Mattress Forum

I need a new mattress immediately (my innerspring mattress broke two nights ago and I am sleeping on the couch). 

I would like to get either a foam or latex mattress but I don't know why to pick one over the other? Foam is much less money, it seems. I understand latex is hypoallergenic, foam isn't (I find contradicting information on this)? What are the other benefits of latex?

Why is natural latex better than synthetic?

From what I understand, latex will last 20+ years… how about foam? There is a local company that makes Polyurethane foam mattresses that I thought about going with… but I am not sure how polyurethane foam compares to latex regarding durability?

I do sweat a lot and would like a mattress that doesn't add to that. I understand memory foam is hotter than latex. When I tried some Tempurpedic beds, I don't remember feeling hot, but I do remember feeling the foam around me. Latex wasn't like that. Does that mean latex is cooler?

I sleep on my stomach, my wife sleeps on her back or side.  I have back problems.

I weigh 290 pounds (I'm 6'3"), down from 340 8 months ago. My weight loss goal is 200. My wife is around 120 pounds. What is the minimum thickness I should purchase based on this? When I get to 200 pounds, will the mattress be able to adapt (in other words, will it get used to my 200 pound body after weighing significantly more previously)?

We tried an 8" firm latex mattress at Sleepy's and we liked it. The 10" mattress 2" of soft cushioning on top, neither of us liked (beyond the first minute). 

Does 6" and 8" of the same foam or latex feel the same? Does the thickness of the mattress only matter so you do not bottom it out? 

It seems that building a mattress with multiple layers is the way to go. We think we prefer firm mattresses (I definitely do). A soft mattress topper is hit or miss. I am considering local companies and mail order places like foammattress.com and foambymail.com I would like to spend under $1200. 

I appreciate your help! Thank you.