Simba Hybrid Luxe mattress review: a multi-layer marvel

Launched in April 2021, the Simba Hybrid Luxe sits right at the top of the British sleep tech brand's range. This model ups the ante with 10 different layers and a bus-load of innovation packed in. Simba calls it 'the next generation of intelligent hybrid design'. So how does it compare to the rest of today best mattress models? I've been reviewing it over the past six months or so to find out. 

The 31cm deep Hybrid Luxe is the priciest and most advanced model in the Simba lineup, sitting above the seven-layered Pro (which was awarded a full five stars in T3's Simba Hybrid Pro review), the original Simba Hybrid, which has five layers and 12 industry awards to its name, and the Simba Hybrid Essential, a more recent release which is kind to your bank balance. 

At full price it's not cheap, but deals are a regular occurrence in the mattress world. Head to our dedicated Simba mattress deals and discount codes page, which is regularly updated with any worthwhile offers, see how this brand's deals compare to what others are doing in our general cheap mattress deals roundup, or head to our Simba vs Emma mattress showdown to explore how it compares to the competition. Read on for our full Simba Hybrid Luxe mattress review.

• Get 35% off across all mattresses at Simba when you spend £300 or more

Simba Hybrid Luxe mattress review: design

As is the general trend with mattresses at the moment, Simba has upped the layer count when creating the Luxe. This one includes 10, and each of the materials included is designed to provide something different. 

At the top you'll find a thick and plush open-cell sleep surface atop a layer of bamboo wool, which is naturally antibacterial as well as being temperature- and moisture-regulating. Somewhere in there middle there's open cell foam with graphite particles to deliver the body-moulding support of foam but without the sweatiness, as well as three layers of different sized springs, for yet more airflow and support.

Like the rest of the Simba range, the Luxe uses Simba-Pure foam, a version of memory foam that doesn't use TCPP and other chemicals such as phosphate, parabens, biocides and persistent organic pollutants. Simba says this foam is better for the planet.

To look at, the Simba Hybrid Luxe is pared back but smart, and seems high-quality and well-made. The waffle print upper (which can be removed for washing) is small enough not to show through the sheet, and the sewn-in handles feel robust and sturdy. 

I have only one real complaint with the design of the Hybrid Luxe, and it's one that can be leveled most modern premium mattress models: it's just a bit big. This one is 31cm, which is pretty much the thickest mattress I've come across (most luxury models clock in at 28cm deep), and means you'll probably need to buy special deep sheets. While the chunkiness is not an issue when the mattress is on your bed, getting the sheets on is a bit of a workout, and let's just hope you never have to move your mattress into a new room. 

These niggles aren't major, but I just can't shake the feeling that at this point mattress brands are just adding layers for the sake of it, and a least a couple could be removed with no appreciable difference in comfort.  

• Simba Performance Mattress Protector review: a deluxe, quilted design
• Simba Hybrid Duvet review: bedding that stops you getting too hot or cold
• Eve Premium Hybrid vs Simba Hybrid Pro: which should you buy?

Simba Hybrid Luxe mattress review: comfort

The Simba Hybrid Luxe is right up there with the most comfortable mattresses I've ever slept on (I test a lot of mattresses, if you're wondering how impressive you should find that statement). I'd say it's on the firmer end of the scale (around an 8 out of 10), which is, in my opinion, pretty much perfect for long-term use, although obviously how soft you like your mattress is a very personal thing. Unlike some memory foams, you sleep 'on' the surface rather than sinking into it. It's also different in feel to the Simba Hybrid Pro – whereas that model has a softer top layer that you sink into, before being supported by the firmer lower level, here, the feeling is more uniform. The general impression is of plush yet supportive foam. The multiple layers of springs add a tiny bit of bounce, but not much. 

Much fuss has been made about the cooling properties, and I found these worked well. While the mattress does warm up with your body, it doesn't trap heat and leave you feeling like you're lying on a warming place, as some cheaper memory foams have a tendency to do. 

Does the Simba Hybrid Luxe deliver a deeper sleep than competitors' efforts? Perhaps. I've certainly slept reliably well on it while I've been testing.

Simba Hybrid Luxe mattress review: price and alternatives to consider

At ticket price, a UK Single will set you back £1099, a Double costs £1599, King is £1799 and Super King is £1,999. But I wouldn't put too much stock in these figures, because Simba discount codes and deals are regular and significant. So unless you're really unlucky, you won't need to pay that price. 

What other mattresses should you consider? If you're in the market for a luxury hybrid, I really rate the Brook + Wilde Elite and Ultima, which offer a similar quality level and sleep surface feel to the Simba Hybrid Luxe. Finally, the Emma Premium is a new addition to the premium end of the market that our T3 reviewer was very impressed by – the caveat with that is that the foam isn't quite as good at dissipating body heat, so avoid if you tend to sleep hot.

If you like the sound of a Simba mattress, I'd also suggest looking at the cheaper Simba Hybrid Pro. The big difference with that model is the feel of the sleep surface – it has a softer top layer with a firmer lower level, while the feeling of the Luxe is more uniform. 

Simba Hybrid Luxe mattress review: verdict

The Simba Hybrid Luxe is an outstandingly comfortable mattress. It manages to offer a perfect blend of support and comfort, the build quality is high, and it has reliably delivered a great night's sleep to our testers. In fact, our only complaint is that it's extremely bulky and heavy (only you'll know how much that'll annoy you in the long term – it might be completely fine). The other niggle is the price. While I do believe in paying for quality when it comes to mattresses, this is really very expensive, and I would argue slightly overpriced when you look at the competition. Keep an eye out for a deal, for sure.