Mattress firmness table: H1 to H5 by body weight and sleeping position

H1, H2, H3, H4, H5 – what do the firmness levels really mean, and which one suits you? Table, myths and practical tips in one article.
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Härtegrad-Matratze-Tabelle: H1 bis H5 nach Körpergewicht und Schlafposition

H1, H2, H3, H4, H5: almost every mattress manufacturer advertises firmness levels, but hardly any explain what they actually mean. The problem: there is no statutory standard. What one manufacturer calls H3 can be H2 or H4 at the next. Still, there is a useful guideline once you understand the logic behind it.

Firmness level table by body weight

The following table is the most common recommendation in German-speaking countries. It’s a starting point, not a verdict.

Firmness level Description Body weight
H1 soft up to 60 kg
H2 medium-soft 60 to 80 kg
H3 medium-firm 80 to 100 kg
H4 firm 100 to 120 kg
H5 very firm over 120 kg

Important: this is a recommendation per person, not per double bed. If you and your partner weigh different amounts, a mattress with two different firmness levels in one sleeping surface is often the better choice.

What the firmness levels actually mean

H1 (soft)

Deep sinking, mainly for lighter people or dedicated side sleepers with sensitive shoulders. Not suitable for heavier sleepers, who sink in too deeply.

H2 (medium-soft)

The most common firmness level. Enough adaptation to the body, enough support for the spine. Good for side and back sleepers of average weight.

H3 (medium-firm)

Noticeable resistance when you lie down, without feeling hard. Recommended for back sleepers from 80 kg and anyone who prefers a firmer feel.

H4 (firm)

Little sinkage. Necessary for heavier people so that the pelvis doesn’t sag. Often too firm for lighter sleepers and can lead to pressure points at the shoulders and hips.

H5 (very firm)

A special firmness for very heavy people or stomach sleepers who need a lot of support. Not necessary in most cases.

Why body weight isn’t everything

The table is a rough rule of thumb. Three factors are often underestimated:

  • Build: 80 kg at 1.90 m lies differently from 80 kg at 1.65 m. A more compact build puts more pressure on a smaller area.
  • Sleeping position: Side sleepers need more room for the shoulders, back sleepers more lumbar support, stomach sleepers a firmer middle.
  • Personal preference: Some sleepers fall under “H3” in the table but always find an H3 too firm. If you have a sensitive back, you’re often better off one firmness level softer.

Two firmness levels in one mattress: the reversible mattress concept

Some mattresses, such as the HERO mattress, have two different firmness levels in one mattress. One side is medium-soft, the other medium-firm. You can turn the mattress once a quarter and find out for yourself what suits you better. This is especially valuable during the adjustment phase after switching mattresses.

Firmness level and sleeping position

Sleeping position Recommendation
Side sleepers 1 level softer than the weight table
Back sleepers exactly as in the weight table
Stomach sleepers 1 level firmer than the weight table

Which materials are available in which firmness level?

Firmness level and material are two different things. An H3 cold foam mattress feels different from an H3 pocket spring mattress, even though both are formally H3. Which material suits you is covered in our separate comparison Pocket spring or cold foam.

100-night trial: the most honest firmness test

Lying on a mattress for 5 minutes in a furniture store tells you nothing about long-term comfort. Only after several nights will you know whether a firmness level suits you. At BeSports, you can try every mattress at home with a 100-night sleep trial. If the firmness isn’t right, we’ll collect it. Take your time browsing our mattresses, or tell us what kind of sleeper you are and we’ll recommend the right firmness.

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What matters most before you buy

Here you will find all the relevant information about our mattress range.

Cold foam mattresses are among the most popular types of mattress, as they offer a balanced combination of comfort, ergonomics and durability. The open-cell foam adapts precisely to the body while supporting a healthy sleeping posture. Its high breathability also ensures a pleasant sleep climate – in summer as well as in winter. If you are looking for a versatile mattress that suits almost every sleeping position, a high-quality cold foam mattress is an excellent choice.

The HERO, LITE & MOVE mattresses were developed for back, side and stomach sleepers. Thanks to the ergonomic zoning, shoulders, pelvis and spine can be supported optimally. Side sleepers benefit from good pressure relief in the shoulder area, back sleepers from stable support for the spine and stomach sleepers from a balanced posture. This also makes the mattress ideal for people who often change their sleeping position during the night.

Airflex® technology was developed to support the body as precisely as possible. The special structure of the cold foam creates numerous contact points that distribute pressure evenly while ensuring pleasant air circulation. As a result, the mattress feels neither too hard nor too soft, but adapts perfectly to your individual body contours. The result is a comfortable feel with a high level of ergonomics.

With normal use, a high-quality cold foam mattress can retain its ergonomic properties for many years. The key factors are the quality of the foam, the workmanship and regular care. If the mattress is turned regularly and the cover is washed according to the care instructions, it stays hygienic and comfortable. A good mattress is therefore a long-term investment in healthy sleep.

Yes. The high-quality cold foam core was developed for high dimensional stability and provides reliable support even under heavier loads. Thanks to its robust material structure, the mattress keeps its shape for a long time and loses only minimal elasticity even with daily use. This makes it suitable for a wide range of body weights and ensures lasting sleeping comfort.

No. Modern cold foam mattresses have an open-cell structure that allows continuous air circulation. This means moisture can be wicked away faster than with many conventional foams. Combined with a breathable cover, this creates a pleasant sleep climate that reduces heat build-up and noticeably improves sleeping comfort.

Your body regenerates while you sleep. An ergonomic mattress supports the natural shape of the spine and reduces pressure points on the shoulders, back and hips. This allows muscles to relax better and relieves the spine evenly. As a result, many people experience noticeably greater sleeping comfort and wake up more refreshed.

To help the mattress retain its properties for as long as possible, it is a good idea to turn it regularly and clean the cover according to the care instructions. A washable cover also contributes to a hygienic sleeping environment. In addition, the mattress should be used on a suitable slatted bed base so that air can circulate freely and moisture is reliably carried away.

The HERO focuses on high-quality materials, modern sleep technology and durable workmanship. Instead of paying for elaborate marketing campaigns or middlemen, you invest directly in the quality of your mattress. That way, you get premium sleeping comfort at a fair price without compromising on ergonomics or workmanship.

The right firmness level depends on your body weight, your preferred sleeping position and your personal sense of comfort. As a rule of thumb, lighter people often prefer softer firmness levels, while heavier people benefit from firmer support. Many modern mattresses – like the HERO – offer two firmness levels in one mattress. Simply turn it over to adapt the feel to your individual needs and decide for yourself which side gives you the best sleeping comfort.