Medium firmness top layer?
Jan 27, 2010 7:26 PM
Joined: Oct 13, 2009
Points: 156
Does anyone else who frequents this forum sleep on a MEDIUM (24-28 ILD) top layer of latex?   It seems that most people who post to this forum have some sort of back, shoulder, or hip issues and prefer firm or extra firm latex layers as their top layers.  

I have no major back issues (knock on wood!) and have totally enjoyed sleeping on my new 3 inch medium firm top layer the past 2 weeks.  It's the 100% Natural Talalay latex and feels like I am sleeping on a cloud......supportive yet still soft and cushy at the same time.   Below this 3 inch medium layer I have 2 inches of "firm"-32 ILD, and 5.5 inches of "very firm"-40 ILD for support.  

I started this thread in case anyone without serious back problems is wondering what to include in their latex mattress.    I would also caution anyone over 250 lbs to be sure to get AT LEAST 10 inches of latex with some firm or extra firm layers on the bottom.   

Re: Medium firmness top layer?
Reply #10 Feb 3, 2010 7:52 PM
Joined: Aug 28, 2009
Points: 53
Hi Jim, Just to clarify re: the 14 ILD eggcrate topper from Flobeds. They say it's actually made from a piece of medium latex, rated at 28 ILD (which is indeed what my piece says on it, as per LI label), which is cut in half egg-crate style. But they say it's equivalent to a 14 ILD (due to thinness, and I don't know if the eggcrate shape has anything to do with it).
Re: Medium firmness top layer?
Reply #11 Feb 3, 2010 8:02 PM
Joined: Oct 15, 2009
Points: 966
Actually I think the lower effective ILD is due to the convoluted shape.  When you lie on the "peaks" of the convoluted piece they will not hold you up as much as a solid piece would.   So, essentially you sink in more (from the peak) since there is less latex supporting you.