Memory Foam vs. Serene Foam: What’s the Difference?

If it’s cushioned comfort and contoured support you’re after in a new mattress, foams are where it’s at. From gel foam to memory foam to latex foam to serene foam, it seems the market is just about saturated with different kinds of foam, each with its own advantages and drawbacks.

So how are you supposed to choose between them all? Fear not. We’re here to help. Today, we’ll go over two popular polyurethane foams on the market—one a classic and the other a new innovation—and talk about the advantages and drawbacks of each.

Memory Foam Vs. Serene Foam

Memory Foam

Originally developed by NASA to support and cushion astronauts during a rocket takeoff, memory foam has now become one of the most popular bedding materials in the US—and for good reason! With its unparalleled pressure relief, motion isolation, and contouring ability, it’s one of the best choices for sleepers who experience pain and pressure point discomfort.

The main complaints about memory foam have to do with its heat retention and lack of responsiveness. Some people feel memory foam sleeps too hot (though this is more of a problem in older memory foam), and some sleepers also don’t like that memory foam doesn’t bounce back as quickly as some other materials.

a. Memory Foam Feel

Memory foam conforms to your body’s contours to create a cradling or hugging effect. If you need pressure point relief, there’s nothing better than a good memory foam bed. Memory foam responds to both your body heat and the pressure of your body weight, compressing more under the heavier parts of your body and rising to meet the lighter parts, achieving almost perfect conformity to your shape.

b. Types of Memory Foam

1. Traditional Memory Foam

Traditional memory foam is the classic version of this material, originally developed by NASA. It is known for its ability to contour to the body, providing excellent pressure relief and motion isolation. 

This makes it ideal for sleepers who want personalized comfort and reduced partner disturbance. However, traditional memory foam tends to retain heat, which can make it uncomfortable for those who sleep hot.

2. Gel-Infused Memory Foam

Gel-infused memory foam incorporates gel beads or a gel layer to counteract the heat-retention issues found in traditional memory foam. The added gel enhances cooling properties, providing a more comfortable sleeping experience, especially for hot sleepers. 

It still maintains the key features of memory foam, such as pressure relief and body contouring, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of sleepers.

3. Plant-Based Memory Foam

Plant-based memory foam is created using a blend of natural plant oils and traditional memory foam materials. This eco-friendly option is more breathable and often hypoallergenic, making it a healthier choice for the environment and the sleeper. 

However, it may not contour as deeply as other types, which could be a consideration for those who prefer a snug, body-hugging feel.

4. Open-Cell Memory Foam

Open-cell memory foam is designed with an improved structure that allows for better airflow. The open-cell technology increases breathability, keeping the sleeper cooler throughout the night. 

It also responds more quickly to body movements, offering a balance of comfort and cooling. This type of memory foam is an excellent choice for those seeking a cooler and more responsive sleep surface.

5. Copper-Infused Memory Foam

Copper-infused memory foam includes particles of copper for additional benefits beyond the typical features of memory foam. Copper has natural antimicrobial properties, which help maintain a hygienic sleep environment. 

It also offers cooling effects and enhanced support, making it particularly beneficial for individuals with joint pain or those looking for a cleaner sleeping experience.

6. High-Density Memory Foam

High-density memory foam is crafted with a denser structure, providing a more durable and supportive sleep surface. 

This type of foam contours closely to the body, offering long-lasting comfort and excellent pressure relief. However, it may feel firmer and less breathable than other types, which might not suit those who prefer a softer or cooler mattress.

7. Responsive Memory Foam

Responsive memory foam is a hybrid material that combines the contouring benefits of memory foam with the bounce of latex-like materials. 

It recovers its shape quickly, eliminating the “sinking” feeling often associated with traditional memory foam. 

This type is ideal for active sleepers or individuals who frequently change positions during the night, as it provides ease of movement and consistent support.

c. Memory Foam Temperature

Older, more traditional memory foams were infamous for their propensity to retain heat, but today’s memory foams are a lot cooler because of open-cell technology. All the ingredients for memory foam remain the same, but the structure of an open-cell mattress is designed with internal air pockets—or open cells—to allow for airflow, keeping your memory foam mattress cooler than it would have been in the past.

Even with an open-cell design, standard memory foam may not be the best option for you if you’re a really hot sleeper. You might consider latex or serene foam, or even a hybrid mattress with memory foam to achieve optimum coolness.

Gel memory foam is another common variation on the traditional formula, used to establish a cooling memory foam mattress for hot sleepers.

d. Memory Foam Cost

Depending on the additional sleep technologies included in the mattress, a quality memory foam mattress can range from reasonably budget-friendly to very expensive. Expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $3000 for a queen bed.

e. Contouring

Memory foam is renowned for its ability to contour to the unique shape of your body, creating a cradling or hugging effect. 

This deep conforming property makes it ideal for relieving pressure points, especially around areas like the shoulders, hips, and lower back. 

By responding to both your body heat and weight, memory foam compresses more under heavier areas while supporting lighter ones, offering personalized comfort and almost perfect conformity.

f. Responsiveness

Traditional memory foam has a slower response time, meaning it takes a few moments to return to its original shape after pressure is removed. 

This can sometimes create a “sinking” feeling that makes it difficult for sleepers to shift positions easily. 

However, modern variations, such as open-cell and gel-infused memory foams, improve responsiveness, allowing for a slightly quicker recovery without compromising on comfort.

g. Support

Memory foam excels at providing even support across the mattress by distributing your body weight evenly. 

It reduces strain on pressure points and maintains proper spinal alignment, making it a great option for individuals with back or joint issues. 

While it contours closely, high-density memory foam is particularly effective at maintaining support over time, ensuring you wake up refreshed and free of aches.

h. Durability

Memory foam mattresses generally have a good lifespan, with high-quality models lasting between 8 to 10 years. 

Durability often depends on the foam’s density; higher-density foams are more resistant to sagging and wear.

However, lower-density memory foams may lose their supportive properties over time, so it’s essential to choose a mattress that aligns with your long-term needs.

i. Variety

Memory foam mattresses are available in a wide range of options to suit different sleep preferences and budgets. From traditional memory foam to gel-infused and open-cell designs, there’s a type for every sleeper. 

Additionally, you’ll find memory foam as a key component in hybrid mattresses, combining its pressure-relieving properties with other materials like coils or latex for a more customized experience.

j. Motion Isolation

One of the standout features of memory foam is its ability to absorb motion. When one person moves or shifts on the bed, the foam prevents the motion from transferring to the other side. 

This makes memory foam an excellent choice for couples, as it minimizes sleep disturbances caused by a restless partner. 

For those sharing a bed, this motion-isolating property ensures a more restful and uninterrupted sleep.

k. Pros and Cons:

Pros:

1. Exceptional Pressure Relief: Memory foam contours closely to the body, reducing pressure points and alleviating discomfort.
2. Motion Isolation: It absorbs movement, making it an excellent choice for couples as it minimizes partner disturbances.
3. Body-Conforming Comfort: Provides a customized feel by adapting to your body’s shape and weight.
4. Variety: Available in different types (gel-infused, plant-based, etc.) to suit specific needs.

Cons:

1. Heat Retention: Traditional memory foam can trap heat, making it less comfortable for hot sleepers.
2. Slow Response Time: Can feel too soft and “sinking,” especially for those who move frequently during sleep.
3. Odor: Some memory foams may emit an initial chemical smell (off-gassing) when new.
4. Durability: Lower-quality memory foam may sag or lose its supportive properties over time.

Amerisleep has built its reputation on offering memory foam mattresses to suit all sleeping styles. They do so by offering beds with soft feels, firm feels, and firmness options in between these two extremes. The AS3 model is their medium option, designed to suit a wide range of sleepers.

Three foam layers make up the AS3 mattress, all of which are encased in a soft, breathable fabric.

The first layer is cushioning, adaptable Bio-Pur® foam. What separates Bio-Pur® from traditional memory foam is its eco-friendly production. Some of the traditional chemicals used to make memory foam are replaced with plant-derived oils. Not only is Bio-Pur® better when it comes to sustainability, but the foam is also more breathable and responsive than traditional memory foam.

The second layer is Affinity foam with HIVE® technology, which consists of a series of hexagonal cutouts in the foam. These cutouts are placed to flex under the body and increase pressure relief and responsive support. The shoulders and hips feel more cushioning, while the head, back, and feet areas feel buoyant and supportive.

The last layer is Bio-Core® foam. This layer is dedicated to providing consistent support and preventing soft spots and sagging from developing. Bio-Core® foam is the secret behind Amerisleep’s industry-leading mattress warranty.

Every Amerisleep mattress comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a 20-year warranty.

A well-made mattress promotes maximum recovery as you rest, allowing you to wake up and tackle your day with plenty of energy. Zoma designed their original memory foam mattress to do just that, relying on cooling materials and special sleep technology to help sleepers fall asleep faster and experience deeper, more restorative rest. They market the mattress toward athletes, but absolutely anyone can benefit from sleeping on a Zoma Mattress.

The Zoma Mattress contains three layers of foam for a simple-yet-effective structure. All of these layers are wrapped in an AirCloth cover, allowing absorbed body heat to escape before it causes discomfort.

The first layer of memory foam has gel infusions to promote a cool-to-the-touch feel. These infusions wick heat away from the body, ensuring a sleeper won’t wake up suddenly in a sweat. The gel memory foam also contains triangular cutouts in the head and foot of the mattress for extra conforming cushion, boosting pressure relief.

The second layer is a responsive transition foam known as Reactiv™ foam. The material is named for how quickly it adapts to movements. The buoyancy of Reactiv™ foam makes it easier to move across the surface, preventing sleepers from sinking uncomfortably far into the bed and feeling trapped.

The third and final layer is Support+ foam, a material engineered to provide an enduring mattress structure even after years of use. Support+ foam keeps soft spots and unwanted sagging from developing.

The Zoma Mattress comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a 20-year warranty.

Serene Foam

One of the newest sleep technologies around, serene foam uses billions of microscopic air capsules to increase airflow and reduce one of the biggest drawbacks of memory foam: heat retention. Since serene foam is not temperature sensitive, it sleeps cooler than memory foam.

While the temperature regulation of serene foam is great when it comes to cooling mattresses, the material does have a few issues. One problem with serene foam is it has been on the market for such a short time it doesn’t come in many firmness levels. If you want a level besides medium or firm, you’ll probably have to go with memory foam.

Serene foam also is too new to have stood the test of time. Since it was only invented in the last few years, we’ll need to wait a few more years to see how well this type of foam stands up to wear and tear.

a. Types of Serene™ Foam

1. Standard Serene™ Foam

This is the foundational version of Serene™ foam, offering a balance of softness and support. It features billions of microscopic air capsules that enhance pressure relief by evenly distributing weight. 

Unlike traditional memory foam, it doesn’t retain heat, providing a cooler and more breathable sleep experience. Its consistent performance makes it suitable for a wide range of users.

2. Enhanced Cooling Serene™ Foam

Designed specifically for hot sleepers, this variation incorporates advanced cooling technology. It uses open-cell structures or additional cooling agents to improve airflow and maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night. This foam is ideal for individuals who experience night sweats or sleep in warmer climates.

3. High-Density Serene™ Foam

This type of Serene™ foam has a denser composition, providing additional support and durability. It is excellent for those who prefer firmer surfaces or need extra support for spinal alignment. 

Its high-density structure also extends the foam’s lifespan, making it a great choice for long-term use.

4. Responsive Serene™ Foam

This variation is crafted for individuals who want more bounce and quicker response times. 

It combines the body-contouring benefits of traditional Serene™ foam with enhanced responsiveness, making it easy to move and change positions during sleep. 

It is particularly suitable for combination sleepers or those who prefer a more resilient surface.

5. Serene™ Foam with Gel Infusion

This type integrates gel particles into the foam to enhance its cooling properties further. 

The gel helps dissipate heat more efficiently while maintaining the foam’s signature comfort and support. 

It’s a great choice for individuals seeking both temperature regulation and pressure relief.

b. Serene Foam Feel

Like memory foam, serene foam is excellent for pressure relief and motion isolation, but the billions of air pockets distributed throughout mean it doesn’t conform as readily to your body’s curves the way memory foam does.

You might think this is a good or bad thing, depending on how hot you sleep. If you tend to sleep hot, you may enjoy the extra airflow. But if you get cold while you sleep, you’ll probably love the warmth of being enveloped in memory foam.

c. Serene Foam Temperature

The tiny air pockets allow for airflow throughout the foam, meaning serene foam sleeps cooler than memory foam because it’s able to dissipate heat faster.

d. Serene Foam Cost

Serene foam costs less than memory foam because it’s so new not many manufacturers make products using it. This limits the price range to between $200 and $600 for a queen size mattress, though as more manufacturers begin to make products using this foam, we’re sure to see that range widen.

e. Contouring

Serene™ foam provides good pressure relief but doesn’t conform to your body’s curves as readily as memory foam. 

While it adapts to your shape for a comfortable sleep experience, it lacks the “hugging” sensation memory foam is known for. 

This difference can be a pro or con depending on your preferences—ideal for those who prefer balanced support without feeling overly enveloped.

f. Responsiveness

Serene™ foam responds more quickly to movement than traditional memory foam, making it easier to change positions during sleep. 

This faster recovery time ensures you won’t feel stuck or sink too deeply into the mattress, providing a more buoyant sleeping surface that supports active sleepers.

g. Support

With billions of air pockets distributed throughout its structure, Serene™ foam delivers consistent support while alleviating pressure points. 

It maintains a stable surface that distributes your weight evenly, reducing strain on sensitive areas like the shoulders, hips, and lower back. 

Its supportive design makes it an excellent choice for those seeking proper spinal alignment.

h. Durability

Serene™ foam is a newer material, and its durability is promising but less proven than traditional memory foam. 

Its structure is designed to resist sagging and retain its supportive qualities over time. 

However, as it gains popularity and more manufacturers adopt it, long-term durability data will become more readily available.

i. Variety

Due to its relatively recent introduction to the market, Serene™ foam products are limited in variety compared to memory foam. 

While this may change as it becomes more widely adopted, current options include mattresses and sleep accessories like pillows. 

This limited availability means fewer customization options for specific firmness levels or hybrid designs.

j. Motion Isolation

Serene™ foam is highly effective at isolating motion, making it a great choice for couples. Like memory foam, it minimizes disturbances caused by a partner’s movements, ensuring a more restful sleep. 

However, it achieves this without compromising on responsiveness, offering a balanced solution for undisturbed yet adaptive comfort.

k. Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Enhanced Breathability: Serene™ foam features microscopic air capsules that promote airflow, keeping the surface cooler than memory foam.
2. Pressure Relief Without Sinking: It distributes weight evenly without creating the “trapped” feeling associated with memory foam.
3. Responsive Support: Offers quicker recovery time and better adaptability for active sleepers.
4. Temperature Neutrality: Less heat retention compared to traditional memory foam.
5. Hypoallergenic: Often designed to resist allergens, making it a healthier option for sensitive users.

Cons:

1. Limited Availability: Serene™ foam is less common than memory foam, making it harder to find in some products.
2. Less Body Contouring: Does not contour as deeply as memory foam, which might not satisfy those seeking a hugging sensation.
3. Cost: Can be more expensive than basic memory foam products.
4. Firmness Variability: Some users may find it less soft compared to traditional memory foam.

SEE ALSO: The Best Place to Buy a Mattress & In-Store Myths

Things to Consider When Choosing a Mattress

1. Mattress Type

Different types of mattresses cater to various sleep preferences:

• Memory Foam: Great for pressure relief and body contouring.
• Innerspring: Offers firm support with a bouncy feel.
• Hybrid: Combines foam and coils for balanced comfort and support.
• Latex: Provides natural, durable, and breathable options.
• Airbeds: Adjustable firmness for personalized comfort.

2. Sleeping Position

Your sleeping position plays a crucial role in determining the ideal firmness and support:

• Side Sleepers: Need softer mattresses to cushion shoulders and hips.
• Back Sleepers: Medium-firm mattresses support spinal alignment.
• Stomach Sleepers: Firmer mattresses prevent sinking and maintain alignment.

3. Firmness Level

Firmness is subjective and depends on body weight and personal comfort:

• Soft: Suits lighter individuals or side sleepers who prefer a plush feel.
• Medium: Works well for most sleepers, providing a balance of comfort and support.
• Firm: Ideal for heavier individuals or stomach sleepers needing extra support.

4. Mattress Size

Choose a size that fits your room, sleeping habits, and partners:

• Twin: Best for children or single sleepers in small spaces.
• Full/Double: Suitable for single adults with more space needs.
• Queen: Popular for couples with limited space.
• King/California King: Offers maximum space for couples or families.

5. Pressure Relief and Support

A mattress should evenly distribute your weight and relieve pressure points while supporting your spine’s natural alignment. This prevents aches and pains, especially for those with back or joint issues.

6. Temperature Regulation

If you sleep hot, look for mattresses with cooling features, such as:

• Gel-infused memory foam.
• Breathable latex.
• Hybrid models with airflow-promoting coils.

7. Motion Isolation

For couples, motion isolation is essential to prevent disturbances caused by a partner’s movements. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses usually excel in this area.

8. Durability and Lifespan

Invest in a high-quality mattress to ensure longevity. Latex and high-density foam tend to last longer, while lower-quality options may sag over time.

9. Allergies and Health Concerns

For individuals with allergies, consider hypoallergenic materials like latex or memory foam. Ensure the mattress is resistant to dust mites and mold.

10. Budget

Mattresses come in a wide price range. While premium options may offer advanced features, there are budget-friendly models that provide good comfort and support.

11. Trial Period and Warranty

Choose a mattress with a generous trial period to ensure it meets your needs. A warranty also safeguards your investment against defects.

Serene™ Foam vs. Memory Foam: Which is Better?

When it comes to choosing between Serene™ foam and traditional memory foam mattresses, both materials are crafted from polyurethane foam but deliver distinctly different sleep experiences. 

Serene™ foam stands out by offering enhanced comfort that conforms to your body’s contours while providing superior support. 

It shares the pressure-relieving qualities of memory foam but avoids being overly sensitive to temperature changes, making it a modern solution for diverse sleep needs.

Serene™ foam is designed to address common sleep concerns like heat retention, support, and comfort. 

While memory foam mattresses are known for their tendency to trap heat, a Serene™ foam mattress keeps you cool throughout the night thanks to its innovative design. 

Additionally, Serene™ foam adapts to your body just like memory foam but offers better motion isolation. If your partner tosses and turns, your sleep remains undisturbed, ensuring a peaceful night’s rest for both of you.

Why Serene™ Foam Excels in Comfort and Support?

The responsive nature of Serene™ foam provides a balanced sleeping surface that supports your body without making you feel stuck. 

Unlike memory foam, which can create a sinking sensation, Serene™ foam maintains a more buoyant feel. This allows for easy movement during sleep, making it ideal for those who frequently change positions or prefer a slightly firmer surface.

Moreover, Serene™ foam’s ability to stay temperature-neutral is a game-changer for hot sleepers. Traditional memory foam tends to retain body heat, which can make sleeping uncomfortable in warmer climates. 

With Serene™ foam, enhanced breathability ensures you wake up feeling refreshed and cool, no matter the season.

Another advantage of Serene™ foam is its ability to provide excellent motion isolation. Similar to memory foam, it absorbs movements to prevent them from transferring across the mattress. 

However, Serene™ foam does this without compromising on responsiveness or support. Whether you sleep alone or share your bed with a restless partner, Serene™ foam ensures undisturbed sleep.

A Worthy Upgrade for Better Sleep

If you’ve experienced the benefits of memory foam but wish for a mattress that addresses its drawbacks, Serene™ foam might be the perfect choice. 

It combines the contouring and pressure-relieving properties of memory foam with advanced features like temperature regulation and a more responsive feel. 

These improvements make Serene™ foam a worthy upgrade for anyone seeking a cooler, more supportive, and highly comfortable sleep surface.

By blending the best aspects of traditional memory foam with modern innovations, Serene™ foam sets a new standard in sleep technology.

Whether you’re looking for better cooling, enhanced motion isolation, or an improved sleep experience, Serene™ foam provides a tailored solution to help you rest easy.

FAQs

Which mattress is more durable?

Since serene foam was introduced just a few years ago, we don’t really know much about how it handles aging or wear and tear. However, memory foam is one of the most durable mattress types available, resisting sagging and maintaining its firmness for up to a decade.

Can I get a serene foam mattress topper?

Sure. There are quite a few serene foam mattress toppers out there, and they can be a great alternative if you want to try serene foam but don’t want to buy a whole new mattress. They can also be a good option if you like your existing memory foam mattress and just want to cool it off a little bit.

Is Serene™ Foam Cooler than Latex Foam?

Both natural latex foam and Serene™ foam are known for their excellent breathability, helping to circulate cooler air through the mattress and ensuring a cooler sleep environment. 

While both provide exceptional cooling, the best choice for you depends on what additional qualities you value in a mattress.

If you’re on a budget and looking for a mattress with great contouring, Serene™ foam may be a better option. It offers pressure relief similar to memory foam but with more cooling properties. 

On the other hand, if you prioritize responsiveness, durability, and a natural material, latex foam would be the right choice, as it’s made from natural rubber and offers long-lasting support.

Which foam is worse about off-gassing?

Off-gassing happens when mattresses (and other furniture) release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), or gasses that result from chemicals used in the manufacturing process. All foams experience some off-gassing when they’re new, and both serene and memory foams are no exception.

The best thing you can do to reduce off-gassing isn’t focusing on the type of foam you’re buying, but the certifications backing up its purity. Any mattress with a CertiPUR-US® label is unlikely to put out high levels of harmful chemicals into the air around it.

What is a hybrid mattress?

Hybrids are a mattress configuration that combines a pocketed coil support system with a foam comfort layer of at least 2 inches in thickness. Most hybrid mattresses have a lot more foam than that, and many come with not only a plush foam layer on top but also a firmer foam transition layer in the middle and sometimes a base layer of durable polyurethane foam to help isolate motion. Hybrids can be made with any kind of foam, including serene and memory foams.

Which Is Better for Side Sleepers—Memory Foam or Serene™ Foam?

Memory foam is likely the better choice for side sleepers, particularly those who don’t struggle with overheating. Memory foam excels at providing deep contouring to relieve pressure points, which is essential for side sleepers who need extra cushioning around the shoulders and hips.

While Serene™ foam does provide some level of contouring, it doesn’t match memory foam’s ability to offer that deeply cradling support. 

If maximum pressure relief is a priority for you as a side sleeper, sticking with memory foam or a memory foam hybrid may be your best bet.

Does my sleep position dictate what kind of foam I need?

Your sleep position dictates what kind of firmness you need more than what kind of material you need, since all mattress materials come in a range of firmness options. Side sleepers are likely to need a soft to medium mattress to help cradle their shoulder and hip joints. Back sleepers may need a medium-firm mattress for sufficient lumbar support. And stomach sleepers usually need a firm mattress to keep the pelvis lifted and the back from arching.

Can I Find a Serene™ Foam Hybrid Mattress?

For the ultimate in cooling comfort, a Serene™ foam hybrid could be an excellent choice. The airy foam layer on top combined with breathable coils underneath provides unmatched temperature regulation, helping to keep you cool throughout the night.

However, because Serene™ foam is a relatively new material, not many manufacturers are incorporating it into their products yet. While a Serene™ foam hybrid is possible, the available options are limited. If you’re looking for more choices, you may have better luck with latex hybrids, which are more widely available.

Bottom Line

Memory foam and serene foam are both great options if you’re looking for a mattress that can cradle you like a cloud. If you want your cloud to be a little cooler, spring for the serene foam option. And if you want your cloud to hug you like a bear, memory foam may be for you. Either way, both of these foams can be wonderful solutions for your sleep needs.