What are the best exercise mats to buy?

The best exercise mats to buy are durable and comfortable, with good traction so you can exercise safely. All of the mats on our list check these boxes. Beyond that, finding the best mat for your workout routine comes down to personal preference. Also, consider how easy the mat is to care for, whether it comes with any additional accessories, and whether you’ll need to transport it when shopping.

How much does a good exercise mat cost?

You can expect to pay between $19 and $150 for a good exercise mat. Less expensive options will likely be made from less durable materials and may not have as much cushioning. They may slide around more during use, too. More expensive options are often more durable, larger in size, and may provide more protection for your joints. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, we suggest Amazon Basics’ Extra Thick Exercise Mat or BalanceFrom’s Folding Exercise Mat , which are both available for around $20. Our top overall pick, Nike’s Training Mat 2.0 , was $60 when we published this list.

How thick should an exercise mat be?

A thicker exercise mat usually means you’re less likely to feel the hardness of the floor on your joints. But thicker mats make some exercises, like planks, harder to do “because the mat forces your weight into your wrists, causing pain,” Magid says. A thicker mat can also be more difficult to balance on. “I recommend using a basic mat and having a thicker mat for when you need it,” Magid explains.

What’s the difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat?

“Yoga mats provide a comfortable surface for kneeling and sitting on and often have a non-slip surface, which is great for yoga poses that involve standing,” Lowe says. An exercise mat is more multipurpose. While it can be used for yoga, it also has more cushioning for other activities, like strength training, core work, stretching, or Pilates.

The 15 Best Exercise Mats of 2023

While they may look like yoga mats, exercise mats are designed with different workouts in mind. “An exercise mat can be used for yoga, while a yoga mat is designed for yoga positions—specifically for a non-slip experience. An exercise mat is more multipurpose,” Linda Magid, fitness and Pilates instructor, says.

High-quality exercise mats are comfortable to work out on, durable, and easy to bring with you to the gym (or wherever you like to exercise). When shopping for an exercise mat, look for ones that are thick, but lightweight, so you'll get the support you need for Pilates classes, bodyweight exercises, and more.

With help from experts, we researched dozens of exercise mats from top brands to find the best options for every workout. Our top picks are budget-friendly and built to last:

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Nike Training Mat 2.0 at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Amazon Basics Exercise Mat at Amazon

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Best Sweat-Wicking:

Hugger Mugger Yoga Mat at Amazon

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Best Cushioned:

Manduka PRO at Amazon

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Best Lightweight:

Gaiam Essentials Yoga Mat at Amazon

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Best Thick:

HemingWeigh Exercise Mat at Amazon

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Best Investment:

Liforme Original Yoga Mat at Amazon

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Best for Pilates:

ProsourceFit Extra Thick Exercise mat at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Yoga:

Manduka Yoga Mat at Amazon

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Best for Training:

lululemon Workout Mat at Lululemon

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.9

Amazon

Pros

Lightweight
Thick, plush cushioning
Comes with adjustable carrying strap

Cons

May feel slippery when wet

Nike’s Training Mat 2.0 is our top overall pick because, at around 2 pounds, it’s the lightest mat on our list—but since it’s made from high-density foam, it still feels thick and cushioned. The textured, grippy surface makes it suitable for yoga, Pilates, high-intensity training, stretching, and more.

Nike’s exercise mat is easy to roll up and store away once you’ve finished using it. You can use the adjustable carrying strap to take it with you, whether you’re going to the gym or away for the weekend.

It’s easy to clean, too—after each workout, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. Just make sure it’s fully dry before you unroll it for next time, since some users have found that this mat may feel slippery when it’s wet.

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Thermoplastic elastomer, polyester | Weight: 2.1 pounds | Thickness: 8 millimeters | Waterproof: Not listed | Dimensions: 71 x 24 x 0.3 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Comes with carrying strap
Good traction
Easy to roll up

Cons

May slide around during use
May not be as durable

For a portable exercise mat at a budget-friendly price, we recommend Amazon Basics’ Extra Thick Exercise Mat. Like Nike’s Training Mat 2.0, this mat comes with a carrying strap, making it ideal for at-home or gym use.

We like that the thick material has deep ridges that provide good traction and stability. Plus, users note that it’s easy to roll up—so if your home gym is short on space, this mat could be a great addition. However, it may not be as durable, since it’s prone to dents and scrapes. Also, it may slide around on slick hardwood floors.

At 12.5 millimeters tall, it’s one of the thicker options on our list, providing extra support and shock absorption. Choose from six different colors.

Price at time of publication: $26

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Synthetic | Weight: 2.4 pounds | Thickness: 12.5 millimeters | Waterproof: Not listed | Dimensions: 74 x 24 x 0.5 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Reversible
Easy to clean
Recyclable

Cons

Not as durable

Looking for a sweat-wicking exercise mat? Hugger Mugger’s Earth Elements Mat is our top pick because its closed-cell construction is designed to prevent any moisture from seeping in. Although it’s a yoga mat, we think this mat’s great traction and soft surface make it ideal for other workouts, too.

We love that the mat is reversible, giving you two color choices for the price of one. It’s also made from non-toxic, biodegradable, and recyclable materials. It’s lightweight and portable, too—plus, it comes with a carrying strap. And if you tend to work up a sweat while exercising, we like that this mat is easy to clean—just wipe it down using a cloth with dish soap and water.

Note that this exercise mat can’t be left in hot or cold temperatures, since it’s biodegradable. Leaving it in a car in direct sunlight will also cause it to break down faster than other mats on our list.

Price at time of publication: $63

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Thermoplastic elastomer | Weight: 2.4 pounds | Thickness: 5 millimeters | Waterproof: Yes | Dimensions: 72 x 24 x 0.2 inches}

4.2

Amazon

Pros

Good traction
Lifetime guarantee
Durable

Cons

Expensive
Heavy

Although it’s thinner than others on our list, Manduka’s Pro Mat is our pick for a well-cushioned exercise mat. Users note that, after it’s been broken in according to the manufacturer’s instructions, this mat has great traction and a thick, dense surface that feels supportive.

Like Hugger Mugger’s Earth Elements Yoga Mat, this mat has a closed-cell construction that seals out moisture. But weighing between 7.5 and 9.5 pounds, it’s heavy and not as portable as other mats on our list.

This is also one of our most expensive picks—but because of its durable construction, we think it’s worth the price. Manduka offers a lifetime guarantee, so this mat is an investment that can pay off for many years to come. Choose from a range of earth tones and a variety of sizes to find the mat that’s right for you and your practice.

Price at time of publication: $138-$148

^{Key Specs:
Materials: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) | Weight: 7.5 to 9.5 pounds | Thickness: 6 millimeters | Waterproof: Yes | Dimensions: 71 x 26 x 0.3 inches to 85 x 26 x 0.3 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Budget-friendly
Good traction
Comes with carrying strap

Cons

May slide around during use

Gaiam’s Extra-Thick Exercise Mat weighs just over 3 pounds, making it our top pick for a mat that’s supportive, comfortable, and lightweight. The included carrying strap makes it easy to bring with you almost anywhere.

This mat’s non-slip surface features deep ridges to help you get a good grip. It’s also 10 millimeters thick, to help cushion your joints. And we like that it’s one of the budget-friendliest mats on our list.

Some users have noted that this Gaiam mat tends to slide around, so you may want to avoid using it on certain surfaces. Otherwise, we think it’s a solid value.

Price at time of publication: $26

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Rubber | Weight: 3.1 pounds | Thickness: 10 millimeters | Waterproof: Not listed | Dimensions: 68 x 24 x 0.4 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Easy to roll up
Durable
Non-slip

Cons

Not as wide
Heavy

For extra cushioning and support, we recommend HemingWeigh’s Exercise Mat. Coming in at 25 millimeters thick, it makes floor workouts more comfortable, taking pressure off of your knees, wrists, and tailbone. We like the strap system, which makes it easy to roll this mat up and take it with you on the go.

Since this mat is so thick, it’s more durable than others on our list. It’s also easy to care for, since it’s moisture-resistant. We do wish it came in more than one color, though.

Both sides of HemingWeigh’s exercise mat are non-slip, so they can be used for a range of activities, both at home and at the gym. Just note that all the extra cushioning comes at a price—at over 3 pounds, this is one of the heaviest mats on our list. And, it’s not as wide as most of our other top picks.

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Materials: EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) | Weight: 3.2 pounds | Thickness: 25 millimeters | Waterproof: Not listed | Dimensions: 70 x 23 x 1 inches}

4.8

Amazon

Pros

Alignment markers help guide you
Large surface area
Comes with a bag

Cons

Heavy

If you’re willing to spend more, Liforme’s Original Mat is our pick for an exercise mat that’s well worth the investment. It’s made from biodegradable materials (like Hugger Mugger’s Earth Elements Mat) and has a system of alignment markers to help your flow.

The non-slip, sweat-wicking surface offers good grip, and it dries quickly, so it’s easy to clean. Liforme’s mat is also longer and wider than most of our top picks, giving you more space to stretch out.

We also like that it comes with a bag, so you can store it or bring it with you to the studio. But at 5.5 pounds, it’s worth noting that this mat is one of the heaviest on our list—which you may want to keep in mind if you have a long trek to class.

Price at time of publication: $150

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Rubber, eco-polyurethane | Weight: 5.5 pounds | Thickness: 4.2 millimeters | Waterproof: Yes | Dimensions: 72.8 x 26.8 x 0.17 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Thick, plush cushioning
Comes with carrying strap
Durable

Cons

Not as portable

For a soft, supportive mat that can supplement your Pilates practice, this ProsourceFit option is our top pick. Measuring 25 millimeters thick, it’s made from plush, high-density foam that feels comfortable whether you’re standing or sitting. And users have found that it’s both sweat-wicking and durable.

While it does come with a carrying strap, this mat isn’t as portable as some of our other top picks, since it’s larger and heavier. If you’re looking for one you can tote around often, Gaiam’s Dry-Grip Yoga Mat may be a better fit.

Choose from a range of bright colors. Note that while this mat is waterproof, it can’t go in the washing machine.

Price at time of publication: $35

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Foam | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Thickness: 25 millimeters | Waterproof: Yes | Dimensions: 71 x 24 x 1 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Alignment stripe helps guide you
Sweat-wicking
Lightweight

Cons

No carrying strap

Manduka’s Begin Yoga Mat is our top pick for yoga classes, whether at the gym or in your living room. We love that it has an alignment stripe down the center to help with proper positioning and to guide you through poses. Similar to others on our list, it’s made with a closed cell construction, which prevents sweat and moisture from seeping into the mat.

The 5-millimeter height provides plenty of cushioning underfoot. At 2.5 pounds, it’s lightweight, too, so you can easily carry it to the yoga studio or to the gym.

While there are plenty of colors to choose from, this mat doesn’t come with a carrying strap. But it is reversible, and the textured surface has good traction.

Price at time of publication: $58

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Thermoplastic elastomer, rubber | Weight: 2.5 pounds | Thickness: 5 millimeters | Waterproof: Yes | Dimensions: 68 x 24 x 0.2 inches}

lululemon

Pros

Textured surface
Sweat-wicking
Stain-resistant

Cons

Expensive
Heavy
No carrying strap

lululemon’s The Workout Mat is an all-purpose, 6 millimeter-thick mat that can be used for various types of training. The textured surface enhances this mat’s grip, so you’ll stay steady on your feet while holding planks or doing burpees.

We also like that it’s sweat-wicking and stain-resistant, which makes it both durable and easy to clean. It is heavier than other mats on our list, but not so heavy that it can’t be carried from your home to the gym.

You will need to purchase a carrying strap separately—lululemon makes one that can be adjusted for the right fit. And while this mat is one of the most expensive on our list, we think the tough construction is worth the added cost.

Price at time of publication: $98

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Thermoplastic elastomer | Weight: 4.4 pounds | Thickness: 6 millimeters | Waterproof: Yes | Dimensions: 71 x 26 x 0.3 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Comes in two sizes
Made from sustainable materials
Easy to roll up

Cons

Not sweat-wicking
May be too thin for some

A portable exercise mat should be thin and lightweight, like Jade Yoga’s Travel Yoga Mat. It weighs 3 pounds and can be rolled up to fit in your luggage or a bag, making it an ideal option if you like to exercise while you travel.

We love that it comes in both standard and long lengths, and that it’s made from sustainable rubber. However, it’s thinner than other mats on our list, so it may not have enough cushioning for some. Users do note that the grippy surface provides great traction, though.

But this mat isn’t sweat-wicking, so you may want to pick up a yoga towel for outdoor sessions or classes in heated rooms.

Price at time of publication: $68-$75

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Rubber | Weight: 3 pounds | Thickness: 3.2 millimeters | Waterproof: No | Dimensions: 68 x 24 x 0.1 inches, 74 x 24 x 0.1 inches}

3.9

Amazon

Pros

Supportive
Available in two sizes
Lifetime guarantee

Cons

No carrying strap
Heavy

We recommend Gaiam’s Dry-Grip Yoga Mat for feeling supported in sweaty, steamy hot yoga classes. The tacky surface is non-slip and wicks away sweat, to keep you feeling confident and stable.

Weighing around 4.3 pounds, it’s heavier than some other exercise mats on our list, but still light enough to bring with you to the studio (although it doesn’t come with a strap, so you’ll need your own). But we like that the black option is available in two sizes.

Gaiam also offers a lifetime guarantee, making this mat a solid long-term investment. Choose from three different colors.

Price at time of publication: $70

^{Key Specs:
Materials: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Thickness: 5 millimeters | Waterproof: Yes | Dimensions: 68 x 24 x 0.2 inches, ‎78 x 26 x 0.2 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Thick, plush cushioning
Comes with carrying strap and yoga blocks

Cons

May not be as durable

Exercising on a high-quality mat with good traction can help prevent slips, falls, or other injuries. For a mat with reliable traction, we recommend this option from BalanceFrom. The surface has thick ridges on both sides to help you get a good grip, whether you’re lifting weights or holding a handstand.

We love all of the accessories you get with this mat, including an adjustable carrying strap and two matching yoga blocks. The high-density foam is comfortable, sweat-wicking, and easy to clean, too.

BalanceFrom’s exercise mat may not be as durable as other items on this list—some users have found that it’s prone to dents and dings. But we think it’s a solid option if you’re looking to add to your home gym.

Price at time of publication: $50

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Foam | Weight: Not listed | Thickness: 12.5 millimeters | Waterproof: Yes | Dimensions: 71 x 24 x 0.5 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Comes with accessories
Good traction on both sides
Choose from two levels of cushioning

Cons

Can't be used with shoes on

If you need more space for a full workout, we recommend this mat from Cambivo. It’s the same length as most yoga mats, but it’s twice as wide—making it a great option for cardio or HIIT sessions.

This mat comes with two mat straps, a microfiber towel, and a carrying bag, in case you want to take it with you on the go. We like the unique, two-sided design: The front has ridges, to help your feet grip the mat, while the back has a deeper pattern that prevents it from sliding around on the floor.

You can choose from a 6-millimeter or 8-millimeter mat to find the level of cushioning that’s right for you. Just note that the manufacturer recommends only using this mat in socks or with bare feet.

Price at time of publication: $50-$68

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Thermoplastic elastomer | Weight: 3.75 to 4 pounds | Thickness: 6mm or 8mm | Waterproof: Yes | Dimensions: 72 x 48 x 0.25 inches or 72 x 48 x 0.31 inches}

Amazon

Pros

Thick cushioning
Supportive
Budget-friendly

Cons

May be too firm for some
Not as portable

For an exercise mat that can do it all, we recommend BalanceFrom’s Folding Exercise Mat, which has a unique, tri-fold design. Open it up for a supportive surface that’s ideal for yoga, stretching, or cardio, then fold it up when you’re done. Handles on each side make it easy to move around, although it’s not as portable as mats on our list that can roll up.

Measuring 51 millimeters tall, this is the thickest exercise mat on our list. And we like that you can quickly clean it with soap and water after each use.

This mat is budget-friendly, too, at under $50. But it may feel firmer compared to other mats. If you’re looking for a mat with plenty of soft padding, try Manduka’s Pro Yoga Mat.

Price at time of publication: $40

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Vinyl, foam | Weight: 3 pounds | Thickness: 51 millimeters | Waterproof: Yes | Dimensions: 72 x 24 x 2 inches}

How We Selected the Best Exercise Mats

To find the best exercise mats, we turned to two experts: Linda Magid, a fitness and Pilates instructor, and Tyler Lowe, the founder of Loving Life, who holds a bachelor’s in Sport and Exercise Rehabilitation. They shared that high-quality exercise mats should be comfortable, durable, and designed to support your favorite workouts. They should also wick away moisture, provide good traction, and be easy to clean.

With their advice in mind, we researched dozens of exercise mats from the most popular and trusted brands. We looked for mats that were versatile, supportive, and moisture-wicking. We also considered design, grip, price, any included accessories, and more.

What to Look For in an Exercise Mat

Durability

“Durability is important—you don't want a mat that's going to fall apart after a few uses,” Lowe says. To choose a mat that will last for many workouts to come, consider how often you’ll be using it.

If you work out for a few days each week, then you may be better off with a budget-friendly exercise mat that’s not as tough, like Amazon Basics’ Extra Thick Mat. But if you know you’ll use your mat regularly, you may want to spend more on one that’s stronger. Some exercise mats—like Manduka’s Pro Yoga Mat—even come with a lifetime guarantee, so you can be confident they’ll hold up over time.

Thickness

The thinnest exercise mat on our list is around 3 millimeters tall, while the thickest measures around 50 millimeters. How thick your mat should be is up to you—it depends on what kind of exercises you’ll be doing on the mat and what feels the most comfortable.

While a thicker mat may feel better on your joints, “the problem with a thicker mat is that you can’t balance as well on it because it creates a less stable surface,” Magid says. Finding the right combination of padding and stability is key.

Material

Exercise mats may be made from thermoplastic elastomer, polyester, synthetic materials, PVC, vinyl, rubber, foam, or a mix of these. Rubber mats are popular because they’re more durable, but they won’t feel as cushioned compared to mats made from foam.

Foam mats are lighter and more affordable compared to rubber. However, they aren’t recommended for workouts that involve a lot of intense movement or heavy weights because they’re more likely to get scuffed or torn. When shopping, look for a mat that will feel comfortable and support the workouts you do most regularly.

Size

Look for an exercise mat that is large enough to lie down on, but not so large that it doesn’t fit in your living room or take up too much space at the gym. Most mats are between 65 and 75 inches long and around 25 inches wide. Some, like Cambivo’s Extra Wide Workout Mat, are larger if you need more room. Consider your existing space and how much surface area you need to work out safely when deciding between mat sizes.

Versatility

Some exercise mats are designed to support a variety of workouts, while others are tailored to certain activities. Exercise mats designed for yoga are sweat-wicking and usually have more traction. Other mats, like lululemon’s The Workout Mat—are more durable, for workouts where you need to place weights or other equipment on top. And Pilates mats are generally thicker, to provide more cushioning. Depending on your workout routine, you may want a mat with one (or all) of these features.

Grip

“Most people like a textured surface for added grip and stability, especially when they're doing exercises that involve a lot of movement,” Lowe says. Non-slip, textured mats, like BalanceFrom’s All Purpose Exercise Mat, will have the best traction. And if you tend to sweat while you exorcist, look for a mat that’s also sweat-wicking (which will prevent you from sliding around).

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best exercise mats to buy?

The best exercise mats to buy are durable and comfortable, with good traction so you can exercise safely. All of the mats on our list check these boxes. Beyond that, finding the best mat for your workout routine comes down to personal preference. Also, consider how easy the mat is to care for, whether it comes with any additional accessories, and whether you’ll need to transport it when shopping.
How much does a good exercise mat cost?

You can expect to pay between $19 and $150 for a good exercise mat. Less expensive options will likely be made from less durable materials and may not have as much cushioning. They may slide around more during use, too. More expensive options are often more durable, larger in size, and may provide more protection for your joints.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, we suggest Amazon Basics’ Extra Thick Exercise Mat or BalanceFrom’s Folding Exercise Mat, which are both available for around $20. Our top overall pick, Nike’s Training Mat 2.0, was $60 when we published this list.
How thick should an exercise mat be?

A thicker exercise mat usually means you’re less likely to feel the hardness of the floor on your joints. But thicker mats make some exercises, like planks, harder to do “because the mat forces your weight into your wrists, causing pain,” Magid says. A thicker mat can also be more difficult to balance on. “I recommend using a basic mat and having a thicker mat for when you need it,” Magid explains.
What’s the difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat?

“Yoga mats provide a comfortable surface for kneeling and sitting on and often have a non-slip surface, which is great for yoga poses that involve standing,” Lowe says. An exercise mat is more multipurpose. While it can be used for yoga, it also has more cushioning for other activities, like strength training, core work, stretching, or Pilates.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a certified personal trainer and health and fitness writer, Ravi Davda understands how important quality product recommendations can be. He recommends products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them. As someone who often exercises from home but also regularly attends the gym, he values exercise mats that are portable, versatile, and durable. He’s happy to spend a little extra to score an exercise mat that’s easy to clean and feels comfortable underfoot.

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