Theoretically, and especially from those of you that have a real 8lb memory foam topper or pad (not the one from Overstock), which would have better support and hip pain-relief for a side sleeper?

I would be willing to invest in an 8lb topper if it is superior in relieving pressure points. Problem is, there's really no feedback anywhere on the web in regard and I don't want to make an expensive mistake if the product isn't worthwhile.  The only 8lb varieties available are from plushbeds.com, foamex (Venus which has been recently discontinued due to high price and low demand), and cradlesoft.  Plushbeds.com seems very reputable but $899.00 for a 2" 8lb queen topper is ludicrous! 

Any input is appreciated.  Thanks!

I don't recall anyone here ever having gotten and tried the "real thing". As you say, the real 8lb Venus is apparently way over priced so hard to find at an affordable price. Maybe eventually Overstock WILL sell the real thing.

Actually sleepwarehouse is out-of-stock but have not yet removed Venus from their website :(

overstock.com still has it on their web site.
Does it not seem odd that they (allegedly) "paid off" this guy Pete who had a complaint against them, yet they still have the (apparently) false Venus for sale on their site?

8lb memory foam is very expensive to manufacture, which is why so few companies offer it. If they do, you can expect to pay a lot for it. 8lb memory foam is more plush & dense than 5lb memory foam. The most notable characteristic is the increase in the response time. If you press your hand on a 3lb piece of memory foam and a 5lb piece of memory foam, the 5lb piece will have a slower recovery rate (3lb returns almost instantaneously, so you never see the infamous "hand impression"). 8lb memory foam will return at an even slower rate than 5lb, which some interpret as a more comfortable, plush surface, which could be beneficial as a side sleeper.

The question you really need to ask yourself is whether a "little more softness" is worth the extra cost? While is nice knowing you have the "best memory foam product available", only you can determine if the benefit outweighs the cost. If you are still interested, I would recommend calling both companies & recommending a small sample to be sent out. Some companies might charge a "sample" fee for higher priced materials, which is justified due to the higher manufacturing cost. (eg - try going into Tiffanys & ask for a few sample diamonds). Ask the company if they can reduce this amount off your purchase price if you move forward with the purchase. This gives you a low-risk alternative to trying before buying.

Hope that helps. Sweet dreams.

Thanks for the very thorough explanation.  It makes a ton of sense.  I was actually able to score a 1.5" venus topper from foamex.  I'm hoping the risk is worthwhile!