Hi sleepymath,
Thanks for your update.
The initial loss of “false firmness” in an all-latex mattress will be due mostly to the mattress covering and any fiber (in your case wool) under the covering. The latex itself will not change significantly, although there can be a bit of “settling” of everything during the first few months, but it would be very odd for latex to have much change in plushness when brand new.
I’m guessing this is mostly when you’re sleeping on your side, as opposed to your stomach, which was your other preferred sleeping position. It may truly be the case that you are sinking in a bit more than you prefer, and it may also be the case of “learned alignment” and what you perceive as sinking in too deeply could be a result of your perception as compared to your old mattress. I’d generally recommend a little more than 10 days for testing this out, if possible.
[quote]My current layering combination is (top to bottom) 2" extra soft (55 kg/m^3), 3" medium (75 kg/m^3), 3" soft (65 kg/m^3), and 3" firm (90 kg/m^3).
I’m debating which of the following configurations I should try next:
Option 1: ES, S, M, F on both sides (this is the configuration used to markets the mattress)[/quote]
This will allow you shoulder to sink in a bit more than in your current configuration, but also will allow your hips to sink in a bit more as well. At your BMI, while counterintuitive, this configuration can actually “feel firmer” to some people in their hip region, as you will sink in a bit more through these softer layers when “meeting” the medium layer, and this extra sinking is described by some people as “extra pushback” along their waist and ribs and when they hit the firmness of the medium layer. It might not be as comfortable when sleeping prone, however.
Similar to my comments on Option 1, but with a more discernible transition from the two plush layers to the firm layer.
This layering would result in your hips sinking in less than your current configuration, but may not be as comfortable on your shoulder. I wouldn’t have concerns about the plush layer by placing it on the bottom.
I would be concerned with the left side and the lower level of deep support for your BMI. The right side configuration would be the “firmest”, and might be the most appropriate if you spent most of your time sleeping upon your stomach, but this might not agree with your shoulder comfort.
Regarding your comments about your shoulder, make sure to analyze your pillow and make sure that it is providing adequate support to help you maintain a more “neutral” alignment. Sometimes shoulder issues when trying out a new mattress can be pillow related.
I can’t tell which configuration might be “the best option” for you, but instead draw comparisons to what you’re current sleeping upon and how you “might” react to these changes. Ideally, I’d day to try your current configuration a bit longer it you can. Besides the configurations you’ve come up with, which are quite good across the spectrum, you may wish to phone Dormio and see if they have any takes on what you’re considering, as they are the most knowledgeable about their own componentry.
Zoning can introduce even more complexity to your layering combinations, and I would consider that a last resort if you’re unable to find anything that comfortable accommodates both your shoulder and hips sinking in. It is true that zoning systems can also be very useful and worth considering for people who have more challenging circumstances or sensitivities, body types that are more difficult to “match” to a mattress, more complex medical issues, or who have a history of having more difficulty in finding a mattress that works well for them. There is more about zoning in this article and in post #11 here. Also in post #2 here and post #7 here (latex monozone unique properties).
Phoenix