What about memory (Viscoelastic) foam?

NASA is often credited with introducing memory foam to the world. In the late 60's NASA started using memory foam to improve seating comfort and reduce G-Force, suffered by astronauts during spaceship takeoff and reentry.

Commercial airlines also incorporated memory foam in pilot seats, as it provided superior cushioning on long flights.

Today memory foam is widely used in sleep applications ranging from pillows to mattresses.

Things to Consider

1. Memory foam conforms precisely to body shape, providing support to the spine and lower back..
2. Memory foam's ability to redistribute weight and surface pressure improves blood circulation, reducing the amount we toss and turn.
3. Memory foam's ability to cradle the body, makes it a favorite for hospitals, where it can reduce bed sores caused by aggravated pressure between the skin and bony areas of the body, such as the heels, calves, hips, elbows, ribs, shoulder blades, and the head. This can provide great relief for burn victims, those with impaired mobility, and those confined to wheelchairs.
4. Memory foam reduces motion transfer, which in turn reduces the possibility of waking a sleep partner.
5. Recovery time on older generation memory foam is slow. For some this can be troublesome when turning. Some newer generation memory foams have eliminated this feeling that you're sleeping in quicksand.
6. A common complaint about memory foam is that it traps and retains heat, making it quite warm to sleep on. This is true of older generation memory foam. In fact, when it comes to older generation memory foams, the slightest change in room temperature can affect the firmness, making air conditioners a must in areas where temperatures soar in the summer. Care must be taken when moving or storing older generation memory foam in below freezing temperatures, as it can become hard as a rock, and break or shatter. Some newer generation memory foams dissipate heat, making for a cooler, comfortable sleep, and they're more pliable, making them easy to deliver even in extreme freezing c conditions.
7. All memory foam is affected by moisture. Spilt liquids can result in premature hardening and cracking. Manufacturers such as Tempur® highly recommend the use of a waterproof mattress pad, as their warranties do not cover damage by moisture.
8. The technology used to produce older generation memory foam can cause extreme off gassing. Although the odor will generally go away after a few days, for some this odor can be a lifelong issue. Those concerned about off gassing and odors, should check into new generation memory foam products such as NGX Advanced or Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which are odorless and do not off gas.
9. Use of hot water bottles, heating pads, or long term exposure to sunlight, can reduce memory foam life.

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