Leesa Legend Mattress Review

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Is the Leesa Legend Mattress for You?

Who’s Going to Love the Leesa Legend Mattress

  • Side sleepers
  • Couples
  • Those prone to back pain or arthritis
  • Back sleepers
  • Hot sleepers

Who Should Steer Clear of the Leesa Legend Mattress

  • Strict stomach sleepers; instead, opt for a firm mattress like the Brooklyn Bedding Plank
  • Budget shoppers; instead, the original Leesa or the Tuft & Needle are lower cost options
  • Heavyweight sleepers (over 300 lbs); instead, the Titan or Saatva HD are durable, supportive options

This mattress is no longer available for purchase. To help you find your next mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses available on the market now.

Leesa Legend Mattress Firmness and Feel

Leesa Legend Mattress Firmness

The Leesa Legend has a medium-firm feel that we place around 5.5–6/10 on the firmness scale. For reference, a 6/10 firmness is often called the “universal firmness” because it balances cushioning comfort and whole-body support for the average person. 

With that said, the Leesa Legend is on the softer side of the medium-firm spectrum. A 5.5/10 firmness level provides adequate support for those with lightweight or average-weight body types, but heavyweight sleepers over 300 lbs may “bottom out” against the firmer coil layer. At the same time, it may be too soft for strict stomach sleepers. For more supportive mattresses, see the best mattresses for heavy people.

What Does The Leesa Legend Feel Like?

The Leesa Legend has a balanced feel. It’s bouncy and responsive, thanks to two layers of spring coils, and the top layers of foam provide deep cushioning. You can easily compress into the mattress, but it quickly springs back to its former shape.

Support and Pressure Relief by Sleeping Position

NERD RATING: Will this bed work for you?

Body Type: BACK SLEEPERS STOMACH SLEEPERS SIDE SLEEPERS
Lightweight (< 130 lbs):  5 2 4
Average weight (130 – 230 lbs): 5 2 5
Heavyweight (> 230 lbs):  4 1 4

1 = Very poor, 2 = Not good, 3 = Fair, 4 = Good, 5 = Excellent

Back Sleepers

The key to comfort for back sleepers is a blend of cushion and support, especially around the lower back. By these standards, the Leesa Legend is a great fit for lightweight, average-weight, and heavyweight back sleepers. The top layers cradle the bumpier parts of your backside, while the extra lumbar support in the center third of the mattress keeps your hips lifted and aligned with the rest of your spine.

Related: Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers

Side Sleepers

The Leesa Legend is a great mattress for side sleepers because it allows your shoulders and hips to sink deeply into the mattress without getting jammed against the firmer base layers. This is especially true for lightweight and average-weight side sleepers; heavyweight sleepers may want more overall support.

Additionally, the transition layer is divided into zones that provide targeted support for different regions of the body: there are easily compressed microcoils under the head and foot of the bed and a firm foam panel under the center. This ensures that the side sleeper’s spine doesn’t dip out of alignment. 

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleeping is truly the only sleeping position that we don’t think is compatible with the Leesa Legend. Stomach sleepers need a firm mattress in order to achieve proper spinal alignment, and the Leesa Legend is simply too soft. Here are our recommendations for the best mattress for stomach sleepers.

Average-weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers will especially notice their lower back sinking into the soft layers of foam. Lightweight sleepers who spend only part of the night on their stomach may avoid back pain, but we only recommend the Leesa Legend to stomach sleepers with very petite body types.

Combination Sleepers

Despite a memory foam layer near the top of the mattress, the Leesa Legend is remarkably responsive. That’s an important feature for lightweight, average-weight and heavyweight combination sleepers, who need a mattress with quick bounce-back to avoid feeling stuck in the mattress. For more responsive options, check out the best mattresses for combination sleepers.

Leesa Legend Mattress Performance

Is The Leesa Legend Mattress Cooling? 

The Leesa Legend doesn’t include any flashy cooling mechanisms, but the layout ensures that warm body heat flows out and away from the mattress. As such, it’s a reliably temperature-neutral choice for individuals concerned about heat retention.

The cooling process starts with the perforated (hole-punched) top layer. Hundreds of narrow channels direct air out of the foam and through the breathable mattress cover. Next, two layers of coils effectively pump air through the mattress every time you move. This keeps warm air flowing out of the mattress instead of pooling underneath you. Check out our picks for the best cooling mattresses if you’re a really hot sleeper.

Edge Support

The Leesa Legend doesn’t have edge support reinforcements like some other mattresses, but it holds up really well under pressure. Whether we were sitting or lying near the edge of the bed, we felt lifted and secure. Check out our edge support article for more info.

Responsiveness

The Leesa Legend performed really well during our responsiveness tests. That means it quickly responds to changes in position on the mattress surface. This is especially important for combination sleepers, who roll from one sleeping position to another and don’t want to feel stuck.

Motion Isolation: Is it good for those who share a bed?

Couples often aim for a mattress that limits motion transfer and strikes a balance of comfort for both partner’s needs. The hybrid construction and medium-firmness of the Leesa Legend caters to most body types, so it should satisfy the needs of both sleeping partners as long as they favor back or side sleeping.

Motion transfer shouldn’t be an issue either. During our review process, we registered very little motion transfer from subtle movements like getting in and out of the bed. Larger movements like plopping down on the bed were a bit more disruptive, but the foam layers did a good job of absorbing the movement.

Related: Best Mattresses for Couples

Noise

We didn’t notice any squeaking while moving around on the Leesa Legend. It should be a quiet mattress, so if you hear any noises it may be your bed frame.

Pain Relief

While no mattress is likely to completely erase pre-existing back pain, the right mattress can prevent it or alleviate it, especially if the pain was caused by an old mattress. The Legend is best for back sleepers and side sleepers with back or joint pain. It’s soft enough to cushion the curvier regions of the body, and supportive enough to keep the spine aligned—both of which are important for good spinal health.

Sex

The best mattresses for sex are those with bounce and breathability. The Leesa Legend performs well in both of these categories, so couples should experience easy mobility and a comfortable temperature profile on this bed.

Off-Gassing

There’s a chance you’ll detect a slight new mattress odor when you unbox your bed. That comes from chemicals used in the foam manufacturing process that usually dissipate in the factory. Sometimes they get trapped in the foam during the boxing process and “off gas” when you remove the packaging.

Leesa uses high-quality, CertiPUR-US certified foams, so any scents are non-toxic and should be gone within a day or two.

Durability

As a high end hybrid mattress, we expect the Leesa Legend to last you between seven to 10 years.

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Construction: What’s Under the Surface?

The Leesa Legend has a hybrid build that combines both coils and foam. The foam layers add an element of comfort that comes from their softness. The coils enhance the targeted support of the mattress.

Layer #1: Breathable Mattress Cover: The Leesa Legend mattress cover is made with sustainable materials like organic cotton, Merino wool, and fibers from recycled water bottles.

Layer #2: Comfort Foam: This polyfoam comfort layer is ventilated with small perforations to improve breathability and cooling for hot sleepers. 

Layer #3: Memory Foam: A layer of traditional memory foam contours around your pressure points.

Layer #4: Micro-Pocket Springs: Microcoils at the head and foot of the bed sandwich a center panel of firm foam. The combination supports spinal alignment and improves mobility as you change positions: perfect for combination sleepers.

Layer #5: Pocketed Coils : This support layer features individually wrapped coils that isolate motion much better than a traditional innerspring mattress. These coils are also breathable, which keeps the mattress cooler.

Layer #6: Support Foam: A layer of high-density base foam stabilizes the spring layer. The innerspring system of the Leesa Legend contains over 1,000 active response pocket springs that provide good edge support and enhanced breathability, especially when compared to traditional memory foam mattresses.

How Much Does the Leesa Legend Mattress Cost?

Mattress Size Price Dimensions Height Weight
Twin XL $1,799 39″ x 80″ 12” 81 lbs
Full $2,099 53″ x 75″ 12” 103 lbs
Queen $2,299 60″ x 80″ 12” 119 lbs
King $2,599 76″ x 80″ 12” 149 lbs
California King $2,599 72″ x 84″ 12” 149 lbs

To see if the Leesa Legend is in your budget, check out our Leesa Coupons page. For our other top picks, see the Best Mattress for the Money.

How Do the Policies Measure Up?

Shipping & Unboxing

Leesa mattresses are made-to-order in the U.S. and ship for free, but you can pay an extra $150 to upgrade to white glove delivery. Once your mattress arrives, you simply need to unroll the mattress onto your bed frame, cut off the packaging, and let it rise. While you shouldn’t expect too much of an “off-gassing” smell or chemical foam smell, airing your mattress out in a well-ventilated area can’t hurt. 

Warranty

The Leesa Legend is protected by a 10-year warranty against manufacturing defects like faulty foam, broken zippers, and indentations over 1”. If your mattress develops a defect, you may be eligible for free repairs or a replacement mattress. Be sure to contact Leesa’s customer service in the event you have any questions or an issue with your mattress.

Trial Period & Returns

Mattress trial periods provide bed-in-a-box mattress shoppers with the opportunity to test out their new mattress in the comfort of home. Leesa gives their customers a 100-night sleep trial and free returns, as long as you try out the mattress for at least 30 days, giving your body time to adjust to the new bed. 

Still, keep in mind that customers in Alaska and Hawaii must pay $100 for returns. Also, the trial period and return policy may be different for mattresses bought from third-party retailers like Amazon or West Elm.

Comparing the Leesa Legend Mattress

Leesa Legend vs. Leesa Original

Leesa Legend Mattress is Best For: Leesa Original Mattress is Best For:
Back and Side Sleepers All Sleeping Positions
Hot Sleepers Shoppers Looking for a Firmer Mattress
Couples Lightweight or Average-weight Back Sleepers

The Leesa Original is an all-foam mattress with similar top layers to the Leesa Legend, including contouring comfort foam and memory foam. Unlike the Legend, the Original has a firm foam base that contributes to an overall firmer feel. While we recommend the Legend for side sleepers and all body types, the Original is best for lightweight or average-weight back sleepers.

Read our full Leesa Original Mattress Review to learn more. 

Leesa Legend vs. Sapira Hybrid

Leesa Legend Mattress is Best For: Sapira Hybrid Mattress is Best For:
Back and Side Sleepers Combination Sleepers
Sleepers with Joint Pain Shoppers Looking for a Breathable Mattress
Couples Back Sleepers

The Sapira Hybrid mattress is similar to the Original, but it has an innerspring base layer that gives it a springier personality and is well-suited to the needs of combination sleepers. Like the Leesa Legend, the Hybrid is breathable, making it a comfortable choice for hot sleepers. It has a medium-firm feel that may be too firm for strict sleepers, but works nicely for back sleepers.

See our full Sapira Hybrid Mattress Review to learn more. 

Leesa Legend Mattress vs. Studio by Leesa Mattress

Leesa Legend Mattress is Best For: Studio by Leesa Mattress is Best For:
Back and Side Sleepers Light to Average-weight Back Sleepers
Hot Sleepers Sensitive Sleepers that Share the Bed
Couples Sleepers Looking for a Soft but Supporting Mattress

The Studio by Leesa has a simple three-layer construction consisting of memory foam and polyfoam. It has a similar medium-firm feel compared to the Leesa Original, and also suits back sleepers. We don’t recommend it to side sleepers or those with heavyweight body types, since it doesn’t have quite enough sinkage near the shoulders. As a value mattress, the Studio costs less than $1,000 for a Queen size: much lower than the price of the Legend. 

See our full Studio by Leesa Mattress Review to learn more. 

Comparing Sapira Hybrid to the Competition

Leesa Legend Mattress vs. Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress

Leesa Legend Mattress is Best For: Casper Wave Mattress is Best For:
Back and Side Sleepers Side Sleepers
Hot Sleepers Shoppers Looking for a Supportive Mattress
Couples Seniors

Like the Leesa Legend, the Casper Wave Hybrid has a medium firmness. We rated it at 5/10 on the firmness scale, so it’s also a comfy choice for side sleepers. Extra gel pods beneath your lumbar region improve spinal alignment similarly to the firm foam in the Legend. The Wave Hybrid costs a bit more than the Legend.

See our full Leesa vs. Casper Mattress Review to learn more. 

Leesa Legend Mattress vs. Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress

Leesa Legend Mattress is Best For: Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress is Best For:
Back and Side Sleepers Pressure Relief
Hot Sleepers Average to Heavyweight Sleepers
Couples Stomach and Back Sleepers

The Helix Midnight Luxe is another premier hybrid mattress aimed at providing pressure relief for side sleepers. In addition to memory foam and polyfoam comfort layers, it features a plush pillow top. We think it’s a little more supportive for heavyweight sleepers, but it doesn’t isolate motion as well as the Leesa Legend.

See our Helix Midnight Mattress Review to learn more. 

Leesa Legend Mattress vs. TEMPUR-Cloud Mattress

Leesa Legend Mattress is Best For: TEMPUR-Cloud Mattress is Best For:
Back and Side Sleepers Pressure Relief
Hot Sleepers Shoppers Looking for a Firmer Mattress
Couples Lightweight Stomach Sleepers

The TEMPUR-Cloud by Tempur-Pedic is another mattress that capitalizes on the pressure-relieving nature of memory foam. Unlike the Leesa Legend, the TEMPUR-Cloud is a borderline firm mattress (7/10) that works best for back sleepers and lightweight stomach sleepers. It’s also made entirely of foam, so it retains more heat than the Legend. 

See our full  Leesa vs. Tempur-Pedic Mattress Review to learn more. 

Looking for More Information on Leesa?  

The Bottom Line

The Legend is one of Leesa’s luxury hybrid mattresses capable of delivering strong pressure relief for side and back sleepers, along with exceptional edge support to create a durable mattress that’s great for couples. While we found the mattress to be less plush than advertised—more of a bouncy spring feel than a memory foam hug—the Legend’s ability to accommodate multiple sleeping positions makes it a great option for a variety of sleepers.

Leesa Legend Mattress FAQs

Is Leesa Legend worth it?

For the right kind of sleeper, absolutely. We're talking about couples, side sleepers, back sleepers, people with arthritis, hot sleepers, and combination sleepers. For these folks, the Leesa Legend should provide ample comfort. Plus, you have 100 nights to try out the mattress and make sure it's the right fit.

How long will my Leesa mattresses last?

Hybrid mattresses maintain their integrity for five to six years on average. Still, the Leesa Legend is an overall durable bed that should still be functional after that time frame. Leesa also protects you against manufacturing defects for up to 10 years as part of the brand's limited warranty.

Can I flip my Leesa mattress?

Nope. The Leesa Legend is designed for single-sided use. However, you can prolong the lifespan of your mattress by rotating it 180 degrees once a month for the first few months and then seasonally. This helps your mattress to wear in more evenly, preventing dips or impressions in the mattress.

Does the Leesa Legend offer a warranty or sleep trial?

The Leesa Legend comes with a 10-year warranty and a 100-night sleep trial.

How does the Leesa Legend mattress ship?

The Leesa Legend ships compressed in a box for free.

The Nerd’s Scores for the Leesa Legend Mattress

Performance Factor Out of 5
Motion Isolation 4.25
Pressure Relief 5
Ease of Movement 4.5
Edge Support 4.25
Temperature Control  4.5
Durability 4

Leesa Premium Foam Pillow

Leesa Premium Foam Pillow

The Leesa Pillow is made with a solid piece of memory foam that’s ideal for anyone who likes their pillow to closely conform to their head and neck. At 5″ thick, it’s best suited to back and side sleepers, but is probably too lofty for most stomach sleepers. The foam is ventilated with tiny channels that improve breathability, so the pillow stays temperature neutral, which is a big bonus for hot sleepers.

Mattress Nerd Score
4.40 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Memory foam

Trial Period
Trial Period

30 nights

Warranty
Warranty

1-year warranty

Financing
Financing

Not Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Leesa Bed Frame

Leesa Bed Frame
Mattress Nerd Score
4.20 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Trial Period
Trial Period

30 nights

Warranty
Warranty

3-year warranty

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Leesa Duvet Comforter

Mattress Nerd Score
4.70 / 5 starstarstarstarstar

Accessories Details

Trial Period
Trial Period

30 nights

Warranty
Warranty

1 Year Warranty

Financing
Financing

Not Available

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns