When I bought mine I spent a lot of time researching and bought it from a source that offered 12 different mattresses, each of which I tried before buying. The mattress on my futon is outstanding, so sez all of the houseguests that have slept on it (and that includes my sisters who wouldn't hesitate to criticize if necessary). But to each his/her own...

I spent two nights on one as a guest. and I must say-it was the best sleeper sofa of this kind (hidden mattress folds out) in my life..well among ones I tried So yes I'd say it's worth it

Never been a lover of air matresses but I have no experience with Crate and Barrel so can’t speak to them. Their are some really nice hidea beds that have nice mattresses

We ordered a memory foam sleeper mattress to replace ours about 3 years ago and it's pretty comfortable and has held up. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PZ03ZCU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1