Paraplegic, advice needed to rescue me from Casper Original Hybrid that feels like quicksand

[NikkiTMU]

Hi ParaNeedsMattress.

Welcome to our Mattress Forum.

Thank you for sharing your details and your must-haves. I’m going to do my best to address each of your questions/points! Sorry about your quicksand Casper. That does sound uncomfortable!

Setup/returns would be easier to manage than returning individual mattress layers if a DIY build needed modification.

This is certainly true. It can be a bit difficult to return DIY layers, whereas a full mattress will allow for a complete return, exchange, or easier layer exchanges if you find that the comfort layer is too soft/firm, etc.

1. What latex specifications might provide (a) the springiness I need for position changes and (b) my preference for a softer top without the entrapment of memory foam?

The good news is even it its softest form, you’re never going to have that “trapped in quicksand” sinking feeling with latex that you get with memory foam. But, given your sleeping profile, I’d agree with your medium/firm preference.

2. Which pocketed coil setup has the best edge support?

Leggett and Platt Quantum Edge coils are a popular option for enhanced edge support. The Flexus Quadra Flex uses this system, as does Sleep EZ’s flippable Select Sleep Hybrid.

The Nest Bedding Natural Hybrid Latex uses a reinforced edge coil support system as well.

Is there anything about my condition that makes a DIY setup preferable to a BiB? Given the logistical inconveniences I’m not yet sold.

Not particularly, that I can detect from what you’ve shared unless you have very specific support needs requiring zoning, or a particular mattress height that makes a DIY a more suitable option, or if you just feel like doing a DIY to tailor each and every aspect of your mattress.

Is it even possible to give a medium-firm mattress a plush feel with a topper? Would that require a layer of foam in the topper or can alternate materials (wool, sheepskin, kapok, etc.) do the same thing?

You absolutely can. You had mentioned sheepskin - that would certainly add some plushness. I think one thing to consider is what you want from that topper. Do you want to sink into it or do you just want a slightly softer feel? If you’re looking to sink, you may be most satisfied with a softer latex, but if you’re just looking for a little extra cushion, a wool, down, etc. topper can absolutely do that for you.

There is more information about choosing a topper in post #2 here and the topper guidelines it links to which along with a conversation with a reliable and knowledgeable supplier (that can provide you with good information about how their toppers compare to each other or to other toppers they are familiar with that are available on the market) can help you use your sleeping experience as a reference point and guideline to help you choose the type, thickness, and firmness for a topper that has the least possible risk and the best chance for success. A good exchange/return policy can also reduce the risk of an online topper purchase so I would make sure you are comfortable with the options you have available after a purchase just in case the topper you choose doesn’t turn out as well as you hoped for.

NikkiTMU