Best Gel Grid and Specialty Mattresses!
Gel grid mattresses are one of the most unique mattress designs available today. Instead of relying on foam or coils alone, these mattresses use advanced grid technology or specialty materials to deliver exceptional pressure relief, airflow, and support.
The most well-known example is the Purple GelFlex Grid, which uses a hyper-elastic polymer grid to provide a combination of softness and support that traditional mattresses cannot replicate.
At Elite Sleep Reviews, we test specialty mattresses using the same evaluation process used for every mattress category:
How We Test Mattresses
Our reviews are based on firsthand, hands-on testing and real-world sleep experience. We evaluate mattresses using consistent criteria, including pressure relief, spinal alignment, motion isolation, temperature regulation, and durability. We do not use any fancy gimmicks, proprietary scoring systems, or manufacturer-provided ratings. Each mattress is tested the same way so comparisons are fair, transparent, and based on actual performance, helping readers make informed, trustworthy buying decisions. Read our full mattress testing methodology!
Disclosure: Elite Sleep Reviews may earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This does not affect how mattresses are reviewed or ranked.
• spinal alignment
• pressure relief
• cooling performance
• motion isolation
• durability
• overall comfort
This guide covers the best gel grid and specialty mattresses available in 2026.
Best Gel Grid and Specialty Mattresses
| Mattress | Best For | Review |
|---|---|---|
| Purple Rejuvenate | Luxury grid mattress | Read Review |
| Purple Restore | Balanced comfort | Read Review |
| Purple Original | Budget gel grid mattress | Read Review |
| Airpedic 850 | Premium adjustable air mattress | Read Review |
| Airpedic 650 | Balanced firmness control | Read Review |
| Airpedic 600 | Affordable adjustable mattress | Read Review |
| Airpedic 500 | Entry level adjustable bed | Read Review |
Gel Grid Mattress Reviews
Purple Rejuvenate Mattress Review
The Purple Rejuvenate is one of the most luxurious gel grid mattresses available today. It combines Purple’s GelFlex Grid technology with premium comfort layers designed for deep pressure relief and advanced cooling.
Highlights
• advanced GelFlex grid technology
• exceptional pressure relief
• outstanding airflow
• luxury support system
This mattress is best for sleepers who want maximum comfort with advanced temperature regulation.
Purple Restore Mattress Review
The Purple Restore offers the classic Purple grid feel with improved comfort layers and support.
It delivers:
- balanced support
- responsive pressure relief
- strong airflow
- durable construction
This mattress works especially well for combination sleepers who move frequently during the night.
Purple Original Mattress Review
The Purple Original mattress introduced the world to GelFlex Grid technology.
Instead of traditional foam, it uses a hyper-elastic grid structure that flexes under pressure points while maintaining support elsewhere.
This design helps reduce pressure buildup and keeps the mattress cooler than most memory foam beds.
Adjustable Air Specialty Mattresses
Airpedic 850 Mattress Review
The Airpedic 850 is one of the most advanced adjustable air mattresses available. It allows sleepers to fine-tune firmness levels for personalized comfort.
Features include:
• adjustable firmness control
• reinforced support layers
• high durability construction
This mattress is ideal for couples who want customizable support levels on each side of the bed.
Airpedic 650 Mattress Review
The Airpedic 650 offers similar adjustability to higher models but at a slightly lower price point.
It provides:
- customizable firmness
- strong support
- long-term durability
Airpedic 600 Mattress Review
The Airpedic 600 is designed to provide affordable adjustability while maintaining strong support and durability.
It is a good option for sleepers who want the benefits of an adjustable air mattress without the cost of premium models.
Airpedic 500 Mattress Review
The Airpedic 500 is the entry-level model in the Airpedic lineup. Despite the lower price, it still offers adjustable firmness and strong support.
What Is a Gel Grid Mattress?
A gel grid mattress uses a flexible polymer grid layer instead of traditional foam or coil comfort layers.
The grid structure allows the mattress to:
• collapse under pressure points
• remain firm under heavier areas
• allow airflow through the grid channels
This creates a unique sleep experience that combines support, pressure relief, and cooling.
Benefits of Gel Grid Mattresses
Exceptional Pressure Relief
The grid flexes where your body needs cushioning while maintaining support where needed.
Cooler Sleep
Unlike dense memory foam, grid structures allow air to circulate freely.
Durable Materials
Many grid materials maintain their shape longer than traditional foam.
Responsive Feel
Grid mattresses quickly return to shape when pressure is removed.
Who Should Buy a Gel Grid Mattress?
Gel grid mattresses work best for sleepers who:
✔ sleep hot
✔ need strong pressure relief
✔ want a responsive mattress
✔ change positions frequently during the night
They are also excellent for combination sleepers and back sleepers.
Who Should Avoid Gel Grid Mattresses?
These mattresses may not be ideal for:
✖ sleepers who prefer very soft foam mattresses
✖ people sensitive to unique mattress textures
✖ shoppers looking for very inexpensive mattresses
How We Test Specialty Mattresses
Every mattress reviewed on Elite Sleep Reviews undergoes a consistent testing process.
We evaluate:
• spinal alignment
• pressure relief
• motion isolation
• cooling performance
• durability
• overall comfort
Our goal is to provide clear, unbiased reviews that help shoppers choose the right mattress the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are gel grid mattresses better than memory foam?
Gel grid mattresses typically sleep cooler and offer more responsiveness, while memory foam may provide deeper pressure relief.
Do gel grid mattresses last longer?
Many grid materials are extremely durable and can outlast traditional foam comfort layers.
Are Purple mattresses good for back pain?
Many sleepers report excellent spinal alignment due to the grid’s ability to support heavier areas of the body while relieving pressure.
Related Mattress Guides
You may also find these helpful:
• Best Hybrid Mattresses
• Best Memory Foam Mattresses
• Best Innerspring Mattresses
• Best Cooling Mattresses