The Best 7 Yoga Mats in 2024 for Every Type of Practice, According to Yoga Instructors

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BEST REVERSIBLE

yoga mats

Lululemon The Mat 5mm

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

Heathyoga Non-Slip Yoga Mat

Can any yoga mat suffice? Not necessarily. Elevating your practice to new heights, especially with varied yoga styles, demands a surface that matches your dedication. Whether you’re delving into different forms of yoga or embarking on your journey, the ideal yoga mat for you might differ greatly from your current one.

While many yoga mats may appear similar at first glance, it’s crucial to recognize that they aren’t all created equal. There are key factors to weigh when seeking the optimal mat tailored to your needs, practice, and lifestyle.

How to Pick the Best Yoga Mat

We collaborated closely with fitness experts and meticulously researched top-reviewed products, delving into specifications and conducting hands-on testing for some. Our goal was to identify the exclusive yoga mats that merit investment, regardless of your proficiency level in your practice.

To facilitate your search for the perfect yoga mat tailored to your requirements, we enlisted the guidance of yoga instructors to curate a selection of the finest options available online today. In addition to this expert insight, we meticulously analyzed thousands of reviews from fellow shoppers like yourself. Below, you’ll discover their top-rated recommendations.

yoga mat

1

BEST VALUE

Gaiam Classic Print Yoga Mat

The Medallion Yoga Mat from Gaiam stands out as an incredibly budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. With its 4-mm thickness, you’ll feel a solid connection with the ground, providing just the right amount of cushioning without sacrificing stability. Its dual-textured surface ensures reliable traction, allowing you to transition seamlessly between poses like downward-facing dog and triangle without worrying about slipping. Plus, its elegant yet understated design adds a touch of style to your practice.

“This particular mat has held up remarkably well during the several months I’ve been using it,” shares a new yoga practitioner on Amazon. “It was my first-ever yoga mat purchase. Starting out, I wasn’t sure if I’d stick with it consistently. That’s why I opted for something straightforward, with plans to upgrade later. But honestly, I’ve been thoroughly impressed with this one.”

yoga mat

2

RAVE REVIEWS

BalanceFrom GoYoga Mat

This top-selling yoga mat has garnered an impressive 80,000+ enthusiastic reviews on Amazon, solidifying its reputation as a must-have item. With its generous dimensions of 24 inches in width and 71 inches in height, it caters to practitioners of all sizes. Its substantial half-inch thickness delivers exceptional cushioning and support, making it particularly suitable for individuals with sensitive backs, hips, knees, and elbows.

What’s more, it includes an adjustable strap, allowing for effortless transportation or convenient storage in tight spaces alongside your workout gear. Versatile in its utility, it serves as an excellent companion for yoga, bodyweight exercises, Pilates, and various other workouts.

“It feels like heaven on my back,” praises one satisfied reviewer. “I could even sleep on it in case of an emergency. Plus, it features Velcro straps for secure closure and a convenient shoulder sling. It’s just perfect!” The only minor downside? Its bulkier size may pose a challenge when it comes to portability compared to other alternatives.

“This particular mat has held up remarkably well during the several months I’ve been using it,” shares a new yoga practitioner on Amazon. “It was my first-ever yoga mat purchase. Starting out, I wasn’t sure if I’d stick with it consistently. That’s why I opted for something straightforward, with plans to upgrade later. But honestly, I’ve been thoroughly impressed with this one.”

yoga mat

3

BEST NON-SLIP

JadeYoga Harmony Yoga Mat

There’s nothing more frustrating than experiencing hand slippage during a yoga flow or a challenging pose. A strong grip is essential to prevent such mishaps, and that’s where Quinn Suplina’s personal pick comes in.

Crafted from non-toxic natural rubber, this mat offers just the right balance of cushioning for practitioners ranging from beginners to advanced yogis. “The mat provides excellent stability and boasts impressive durability,” Quinn Suplina attests.

Reviewers highlight the mat’s sticky texture, which may feel unusual initially. However, this feature ensures even the sweatiest practitioners maintain stability throughout their practice, eliminating the need for a towel. “It may pose a slight challenge during transitions like upward dog to downward dog compared to other mats,” Quinn Suplina acknowledges. Nevertheless, with a bit of practice, this minor inconvenience becomes negligible. Who knows? This mat might even enhance your strength and stability as a yogi.

4

BEST FOR HOT YOGA

Yoga Design Lab The Combo Yoga Mat

Meet The Combo Mat from Yoga Design Lab, your ultimate companion for hot yoga sessions. Designed to withstand sweat-drenched practices, this mat seamlessly combines the functionality of a mat and towel in one, ensuring you stay stable even when things get slippery. Los Angeles-based yoga instructor and run coach Theodora Blanchfield praises its velvety texture and stunning designs.

What sets it apart? It’s machine washable for easy maintenance and comes in two sizes: 3.5-mm and 5.5-mm, catering to your specific preferences and needs.

“It’s like a massive mousepad,” describes one satisfied reviewer. “The soft surface is gentle on my knees, unlike my old mat. I always struggled with hand slippage with my previous mat, but this mat is a game-changer.”

5

BEST FOR TRAVEL

JadeYoga Voyager Yoga Mat

Introducing Jade Yoga’s Voyager Mat, your perfect travel companion for maintaining your practice. Weighing just one and a half pounds and folding to the size of a yoga block, this mat is incredibly compact yet durable, with an exceptional grip. Sara Clark, a YogaGlo instructor and mindfulness coach, praises its portability and durability, noting that it fits seamlessly into her backpack or suitcase without creasing. As a bonus, Jade Yoga plants a tree for every mat sold.

“I couldn’t believe how light the box was when it arrived from Amazon; I thought it was empty,” exclaims one impressed reviewer. “Despite its super-thin design, it’s remarkably durable and provides ample padding for practicing yoga in hotel rooms without any issues.”

6

BEST REVERSIBLE

Gaiam Reversible Yoga Mat

Gaiam’s thick, reversible yoga mat is one of Amazon’s top picks, beloved by countless practitioners. Featuring a non-slip surface, it ensures you remain grounded even during intense sessions. However, its standout feature is its thick cushioning, providing unparalleled support and stability for sensitive joints. While primarily designed for yoga, its versatility allows for seamless integration into core workouts as well.

“As a yoga instructor, I swear by Gaiam mats. They strike the perfect balance between affordability and functionality,” praises one satisfied Amazon reviewer. “The 5-mm thickness is ideal for basic yoga and most traditions, including flow practices. I also recommend it for older students or anyone with minor joint issues.” And the best part? It’s currently on sale, making it even more irresistible!

7

BEST NON-TOXIC

Gurus Sprout Yoga Mat

For anyone familiar with the frustration of slipping on a yoga mat due to sweaty hands and feet, this travel mat is a game-changer. Crafted from sustainable cork, it offers a superior grip that improves as you sweat. Unlike foam mats, cork reacts to the moisture on your body by becoming even grippier, ensuring stability even during challenging poses like handstands. Additionally, cork is naturally antimicrobial, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.

“I’ve struggled with sweaty palms and feet during yoga for years, but with this mat, slipping is no longer a concern,” shares an Amazon reviewer. “I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my stability during my practice, even in poses like crane where slipping was previously an issue.”

Mastering Your Yoga Practice: Key Considerations for Choosing the Perfect Mat

When selecting a yoga mat, prioritize ample grip, advises Amy Quinn Suplina, owner of Bend and Bloom Yoga in Brooklyn. Avoid cheaply made mats that are slippery, as they can detract from your practice by requiring extra effort to maintain stability. Look for a mat with sufficient texture and grip, allowing you to establish a solid foundation without unnecessary strain.

Consider the type of yoga you practice when choosing the thickness of your mat, advises Christine Chen, a bestselling yoga book author and national teacher trainer. For Vinyasa, a 4-mm or 5-mm thick mat is recommended to maintain a connection with the floor without sinking in. However, for restorative practices, a thicker mat can provide added comfort. Additionally, factor in sensitivity to weight bearing on shins, knees, or when reclining, as suggested by Quinn Suplina.

Balance comfort with mobility when selecting a mat, as thicker mats offer more cushioning but can be bulkier and heavier, especially for commuting or traveling. If you primarily practice at home, a thick mat may suit your needs. However, for frequent commuting or travel, opt for a thinner mat or explore efficient ways to transport your mat.

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