Coil spring (also called innerspring) mattresses use metal coils to provide resistance and support. Contemporary bedding use pocket coil systems that are entirely independent from each other so there are less pressure points. The rule of these new pocket coil systems is the more coils that are used, the more independent movement and response is in mattress.
Older coil spring mattresses, however, have one frame with coils interconnected to one another. Although this provides good support across the entire surface, and a longer durability life, there are comfort concerns about these mattresses.
Additionally, most coil spring mattresses have memory foam, latex, or some other type of bedding to provide a soft surface to sleep on.
Pros: Durable materials, and newer pocket coil systems provide comfortable support.
Cons: Older coil spring mattresses can cause more back pain and irritate pressure points.
Reflex foam is commonly found in the transitionary and base foam layer of foam mattresses. It is higher density than memory foam, but still has enough give to it where it isn't as hard as a solid surface.
Reflex foam, like memory foam, is a polyurethane foam blend, which has been adjusted for higher density during its manufacturing.
Although some very firm mattresses are made completely of reflex foams, most foam mattresses are a blend of memory foam on the top layer followed by reflex foams in the middle and bottom layers.
Pros: Firmer, supportive foam that enables enough contour for heavier sleepers and support to traditional memory foam mattresses.
Cons: Lower quality foams can offgas toxic chemicals and sag faster than alternatives.
Overall Score:
Coil Spring: 9.3/10
Reflex Foam: 8.6/10
Comfort:
Coil Spring: 9.2/10
Reflex Foam: 8.7/10
Softness:
Coil Spring: 8.7/10
Reflex Foam: 8/10
Cooling:
Coil Spring: 9.6/10
Reflex Foam: 8.1/10
Hypoallergenic:
Coil Spring: 9.6/10
Reflex Foam: 8.1/10
Odor:
Coil Spring: 9.6/10
Reflex Foam: 8.1/10
General Support:
Coil Spring: 9.3/10
Reflex Foam: 9.5/10
Eco-Conscious:
Coil Spring: 9.6/10
Reflex Foam: 8.1/10
Price Value:
Coil Spring: 8.4/10
Reflex Foam: 9.2/10