Mattress Forum

I've been reading the very helpful posts here for a few days while considering a new mattress. Thanks to all for sharing their knowledge.

We have been satisfied for eight years with a Sterns King, which was turned/rotated regularly. It was a minimal padded entry-level "plush" model with a respectably firm 13-gauge coil spring and a latex layer in the padding. Now, sleep is not as rewarding, and the turns are coming more often as the poly foam is shot. We looked at 2 of the Sealy latex models for investigation and somewhat liked the Ultra plush model with additional latex in the padding. However, the feel wasn't right for either of us and the quilting/pad still has some poly foam. We also thought the core support was firm but a little "dead feeling" (ie. you had to work a little to move about in the bed). These facts led us to the latex models from Flobed, SleepEZ, and the like, as we desire individual customization and no foam in latex candidates. 

Wife is 5'9, 135 lbs and mostly a side and back sleeper. I am 6'1 205 lbs and sleep mostly on my side and back but sometimes stomach as well. I would say we prefer firm support in the core layer as we have never went for anything other than tightop mattresses with modest coil counts in the lowest gauge available.  We like our coil mattresses to have a muted feel. Thus, we have a few questions for those of you who kindly share your latex and bed configuring experiences.

1) We've thought about saving money and putting layers of talalay latex on our coil after removing the existing poly foam. I thought maybe a 3-inch layer of firm as the pad with a 2-inch layer of soft as the top layer. I could even use firm on one side and medium on the other if wife needs softer. Our coil is in good shape and has life left in it. This would give the benefit of trying latex, and I've read that some hear prefer latex on a coil. This wouldn't be so cost and time efficient if we have to make many switches to get the feel right and end up with an all latex in the end anyway. I know nothing of these matters. Is this plausible or foolish?

2) If we go with a Flobed or SleepEZ 4 layer set from the beginning, I am concerned about the top layer choice. I've read that many think 3 inches of soft as the final layer is too much and interferes with core support. On the other hand, I worry that the Flobed 2-inch convoluted soft layer might just wash out to the next layer for a 200lb person like me. Does a regular, 2-inch non-convoluted soft top layer seem like a happy medium? Are we over thinking? I know it comes down to personal preference, but we'd like to know your preferences.

3) For those of you with a Flobed Vzone third layer, how does it work for you? Can you ever feel the extra seams in the layer or have any problems with this version? Lastly, is it just overkill and too much additional configuring or really an asset?

We really appreciate your time and thoughts. It's a big decision and all the information and input helps a great deal.

Best regards