Lagoon Hippo Pillow
Sleep Support: Best Firm Pillows of 2023
Firm pillows are a great choice for side sleepers and back sleepers. But with thousands of options on the market, picking the pillow of your dreams can get overwhelming. But don’t worry! We did the research so you don’t have to.
Keep reading for a rundown of the 10 best firm pillows of 2023. There are options for all sleeping positions, budgets, desired shapes, and material preferences.
Best Firm Pillows
Here’s a quick list of the 10 best firm pillows to buy online.
- Lagoon Hippo Pillow – Editor’s Pick
- Saatva Memory Foam Pillow – Best Firm Memory Foam Pillow
- TEMPUR-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck – Best Firm Pillow for Neck Pain
- Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow – Best Adjustable Firm Pillow
- Brooklinen Down Pillow – Best Firm Down Pillow
- Luxome LAYR Pillow – Most Unique Firm Pillow
- Parachute Down Pillow (Firm) – Best Firm Luxury Pillow
- Turmerry Convoluted Contour Latex Pillow (Firm) – Best Contoured Firm Pillow
- Avocado Molded Latex Pillow – Best Firm Latex Pillow
- Sleep Number True Temp Pillow – Best Firm for Hot Sleepers
Nerd’s Pick – Lagoon Hippo Pillow
4.50 / 5
Pros of the Lagoon Hippo Pillow
Breathable and washable cover
Contouring
Durable
Cons of the Lagoon Hippo Pillow
Expensive
The Hippo Memory Foam pillow by Lagoon Sleep is a great choice for sleepers of all sizes. Filled with 100 percent CertiPUR-US molded foam, it has a melt-in feel that comfortably adapts to the neck and shoulders. The Hippo comes in Queen and King sizes.
Reason to Buy: The Hippo’s cover is 62 percent polyester and 32 percent bamboo. Each pillow comes with a built-in liner to protect the inner filling. Additionally, our reviewers say this pillow is very breathable and doesn’t retain heat, making it a good option for hot sleepers.
On top of being very comfortable, the Hippo is built to last. To extend its lifespan to the max, throw the pillow into the dryer and run it on low for about 10 minutes once every six months. You can also wash the cover on a gentle cycle and tumble dry. Each purchase also comes with a 5-year warranty and a 100-night risk-free trial.
What our testers say: “Lagoon is a newer brand to the pillow industry. Their Hippo model turns the typical heat trapping memory foam pillow, into a cooler, more breathable experience— without sacrificing any of the benefits.” –Loren, Editor & Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Lagoon Hippo Pillow
- Hot sleepers
- Side sleepers
Who Might Not Like the Lagoon Hippo Pillow
- Budget shoppers
Best Firm Memory Foam Pillow – Saatva Memory Foam Pillow
Saatva Memory Foam Pillow
Saatva combats the typical heat retention issue of memory foam by using graphite technology in their memory foam pillows for a cooling, yet equally pressure relieving feel.
Pros of the Saatva Memory Foam Pillow
Support for neck pain
Graphite-infusion for temperature regulation
Cons of the Saatva Memory Foam Pillow
Expensive
Not adjustable
Saatva’s Memory Foam pillow is filled with 100 percent CertiPUR-US certified memory foam. This pillow works for all sleeping positions, but due to its loft and firmness, is best suited for side sleepers. It comes in Queen and King sizes.
Reason to Buy: Saatva’s Memory Foam pillow contains shredded memory foam, designed to provide responsive support. Our reviewers say it contours the neck’s natural curves and maintains its structure for consistent comfort throughout the night.
Additionally, this pillow is ideal for hot sleepers. The foam utilizes advanced graphite technology to reduce heat retention. It also has a breathable cotton cover that wicks away moisture.
Saatva offers a 45-day free return policy, free shipping, and a 1-year limited warranty.
What our testers say: “I mainly sleep on my side, so when I tested this pillow out for myself, I really enjoyed it. The high loft and contouring this pillow provides felt very comfortable and supportive on my head and neck.” –Becca, Editor & Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Saatva Memory Foam Pillow
- Memory foam fans
- Side sleepers
- Hot sleepers
Who Might Not Like the Saatva Memory Foam Pillow
- Stomach sleepers
- Those who want a fluffier pillow
Read all our full Saatva Memory Foam Pillow Review.
Best Firm Pillow for Neck Pain – TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
The Tempur-Neck by Tempur-Pedic is designed for back and side sleepers who need a pillow that will provide exceptional support for optimal neck pain relief.
Mattress Nerd Score
3.90 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
Promotes alignment
5-year warranty
Great for neck pain
Cons of the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
No returns
Expensive
The TEMPUR-Neck is an ergonomic support pillow designed for optimal relief for neck pain. The curve on the surface follows the natural curve of the cervical spine, giving you superior support and comfort. It comes in small, medium, and large sizes, which correspond with your body size.
Reason to Buy: The TEMPUR Material used in this pillow has an extra-firm feel. It will maintain its shape to so your neck and spine stay supported all night long. It also comes with a 100 percent polyester knit hypoallergenic cover.
You can personalize your pillow experience by picking the pillow size that will best suit your body type. However, only back and side sleepers will be comfortable on this. Each pillow comes with a 5-year limited warranty.
What our testers say: “As long as you are using this pillow in the sleeping positions it’s designed for, which is your back and side, then you will achieve spinal alignment. Since this model comes with the ergonomic shape, it’s specifically made to cater to your natural curve.” –Becca, Editor & Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
- Back sleepers
- Side sleepers
Who Might Not Like the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
- Hot sleepers
- Budget shoppers
- Stomach sleepers
Read our full TEMPUR-Neck Pillow review.
Best Firm Adjustable Pillow – Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow
Coop Eden Pillow
The Coop Eden pillow works for all sleeping positions and body types, thanks to an adjustable fill level. The pillow can sleep a little warm, so it’s not ideal for hot sleepers. The gel memory foam and microfiber fill snuggly support the head and neck without compromising a cozy feel.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.60 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow
Adjustable
Hypoallergenic
Responsive
Cons of the Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow
Not the most cooling
Pricey
The Eden pillow by Coop gives you the best of both worlds: comfort and support. As an adjustable pillow, you can add or remove the filling to best fit your comfort preferences and go-to sleeping position. Each pillow comes with an extra half-pound bag of fill, which is a blend of microfiber and cross-cut memory foam.
Reason to Buy: This pillow is an awesome alternative to down. It’s made with a blend of microfiber and gel-infused memory foam, for supportive and temperature-neutral sleep. Each pillow has a mesh tape gusset to help you distribute the filling evenly. It also has a machine-washable Lulltra cover and a good amount of breathability.
The Eden is GREENGUARD Gold certified and CertiPUR-US certified. Our reviewers say it’s best for side and back sleepers, but stomach sleepers may also find it comfortable if they remove some of the fill and lower the loft. Coop Home Goods offers a 5-year warranty and a 100-day risk-free trial for their Eden pillow.
What our testers say: “The Coop Eden pillow should keep your head and neck aligned as long as you adjust the fill to create the right loft level for your sleeping position and body type. As the pillow comes, it’s just right for side sleepers, but back sleepers and stomach sleepers will need to remove the fill until the pillow reaches a lower loft.” –Becca, Editor & Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow
- Combination sleepers
- Those with allergies
Who Might Not Like the Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow
- Hot sleepers
- Budget shoppers
Read our full Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow review for more.
Best Firm Down Pillow – Brooklinen Down Pillow (Firm)
Brooklinen Down Pillow
Fans of comfort should love the softness of the Brooklinen Down Pillow.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.30 / 5
Pros of the Brooklinen Down Pillow
Fluffable
Hypoallergenic
Affordable (for down pillows)
Cons of the Brooklinen Down Pillow
May still be too soft for some
If you fancy feathers, look no further. Brooklinen’s Down pillow is a soft-yet-supportive pillow filled with down feathers. It comes in Standard and King sizes, and you can also choose between plush, mid-plush, and firm support.
Reason to Buy: Brooklinen uses soft and fluffy down clusters treated with antimicrobials, so if you suffer from allergies, this may be an option for you. This pillow is also wrapped in a 100 percent cotton sateen shell, which adds a silky final touch. Plus, compared to other down pillows, this high-quality option comes at a reasonable price.
For a firmer feel, go with the firm support option. Brooklinen offers a 1-year warranty and a 365-day return or exchange period.
What our testers say: “If you have allergy concerns, the fill is rated with antimicrobials and is also double stitched to prevent feathers from coming out. Brooklinen also claims their down is ethically sourced too.” –Becca, Editor & Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Brooklinen Down Pillow
- Plush fans looking for a firm pillow
- Stomach sleepers
- Those with allergies
Who Might Not Like the Brooklinen Down Pillow
- Budget shoppers
- Back sleepers
Best Unique Firm Pillow – Luxome LAYR Pillow
Luxome LAYR Pillow
The Luxome LAYR pillow is a fully customizable option that allows you to cater the feel and firmness to your sleeping position and body type.
Pros of the Luxome LAYR Pillow
Customizable
Gel-infused memory foam for coolness
Multiple firmness options
Cons of the Luxome LAYR Pillow
Pricey
This uniquely customizable pillow was made to accommodate all sizes, shapes, and sleeping positions. You can adjust the firmness and height to suit your comfort needs. It comes in Standard and King sizes.
Reason to Buy: Luxome’s LAYR Customizable Pillow is very different from most pillows. It comes with a variety of cushions, ranging from soft to firm. They also give you the option of 1″ or 2″ inserts. You can unzip the outer cover of the pillow and insert two cushions at a time. The idea is that you mix and match until you find your perfect comfort combo.
Each cushion is filled with down alternative and gel-infused CertiPUR-US memory foam. The cooling outer cover is made from heat-regulating bamboo viscose, and each insert is encased in a 100 percent cotton cover for breathability. Luxome offers single-pack and two-pack versions of their inserts. Each purchase comes with free U.S. shipping and a 30-day return policy.
What our testers say: “This is definitely one of the coolest pillows I’ve ever seen. It’s great for those who don’t know what they want out of their pillow and want to try a range of firmness levels.” –Becca, Editor & Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Luxome LAYR Pillow
- Hot sleepers
- All sleeping positions
- Those looking for a uniquely-tailored pillow
Who Might Not Like the Luxome LAYR Pillow
- Budget shoppers
Best Firm Luxury Pillow – Parachute Down Pillow
Parachute Down Pillow
Filled with 750 fill power European white down, the Parachute Down Pillow is one of the most luxurious down pillows we've reviewed. Choose between three firmness levels: soft, medium, and firm.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.30 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Parachute Down Pillow
Breathable and washable cover
Three different firmnesses
Cons of the Parachute Down Pillow
Expensive
Some users noticed a “gamey” smell
Give yourself the gift of luxury sleep with the Down pillow by Parachute. This ultra-plush pillow is delightfully airy and supremely supportive. It comes in Standard and King sizes.
Reason to Buy: Parachute’s Down pillow is available in three densities – soft, medium, and firm. That means you can pick the pillow that matches your comfort preferences. Many reviewers say that this pillow is ideal for side sleepers, but it’s good for stomach and back sleepers, too.
Made in the USA, these pillows are stuffed with premium European white down feathers. Each pillow is reinforced with a double-stitched piping seam to ensure long-lasting support. They also boast a 100 percent sateen cotton shell that’s gentle on the skin. Parachute offers a three-year warranty and a 60-day return policy.
What our testers say: “The firm option is the most dense and supportive, and it’s recommended for people who sleep on their sides and need the extra height to keep their spine aligned and to prevent neck pain and back pain.” –Loren, Editor & Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Parachute Down Pillow
- Luxury shoppers
- All sleeping positions
Who Might Not Like the Parachute Down Pillow
- Budget shoppers
- Those sensitive to smell
Read our full Parachute Down Pillow review.
Best Contoured Firm Pillow – Turmerry Convoluted Contour Latex Pillow
Turmerry Convoluted Contour Latex Pillow
The Convoluted Latex Contour pillow from Turmerry gives a massage sensation for those looking for pressure relief and ergonomic support. It molds to the impression of your head, neck, and shoulders and comes in three firmness options to choose from.
Pros of the Turmerry Convoluted Contour Latex Pillow
Removable and washable organic cover
Multiple firmness options
Cons of the Turmerry Convoluted Contour Latex Pillow
May be too low for some
Turmerry’s Convoluted Contour Latex pillow was designed to mirror your upper spine and neck’s natural curves. This allows for excellent support for side sleepers. You can get it in soft, medium, or firm. The firm is the most supportive option.
Reason to Buy: The Convoluted Contour Latex pillow conforms to your neck, head, and shoulders. The pillow is perforated at the bottom to help keep you cool. It’s 4″ tall on one side and 5″ tall on the other. Each pillow comes with a removable un-dyed organic cotton cover.
Our reviewers say the contoured design offers a massage effect. We also noticed customers claimed this pillow helped them with their chronic neck pain. Turmerry offers free U.S. shipping and a 120-day return policy.
Who Might Like the Turmerry Convoluted Contour Latex Pillow
- Side sleepers
- Those with neck pain
Who Might not Like the Turmerry Convoluted Contour Latex Pillow
- Back sleepers
- Stomach sleepers
- Smaller folks
Best Firm Latex Pillow – Avocado Molded Latex Pillow
Avocado Molded Latex Pillow
Back and side sleepers, hot sleepers, and those looking for targeted neck support will love the Avocado Molded Latex pillow. Made with naturally cool and durable charcoal-infused latex, this organic pillow is an eco-friendly upgrade from your typical latex pillow.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.40 / 5
Pros of the Avocado Molded Latex Pillow
Organic and made in the USA
Cooling
Cons of the Avocado Molded Latex Pillow
Expensive
Avocado’s Molded Latex pillow is a top-notch choice for back and side sleepers. It offers excellent neck support and molds to your neck’s natural curves. It comes in Standard, Queen, and King sizes.
Reason to Buy: The Molded Latex pillow has a charcoal-infused latex core which helps it hold its shape, regulate temperature, eliminate odors, and remove excess moisture.
Each pillow comes with a Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified organic cotton cover. Reviewers say the outer layer is very soft and easy to clean. More good news: This pillow is GREENGUARD Gold Certified by UL Environment. Avocado’s products are made with vegan, organic, and natural materials that are assembled in California. The pillow is covered by a 1-year warranty and a 100-night trial.
What our testers say: “Avocado, a bedding and sleep company known for its environmental stewardship policies, makes three different pillows. For more environmentally-conscious products, see the best organic mattresses.” –Becca, Editor & Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Avocado Molded Latex Pillow
- Eco-conscious shoppers
- Those with allergies
- Back and side sleepers
Who Might not Like the Avocado Molded Latex Pillow
- Budget shoppers
- Stomach sleepers
Best Cooling Firm Pillow – Sleep Number True Temp Pillow
Sleep Number True Temp Pillow
The Sleep Number True Temp pillow is made from memory foam with patented cooling technology. It comes in three shapes: Classic, Contour, and Ultimate, to accommodate all different body types and sleeping positions.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.60 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Sleep Number True Temp Pillow
Cooling
Washable
Adjustable
Cons of the Sleep Number True Temp Pillow
Expensive
May be too high for some
The True Temp pillow by Sleep Number is a fab fit for sweaty sleepers. It’s designed to cool you down when you’re hot and keep you warm when you’re cold. With active-particle technology, it attracts and removes moisture to reduce heat and humidity buildup. Each True Temp pillow is encased in a cool-to-the-touch cover. It comes in Standard and King Sizes.
Reason to Buy: On top of its cooling capabilities, the True Temp pillow is also great for your neck and back. Sleep Number used CertiPUR-US certified foams that meet rigorous content, emission, and durability standards.
But wait, there’s more! You can choose between the classic, contour, and ultimate shapes to match your unique comfort preferences. The classic is best for stomach or back sleepers, and the contour is ideal for side or back sleepers. As for the ultimate, it’s great for all sleeping positions thanks to its customizability. The ultimate contains three removable foam inserts that you can switch around until you find the perfect fit.
Sleep Number offers a 1-year limited warranty, a 100-night trial, and free shipping.
What our testers say: “The cover to this pillow is super soft and cool to the touch. The sensation was so pleasant, I forewent a pillowcase a few times just to lie directly on it. The material is a mix of polyester and polyethylene, a fancy science term for a cooling material that helps draw heat from the body.” –Becca, Editor & Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Sleep Number True Temp Pillow
- Hot sleepers
- Back and side sleepers
Who Might not Like the Sleep Number True Temp Pillow
- Stomach sleepers
- Budget shoppers
Read our full Sleep Number True Temp Pillow review for more.
Who Needs a Firm Pillow?
Firm pillows provide more neck and upper back support than soft pillows, making them an ideal choice for side sleepers or people who have chronic neck or back pain.
Since they’re less likely to flatten or get lumpy when you’re resting on them, firm pillows also provide more consistent support than soft pillows. They also tend to be better for spinal alignment. This can help reduce the risk of stiffness or pain in your neck and shoulders.
Just keep in mind that an ultra-firm pillow can be uncomfortable to sleep on. Additionally, extra-firm pillows don’t always provide an adequate amount of pressure relief for the neck, head, or shoulders.
Considerations for a Firm Pillow
Here are some things to consider when you buy a firm pillow.
- Price. You don’t have to spend big bucks on a high-quality pillow. Just keep in mind, firm pillows tend to be more expensive than soft or standard pillows. This is usually because firm pillows contain more expensive materials like memory foam. Thankfully, firm pillows tend to last years if cared for correctly.
- Loft. Loft is the amount of thickness a pillow has. A low loft is less than 3-inches thick, a medium loft ranges from 3- to 5-inches thick, and a high loft is more than 5-inches thick. This is important to keep in mind since firm pillows don’t compress under your weight like soft pillows do.
- Sleep position. Your preferred sleep position plays a major role in the amount of pressure placed on your neck and back. Firm pillows provide the necessary support for back or side sleepers. However, they might be too solid for stomach sleepers, who tend to do better with soft pillows.
- Temperature regulation. Hot sleepers should always opt for a firm pillow that uses heat-resistant technology. This will reduce the risk of waking up in a sweat in the middle of the night.
- Support. Firm pillows often offer more support than soft pillows. But still, be sure to see how much weight a pillow can take without flattening. This will let you know if the pillow will support proper spinal alignment and reduce the risk of neck strain.
- Firmness level. The definition of “firm” varies from brand to brand. Generally, a medium-firm or firm pillow is the sweet spot for most folks. Extra firm pillows are very sturdy and, as a result, less comfortable for most people.
- Shape. Most firm pillows are basic rectangles that come in Standard, Queen, and King sizes. But you can also find options like contour pillows or ergonomic pillows that provide better back and neck support.
- Pressure relief. Generally, firmer pillows offer less pressure relief. But a lot of modern options are made with memory foam and latex, which provides a better balance between pressure relief and firmness.
Our Final Take
Firm pillows provide more support for the spine, neck, and shoulders than soft pillows— especially if you’re looking to target pain relief or maintain proper spinal alignment. However, not all firm pillows are created equally and some find them less comfortable than a more plush, airy option. To find the best firm pillow for your unique needs, consider your preferred price, loft, sleeping position, and firmness level.
Recap of the Best Firm Pillows
| Model | Superlative |
| Lagoon Hippo Pillow | Editor’s Pick |
| Saatva Memory Foam Pillow | Best Memory Foam Pillow |
| TEMPUR-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck | Best Firm Pillow for Neck Pain |
| Coop Home Goods Eden Pillows | Best Adjustable Firm Pillow |
| Brooklinen Down Pillow (Firm) | Best Firm Down Pillow |
| Luxome LAYR Pillow | Most Unique Firm Pillow |
| Parachute Down Pillow (Firm) | Best Firm Luxury Pillow |
| Turmerry Convoluted Contour Latex Pillow (Firm) | Best Contoured Firm Pillow |
| Avocado Molded Latex Pillow | Best Firm Latex Pillow |
| Sleep Number True Temp Pillow | Best Firm for Hot Sleepers |
