In 2017, the top picks for quality sleep in the memory foam category were led by the Casper Mattress, Leesa, and the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress. These models defined the "Bed-in-a-Box" era, offering a balance of pressure relief, motion isolation, and cooling technology through multi-layer poly-foam and gel-infused viscoelastic structures.
The year 2017 represented a significant turning point in the bedding industry. The direct-to-consumer (DTC) model reached a state of maturity where manufacturers were no longer just focused on the novelty of shipping a mattress in a cardboard box; they were competing on material science, density, and long-term durability. For consumers seeking quality sleep, memory foam became the go-to material for its ability to contour to the body and eliminate the "bounce" associated with traditional innerspring units.
As we analyze these reviews from a 2026 perspective, it is clear that the 2017 "class" of mattresses set the benchmark for modern comfort standards. This guide provides a comprehensive review of the top performers of 2017, examining their technical specifications, performance metrics, and suitability for various sleeper types.
The Evolution of Memory Foam Technology in 2017
To understand why certain mattresses topped the charts in 2017, one must understand the technical shifts occurring at that time. Historically, memory foam (viscoelastic foam) was criticized for two main issues: heat retention and a "trapped" feeling. By 2017, the industry had largely addressed these through three innovations:
- Open-Cell Structure: Unlike the closed-cell foams of the 1990s, 2017 models utilized open-cell architecture, which allowed for better airflow and heat dissipation.
- Gel-Infusion: Manufacturers began swirling liquid gel or gel beads into the top layers of foam to act as a heat sink, drawing thermal energy away from the sleeper.
- Variable Densities: The use of high-density base foams (usually 1.8 lbs per cubic foot or higher) provided the necessary support to prevent the "quicksand" effect.
These advancements allowed memory foam to transition from a niche luxury product to a mass-market solution for chronic back pain and restless sleep.
Top Picks for 2017: Comprehensive Reviews
1. The Casper (2017 Edition)
The Casper was arguably the most famous mattress of 2017. In the early part of that year, Casper updated its flagship model to include "Zoned Support." This was a major technical milestone for all-foam mattresses.
- Construction: A four-layer foam system. The top layer was a breathable open-cell foam, followed by a high-density memory foam layer. The third layer was the "Zoned Support" poly-foam, which was firmer under the hips and softer under the shoulders.
- Performance: The Zoned Support successfully addressed the primary complaint of side sleepers: hip pressure. By providing more give at the shoulders, it kept the spine in a neutral alignment.
- Best For: Combination sleepers who change positions frequently and require a balance of "hug" and "bounce."
2. The Leesa Mattress
Leesa stood out in 2017 as the primary rival to Casper, often preferred by those who found traditional memory foam too "mushy."
- Construction: A three-layer design featuring a 2-inch top layer of Avena foam, a 2-inch middle layer of memory foam, and a 6-inch dense base foam.
- Performance: Avena foam was a proprietary material designed to mimic the properties of latex. It provided a responsive, cooling surface that prevented the sleeper from sinking too deeply into the memory foam layer beneath it.
- Best For: Sleepers who want the pressure relief of foam without the "stuck" feeling. It was particularly highly rated for heat regulation.
3. Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
Nectar disrupted the 2017 market not just with its mattress, but with its "Forever Warranty" and 365-night trial period.
- Construction: An 11-inch mattress featuring a Tencel cooling cover, a quilted gel memory foam layer, and a "Lush" gel memory foam layer.
- Performance: Nectar offered a much more traditional memory foam feel than Casper or Leesa. It provided a deep, contouring hug that was excellent for motion isolation—making it a top choice for couples where one partner tosses and turns.
- Best For: Side sleepers and those with joint pain who require maximum pressure point cradling.
4. Loom & Leaf by Saatva
For those seeking a luxury experience comparable to high-end Tempur-Pedic models at a lower price point, Loom & Leaf was the 2017 standout.
- Construction: A multi-layer luxury foam mattress including a 2-inch 4-lb. density gel-infused memory foam and a 2.5-inch 5-lb. density heart memory foam.
- Performance: The use of 5-lb. density foam was rare in the bed-in-a-box world of 2017. This higher density translated to superior durability and a more substantial feel. It also featured a cooling gel laminated panel in the lumbar zone.
- Best For: Luxury seekers and back sleepers who need heavy-duty support and longevity.
2017 Memory Foam Comparison Table
| Mattress Model | Firmness (1-10) | Top Layer Material | Key Technical Feature | Target Sleeper |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casper | 6.5 (Medium) | Open-Cell Foam | Zoned Support System | Combination Sleepers |
| Leesa | 6.0 (Medium) | Avena Foam | Latex-like Responsiveness | Hot Sleepers |
| Nectar | 6.5 (Medium-Firm) | Gel Memory Foam | 365-Night Home Trial | Side Sleepers / Couples |
| Loom & Leaf | 5.5 or 8.0 | 5-lb Memory Foam | Spinal Cooling Gel | Luxury / Back Sleepers |
| Tuft & Needle | 7.0 (Firm) | T&N Adaptive Foam | Budget-Friendly Support | Stomach Sleepers |
| Tempur-Cloud | 5.5 (Medium-Soft) | TEMPUR Material | Superior Pressure Relief | Chronic Pain Sufferers |
Technical Depth: Density and Indentation Load Deflection (ILD)
When evaluating 2017 reviews, two technical metrics determine the "quality" of sleep: Density and ILD.
Foam Density (PCF)
Density is measured in pounds per cubic foot (PCF). In 2017, the standard for a quality mattress was a base foam of at least 1.8 PCF. Premium models like Loom & Leaf used 5.0 PCF memory foam. Higher density generally correlates with:
- Longevity: High-density foams resist "sagging" or permanent body impressions longer than low-density foams.
- Support: They provide a more consistent upward force against the body's heaviest points.
Indentation Load Deflection (ILD)
ILD measures how much weight is required to compress the foam by 25%. A lower ILD (10-15) indicates a very soft, plush foam, while a higher ILD (25-35) indicates a firm support foam. The top-rated mattresses of 2017 utilized a "progressive" ILD stack, where the top layers had low ILD for comfort and the bottom layers had high ILD for structural integrity.
Addressing the "Heat" Problem in 2017
One of the primary focuses of 2017 reviews was thermal regulation. Because memory foam is visco-elastic, it reacts to body heat to soften. However, this often resulted in the foam trapping that heat.
Top picks solved this by:
- Convoluted Foam Layers: Often called "egg-crate" foam, these layers created air channels within the mattress core.
- Phase Change Materials (PCM): Some high-end brands used PCMs in the cover, which could absorb heat and then release it if the sleeper’s body temperature dropped.
- Tencel and Bamboo Covers: These fabrics are naturally more moisture-wicking and breathable than standard polyester covers used in cheaper 2017 models.
Motion Isolation and Edge Support
Two areas where 2017 memory foam mattresses excelled—and sometimes struggled—were motion isolation and edge support.
Motion Isolation
Memory foam is the undisputed champion of motion isolation. In 2017 testing, the Nectar and Tempur-Pedic models showed almost zero motion transfer. This means that if a partner moves or gets out of bed, the other sleeper remains undisturbed. This is a critical factor for quality sleep in shared beds.
Edge Support
A common weakness of the 2017 all-foam designs was the "roll-off" sensation. Unlike innerspring mattresses with reinforced perimeters, many foam mattresses would compress significantly when sitting on the edge. The Loom & Leaf and Casper (due to its firmer transition layers) performed better in this category than budget-friendly options like the Zinus Green Tea Mattress, which tended to collapse at the edges.
Environmental and Health Certifications
By 2017, consumer awareness regarding "off-gassing" (the chemical smell new foam emits) was at an all-time high. The top picks for quality sleep were almost universally CertiPUR-US® certified. This certification ensured that the foam was:
- Made without ozone depleters.
- Made without PBDEs, TDCPP, or TCEP (“Tris”) flame retardants.
- Low in VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions for indoor air quality (less than 0.5 parts per million).
When reading 2017 reviews, any mattress lacking this certification was generally excluded from "top pick" lists due to the potential for respiratory irritation during the first few nights of use.
Practical Considerations for 2017 Models
If you are evaluating these models today in 2026—perhaps considering a legacy purchase or understanding the history of your current bed—it is important to note that the average lifespan of a high-quality 2017 memory foam mattress was approximately 7 to 10 years.
To maintain quality sleep on these units, the following maintenance was recommended:
- Rotation: Rotating the mattress 180 degrees every 3-6 months to prevent localized sagging.
- Proper Support: These mattresses required a solid or slatted foundation with slats no more than 3 inches apart. Using an old box spring with wide-spaced coils could void warranties and cause the foam to dip.
- Protectors: Because memory foam is highly absorbent, a waterproof but breathable protector was essential to prevent sweat and oils from breaking down the foam's cellular structure.
FAQ
What was the best 2017 memory foam mattress for back pain?
The Loom & Leaf was frequently cited as the best for back pain due to its high-density foam and specialized lumbar support gel. For those on a tighter budget, the Casper with its "Zoned Support" provided a similar benefit by keeping the hips from sinking too low and straining the lower back.
Did 2017 memory foam mattresses still smell?
Most 2017 models had a slight "new mattress smell" known as off-gassing. This was caused by the release of VOCs. However, because most top brands were CertiPUR-US certified, this smell typically dissipated within 24 to 48 hours in a well-ventilated room.
How did Casper and Leesa differ in 2017?
The primary difference was the "feel." Casper used a 4-layer design with a focus on spinal alignment through zoning. Leesa used a 3-layer design with a top layer of Avena foam, which felt more like a traditional spring bed—more responsive and easier to move around on.
Is a 2017 memory foam mattress still good today in 2026?
If the mattress was a high-density model (like the Loom & Leaf or a high-end Tempur-Pedic) and was well-maintained, it may still provide adequate support. However, lower-density budget foams from 2017 are likely nearing the end of their functional life by 2026 and may exhibit significant softening or permanent indentations.
Which 2017 mattress was best for side sleepers?
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress was often the top choice for side sleepers. Its thick layers of gel memory foam allowed the shoulders and hips to sink in just enough to align the spine, providing a "pressure-free" sensation that prevented the pins-and-needles feeling in the arms.
Summary of Recommendations
Selecting a memory foam mattress from the 2017 era requires balancing firmness preferences with technical needs. If you prioritize pressure relief and a deep hug, the Nectar or Tempur-Cloud models remain the historical gold standards. For those who prioritize cooling and responsiveness, the Leesa was the standout performer. If you require targeted spinal support for back issues, the Casper (2017 Update) remains the most innovative choice of that year. Always ensure the unit is placed on a compatible, non-flexing foundation to maximize the lifespan of the viscoelastic materials.
