Open coil mattresses are also called traditional innerspring mattresses. They have interconnected coils in a metal mesh that provide even support across the mattress surface.
Many open coil systems use hour glass shaped springs in their interconnected systems so that the evenness is distributed from the top to bottom.
Though this system is good at providing even support, there are complaints of aggravated pressure points and discomfort with open coil systems.
Pros: Durable materials and traditional even feel.
Cons: Pressure point discomfort and motion transfer issues.
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:
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Reflex Foam: 8.6/10
Comfort:
Open Coil: 8.7/10
Reflex Foam: 8.7/10
Softness:
Open Coil: 8.4/10
Reflex Foam: 8/10
Cooling:
Open Coil: 9.5/10
Reflex Foam: 8.1/10
Hypoallergenic:
Open Coil: 9.5/10
Reflex Foam: 8.1/10
Odor:
Open Coil: 9.5/10
Reflex Foam: 8.1/10
General Support:
Open Coil: 8.9/10
Reflex Foam: 9.5/10
Eco-Conscious:
Open Coil: 9.5/10
Reflex Foam: 8.1/10
Price Value:
Open Coil: 8.4/10
Reflex Foam: 9.2/10