What Is a High-Profile Pillow

A high profile pillow is higher than a standard one, which provides more lift to support the head and neck. This extra height is helpful for people who sleep on their side and need proper alignment between the head, shoulders and spine. If you are looking at pillows for side sleepers or want to ease neck pain, this style can be a good choice.

A high-profile pillow generally measures from 12.5 centimetres in height or more. The extra height keeps the spine in a neutral position, particularly for side sleepers. It fills the space between the head and the mattress, preventing the neck from tilting down. This can make lying down more comfortable and reduce pressure on the shoulders and neck when sleeping.

Who Should Try This Pillow?

This type of pillow suits people who mainly sleep on their side and those with broader shoulders who need extra lift. It can also help if you have experienced neck or shoulder pain from flatter pillows. By holding the head in a higher position, it keeps the neck supported through the night. Back or stomach sleepers may find the extra thickness less comfortable, as it could push the head higher than is ideal.

Key Benefits

A high-profile pillow brings many advantages, especially for side sleepers and those with neck pain:

Provides correct alignment for your head, neck and spine, reducing the chance of strain
Reduces pressure on your shoulders for more comfort
Fills the gap between your head and mattress, helping with consistent support
Firmer design keeps your head supported throughout the night
Can help with morning stiffness and regular aches
Promotes restful sleep by preventing your head from sinking too low
It can ease snoring for some people by keeping airways open and straight.

High-profile pillows can help reduce aches and stiffness, allowing you to sleep quietly and comfortably through the night.

Different Materials for High Profile Pillows

High-profile options for side sleepers come in materials such as memory foam, latex or mixed fills. Each material can aid your sleep differently. Memory foam moulds to the shape of your head and neck, which some people find better for support and comfort, while latex offers a cooler and allergy-free option. Mixed fill pillows, which may combine microfibre with down or feather, can give a balance of softness and shape retention.

Common Uses

Pillows with extra height are often used for side sleeping, but they also help when sitting up in bed to read or watch TV. They can also be beneficial to those looking for more support to relieve neck pain, as the raised shape works to keep the head stable.

FAQs

What makes a pillow suitable for side sleepers?

If a pillow keeps your head in line with your shoulders and avoids putting strain on your neck, it is usually a good fit for this sleeping position.

Is a thicker pillow always better for neck pain?

For side sleepers, a higher pillow can help with alignment, but too much height might cause stiffness. The right height depends on your frame and sleeping comfort.

How do I know if I should change my pillow?

If you wake up with sore shoulders or if your head drops below your shoulders during the night, finding a new pillow could be worth trying.

Are there pillows designed specifically for neck pain?

Yes, some designs aim to keep your spine and shoulders stable while you sleep, reducing neck pain. Memory foam and shaped latex pillows are common examples.

Does pillow fill affect support?

Yes, materials like memory foam and latex tend to keep their shape longer and can provide more consistent support for the head and neck.

Can children use high-profile styles?

They are usually too tall for children or people with smaller builds. Kids' pillows often require flatter designs.

How do I look after my High Profile Pillow?

Use a pillow protector, wash the cover often and fluff it to keep the loft. This will help it last longer.

What Is a High-Profile Pillow and Who Should Use One?