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A good yoga mat is essential for staying balanced as you flow through your everyday yoga flow and focus on strengthening your core at the gym. When it comes to yoga mats, it’s always a good idea to bring your own. While yoga mats appear to serve the same purpose, each is intended to meet different demands depending on personal preference or an exercise. So set yourself up for success by finding the best yoga mats in 2024 that are right for your body type and workout requirements.
Working from home makes it easy to fall into a sedentary lifestyle, and some of us have evidence in the form of tight joints and excess pounds. When it comes to buying a yoga mat to help you start exercising, you don’t have to spend a lot of money, but some are worth it. Read about our top picks below!
Here are the highest-rated yoga mats in 2024
DWENIMEN Yoga Mat — Best Overall
Key Features
- Large size for all yoga enthusiasts
- Easy-to-wipe surface
- Works for the gym, pilates, yoga
Transform your workout experience with the DWENIMEN Elite Pro Yoga Mat, a premium fitness companion made from high-density PVC for unparalleled quality and performance. This 6mm thick yoga mat is not just a mat; it's a complete package offering excellent value for your money.
Unbox an elegant matte black branded gift box that houses more than just a mat. Inside, you'll find a large-size yoga mat measuring 72 x 26 inches, providing ample space for your exercises. The included workout instructions, resistance bands, and carrying strap enhance your fitness routine, making it an all-in-one solution for yoga, pilates, barre, or general exercise, whether you're at the gym, studio, or home.
The DWENIMEN Elite Pro Yoga Mat stands out with its high performance, featuring ultra-dense cushioning for superior joint support and stability on any surface. The 6mm thickness ensures optimal cushioning and non-slip features for an ultra-high-performance grip, making it the preferred choice for fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Crafted from high-density PVC material, this yoga mat is beloved by teachers worldwide. The ultra-high-density construction ensures that the ends stay flat on the ground even after repeated use, rolling, and unrolling. Built to last a lifetime, the Elite Pro series mats incorporate closed-cell technology, preventing moisture seepage and ensuring durability without unpleasant odors. Elevate your workout routine with this best overall yoga mat - where quality, value, and performance converge.
Pros
- Sturdy design
- Easy to use and roll back up
- Great for yoga, the gym, barre classes
Cons
- Could be thicker
BalanceFrom GoYoga Yoga Mat — Best Mat With Handles
Key Features
- ¼ inches thick
- Slide-resistant
- Has moisture-resistant technology
- Yoga mat strap included
The BalanceFrom yoga mat is 68 inches long and 24 inches wide. This is an all-purpose deluxe workout yoga mat and is slide-resistant thanks to its two-sided non-slip surfaces. This helps prevent injuries. This yoga mat’s exceptional durability helps you to maintain your balance during any type of workout. This mat may be simply cleaned with detergent and water thanks to moisture-resistant technology.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Cleaned easily
Cons
- Not as sticky as other options
Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat — Great Brand
Key Features
- Both sides have textured ridges
- ⅖ inches thick
- Non-toxic
- Includes a yoga mat carrier strap
This classic yoga mat is ideal for a variety of workout routines, including yoga, pilates, and any other floor activity that requires extra cushion and support. These 2/5 inch workout mats are excellent for use in the studio or at home, as well as around the house as a knee pad or a standing pad or cushion. PVC yoga mats are safer for you and the environment since they are devoid of many toxic ingredients.
Pros
- Many colors to choose from
- Slip-resistant from both sides
Cons
- Has a strong odor
Clever Yoga Mat — Honorable Mention
Key Features
- TPE mat
- 6mm thickness
- Has a double-sided texture
- Anti-tear technologgy
With a thickness of 6mm, the Clever yoga mat is extremely thick and intended to provide optimum comfort throughout your practice without sacrificing support and stability. It’s 72” long and 25.5” broad which makes this mat ideal for yogis of all heights. It requires no pre-treatment and is immediately usable. This lightweight mat weighs only 2 pounds, making it easy to take to lessons. The reversible double-sided design provides traction on the floor while also providing a gripping surface for your hands and feet during your yoga practice.
Pros
- Resistant to rips and tears
- Super lightweight so easy to carry around
Cons
- Slippery when wet
NewMe Fitness Exercise Yoga Mat — Also Try
Key Features
- Made out of PVC
- 5mm thickness
- 6 color options
- Non-slip
This big fitness yoga mat is perfect for both men and women, spanning 24” x 68” and measuring 5mm thick to provide the appropriate amount of cushioning for comfort and balance. The mat’s slightly sticky surface keeps hands and feet in place. Each posture is vividly demonstrated by 70 images on the NewMe indoor and outdoor yoga mat. It has drawings that are bright and clear, making self-guided sessions easy to do by taking the uncertainty out of popular poses.
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Has 70 yoga postures illustrated on it
Cons
- Illustrations fade quickly
Beautyovo Yoga Mat — Also Consider
Key Features
- Dual material yoga mat
- ⅓ inches thick
- Non-slip texture
- Comes with carry strap
The texture, stickiness, sponginess, and eco-friendliness of a mat are all determined by the material. The majority of yoga mats are composed of plastic or rubber. The Beautyovo eco-friendly TPE yoga mat has the benefits of both plastic and rubber in one, with more elasticity, superior abrasion and tear resistance, and is more environmentally sustainable than standard PVC and NBR materials!
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Non-slip even when wet
Cons
- Material may peel after heavy uses
CAP Barbell Yoga Mat — Also Consider
Key Features
- Made out of rubber
- 3mm thickness
- Has a textured surface
- Slip resistant
The Cap yoga mat will make your floor workouts more comfortable and relaxing. This exercise mat is beautiful, functional, and comfy, providing a gently cushioned and pleasant surface for your favorite yoga practice. This yoga mat is perfect for yoga, floor stretching, abdominal workouts, and push ups since it has a comfortable, textured, and slip-resistant surface.
Pros
- Lightweight so easily portable
- Great value for money
Cons
- Is thin and rips easily
Buyer's Guide: Finding the Right Yoga Mat
Whether you are a person who loves to stretch after a run or a yoga enthusiast looking to invest in high-quality yoga mats to accommodate home workouts, the choice can be daunting with so many options available in the market. As we have reviewed some of the top yoga mats, we know what to look for in them. Our experts have jotted down some important points to make the purchase hassle-free.
What to Consider While Buying a Yoga Mat?
Thickness
A thin yoga mat, which is around 1/16-inch thick, is perfect for practicing balance poses because it provides a firm connection to the floor. However, a thin mat has the disadvantage of providing less cushioning support for you. A 1/4-inch thick yoga mat is recommended for back support during core training, inversions, and other postures that force your bones to dig into the floor. If you’re looking for a happy medium, use a regular yoga mat with a thickness of 3.3 mm (1/8-inch).
Material
The mat’s texture, stickiness, sponginess, and eco-friendliness are all determined by the material. The majority of yoga mats are composed of vinyl or rubber. Vinyl yoga mats are durable and can withstand several yoga sessions. Jute and cotton are commonly used in rubber mats, making them more eco-friendly but less spongy.
Texture
The texture of the mat will determine how much friction it has. A sticky mat will protect you from slipping about in yoga class if you sweat a lot. If you’re bothered by the rough texture, go for a smooth mat with a moisture control system.
Sustainability
Ahimsa is the yogic idea that we should avoid causing damage to others and the environment. That is one of the reasons why many yoga mat manufacturers strive to provide socially responsible and ecologically sustainable mats.
Appearance
Finally, many yogis consider the aesthetics and look of their yoga mat. Do you want to see a specific color or image when you gaze down at your mat? Some yogis will only exercise on all-black mats, and some mats may even be customized with your preferred mantra.
What Are the Different Types of Yoga Mats?
Sticky mats
Sticky mats aren’t truly sticky, but they give a better, textured grip to keep you from slipping on the floor and keep you stable during poses. They’re ideal for people who sweat a lot or have trouble keeping their equilibrium.
Cotton mats
These thick cotton mats absorb perspiration effectively, are easy to clean, and provide excellent cushioning. However, they may not always have the finest traction and may slip on hard, solid surfaces.
Elastomer plastic mats
Because of technological advancements, the plastic elastomer is becoming the most common choice. These are eco-friendly alternatives that give good traction and are also suitable for individuals with sensitive skin. They can, however, perish if not properly cared for.
Rubber mats
Rubber mats were among the earliest types of yoga mat materials to be produced, and they remain a popular option. Rubber mats are non-toxic and safe for the environment. Cork is also used to improve grip on them.
Jute mats
Jute is a completely natural material. It is long-lasting, sticky, and environmentally friendly. If you are not interested in synthetic material alternatives, they are a popular choice.
What Features to Look For in a Yoga Mat?
Grip
One of the first things you should think about when purchasing a yoga mat is the mat’s stability and durability. When it comes to yoga, grip is everything; you want to feel solid and robust when practicing postures, especially ones that need a lot of stability. Obviously, you’ll sweat in most situations, which might lead you to slip and fall, generally owing to the smoothness of yoga mats. Don’t worry, many yoga mats are texturized and have an excellent grip!
Quality
One of the most important questions you’ll want to ask is whether or not the yoga mat is of excellent quality. Because if it isn’t, what’s the point of purchasing it in the first place? Some yoga mats have a short lifespan, so you’ll have to replace them frequently. Instead, spend a few more dollars up front to purchase a nice yoga mat that will last you a long time - this will also save you money in the long run!
Thickness and weight
When it comes to yoga mats, these two factors go hand in hand - they will also affect your degree of comfort while performing yoga, as well as how you preserve the mat itself when you stop. Some yoga mats are large, bulky, and heavy - how thick and heavy you want your yoga mat to be is entirely up to you. Also, will you be carrying it a lot? It may be hefty and difficult to store afterward, so bear that in mind if you intend to be mobile with it.
Uniqueness
Yoga is a lot of fun in general, but you can make it even more unique. Get yourself a lovely, bright, or patterned mat — this way, you can enjoy it throughout your lengthy sessions, and it will look cute in the middle of your room. You may throw away your awful bright blue and purple yoga mats because they are no longer available. Instead of aiming for something simple, have a look around and see if anything piques your aesthetic interest.
What Is the Price Range of a Yoga Mat?
If you’re doing yoga outside on uneven ground with plenty of bumps and grass, a sturdier yoga mat is definitely a better choice. Alternatively, get a yoga mat for indoor usage as well as one for outdoor use. The amount of money that you will be spending will vary depending on the features and the type of yoga mat. Typically, you can get yoga mats between $20 to $150. Though there are some options available below or above this price range, we don’t recommend buying them.
