Saatva HD Mattress Review

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The Saatva HD is the self-proclaimed best mattress for heavy people, so you know what that means: it’s time to test it to see if it’s really as good as they say. We have a whole team of mattress & bedding experts that test each mattress, including our heavyweight Nerds, so we’ve got all of the bases covered. By the end of this review, you’ll know if the Saatva HD is the bed for you.

Is the Saatva HD Mattress for You?

Who’s Going to Love the Saatva HD Mattress

  • Heavy people
  • Back sleepers
  • Those with back pain

Who Should Steer Clear of the Saatva HD Mattress

  • Stomach sleepers—instead, consider the Big Fig mattress, another specialty mattress made for heavier folks.
  • Budget shoppers—try out the Titan Plus, instead.
  • Those looking for a memory foam mattress—check out the Plank Firm for an all-foam option.

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.

Want the bottom line? Skip to the Nerd’s Take below.

Saatva HD Video Review

Saatva HD Mattress Firmness & Feel

How Firm Is the Saatva HD Mattress?

Our Mattress Nerd firmness scale ranges from 1–10, with 10 being as firm at an HD TV screen. We placed the Saatva HD as a 6/10 on this scale—the universal firmness level, so it should suit most body types and sleep positions. Keep in mind: Heavyweight sleepers tend to feel beds as softer and vice versa; this discrepancy may account for any variations in feel.

firmness scale overall
firmness scale overall

What Does the Saatva HD Feel Like?

The Saatva HD offers a soft, cushioning, and supportive feel. It’s both supportive and contouring enough to accommodate heavyweight side, back, stomach, and combination sleepers, but it also suits light to average-weight back and stomach sleepers. Usually, mattresses for heavy people are pretty firm, so this is a good option if you want something more plush, yet just as durable.

saatva hd heavyweight tester

What Sleeping Positions Is the Saatva HD Best For?

Body Type:BACK SLEEPERSSTOMACH SLEEPERSSIDE SLEEPERS
Lightweight (< 130 lbs): 553
Average weight (130–230 lbs):544
Heavyweight (> 230 lbs): 535

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

Back Sleepers

Heavyweight back sleepers or light to average-weight back sleepers who like a firmer feel do well on the Saatva HD because it evenly distributes body weight, provides just a touch of cushioning, and keeps the hips from dipping too far. 

If you prefer a firmer feel, consider checking out the best mattresses for back sleepers.

Side Sleepers

Heavier people who sleep on their sides need the best of both worlds—pressure relief at the hips and shoulders and a support system that prevents the body’s core from sinking in and disrupting spinal alignment. The Saatva HD’s thick coils and reinforced lumbar region do their part to minimize excess sinkage, while multiple comfort layers cushion the hips and shoulders of average to heavyweight side sleepers. Lightweight side sleepers are likely to find the top too firm and experience pain at pressure points.

See the best mattresses for side sleepers for better pressure-relieving options.

saatva hd lightweight side
Saatva HD lightweight pressure map
saatva hd heavyweight side
Saatva HD heavyweight pressure map

Stomach Sleepers 

The best mattresses for stomach sleepers gently cushion the front of the body without allowing the hips to sink in. Too much hip sinkage equals poor spinal alignment and possible lower back pain. The Saatva HD’s Euro pillow top brings comfort, while its added lumbar support and durable coil system keeps the hips aligned with the spine for lightweight stomach sleepers.. 

Because mattresses feel softer to heavier people, heavyweight and average-weight stomach sleepers who like a firm surface may find the HD too soft.  

Combination Sleepers 

Given that the Saatva HD can provide support and comfort in two primary sleeping positions for plus-size sleepers, it’s a good mattress for heavyweight combination sleepers. These folks should find some nice bounce and responsiveness from the steel coils and responsive latex layer, which makes changing positions a little bit easier throughout the night. Because the top foam layers are made of responsive materials, most lightweight and average-weight combination sleepers should enjoy the Saatva HD as well. For similar options, check out our top picks for the best mattresses for combination sleepers.

Saatva HD Mattress Performance

Is the Saatva HD Mattress Cooling? 

Some of the best cooling mattresses are hybrid and innerspring mattresses because their coil layers promote steady airflow. The Saatva HD is no different, but the use of breathable latex and cotton in the upper layers of the bed give it a bit of an edge over similar hybrids when it comes to cooling. 

To learn more about hybrid mattresses, check out our article on memory foam vs. hybrid mattresses. 

Edge Support

A mattress with good edge support is more durable, which is especially important for seniors, couples looking for extra mattress space, or any brave people who like sleeping on the edge. To keep the edge support strong, Saatva reinforces the perimeter of the HD mattress with dense foam. This means an edge that’s suitable for lying along or sitting on to get ready in the morning.

saatva hd edge support

Responsiveness

The Saatva HD contains latex foam and a coil layer, both materials rapidly adapt to your changes in position, so the mattress is great for combination sleepers, those who toss and turn, and anyone who simply doesn’t want to feel “stuck” in their mattress.

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

When it comes to motion isolation, the Saatva HD does a great job but not an excellent one. The comfort foam layers dampen motion, but the lower layer of durable coils is pretty bouncy. You’ll likely feel some movement when your partner changes positions or gets out of bed, but very little. For other options that dampen motion transfer, check out the best mattresses for couples.

saatva hd motion transfer

Noise

We didn’t notice much noise coming from the Saatva HD during our testing process. If anything, you could hear air moving in and out of the mattress when we changed positions.

Pain Relief

Saatva HD’s design supports impressive spinal alignment, which is excellent for people with back pain. Plus-size people need added support along the body’s lumbar region or the hips will sink in too far, exacerbating lower back pain. These folks get the support they need on the HD. Also, the Saatva HD has a layer of zoned latex that’s denser at the body’s core and softer at the hips. Paired with reinforced wire support along the lumbar region, you have one of the best mattresses for back pain. And with a touch of softness from the Euro pillow top, the shoulders and hips stay cushioned, minimizing pain in these areas.

saatva hd heavyweight back

Sex

The Saatva HD is a great mattress for sex, especially for heavier couples. The combination of support (durable enough for multiple nights of activity), responsiveness (easy to move around on), and breathability (keeps you from overheating) make it compatible for intimate activities.

Off-Gassing

Saatva delivers their mattresses fully expanded, so you’re unlikely to notice the off-gassing odor that typically accompanies bed-in-a-box mattresses. Any “new mattress smell” is non-toxic and should be gone within 24 hours.

Durability

The Saatva HD is without a doubt one of the sturdiest, most durable mattresses around. Saatva utilizes stiff coils for incredible support and longevity. Even the foams used are high-density and can stand up to years of regular use. Lastly, all-natural Talalay latex is known as being one of the most resilient mattress materials available. 

Saatva HD Mattress Construction: What’s it made of?

In order to properly access each layer, I cut this mattress open to get a good look at each layer and see how they inform mattress performance. And let me tell you, this was a difficult one to open, so it already speaks well to the Saatva HD’s durability.

saatva hd construction

Euro pillow top: The mattress has an organic cotton cover with a 3” foam pillow top. This cover is hand-tufted, keeping the mattress together without chemical adhesives. 

Latex foam layer: Talalay latex is a responsive material that contours to the body’s curves without a hugging feel. Five zones of varying densities cushion pressure points and support heavier body parts. This layer is ventilated, which improves breathability and helps sleepers stay cool and dry. 

Comfort foam layer: High-density memory foam brings cushioning and pressure relief without a too-soft feel. It’s more durable than your average memory foam, so you can sleep comfortably for years to come. 

Dense comfort layer: A thin layer of high-density polyfoam ensures that the hips don’t come into contact with the steel coils below. This layer helps to stabilize the coils and minimize motion transfer, so couples can sleep together without excess disruption. 

Coil support layer: The bulk and core of the Saatva HD is a coil system made from thick and sturdy 12.5-gauge recycled steel coils. The brand claims these coils are among the thickest and sturdiest on the market—roughly 25 percent stronger than the standard coil set on some other mattresses. There’s also added reinforced wiring along the body’s core for additional support.

For other supportive mattresses that hold the body on top of the mattress, check out the best firm mattresses.

How Much Does the Saatva HD Cost?

MATTRESS SIZEPRICEDIMENSIONSHEIGHTWEIGHT
Twin$38” x 75”15.5”80 lbs
Twin XL$38” x 80”15.5”85 lbs
Full $54” x 75”15.5”110 lbs
Queen$60”x 80” 15.5”135 lbs
King$76” x 80”15.5”169 lbs
California King$72” x 84”15.5”169 lbs
Split King$76” x 80”15.5”169 lbs

See our Saatva mattress coupons for the best price on a new mattress. Check out the best mattress deals of 2024 for more of our favorite brands.

How Do the Policies Measure Up? 

Shipping & Unboxing

The Saatva HD comes with free white glove delivery, which means the mattress won’t come compressed in a box. With white glove delivery, a team brings the bed to your home, sets it up, and removes your old mattress. The only caveat? If you live in Alaska or Hawaii, the company will need to send the mattress through a freight forwarder in California or Seattle.

Because the Saatva HD ships at its full size, you won’t experience the level of off-gassing odor that’s typical of bed-in-a-box mattresses. Most customers can sleep on their new mattress the night of its arrival.  

Warranty

The Saatva HD is backed by a Lifetime warranty for the original owner, which is the longest warranty in the industry. A robust warranty policy like Saatva’s is one way that the brand demonstrates its confidence in the construction and durability of its mattresses.

Trial Period & Returns

The Saatva HD comes with a 365-night sleep trial, so you’ll have a whole year to decide if it’s the right mattress for you. In the rare case that it doesn’t work out, you can return it for a $99 transportation fee. Saatva will organize for someone to come and pick it up and donate it or offer it to a Saatva employee. Within three to five business days, you’ll see your refund.

Addressing Saatva HD Mattress Complaints

  • Too Firm: Some reviewers believe the Saatva HD is too firm. Most folks who weigh less than 130 lbs, tend to feel mattresses as firmer because they don’t sink far enough into the layers. We think this bed offers a good medium firmness level for average to heavyweight sleepers. 
  • High Price Point: The Saatva HD costs over $3,000 for a Queen, which we consider to be a luxury buy. There are similar mattresses made specifically for heavy people that fall along the $1,000 price point.
  • Not for Most Side Sleepers: Only average to heavyweight side sleepers will find the pressure relief that they need on the Saatva HD bed. Lighter people don’t sink deep enough into the pressure-relieving layers.

Compare Different Saatva Mattresses

Saatva HD vs. Saatva Classic

Saatva HD Mattress is Best For:Saatva Classic Mattress is Best For:
Average-Weight to Heavyweight SleepersAll Sleeping Positions
People with Back PainPeople Who Toss and Turn All Night
Hot SleepersHot Sleepers

The Saatva Classic is also a hybrid mattress with reinforced lumbar support, but it’s best for people who weigh less than 300 lbs. The Classic comes in three firmness options—Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. The Firm Saatva Classic has a similar feel to the Saatva HD but isn’t quite as supportive or durable. 

Because the Saatva Classic comes in multiple firmnesses, it’s excellent for every sleeping position. Both mattresses sleep cool, have a luxury Euro top, and responsive surface.

See our full Saatva Classic Mattress Review to learn more.

Saatva HD vs. Saatva Solaire

Saatva HD Mattress is Best For:Saatva Classic Mattress is Best For:
Average-Weight to Heavyweight SleepersAll Sleeping Positions
People with Back PainPeople Who Toss and Turn All Night
Hot SleepersAll Body Sizes

The Saatva Solaire is an adjustable airbed with a firmness that ranges from medium-soft to firm. Just like the Saatva HD, the Solaire is made from durable and high-quality materials that support heavier bodies. Unlike the HD, the softer settings are great for lightweight and average-weight people, including side sleepers

Both mattresses have zoned Talalay latex and pressure-relieving memory foam layers, delivering superb spinal alignment. They each also sleep cool and have a similar luxury price tag. The Solaire is better for couples—especially those with different body types—thanks to dual-sided firmness and superior motion isolation

See our full Saatva Solaire Mattress Review to learn more. 

Saatva HD vs. Saatva Latex Hybrid

Saatva HD Mattress is Best For:Saatva Latex Mattress is Best For:
Average-Weight to Heavyweight SleepersBack & Stomach Sleepers
People with Back PainEco-Conscious Consumers
Hot SleepersPeople Who Toss and Turn All Night

The Saatva Latex Hybrid is an eco-friendly luxury mattress, while the HD is a high-end mattress designed for bigger bodies. They both have a similar medium-firm to firm feel, zoned Talalay latex, and durable coil support systems. Thanks to these similarities, both beds work well for people who weigh more than 230 lbs. However, the HD’s materials are slightly more durable and, therefore, are likely to stay comfortable longer for plus-size people. 

The Latex Hybrid’s top layers of organic cotton and New Zealand wool offer a touch of softness that we like for back and stomach sleepers who weigh less than 230 lbs. Both mattresses sleep cool and are easy to move around on. Pricewise, the Latex Hybrid is more affordable than the HD.

Read our Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress Review to learn more.

Comparing Saatva to the Competition

Saatva HD Mattress vs. Big Fig Mattress

Saatva HD Mattress Is Best For…Big Fig Mattress Is Best For…
SeniorsFirm Mattress Lovers
People with Back PainStomach Sleepers
Hot SeepersCouples

The Big Fig is also a hybrid mattress engineered to support bigger bodies. As with the Saatva HD and most mattresses designed for larger people, the Big Fig is on the firmer side of the mattress firmness scale. Both the HD and Big Fig boast cooling layers that help people stay cool and dry.  

The Big Fig doesn’t have as sturdy of edges as the Saatva HD, but it does a better job limiting motion transfer. Also, the Big Fig has a more competitive price point. 

See our Big Fig Mattress Review to learn more. 

Saatva HD Mattress vs. WinkBed Plus Mattress

Saatva HD Mattress Is Best For…WinkBed Plus Mattress Is Best For…
SeniorsCombination sleepers
Hot SleepersStomach Sleepers
People with Back PainHeavyweight Back Sleepers

The WinkBed Plus is a more affordable latex hybrid mattress built for plus-size sleepers. It’s firmer than the Saatva HD, and thanks to more generous comfort layers in the Saatva, the Saatva is a better choice for most plus-size side sleepers. 

Both mattresses have a responsive feel and extra support along the middle of the mattress, which is great for combination sleepers and those with back pain. Due to a difference in the coil support layer—the WinkBed uses pocketed coils and the Saatva does not—the Saatva is more durable and the WinkBed provides better motion isolation. 

See our full WinkBed Plus Mattress Review to learn more. 

Saatva HD Mattress vs. Helix Plus Mattress

Saatva HD Mattress Is Best For…Helix Plus Mattress Is Best For…
Luxury ShoppersBudget Shoppers
People with Back PainBack Sleepers
CouplesStomach Sleepers

The Helix Plus is one of the most affordable mattresses designed specifically for plus-size people. Like the Saatva HD, the Helix Plus is a firmer-than-average hybrid bed that’s thick enough to keep the hips and shoulders elevated in heavier sleepers.

One of the biggest differences between these mattresses is that the Saatva HD is more durable. Thanks to stronger coils and durable latex, the HD is more likely to last for over ten years. According to our tests, it also offers sturdier edges than the Helix.

See our full Helix Plus Mattress Review to learn more.

Saatva HD Mattress FAQs

Are Saatva mattresses any good?

Saatva offers high-end mattresses at affordable prices. They’re one of the few online mattress brands that have an incredible range of mattress types, including hybrid, memory foam, airbed, and latex mattresses. They even carry beds designed for kids and heavier folks, providing luxury mattresses for every kind of sleeper. 

Since they’re made-to-order and delivered full size, they have a more durable construction compared to other online mattress brands. Saatva generally tests well in our mattress lab, receives excellent reviews, and offers trial periods and warranties far more generous than the average mattress company.

What’s the best mattress for a heavy person?

Heavy people need a mattress that’s durable, which typically means a high-end innerspring, hybrid, or latex mattress. Plus-size people tend to do better on mattresses that are medium-firm or firmer, and ones with added lumbar support. Bigger bodies can trap more heat, so look for a mattress that sleeps cool.

Does the Saatva HD work with an adjustable base?

The Saatva HD was not designed to be compatible with an adjustable base. In fact, the brand recommends that you purchase their HD foundation, which was made specifically to support the Saatva HD mattress. A platform base will also work.

The Nerd’s Take: What’s the Bottom Line?

The Saatva HD is a stellar luxury pick for plus-size sleepers. We have reviewed dozens of mattresses here at Mattress Nerd, and the Saatva HD is definitely in the top tier with a specialized construction that’s designed with the needs of bigger bodies in mind.

It sleeps cool, is ultra-durable, and has zoned support that delivers cushion at pressure points and support along the spine. That being said, it certainly isn’t for everyone. If you’re a stomach sleeper, enjoy a firm mattress, or are on a budget, we recommend finding an alternative. 

The Nerd’s Scores for the Saatva HD Mattress

Performance FactorOut of 5
Motion Isolation4
Pressure Relief4
Ease of Movement5
Edge Support5
Temperature Control 5
Durability5

Other Saatva Products

Saatva Latex Pillow

Saatva Latex Pillow

The Saatva pillow features a pillow-on-pillow design that enables users to easily adjust the height to their needs, leading to a great night’s sleep.

Mattress Nerd Score
4.80 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
Read Full Review
Check Price

Accessories Details

Material
Material

Latex

Trial Period
Trial Period

45 nights

Warranty
Warranty

1-year limited warranty

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper

Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper

Saatva makes one of the best memory foam mattress toppers in terms of keeping you comfortable and cool at the same time. Their latex topper is great for hot sleepers who sleep on their back, and the high-density foam topper is a great solution for stomach sleepers looking for comfortable support.

Mattress Nerd Score
4.80 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
Read Full Review
Check Price

Accessories Details

Material
Material

Memory foam, Cotton

Trial Period
Trial Period

180 nights

Warranty
Warranty

1-year limited warranty

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Saatva Organic Sateen Sheet Set

Saatva Organic Sateen Sheet Set

The Saatva Organic Sateen sheets are luxurious, 300 thread count sateen weave sheets. Their silky and buttery feel, and lightweight feel make them perfect for shoppers looking to splurge a bit on quality sheets.

Mattress Nerd Score
5.00 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
Read Full Review
Check Price

Accessories Details

Material
Material

Cotton

Trial Period
Trial Period

45 nights

Warranty
Warranty

1-year limited warranty

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Saatva Down Alternative Pillow

Saatva Down Alternative Pillow

Those looking for a hypoallergenic pillow will love the plush and airy feel of the Saatva Down Alternative pillow.

Check Price

Accessories Details

Material
Material

Cotton, Microfiber

Trial Period
Trial Period

45-nights

Warranty
Warranty

1-year limited

Financing
Financing

Not Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Haven’t made a decision yet? Check out these comparisons:

Loren Bullock

Loren Bullock

Mattress & Bedding Expert

About Author

Loren is the Lead Mattress Reviewer at Mattress Nerd. She has prioritized sleeping for as long as she can remember, rarely deviating from seven to nine hours each night. As an editor on Mattress Nerd and a Certified Sleep Science Coach, Loren aims to help people achieve optimal sleep health and pick the best sleep accessories for their needs. You can find her testing mattresses, exploring the best sleep hacks, and telling you about her findings on Mattress Nerd’s YouTube channel and on TikTok.

Combination Sleeper

Education & Credentials

  • Certified Sleep Science Coach