Written by Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Nolah is a tech-driven brand known for their Nolah Original, the Nolah Signature, and now, the Nolah Evolution.
Nolah’s previous designs were all-foam models, but the Evolution mattress combines premium foam layers, a Euro top, and innerspring coils for a balance of contouring and reinforced support. Sleepers can also choose between three firmness options: Firm, Luxury Firm, and Plush.
I tested the Luxury Firm version of this high-tech mattress as it’s the most versatile feel. In this review, I’ll share my findings with you, covering its performance, construction, and feel. I’ll also share feedback from some of our other testers, including those of different weight groups, for a more well-rounded Nolah Evolution review.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Evolution Performance Ratings
How the Nolah Evolution Compares
Here at Sleep Advisor, we’ve tested over 150 different mattresses. The Nolah Evolution outperforms other mattresses we’ve tested in the areas of overall performance, pressure relief, overall score, support, motion transfer, cooling, bounce, edge support, and compatibility for couples. It’s also considerably taller than other beds we’ve tried out.
| Test | Nolah Evolution | Average |
| Overall | 4.8 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 15” | 11″ |
| Sleep Trial | 120 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Price (Queen) | $2,498 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
| Pressure Relief | 5 | 4.3 |
| Support | 5 | 4.5 |
| Motion Isolation | 4 | 3.9 |
| Cooling | 5 | 3.9 |
| Bounce | 5 | 4 |
| Edge Support | 5 | 3.9 |
| Couples | 5 | 3.9 |
Watch My Nolah Evolution Video Review
Who I Recommend the Nolah Evolution For:
- All sleep positions – You can choose between three firmness levels: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. This makes it easier to find a model that suits your unique needs for a better sleeping experience.
- Fans of a hybrid design – The Nolah Evolution mattress is a hybrid mattress with memory foam and innerspring coils, which allows it to provide sleepers with excellent pressure relief, support, and airflow. With hybrids, you get the advantages of both foam and innerspring designs.
- Warm sleepers – The Evolution has an abundance of materials to help hot sleepers achieve a better night’s sleep, and it earned a perfect score for cooling. As such, I’d recommend it for those who need a great cooling bed.
Who I Don’t Recommend the Nolah Evolution For:
- Average and heavyweight stomach sleepers – I’m an average-weight stomach sleeper myself, and I think a firmer version of this mattress would feel better on the hips. Without proper support, the lower back can arch too much, which can lead to pain in this area. Heavy sleepers are likely to sink even deeper, so I suggest the Nolah Evolution Firm or another model for heavier stomach sleepers.
- Those who prefer all-foam beds – Hybrid mattresses have many benefits, like extra cooling, bounce, and support. However, if you prefer the deep hug that an all-foam bed can provide, you may prefer a different mattress. In this case, I’d recommend Nolah’s all-foam Original model.
Customer Reviews of the Nolah Evolution
Earning 4.9 out of 5 stars based on over 900 reviews on Nolah’s website, the Nolah Evolution seems to be a hit. Customers appreciate the Nolah Evolution mattress for its superior pressure relief, but some have mentioned that the edge support could be improved for a more consistent sleep surface.
Testing the Nolah Evolution
Sleep Advisor’s Testing Methodology
At Sleep Advisor, our mattress reviews are based on findings from in-person tests that allow us to have a genuine understanding of how the mattress feels and performs.
I tested the Nolah Evolution in each sleep position to get an idea of who this mattress is best suited for. Apart from measuring how it performed in each position, I also examined its performance in categories like pressure relief, support, and motion isolation.
Body weight can also affect how you experience a mattress, so I made sure to consider this factor, bringing in some of my colleagues to give their opinions as well.
To learn more about our testing methodology, visit our product review process page.
Firmness & Feel
Firmness Scale: 6.5/10 (Luxury Firm)
Mattress firmness is a measure of how hard or soft the bed feels when you lie on it. At Sleep Advisor, we rate mattress firmness on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the firmest. The Nolah Evolution’s Luxury Firm model scored a 6.5 out of 10, otherwise known as medium-firm.
Since this bed comes in other firmness levels, I’ve created the chart below to help you match your sleeping position to the ideal Nolah Evolution firmness option.
| SLEEPING POSITION | BEST NOLAH EVOLUTION FIRMNESS OPTION |
| Side Sleeper | Plush or Luxury Firm |
| Back Sleeper | Luxury Firm or Firm |
| Stomach Sleeper | Firm or Luxury Firm |
| Combination Sleeper | Luxury Firm |
How Does the Nolah Evolution Feel?
I can say that it feels like a hotel room bed, and we all know those are next-level comfortable. As you ease into this mattress, you should feel the gentle contouring and the plush top adding that luxury hotel room feel without taking away from the support. The spine alignment is top-tier, thanks to zoned support.
Sleeping Positions for Different Body Types
According to Nolah, their King-size Evolution mattress can hold a total of 700 pounds, or 350 pounds per side. The Queen-size can support up to 300 pounds per size.
Side Sleepers
| Body Type | Weight Range | Tester Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Sleepers | Less than 130 pounds | Our lightweight tester, Loren Bullock, said she detected some pressure in the shoulder area. For this reason, I think the softer model would be more comfortable for side sleepers under 130 pounds solely because of pressure relief. |
| Average-Weight Sleepers | 130-230 pounds | Although the feel and alignment are top-notch in this position, I think most average-weight sleepers might also feel some pressure in the shoulders. In this case, I’d suggest the softer Nolah. |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | More than 230 pounds | According to our heavyweight tester, Spencer Bland, side sleepers over 230 pounds may sink further into the Luxury Firm Nolah Evolution. However, the Evolution’s coils should do a good job of keeping the body supported while the comfort layers allow plenty of pressure relief. |
Back Sleepers
| Body Type | Weight Range | Tester Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Sleepers | Less than 130 pounds | According to Loren, this bed should provide balanced support for petite back sleepers. The upper foam layers offer gentle cradling, but the bed shouldn’t feel too firm around the lower back. |
| Average-Weight Sleepers | 130-230 pounds | If you are average-weight and sleep on your back, I think you should be happy with the Nolah Evolution. I found this hybrid provides great lumbar support, while the foam fills in the lower back for excellent pressure relief in this area. |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | More than 230 pounds | Spencer detected a softer feel with more sinkage in this position. The Evolution has tri–zoned support and, in general, offers a good lift for healthy spinal alignment. However, those over 300 pounds may do better on the Firm model. |
Stomach Sleepers
| Body Type | Weight Range | Tester Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Sleepers | Less than 130 pounds | Lightweight stomach sleepers should find sufficient support around their hips. Loren reported tons of cushioning, so pressure buildup should not be an issue here. |
| Average-Weight Sleepers | 130-230 pounds | I absolutely loved how this mattress felt around my hips. I’m a stomach sleeper, and I rarely get light pressure relief for the hips in this position, especially without losing lumbar support, but Nolah delivered. |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | More than 230 pounds | Based on his experience, Spencer recommended the firmer version for heavyweight stomach sleepers. |
Pressure Relief
5/5
The Nolah Evolution is the bed my colleague Sosha Lewis uses, so she stepped in to do the testing for this category. For context, she’s a side sleeper and a weight lifter, so pressure relief is very important to her. She explains, “The Nolah Evolutions soft top contours around my shoulder and hips and melts away all the tension I’ve built up through typing and lifting. ”
Although not a back sleeper, she was equally impressed in this position. “ I love how it makes my lower back feel. It fills in the gap and takes tension and tightness,” Sosha adds.
This is backed up by her pressure map readings, which gave us real data on how well the bed does at this while Sosha lies on the bed. As you can see, they were nearly all blue, with just some green, indicating excellent relief.
Learn More: Best Mattresses for Pressure Relief
Is the Nolah Evolution Good for Pain Relief?
The Evolution should work for most people, as it offers contouring and excellent spine alignment in various sleeping positions. That said, I suggest you think twice about whether a particular firmness fits your weight and preferred sleeping position. In some cases, people with pain may prefer a firmer or softer Nolah Evolution, depending on their body weight and sleep style.
| Back Pain | According to Nolah, the Evolution’s 8-inch HDMax™ Tri-Zone™ coils provide 25 percent more support than traditional springs. Sleepers with back pain should experience added pressure relief and support around the lumbar area, which in turn, should help alleviate their discomfort. Read more about mattresses for back pain here. |
| Hip Pain | People with hip pain should try sleeping on their stomach or back to avoid putting too much pressure on the hips. The Nolah Evolution should be a good choice for this as it has multiple foam layers that cradle the hips, while the coils prevent them from sinking too deeply, keeping them aligned with the rest of the body. Read more about mattresses for hip pain here. |
| Shoulder Pain | Shoulder pain might become worse if you sleep on the side, so I suggest you try sleeping on your back. The balanced firmness and zoned coils of the Evolution should help relieve the pain by gently contouring this area. Explore more mattresses for shoulder pain here. |
Support
5/5
Nolah patented their HDMax™ coils, and the brand says these coils are more supportive than standard ones. This hybrid also has zoned support for stronger lifting in heavier body areas and softer support in lighter areas.
I experienced excellent spine alignment and support in all positions, which is why it earned a 5 out of 5. However, I’d still suggest the Firm model for plus-size stomach sleepers to ensure they’re well-supported in that position.
Motion Isolation
4/5
Motion isolation means there’s little motion transfer, so one person’s movements are less likely to travel across to the other side, which could otherwise disturb their co-sleeper. Understandably, it’s a big help to couples, especially if one of them is a light sleeper.
The Nolah Evolution absorbs a good amount of movement at the surface, which is pretty surprising for a hybrid. I deducted a point here because you do see some spikes throughout the seismograph reading.
Temperature Regulation / Cooling
5/5
For optimal cooling, the Nolah Evolution implemented multiple cooling features into their Evolution model so that hot sleepers can rest comfortably. These cooling features include the HTC cooling topper, the ArcticTEX™ cover, AirFoamICE™, and a heat-dissipating border gusset, all of which work to stave off excess body heat and redirect it so that the mattress stays cool and breathable.
Using the heat gun, I measured the starting temperature at 68 degrees. It got up to 78.1 degrees after five minutes of lying on the bed, after which it took a little over two minutes to cool back down. This is elite cooling, thanks to all the materials and, of course, the gusset.
Bounce
5/5
Bounce helps us feel less stuck in a mattress, offering some pushback to assist when getting in and out of the bed or switching positions.
We test this manually by moving around the bed. We also use a lacrosse ball and a weighted medicine ball, dropping each on the bed to evaluate the bounce.
It was easy to move about on this bed, so you’re unlikely to feel stuck on the Nolah Evolution. This is helpful for those who change positions during the night or have limited mobility, as well as sexually active couples.
Edge Support
5/5
This is going to be a helpful feature for couples who want to spread out at night or those who like to sit at the edge of the bed when they get ready.
We test for edge support by sitting and lying near the perimeter for a minute each to see how well it holds up under the weight.
Hybrid mattresses often have good edge support because the coils help prevent the sides from collapsing. The Nolah had excellent edge support; there wasn’t even a bit of sinking when I lay on the edge, which is rare. This earned the Evolution a perfect score in this category.
Accessibility
5/5
Our accessibility score focuses on any opportunities where the mattress or brand excels. The Nolah Evolution comes with a lifetime warranty, which is one of the first qualities that stands out. The bed’s construction features zoned support, cooling materials, and pressure-relieving foams, and its performance in these and other categories was highly impressive; it didn’t score below a 4 in anything!
It’s also available in multiple firmness options for extra customization for different body types. This all earned the Evolution a 5 out of 5 here.
Customer Service
4/5
The company is easy to reach via email or online chat on their official website. If you opt for the chat, you’ll be joined by an agent who is often very helpful — much more than the AI assistants we so often encounter.
Although the policies on this bed are good enough, there’s a $99 return fee that we must mention, which is why we gave it a 4 instead of 5 in this category.
Performance for Couples
5/5
A great mattress for couples should excel in key areas like support, motion isolation, bounce, and cooling. When I tested the Nolah Evolution, I found it performs well in all of these categories. As such, I think it’s a fantastic option for couples.
There’s enough bounce, edge support, and motion isolation to keep couples happy, even if they have different sleeping habits. Plus, the many cooling properties should help prevent both partners from overheating when they sleep next to each other.
Preference-Based Features
Multiple Add-Ons
Nolah makes it easy to save money while maximizing value. The company is so confident in their mattress that they give you the option to forgo the trial period, which allows you to save 100 dollars. There’s also mattress setup and removal, protectors, bamboo sheets, and other add-ons for a fee.
Euro Top
This hybrid has a Euro top, which is an excellent add-on for comfort and pressure relief. The plush touch gives the mattress a luxurious feel and softness most sleepers with pressure buildup can appreciate.
Different Firmness Options
The Nolah Evolution is available in three firmness levels for better customization and comfort. These firmness levels include Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm.
Adjustable Base Compatible
The Nolah Evolution works well on adjustable bases as well as platform beds. You can find various bed foundation options on Nolah’s website or check out our list of top-rated adjustable bases to find the best bed frame for you.
Handcrafted in the USA
This company is based in Colorado, keeping operations local. This domestic manufacturing and hands-on involvement ensures top-quality and fast service. Find more beds made in the USA here.
Construction: What’s Inside the Nolah Evolution Mattress?
The Evolution is an impressive 15 inches tall. The layers are the same regardless of the firmness you choose, but the overall feel of each layer changes depending on the model.
- The organic cotton cover creates a breathable and soft surface to help keep hot sleepers cool and dry.
- Next is a cooling quilted HTC™ Euro top encased in 2 inches of cooling ArcticTex™ fibers. The fibers are equipped with high thermal conductivity to enhance cooling.
- The 4-inch AirBreath™ Heat Escape Gusset is designed to help disperse heat. This prevents warmth from staying trapped inside the mattress.
- The Nolah AirFoamICE™ cooling layer is graphite-infused for extra breathability, while the foam helps provide pressure relief.
- Further down, you’ll find 2 inches of high-resilience foam, which aids spinal alignment, ensuring the upper foam layers create a comforting lift without allowing too much sinkage.
- The 1-inch layer of high-density transition foam is meant to ease the sleeper into the coils under it.
- The Evolution’s 8-inch patented HDMax™ innerspring coil unit provides 25 percent more support than typical springs, according to Nolah. There are added coils around the perimeter to keep the edges from collapsing.
- An eco-friendly foundation layer stabilizes and secures the tri-zoned coils, adding support and longevity.
- Finally, a durable border with carrying handles supports the entire mattress.
Unboxing & Off-Gassing
Your Nolah mattress will arrive rolled and compressed into a box. These mattresses are considerably heavy, so I recommend having someone help you move them. Once you place it on your foundation of choice, you can remove the packaging so that it starts unrolling and taking shape immediately.
I noticed a bit of off-gassing, but this is normal for bed-in-a-box mattresses, especially those with foam. However, it should dissipate within a day or two. I suggest you keep the room well-ventilated to speed this process up.
Certifications
- CertiPUR-US® – The foams in this bed are CertiPUR-US® certified. CertiPUR-US® is a third-party program that ensures the foams meet rigorous health and safety standards. This means they don’t contain harmful substances like ozone depleters, PBDEs, heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates. They should also have low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.
Noteworthy Updates
All Nolah mattresses, including the Evolution, are fiberglass-free. They meet federal flammability standards without using fiberglass as a fire retardant.
Coupons, Trials, Warranties, and Shipping
| Shipping | Free shipping is available within the contiguous United States. |
| White Glove Delivery | Nolah offers three white glove delivery options, and the price varies depending on whether you want your old bed removed or not. |
| Trial | You can test this mattress for 120 nights to decide if it’s the right option for you. If not, you can return it for a full refund. |
| Warranty | Nolah offers a lifetime warranty on the Evolution mattress. |
| Return Policy | You can return the Evolution for free before the trial is up, but the company asks you to sleep on the bed for 30 nights first. |
Nolah Evolution Sizes & Prices
| Size | Dimensions (inches) | Price (w/o discount) |
| Twin | 38” x 75” x 15” | $1,499 |
| Twin XL | 38” x 80” x 15” | $1,599 |
| Full | 53” x 75” x 15” | $2,299 |
| Queen | 60” x 80” x 15” | $2,499 |
| King | 76” x 80” x 15” | $2,699 |
| Cal King | 72” x 84” x 15” | $2,699 |
| Split King | 38” x 80” x 15” (per side) | $3,198 |
Nolah Evolution FAQs
Is the Nolah Evolution a good mattress?
Yes, I think the Nolah Evolution should be a good mattress for a variety of sleepers. The hybrid contains plenty of great materials that can provide excellent comfort and support for most people.
How long does it take for the Nolah mattress to inflate?
In most cases, it takes mattresses a few hours to inflate. However, I’d say it takes 24 to 72 hours for the Nolah Evolution to reach its full size once it’s out of the plastic packaging.
Do I have to wait 24 hours to sleep on my Nolah mattress to expand?
I noticed the Nolah expanding as soon as we removed it from the packaging. However, I suggest you give it at least 24 hours before testing it. This way, the bed is at its full size for peak performance.
Nolah Evolution vs. Other Brands
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| Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Saatva Mattress | |
| Rating | |||
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple firmness options |
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Innerspring |
| Cooling | — | — | |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery |
| Trial Period | 120 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights |
| Best For | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors |
Who I Recommend the Nectar For
- Budget shoppers
- Fans of memory foam
- Couples
Read our full Nectar mattress review.
Who I Recommend the Saatva For
- Fans of classic innerspring beds
- People with back pain
- Affordable luxury shoppers
Read our in-depth Saatva mattress review.
Nolah Evolution vs. Other Nolah Models
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| Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress | Nolah Evolution Comfort+ | |
| Rating | |||
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Medium: 5/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping minus HI and AK |
| Trial Period | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
| Best For | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers |
Who I Recommend the Nolah Signature For
- Pressure relief seekers
- People who prefer to sleep on their side
- Those who prefer a mattress that hugs them
Read our full Nolah Signature mattress review.
Who I Recommend the Nolah Evolution Comfort+
- People with back pain
- Heavy sleepers
- Combination sleepers
Read our Nolah Evolution Comfort+ review to learn more.
My Verdict of the Nolah Evolution
Based on my experience with this bed, I think it exceeds expectations if you’re after a luxurious hybrid mattress that offers both sinkage and support. The Evolution’s premium, high-tech materials deliver a balance of comfort, cooling, and spine alignment.
I think it’s a great addition for almost everyone. However, I’d suggest the Firm model for heavyweight folks who solely sleep on their stomachs. Hot sleepers and couples should love sleeping on this bed. Overall, the Nolah Evolution earned a 4.8 out of 5.
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Julia Forbes
Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
About Author
Julia is a product tester at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
Stomach Sleeper
Education & Credentials
- Certified Sleep Science Coach