Memory Foam vs Latex
Memory foam and latex both perform a similar function - they provide a premium alternative to traditional spring based mattresses. Both offer high levels of comfort and support, so the question is often asked: which should I buy?
There's no single answer, everyone has different needs. In particular, if you have any medical condition then consult your doctor as to your best course of action.
Buyer's Guide
Here are a few points of comparison to consider when choosing between memory foam and latex:
Comfort
Both latex and memory foam can provide excellent levels of comfort. At the end of the day it's a matter of taste which you prefer. Latex tends to feel more springy.
Memory foam can adjust in more detail to the contours of a body and give more precise support. To counter this some latex mattresses have different sections of different firmness.
Memory foam can sometimes be slower to adjust to your contours especially at lower temperatures. This is reportedly more pronounced with the denser premium foams.
Personally I prefer the feel of memory foam, but not everyone agrees.
Durability
Manufacturers will tell you that both materials have long life. Figures quoted for latex are often extremely long, whereas cheaper brands of memory foam might start to tire more quickly.
Materials
Memory foam is a man-made chemical substance whereas latex can be purchased as "all natural". However more environmentally friendly memory foam is becoming available.
Smell
Memory foam has an unpleasant smell when new. This normally fades to a level where it is not a problem, however some people are more sensitive to it than others.
Price
Initially memory foam was extremely expensive, however the price has reduced considerably in the last few years and it is now much more affordable. Memory foam is now often cheaper
than natural latex.
Toppers
If you already have a decent mattress then rather than go to the expense of buying a new one you can consider adding a mattress topper. Mattress toppers are available in both foam types.