Are Gel Memory Foam Mattresses Good? Pros, Cons, and Who They're Best For

A good night’s sleep? For many Canadians, it’s still hit or miss. According to research from 2023, nearly one-third—32%—report getting less than three nights of restful sleep per week. Why? Poor sleep is often multifactorial, but it’s not always stress or screen time. Often, it’s the mattress.

Gel memory foam mattresses, a modern upgrade to traditional foam that claims to solve one of sleep’s most common complaints: overheating. But are gel memory foam mattresses actually good? Let’s break it down—the perks, the pitfalls, and who should be sleeping on one.

Gel Memory Foam Pros

1. Cooling for Hot Sleepers

This is the headline feature. Cooling gel technology is infused directly into the foam to pull heat away from your body while you sleep. Sure, it’s not a built-in air conditioner, but it’s a solid step up from heat-trapping traditional foam.

2. Pressure Relief & Body Contouring

Let’s talk comfort. Gel memory foam conforms to your body’s shape, relieving pressure from your hips, shoulders, and joints. You’ll feel cradled, not smothered. For side sleepers or those with joint pain, it can make a dramatic difference. Think: less tossing, more actual rest.

3. Durable and Supportive

Soft doesn’t have to mean saggy. Many gel memory foam models use high-density base foam that keeps its shape over time. The gel helps prevent the mattress from flattening out too quickly, and you get a bit more bounce-back compared to old-school memory foam beds. It’s soft, yes—but not flimsy.

Gel Memory Foam Cons

1. Cooling May Fade Over Time

Not all gel foam is created equal. Some lower-cost mattresses use a thin gel layer or just “gel-wash” the surface. These might feel cool at first, but the effect can wear off quickly. For consistent breathability, look for mattresses that pair gel foam with ventilated designs or pocket coil bases—like Aya’s Hybrid Mattress.

2. It Can Cost More Upfront

A premium material often comes with a premium price. Gel memory foam mattresses typically cost more than basic foam options. That said, buying from a direct-to-consumer brand like Aya Mattress cuts out the middleman and brings that price back down to earth.

3. Too Soft for Some Sleepers

Love a firm mattress? You might not fall in love with gel foam—at least not on its own. Stomach sleepers, in particular, often need extra support to keep their hips from sinking too far. The solution? A hybrid mattress that layers gel memory foam over a firm coil system offers the best of both worlds.

What’s the Difference Between Memory Foam and Gel Memory Foam?

Both contour to your body and relieve pressure, but only gel memory foam actively fights heat. Traditional foam holds onto warmth, which can leave you feeling stuck or sweaty. Gel memory foam, on the other hand, includes cooling gel beads or gel-infused layers to help regulate your body temperature. In other words, same cozy hug—less built-in sauna.

Are Gel Memory Foam Mattresses Good for Your Back?

For many sleepers, yes. When you pair gel memory foam with the right support structure, you get a mattress that cushions pressure points while keeping your spine aligned. That’s key for reducing morning aches and long-term back strain.

Look for a model that offers zoned support or combines foam with a stabilizing base layer. Aya’s Hybrid Mattress does exactly that—blending gel foam comfort with reinforced coils underneath.

Is Gel Memory Foam Right for You?

Let’s simplify:

• You sleep hot?
• You need relief from shoulder, back, or hip pain?
• You’re sharing your bed and tired of feeling every move? 

If you said yes to the above, a gel memory foam mattress could be the upgrade you need.

But if you love a bouncy, firm feel—or you’re on a tight budget—you might want to look at hybrid or entry-level options first. That’s why Aya Mattress makes it easy to find what works for you. The Oslo Mattress is a breathable, all-foam model that’s light, supportive, and affordable. The Hybrid Mattress blends cooling gel with zoned coils for structured support and airflow.

Not sure where to start? Explore our mattress selection and discover which feel is right for your body—and your budget.