Gel is a recent newcomer to the mattress space. It is being used as both a standalone layer and an infusion into foam. Gel benefits mattresses by retaining less heat than memory foam. Also, newer gels compete against memory foam by being more responsive and less toxic.
Gel is similar to foam because it is a polymer made by blending plastics and other chemicals.
Because of gel's heat diffusing properties, it is generally found in the top layer of the mattress under the cover.
Pros: Cooler sleeping surface vs memory foam. More responsive feel when not combined with foam.
Cons: Similar to foam, it is a synthetic blend of chemicals.
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:
Gel: 8.6/10
Reflex Foam: 8.6/10
Comfort:
Gel: 8.7/10
Reflex Foam: 8.7/10
Softness:
Gel: 8/10
Reflex Foam: 8/10
Cooling:
Gel: 8.1/10
Reflex Foam: 8.1/10
Hypoallergenic:
Gel: 8.1/10
Reflex Foam: 8.1/10
Odor:
Gel: 8.9/10
Reflex Foam: 8.9/10
General Support:
Gel: 9.5/10
Reflex Foam: 9.5/10
Eco-Conscious:
Gel: 8/10
Reflex Foam: 8/10
Price Value:
Gel: 9.2/10
Reflex Foam: 9.2/10
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