Hi arrobert,
Questions about the suitability of any specific mattress for a specific person should always be directed to the manufacturer themselves. They work with these every day and are much more familiar with all the specifics of their own mattresses than I am and also have a database of customers of all different body types and sleeping styles that they can use as a reference point. Any “theory at a distance” I could offer would not be nearly as informed or helpful as talking to them directly.
Do you think I should consider the CoolSleep 9 for my weight and body type? I like the price but I’m not sure I’ll like the memory foam. With the CoolComfort 10 I get both Aerus and Sensus and could swap them to adjust the feel.
I would tend towards the CoolComfort because there is less 4 lb memory foam (which is generally less durable and softer than 5 lb memory foam) and because as you mentioned you would have the option of switching the layering to adjust the feel. Without a reference point of testing similar mattresses though (so you have some personal testing experience with similar mattresses) … I would work with them directly to decide on which layering may be most appropriate. Back and stomach sleepers (especially stomach sleepers) tend to need thinner layers to prevent the heavier pelvis from sinking in too far and sleeping in a swayback position so I would make sure you let them know this in your conversation with them so that you could take your sleeping positions into account. They may also be able to tell you which of the Tempurpedics may approximate their mattresses (if there is one because Tempurpedic doesn’t make a mattress with only 3" of 4 lb memory foam) so you could have some personal experience on similar mattresses to use as a guideline if possible.
Not a mattress pad (unless it was necessary for some reason to fine tune the feel of the mattress) but a mattress protector yes. I think they are an important part of your sleeping system to prevent damage or stains from any accidents and body fluids and to protect both the mattress and the warranty. There are several different types available and tradeoffs involved with each type that are a matter of personal preference. You can read about your different options in post #89 here. The most common choice for memory foam mattresses is probably the thin stretchy membrane type which would have little effect on the feel of your mattress, is waterproof, but may increase your sleeping temperature somewhat compared to the others.
A thicker mattress pad will have a much more significant effect on the feel and performance of the mattress.
Phoenix