WIRED Updates 2026 Mattress Type Guide: Hybrids, Foam, Latex and Smart Beds Explained

WIRED published an updated guide in October 2026 explaining the five main mattress categories: hybrid, innerspring, memory foam, latex and smart beds. Reviewer Nicole Kinning, who has covered sleep products since 2022, rewrote portions of the piece, added a new introduction and refreshed buying FAQs, links and prices. John Merwin, CEO of 3Z Brands — parent of Helix, Birch, Bear, Nolah and Leesa — and founder of Brooklyn Bedding, contributed technical explanations. Merwin described pocketed coils as individually encased so each responds independently to pressure, reducing motion transfer and improving spinal alignment compared with wired-together traditional coils. He said memory foam is made by combining liquid polyurethane with polyols and isocyanates, poured onto a moving line and expanded into blocks called buns. Tested picks include the Helix Midnight Luxe hybrid, Nolah Evolution, Saatva Classic, Bear Original, Nectar Premier, Birch Luxe Natural and Bryte Balance Pro smart bed. The guide advises skipping box springs with hybrids, airing off-gassing mattresses, and expecting seven to 10 years of lifespan.