known, which will have an effect on how the mattress wears, obviously, the heavier one is the more force that is applied the deeper the impressions will be.
The bigger challenge is something I’ve experienced myself. If we set aside my main mattress for now and focus on my organic 3” wool topper, here’s what I experienced. When I first got the topper, it seemed about an inch and a half to two inches shorter than the king mattress it was supposed to go on. But within a couple of weeks, it stretched out and expanded to a full king size. After the first month, though, the topper (not the mattress) started developing body-sized impressions. Honestly, it was pretty surprising at first. But once I actually started sleeping on the mattress with the topper, it was a pleasure.
My mattress is super firm, very flat, and you sleep on top of it, like no sinking in. I could literally see the body impressions, with the contouring outline of my body from my hips to my shoulders. The topper filled in the gaps that the firm mattress and its even firmer spring support layer didn’t provide. I’ll admit, my wife and I weren’t uncomfortable on the mattress before adding the topper. We actually loved it. I added the wool topper so I could share my experiences firsthand, and yes, with that extra contouring, the mattress did get a bit more comfortable. But those body impressions were a little freaky at first.
The thing is, any natural fiber mattress (assuming you have an appropriate foundation and a solid spring support layer) is going to develop some body impressions. This is why rotating your mattress is so important—either weekly or at least once a month during the first year, to ensure even wear. I’m not exactly sure what that “polyester” layer is on the 4450, but other than that, you should expect some pretty noticeable body impressions. They might look a little intimidating, but trust me, they’re totally normal.
I had the opportunity to visit a Hastens showroom in New York City a few weeks ago. Even with the Hastens Grand Vividus, a $659,000, made of mostly horsehair, wool and cotton, along with their propitiatory springs, the mattress must be meticulously maintained. Fortunately at that price, and even on their opening price mattress at $25,000, they have “bed doctors” who come to your home and rotate, flip, and massage the horsehair to maintain proper loft and even wear. But the point is, when the mattress is has a significant amount of natural fibers, you are going to have uneven wear if not properly maintained.
Hope this helps,
Maverick
