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One of the great things about yoga is that it allows you to hone your balance, focus, and overall physical fitness with minimal equipment investment. In fact, one of the only things you’ll need to buy is a good yoga mat. By creating a secure, non-slip surface on which to practice your asanas, the best yoga mat will enable you to have a more comfortable and effective workout. As if that’s not enough, a good yoga mat will provide a little extra cushioning, helping to evenly distribute your body weight and prevent your joints from experiencing undue strain. However, not all yoga mats are created equal, and before you invest in one, it may be helpful to review various options. Lucky for you, the ACTIVE Reviews Team already did the hard work for you by rounding up the 13 best yoga mats. Whether you take these mats to your next yoga class, or add them to your home gym set-up, they’ll be sure to support several Zen-filled sessions.
Why Trust Us?
The ACTIVE Reviews Team is made up of fitness experts that include athletes, coaches, and certified trainers who bring their years of knowledge and experience to each review. More importantly, each member of our team is a fitness enthusiast. Fitness may be our job, but it is also our passion. Therefore, we strive to bring you products that we trust and would personally use.
Best Yoga Mats - Our Top 13 Picks
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- Best Quality Yoga Mat: Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
- Best Outdoor Yoga Mat: Lululemon Reversible Mat 3mm
- Best Large Yoga Mat: Sunny Health and Fitness Extra Wide Mat
- Best Hot Yoga Mat: Gaiam Performance Dry-Grip Yoga Mat
- Best Yoga Mat for Beginners: Yoga Design Lab Infinity Yoga Mat
- Best Travel Yoga Mat: Lululemon Carry Onwards Travel Yoga Mat
- Best Non-Slip Yoga Mat: Nike Mastery
- Best Yoga Mat for Carpet: Manduka PROLite Yoga Mat
- Best Cork Yoga Mat: Gaiam Performance Cork Yoga Mat
- Best Thick Yoga Mat: Jade Fusion Extra Thick Yoga Mat
- Best Yoga Mat for Men: Lululemon 5mm Mat
- Best Affordable Yoga Mat: Stott Pilates 6 mm Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat
- Best Yoga Mat for Hardwood Floors: Gaiam Premium 2-Color Yoga Mat
Best Quality Yoga Mat – Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
Specs
- Weight: 7.5 lbs.
- Dimensions: 71” x 26”
- Color: Elderberry, Bamboo, Blue, Black, Green, Midnight, Purple, Surf, Red
- Cushioning: 6mm
Yoga is something to be mastered over a lifetime. As such, it makes sense to seek a high-quality mat that will withstand the tests of time. With ultra-dense, closed-cell material, Manduka PRO Yoga Mat more than fits that description.
Designed to provide stability and joint support over the long haul, the thick cushioning material helps the mat maintain its performance even after countless yoga sessions. Plus, the closed-cell construction keeps moisture and bacteria out of the picture. Each mat comes handmade and features a unique dot pattern that holds the mat in place when in use. If you are looking for a mat that you can use over and over without any loss of comfort or stability, the Manduka PRO is worth considering.
What We Like
- Free of any toxic chemicals; made from PVC that has been certified STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®️
- 100% Latex-free
- Textured top layer helps avoid sticking
- Dot patterns hold the mat in place
What We Don't Like
- Mats are made by hand, so length can vary slightly
- May feel slippery when first unboxed
Best Outdoor Yoga Mat – Lululemon Reversible 3mm Mat
Specs
- Weight: 3.87 lbs
- Dimensions: 71" x 26"
- Color: Chalky Rose/Graphite Gray, Water Drop/Blue Linen/White/True Navy, Midnight Navy/White/True Navy, Black/White/Black, Black, True Navy/Blue Linen/White/True Navy
- Cushioning: 3mm
Yoga mats are useful when practicing inside, as they provide a little cushioning and support on indoor surfaces. They become even more invaluable when you’re having class outside. TheLululemon Reversible 3mm Mat is an especially good option for maintaining your form on unpredictable outside surfaces.
There’s a lot to love about it, including a polyurethane top layer that absorbs moisture and prevents slipping. This can help you maintain your grip, while a natural rubber base provides ample cushioning. And, if you’ve ever wondered how to clean your yoga mat, the Lululemon Reversible Mat’s antimicrobial treatment makes the process that much easier by preventing the development of mold and mildew.
What We Like
- Great cushioning and support
- Very lightweight
- Resists moisture, mold, and mildew
What We Don't Like
- Contains latex
- Some yogis may prefer a thicker mat
BUY: Lululemon Reversible Mat 3mm
Best Large Yoga Mat - Sunny Health & Fitness Extra Wide Mat
Specs
- Weight: 3 lbs.
- Dimensions: 72" x 30"
- Color: Pink, Marsala
- Cushioning: 6mm
Looking for a little extra space to stretch out? The Sunny Health & Fitness Extra Wide Mat offers more room to pose than what you'll find with other yoga mats. At 30-inches wide, you can use the entire surface of the mat for a full body workout or stretch, making it a versatile option that can be used for yoga and Pilates alike.
Beyond the additional width, this mat is recommended for its lightweight design and textured non-slip surface. And just because it has a wider footprint than the average yoga mat, doesn't make it any less compact—it's still easy to roll up and store.
What We Like
- Extra width
- Easy-wipe clean design
- Made from lightweight Thermoplastic Elastomer materials
- Reversible
What We Don't Like
- Those limited on space may not want the extra width
- Limited color options
BUY: Sunny Health & Fitness Extra Wide Mat
Best Hot Yoga Mat – Gaiam Performance Dry-Grip Yoga Mat
Specs
- Weight: 4.25 lbs.
- Dimensions: 68" x 24"
- Color: Black, purple, blue
- Cushioning: 5mm
Hot yoga has become an increasingly popular way to improve flexibility and increase intensity in your yoga practice. One problem? Doing yoga in high temperatures tends to mean a lot of perspiration. It's crucial to get a yoga mat that is moisture-resistant so you don’t end up slipping and sliding, and the Gaiam Performance Dry Grip Yoga Mat is an excellent option.
The mat comes with a topcoat that wicks away moisture, ensuring a better grip even in high-temperature settings. It’s also worth noting that the mat is rubber-free, so it's a good option for those with latex sensitivities. Lightweight and durable, the Gaiam Performance Dry-Grip Yoga Mat includes 5mm of soft cushioning, helping to keep you comfortable no matter how high the temperature rises.
What We Like
- No-slip mat designed by yogis with hot yoga in mind
- Moisture-wicking materials
- Free of rubber and latex
What We Don't Like
- Dimensions are slightly smaller than average
- Limited color options
Gaiam Performance Dry-Grip Yoga Mat
Best Yoga Mat for Beginners – Yoga Design Lab Infinity Yoga Mat
Specs
- Weight: 6.2 lbs.
- Dimensions: 71" x 24"
- Color: Charcoal, Teal
- Cushioning: 5mm
New to yoga? The Yoga Design Lab Infinity Yoga Mat is a great choice for your first mat. Durable and lightweight, it offers ample comfort and cushioning for your nascent yoga practice.
It uses an open-cell PU top layer that absorbs moisture for an anti-slip finish. This promotes better grip, ultimately creating a secure foundation for those learning basic poses. Plus, it comes complete with a convenient carrying handle that makes it easy to tote to yoga class or the gym. All told, this mat will deliver everything you need to get started as a budding yogi.
What We Like
- Anti-slip materials
- Ultra-quick moisture absorption
- Springy base provides great joint cushioning
- Made with sustainable, natural tree rubber
What We Don't Like
- Limited color options
- Some yogis may prefer slightly larger dimensions
BUY: Yoga Design Lab Infinity Yoga Mat
Best Travel Yoga Mat – Lululemon Carry Onwards Travel Yoga Mat
Specs
- Weight: 2.96 lbs.
- Dimensions: 71" x 26"
- Color: Dew Pink, Pink Savannah, Black
- Cushioning: 2mm
Do you travel often? The Lululemon Carry Onwards Travel Yoga Mat is easy to take with you in the car, on a plane, on business trips, and on vacation. Its innovative design makes it ideal for condensing into a backpack- or carry-on-size luggage. Simply roll up the mat and use the attached elastic band to keep it together.
This level of portability does not come at the expense of durability or performance. On the contrary, this natural rubber mat is made to resist fraying or everyday wear and tear. It also offers moisture protection which makes it a decent option for hot yoga sessions. And if you’re prone to slipping, you can lightly mist the top microfiber layer for better grip.
What We Like
- Portable
- Lightweight
- Resists fraying or torn edges
What We Don't Like
- Limited color options
- Not as thick as conventional yoga mats
- Contains latex
BUY: Lululemon Carry Onwards Travel Yoga Mat
Best Nonslip Yoga Mat – Nike Mastery
Specs
- Weight: 3.5 lbs.
- Dimensions: 79" x 27"
- Color: Black, gray
- Cushioning: 5mm
One of the most important qualities of a yoga mat is slip resistance—the last thing you want is to slide around and lose your balance in the middle of a pose. The Nike Mastery mat is one of the best non-slip yoga mats you'll find. It’s a great choice for anyone seeking a steady, secure, and comfortable base for their yoga practice.
Made with natural rubber, the Nike Mastery mat has a stone-like aesthetic, coupled with a sensational grip. Cool to the touch and odor resistant, it's also a good choice for hot yoga or any other sessions in which you'll be especially sweaty. Lightweight in its design, this is also an easy mat to pack up and carry anywhere.
What We Like
- Highly portable
- Very lightweight
- Non-slip surface
What We Don't Like
- Limited color options
- Contains latex
Best Yoga Mat for Carpet – Manduka PROLite Yoga Mat
Specs
- Weight: 4 lbs.
- Dimensions: 71" x 24"
- Color: Aqua, Paisley Purple, Midnight, Black, Green, Purple, Indulge, Gray, Shadow, Dark Deep Sea
- Cushioning: 4.7mm
Not every yoga mat fares well on carpet. However, the Manduka PROLite Yoga Mat shines in this regard. An ultra-dense, closed-cell design makes it a stable and secure option on almost any type of flooring, including carpeted surfaces.
It also happens to be very easy to wipe clean and disinfect. Meanwhile, the closed-cell structure helps keep moisture and bacteria at bay. Plus, a unique dot pattern ensures the mat stays in place as you transition between poses, while a textured top layer prevents you from sticking to the mat. No matter what kind of surface you plan on using, the Manduka PROLite Yoga Mat offers a durable, stable experience.
What We Like
- Certified STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®️
- 100% latex free
- Textured top layer helps avoid sticking
- Dot patterns hold the mat in place
What We Don't Like
- Mats are made by hand, so length can vary
- Some yogis may prefer a slightly thicker mat
Best Cork Yoga Mat – Gaiam Performance Cork Yoga Mat
Specs
- Weight: N/A
- Dimensions: 68" x 24"
- Color: N/A
- Cushioning: 5mm
There's more than one way to make a yoga mat, and for decades cork has been a prime option. Not only is cork natural and sustainable, but it also naturally repels odors, sweat, and germs. It also offers to cushion and support while maintaining a lightweight design.
The Gaiam Performance Cork Yoga Mat is the recommended option in this category. One side of the mat is made from cork, while the other is crafted from eco-friendly TPE. This creates a durable, lightweight surface for practicing an array of poses. No matter the type of yoga you’re practicing, you’ll especially enjoy the closed-cell design which helps repel odor and bacteria—perfect for sweaty sessions.
What We Like
- Non-slip
- Easy to wipe clean
- Very lightweight
- Sustainable materials
What We Don't Like
- No color options
- Dimensions are just a tiny bit smaller than average
BUY: Gaiam Performance Cork Yoga Mat
Best Thick Yoga Mat – Jade Yoga Fusion Extra Thick
Specs
- Weight: N/A
- Dimensions: N/A
- Color: Midnight blue, purple
- Cushioning: 7.93mm
Looking for extra-thick padding on your next yoga mat? The Jade Yoga Fusion Extra Thick may be just what you need. While most yoga mats offer a thickness between 5 and 6 mm, this one offers a robust 7.93 mm, ensuring generous comfort, cushioning, and support.
There are other reasons to consider it, even beyond that extra thickness. It has a non-slip grip, and its open-cell rubber construction provides a stable surface. Made from recycled and sustainable materials, the Jade Yoga Fusion is also a good choice for eco-conscious yogis.
What We Like
- Non-slip
- Sustainable materials
- Very lightweight
- Extra thickness and support
What We Don't Like
- Limited color options
- Not everyone will want extra padding
BUY: Jade Yoga Fusion Extra Thick
Best Yoga Mat for Men – Lululemon 5mm Mat
Specs
- Weight: 5.24 lbs.
- Dimensions: 26" x 71"
- Color: 14 colors/designs available
- Cushioning: 5mm
For men looking to get into yoga, the Lululemon 5mm Mat is an excellent choice. It offers the cushioning needed for male bodies, plus a grippy top layer that absorbs moisture, keeping you from slipping during the sweatiest sessions.
Antimicrobial coating helps to keep mold and mildew away. Made from natural and sustainably sourced rubber, it’s also slightly longer and wider than the average yoga mat. If you’ve thought about adding yoga to your normal workout routine, this is a good mat to start with.
What We Like
- Non-slip
- Very lightweight
- Sustainable materials
What We Don't Like
- Made with latex
Best Affordable Yoga Mat – Stott Pilates 6mm Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat
Specs
- Weight: N/A
- Dimensions: 68" x 24"
- Color: Eggplant
- Cushioning: 6mm
A good yoga mat can be a prudent investment in long-term yoga practice. With that said, you might not have room in the budget for an ultra-pricey mat. But the Stott Pilates 6mm Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat offers excellent quality without breaking the bank.
Priced at just under $40, the Stott Pilates Mat offers an affordable way to get your Zen on. Made with eco-friendly materials like recyclable, moisture-resistant TPE, it offers a durable surface that can withstand many sessions. It’s also free of latex, PVC, and chloride, making it a safe choice for those with allergies.
What We Like
- Made with lightweight, recyclable foam
- Free of latex and PVC
- Great price point
- Durable and very lightweight
- Resistant to mold and mildew
What We Don't Like
- Limited color options
BUY: Stott Pilates 6mm Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat
Best Yoga Mat for Hardwood Floors – Gaiam Premium 2-Color Yoga Mat
Specs
- Weight: N/A
- Dimensions: 68" x 24"
- Color: Midnight Blues, Plum Jam, Granite Storm
- Cushioning: 6mm
Seeking a yoga mat that will not slip and slide when you use it on hardwood flooring? Here's an option that comes highly recommended: The Gaiam Premium 2-Color Yoga Mat.
This mat is textured for a non-slip performance. It uses 6 mm of PVC to keep you cushioned and comfortable as you flow between poses. Lightweight and durable, the Gaiam Premium 2-Color Yoga Mat is also free of latex and harmful phthalates.
What We Like
- Great cushioning
- Non-slip surface
- Reversible
- Latex-free
- Comes with a lifetime guarantee
What We Don't Like
- Limited color options
- Slightly smaller dimensions than the traditional yoga mat
BUY: Gaiam Premium 2-Color Yoga Mat
Why You Should Buy a Yoga Mat
There are a number of reasons to consider getting a yoga mat. Some of the main benefits include:
- Practicing on your own mat can help you stay clean by avoiding germs and debris from indoor or outdoor surfaces. This is especially important when you take your mat to a public gym or yoga center.
- A good mat provides stability as you practice different poses and postures. The last thing you want is to feel like you're slipping off the mat during a challenging pose.
- The cushioning provided by your yoga mat will help to evenly distribute your body weight, improving comfort and support for your joints.
What to Look for When Buying a Yoga Mat
As you look for the best yoga mat, there are several factors to keep in mind.
Cushioning
Thick padding is essential for protecting your joints, but you’ll want something that has a nice, balanced feel. This is especially important if you're arunner practicing yoga, who already suffers from sore joints. You need a mat thick enough to cushion your spine from hard surfaces, but not so soft that you feel like you’re sinking into quicksand—this can make it difficult to move into different poses. The average yoga mat measures around 5-6 mm in thickness.
Materials
Yoga mats can be made from a variety of materials, including latex, foam, and rubber. If you have allergies or are sensitive to certain chemicals, it may be helpful to narrow your search by looking for yoga mats made from eco-friendly, sustainable, and/or latex-free materials
Size
If you have a larger body type, or just want more surface area for full-body poses, you may benefit from an extra-wide or extra-long mat. Most yoga mats measure around 70" L x 24" W for reference, but larger ones can measure around 72" L x 30" W.
Portability
If you plan on extending your yoga practice beyond the confines of your home, consider the ease with which you can fold up and carry a yoga mat. How heavy is the mat? Will it fit into a backpack? Does it come with a carrying handle? The more portable a yoga mat is, the easier it is to take with you to the gym, studio, or on vacation.
Grip
Generally, you’ll want to ensure a yoga mat that doesn’t slip or slide, no matter the surface you use it on. This makes it easier to hold poses and to move through your practice. Yoga mats made from stickier materials (like rubber or ones with non-stick coating) can help keep you stable.
Durability
The best yoga mats are designed to last for many dynamic sessions, potentially even a lifetime. While you won’t be performing any intense movement like weightlifting or jumping, your mat should still be able to function without any rips, tears, or dents.
Odor
While it's fairly common to experience a slight odor after initially unboxing your mat, you may want to avoid any mats that have a persistent odor. The best way to do this is to make sure the materials are safe and clean, and to read reviews to make certain the mat you select is odor-free.
Style
One of the most fun parts about choosing a yoga mat is picking the color. Most mats are available in a wide array of colors, and some are even reversible, offering two different color schemes in the same mat. Take your time selecting the one that best fits your yogi aesthetic.
FAQs About Yoga Mats
What is the best thickness for a yoga mat?
Generally speaking, most yoga mats fall into the 5mm to 6mm thickness range. This is typically thick enough to support and cushion your body, but some may prefer a denser mat that's closer to 7mm in thickness.
Are yoga mats worth it?
If you practice yoga on a regular basis, a good mat is an invaluable investment in comfort, support, cleanliness, and stability. And due to their compactness, most are also very portable, allowing you to practice yoga wherever you go.
What's the best way to clean a yoga mat?
If you're unsure of how to clean your yoga mat, be sure to read the cleaning instructions for your particular mat to ensure you're giving it the best clean. Most yoga mats can be spot cleaned with a wet washcloth, or with a disinfectant wipe.
What's the difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat?
Compared with standard exercise mats, yoga mats are usually a little bit thinner and not quite as firm. This is because yoga is considered more of a low-impact exercise where the goal is to be closer to the group. They don't require the same amount of thickness that standard exercise mats do, which are typically used for more vigorous movements like jumping.
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