Hi AlisonAnderson,
There is more information in post #3 here and the posts it links to that would be helpful for those that are in higher weight ranges
While the process of how to choose a mattress would involve the same steps that are listed in the mattress shopping tutorial … most people in higher weight ranges (or that have a higher BMI) will generally need or prefer firmer mattresses (firmer materials will feel softer because you will sink into them more) and materials and components that are higher quality and more durable than those that are in lower weight ranges (the materials and components in a mattress will soften and break down faster for those in higher weight ranges than they will for someone that is in a lower weight range that doesn’t compress the mattress as much). I would be particularly cautious about mattresses that use more than “about an inch or so” of memory foam that is less than about 5 lb density or polyfoam that is less than about 2 lb density … particularly in the upper layers of the mattress.
While it depends on the specifics of the layers and components in a mattress … as Spindle mentioned when you talked with them in some cases those that are in higher weight ranges (or a higher BMI) may need a thicker mattress than those that are in lower weight ranges as well.
I’m not sure where you live but if you let me know your city or zip code I’d be happy to let you know about any of the better options or possibilities I’m aware of in your area.
If you are considering online options then the mattress shopping tutorial includes a link to a list of the members here that sell mattresses online (in the optional online step) and many of them sell latex and latex hybrid mattresses that use different types and blends of latex that have a wide range of different designs, options, features, return and exchange policies, and prices that would be well worth considering.
Post #3 here also includes a list of online manufacturers that sell component latex mattresses as well (with some overlap with the members list) and many of these sell component latex mattresses that either have options for more than 3 layers and/or contain more than 9" of latex.
Phoenix