Parachute’s First-Ever Mattress
The bedding company creates an option without foam or latex
Venice Beach, CA-based Parachute got its start in 2014 with a desire to make bedding better. They did so by manufacturing percale, sateen and linen sheets in Portugal, all Oeko-Tex certified (meaning they test free of harmful substances and chemicals), at a direct-to-consumer price. Since sheets, Parachute has followed a natural trajectory, expanding into the bathroom, kitchen, living, and brick-and-mortar stores—and today, they launch their largest product yet: a mattress.
It’s easy to think of two or three mattress start-ups off the top of your head, though it might be hard to describe their major differences—so it’s a bit of a mystery why Parachute would venture into that realm. (That said, Casper launched with a one-type-fits-all-mattress and now offers pillows, adjustable bed frames, duvets, and three types of sheets—so why not the reverse?)
“While there are many companies that went mattress-first, it’s difficult to sustain that approach and build longterm brand loyalty,” founder Ariel Kaye explains to CH. “At Parachute, we’ve built significant trust with our customers over the past few years through smaller purchases like sheeting and towels in the most intimate rooms in the home. Given this, we’re able to tap into an already loyal customer base for the launch of the Parachute Mattress.”
Seeing the final product makes sense: there isn’t a single piece of foam or latex in the made-to-order, made-in-the-US Parachute mattress. This immediately differentiates it from many online options out there. It’s altogether pocket coils and micro coils, organic cotton, and pure New Zealand wool—the latter of which is naturally flame retardant—and every material used is guaranteed to be non-toxic and sustainable.
The absence of foam was a novelty to me, as I’ve slept on some sort of foam-latex-hybrid for the last decade and have been an avid customer of foam toppers. But Parachute’s medium-firm spring mattress doesn’t come off as bouncier than those—that is without any spring-squeaking. It’s pretty solid, a good example being the little-to-no amount of “waves” created when someone joins or leaves the pajama party. The most magical feeling happens when you lie down: rather than sinking a few centimeters and getting that lovely cradle foam can provide, your reclining body feels lifted from below by a strong cloud.
Be prepared to pay for that beautifully quilted 100% organic cotton top. Prices start at $1,299 for a twin and a full costs $500 more. But it’s worth noting that Parachute is finally providing an option that isn’t another foam/latex hybrid—particularly for customers who are seeking something absolutely hypoallergenic or cooler (memory foam is notorious for retaining body heat)—and potentially worth saving up for. This market competition means Parachute is offering some generous benefits on par with other mattress-in-a-box companies, like a 10-year limited warranty and 90-day trial and return window. It arrives compressed in a box, albeit carried in and rolled out by a two-person white glove delivery team who will dispose of your old setup for no additional fee. As with any mattress, we strongly recommend visiting one of Parachute’s five stores, if you’re nearby, to experience it in person and gauge how it holds up to your body’s unique needs and sleeping style.
Images courtesy of Parachute
