Hi txdreamer,
The specs they list for the two mattresses are as follows ...
Legendary Comfort:
•14” profile height
•2” Aircool Memory Foam with TruTemp Gel
•1” Aircool Memory Foam with Geltouch (in center third)
•3” luxury Aircool Memory Foam
•2” Multi-Action support layer
•Aircool Transflexion core
•Aircool edge support
•Aircool Mesh Border Fabric
Elite Comfort:
•13½” profile height
•2” Aircool Memory Foam with TruTemp Gel
•3” luxury Aircool Memory Foam
•2” Multi-Action support layer
•Aircool Transflexion core
•Aircool edge support
•Aircool Mesh Border Fabric
As you mentioned the only difference appears to be the 1" zoning layer in the middle third of the Legenedary comfort.
Unfortunately these specs don't list any of the details you need about the quality of any of the materials. This means that there is no way for you to know the relative quality or value of either mattress compared to any others that may be available to you and there is no way to assess any potential weak links in either mattress.
Because it's not possible to know the quality/durability or the relative value of either mattress ... then the only remaining way to make a choice would be based strictly on careful and objective testing of the comfort and suitability of each mattress in terms of PPP (Posture and alignment, Pressure relief, and Personal preferences). I would also keep in mind that the "value" of a mattress is more about how it compares to other similar mattresses not how it compares to a "regular" price which may be poor value or inflated to make a sale price look good.
If either mattress has lower quality materials in the upper layers then what it feels like in the showroom may last only a few years or in some worst cases only a few months before the loss of comfort and support that goes with foam softening (which isn't warranty covered) may make the mattress unsuitable for you to sleep on and at this point it may need replacing so I would ask yourself if this is a risk that you are willing to take.
If you are making a completely blind purchase then the only way you have to choose is based on the showroom feel and performance of the mattress because quality, durability, and value can't be part of your purchase decision.
Phoenix
