30% Off £300+
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium – 6.5
Price Range: £649 – £1,109
Simba Hybrid Mattress Review
Affiliate disclosure: In order to provide free, informative and up-to-date content, we sometimes earn a referral fee from the retailers.
Updated: April, 2024
Ideal for:
- Side & back sleepers weighing 60+ KG
- Those who like the memory foam sensation
- Average built sleepers who prefer a firm feel
- People who tend to sleep hot
Considerations:
- Sensitive to partner movements
- May be too firm for side & stomach sleepers under 60KG
- Conical springs are not full-size
- Towards the steeper end of prices
30% Off £300+
The Simba Hybrid mattress is one of three hybrid models offered by Simba. It rates medium to medium-firm (or 6.5 out of 10) on the firmness scale, making it good choice for the average-built sleeper. As the entry-level mattress in their line-up, the Hybrid has the most budget-friendly price point compared to other Simba models, however it is by no means the most affordable in the wider market. Simba’s additional two options are the Hybrid Pro and the Hybrid Luxe.
With a profile measuring 25cm thick, the Simba Hybrid packs in a 5-layer construction including open-cell & graphite-infused memory foam, titanium micro-coils, a polyfoam base, and a polyester cover. The tech & spec of this model are intended to particularly exceed at temperature control (which it does brilliantly), making it a top contender for those who sleep hot. Despite the implementation of coils, their micro-size means the mattress still feels more like a memory foam rather than a usual hybrid.
As a British brand, Simba mattresses are proudly manufactured in the UK and are backed by a 10-year guarantee. What’s more is that they offer a generous 200-night free sleep trial so you can truly get a sense of whether you’ve made the right decision over a fairly long period of time.
Our Simba Hybrid mattress review includes a detailed overview of the cost, construction, performance, and other factors to consider when determining the right choice for you.
In This Article
Simba Hybrid Mattress Breakdown
As the name alludes, the Simba Hybrid mattress makes use of two or more traditional construction methods. In this case, individually pocketed titanium coils are sandwiched between foam comfort layers, giving you what many consider to be the best combination of both comfort & support. Let’s take a closer look at each of these 5 layers.
Layer 1
First up, Simba Hybrid’s 500g hypoallergenic knitted cover layer is made from a synthetic polyester blend for a soft & breathable sleep surface. Unfortunately, it is not able to unzip for easy machine-washing, so Simba recommends spot-cleaning with a damp cloth.
Layer 2
This is where we see the first comfort layer in the form of open cell Simba-Pure foam. The open cell structure is designed to help airflow and the infusion of graphite is used to compound the cooling effect by helping to dissipate heat.
Layer 3
Beneath lies the use of Simba’s patented titanium Aerocoil micro-springs. Because the springs aren’t full-sized, you won’t get the luxurious depth of a traditional pocket-spring mattress, however the smaller form factor supposedly means that more can be fit in the same space (up to 2,500 in the King-size Simba Hybrid). The unique cone-shape of the springs are engineered to individually respond to your body for a more conformed cradle, and they’re each enclosed in a 100% polyester pocket in order to help with motion isolation & further cooling.
Layer 4
The fourth layer is a polyurethane-based ‘Simba-Pure’ foam, offering transitional support from the springs to the base as well as edge support so that you don’t feel like you’re going to fall off the side of the bed throughout the night.
Layer 5
Finally, the zoned high-density polyfoam support base provides relief for your body’s pressure points whilst being dense enough to uphold the structure and stability of the mattress. The grooves also help to channel air through the base, which helps with cooling.
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium – 6.5
Construction
Cover Material:
Polyester blend
Comfort Layers:
Graphite infused open-cell Simba-Pure polyfoam
Titanium Aerocoil spring-comfort
High density reflex Simba-Pure foam
Support Core:
Zoned Simba-Pure polyfoam support base
Whilst technically a hybrid due to its use of both memory foam and pocketed coils, Simba’s 2cm micro-coils has made some sleep experts question its place as a true hybrid mattress, which typically use full-size conical springs. Nonetheless, the Simba Hybrid, like many competing hybrids, should offer a balanced experience of comfort & support for the majority of sleepers.
Mattress Prices & Sizing
Pricewise, the Simba Hybrid mattress sits towards the higher end for options in the mid-range. Shipping and returns are both free of cost (as well as hassle) for most UK areas, so if you decide after your 200-night trial that it’s not for you, then you can arrange a collection totally without risk. If it’s a keeper, your investment will be assured by a 10-year guarantee. In addition, you can break-down the cost of the mattress by spreading your payments over 3, 6, 9, or 12 months with 0% financing. You can learn more about Simba’s payment options here.
Size
Single
Small Double
Double
King
Super King
Dimension (cm) W x L x H
90 x 190 x 25
120 x 190 x 25
135 x 190 x 25
150 x 200 x 25
180 x 200 x 25
Price
£649
£879
£879
£999
£1,109
Simba also offer their mattresses in several EU sizes, as well as kids size.
Discounts & Deals
As is commonplace among online mattress companies, Simba regularly offer heavy discounts on their products. We do our best to ensure that we showcase the latest offerings, however clicking the ‘check price’ button will take you directly to the foremost up-to-date source, Simba themselves.
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Mattress Performance
To deliver an assessment on such a subjective thing as comfort is always going to be difficult. We have taken an objective approach to measuring how the mattress performs in the following key areas, but keep in mind that your experience may differ.
Motion Isolation
3/5
Being a hybrid, naturally the coils provide a bounce that is needed for responsivity and support, however the other side of this double-edged sword is that they tend to enable your partner’s movements to resonate throughout the mattress, as is the case with the Simba Hybrid – to a limited degree.
Motion is sufficiently limited because the coils are individually pocketed and flanked on either side by the two layers of Simba-Pure foam.
The Simba Hybrid does a fairly decent job at minimising motion from transferring throughout the mattress, though it doesn’t absolve your partners movements entirely as some all memory-foam options can.
Pressure Relief
4/5
The first Simba-Pure comfort layer sculpts to your body shape, providing you with that instant memory-foam sensation, famed for its cradling support. Beneath the coils, the second reflex foam layer acts to transition you from the comfort system to the more solid base.
Cone-shaped microcoils contour independently to your body and help distribute your weight for pressure relief. They are made of a titanium alloy so being lighter and finer, you shouldn’t feel them poking-in like some more heavy-duty springs might.
Temperature Control
4.5/5
With temperature regulation evidently being a key focus for performance, cooling technology and techniques are deployed throughout the Simba Hybrid mattress in the form of both materials & construction.
The open-cell structure of the polyfoam keeps you cool by encouraging airflow through the mattress and an infusion of graphite particles is used to filter away heat. They refer to this graphite-infused open-cell foam as ‘Simbatex’.
Encasing the inner layers are a woven fabric around base and a polyester sleep surface designed for breathability. Aerocoil springs act like little bellows to move warm air through and out of the mattress for improved temperature regulation, and castellations (little grooves) in the support base enable heat to escape.
Edge Support
4.5/5
Simba’s so-called ‘Edge Lift Technology’ gives you the reassurance you need to sleep on the mattress however and wherever you like. Layers four & five work to offer increased stability around the perimeter of the mattress thanks to their foams being of a higher density, and this allows the sleeper to make full use of the sleep surface.
Having strong edge support is a great benefit for combo-sleepers who tend to roll around a bit and is a nice perk for those who use the edge of their bed to sit on for whatever reason – like putting your socks & shoes on in the morning. However, it is important not to be too strong so as to make it a chore getting in & out of. We feel that the Simba Hybrid offers a superb balance of comfort and support around its edges.
Ease of Movement
4/5
Mattresses with a hybrid construction typically score highly in this field due to their springs offering a bouncy reaction to applied pressure. However, because Simba uses only 2cm microcoils in their spring-comfort layer, we were sceptical that there wouldn’t quite be the same responsivity that you may expect from full-sized coils.
Although the coils are not that springy, their use in combination with the high-definition reflex foam found in the transition layer prevent that ‘quick-sand’ sensation of submerging into the mattress. Testers report that the sinkage is spot on, offering an ideal degree of cradle but without feeling stuck or like it is difficult to move.
Off-Gassing
3.5/5
The smell of a freshly unpacked mattress can be a major turn-off for a lot of people. It’s caused by a flame retardant in the foams called ‘TCPP’ in addition to being tightly vacuum wrapped into a plastic enclosure. Fortunately, airing the mattress out for a few days should get rid of most of it, though a faint whiff may linger for several days depending on how well ventilated the room is (and how sensitive your nose is).
Simba-Pure has been developed without the use of TCPP so you don’t get the chemical smell, however there’s no escaping the scent of the plastic packaging that the mattress is rolled up into. Some testers claim that the Simba Hybrid lets off a horrible plasticky smell for the first few days, whereas others report that it barely smelt at all – and what little odour there was, vanished within 24 hours.
Sleeping Style & Body Weight
Side Sleepers
The Simba Hybrid mattress has a hybrid construction and a medium firm feel, meaning it will accommodate side sleepers across most weight groups. A 40mm Simba-Pure foam comfort layer provides contouring from head to toe, ensuring good spinal support and cushioning for the usual pressure points. In addition, the castellated base conforms to the extruding points of the sleeper’s side profile whilst remaining firm enough to deliver stability.
Sleepers weighing at least 60 kilograms will take most comfort in this mattress as they sink more deeply and really allow the microcoils to do their work in providing targeted pressure relief. Lighter weight sleepers may find the mattress slightly too firm if they are unable to submerge enough for the coils to react.
Back Sleepers
Simba Hybrid’s medium firm feel, Aerocoil support layer, and high-definition reflex transition layer will prevent back sleepers from sinking in too deeply. Therefore, back sleepers will receive the support they need for proper spinal alignment.
All weight ranges should feel an adequate balance of support & comfort whilst sleeping on their back atop a Simba Hybrid mattress, and this is reflected in the high regard this mattress receives for dealing with back-pain.
Stomach Sleepers
Heavier individuals who sleep on their stomachs may find that the Simba Hybrid lacks enough support to keep their spine aligned and could benefit from an even firmer mattress instead. Those sleepers under 60 kilograms should feel adequately supported when laying on their stomachs as the titanium microcoil layer provides strong enough resistance to sinkage of the shoulders & hips.
Awards & Accolades
What-Mattress 2021
Top Pick
- Best hybrid - Esquire, GoodHousekeeping
- Best for side sleepers - GoodHomesMagazine
30% Off £300+
Trial, Warranty, & Shipping Policies
Availability
Simba is an online only retailor but they have conveniently partnered up with some brick & mortar stores like John Lewis so you can have a tangible experience with the mattress before ordering. In addition to the Simba Sleep website, you can make a purchase through marketplaces such as Amazon.
Shipping
Simba are delivering for free to most UK mainland locations within 3 business days with zero-contact or even to a specific room in your address. Returns are also free in the cases where you need to make a change. Delivery is carried out by either AO or UPS for mattress orders.
The mattress comes compressed, wrapped in plastic, and delivered in a box. Once you have carried the boxed mattress into the room of choice, slide the rolled-up mattress out and use the conveniently provided tool to cut away the plastic. Immediately, the mattress will begin got expand, though it may take up to 72 hours before taking full shape.
For more delivery information, head over to Simba’s site.
Aditional Services
If you are purchasing a Simba as a replacement mattress, you will need to responsibly get rid of your old one. For an additional £40 charge at checkout, Simba can arrange removal via their business partner, who will schedule a convenient removal date within 1 week of delivery. This service is only available in some areas, so if the option doesn’t appear during your checkout, then unfortunately it isn’t a possibility. Click here to read more about this removal service.
Financing options are available to those who prefer to spread the costs, and it can be done without having to pay a penny more than if the mattress was paid for in all one go. What’s great is that all the benefits of Simba’s 200-night trial still apply. Simba use the services of DivideBuy and Splitit, and we recommend reading more about how these options could work for you.
Sleep Trial
Starting on the day that your mattress is delivered, Simba offer a very decent 200-night trial to make sure you made the right choice. They recommend giving at least 30 nights to ‘bed in’ before making the unlikely decision to initiate a return but will collect it free of charge should that be the case. This trial applies to their mattresses only, other products have a regular 14 day returns window.
If you are interested to learn more about the trial, you can visit this page.
Warranty
Simba back their mattresses with a decade long guarantee, which covers you for any issues that could have reasonably started with them, such as cracked foam, a faulty zip, or significant dipping (e.g. more than 30mm within 12 months). You can see a chart in their full terms here.
What isn’t covered are things considered ordinary wear & tear, and they also exclude soiled mattress and damage caused by accident, disaster or misuse. In order not to void the guarantee, you will need to use an appropriate base and bedding and ensure the mattress doesn’t get wet or exposed to the elements. In addition, you need to rotate the mattress 180° regularly – once a month through the first 200 nights, and then at least every 6 months for the rest of its life.
FAQs
Simba claim to ensure that the manufacturing process of their product is as friendly to the environment as possible. Where applicable, Simba uses only British wool and makes sure that 100% of waste foam & springs is sold on for use other products, such as flooring underlay and dog beds. The mattress is also rolled up and delivered in a box to reduce their carbon footprint effect during delivery. Simba say that they send zero waste to landfill from returned mattresses and instead recycle.
Simba-Pure foam does not contain TCPP or other chemicals such as phosphate, parabens, biocides, and persistent organic pollutants that you may find in some other brands. Whilst those chemicals are safe for you, they are not so good for the planet.
Simba mattresses are not meant to be flipped over due to their layering structure so be sure to have the white side facing upwards. You are, however, meant to rotate the mattress regularly as a condition of your 10-year warranty. Simba instructs to spin the mattress 180° once a month for the first 3 months, then every 3-6 months for the rest of its life.
Because they are supposed to be rotated, the Simba mattresses have no top or bottom end.
Simba state that their mattresses are designed to work on any supportive and dedicated mattress platforms, including adjustable bases. They do, however, suggest that the Hybrid is best on a sprung or rigid slatted bed frame, or a divan/box-spring.
If you opt to use a slatted bed frame, Simba request that the slats be no greater than 3 inches apart.
Once you have opened the box and used the provided tool to cut open the plastic vacuum seal, the mattress will instantly start taking shape. It should be safe and ready for use within 3 to 6 hours, although it may take up to 72 hours to expand completely.
Newer Simba Hybrid models should come with a zipper around the perimeter so that you can unzip the top white sleep surface and throw it in a washing machine at a maximum of 40°. The bottom (grey) half can only be spot cleaned with a damp cloth.
If your Simba Hybrid has a zip underneath the mattress, then the cover is not removable or machine washable. Instead, they recommend using a damp cloth with light cleaning products if necessary.
What-Mattress recommends using a mattress protector to help keep your mattress in tip-top condition, and you can find these from Simba here.