Fitness Gear Pilates, Yoga, and Barre Equipment Working Out At Home Guide Working Out At Home Guide Overview Getting Started How to Get Started How to Set up a Workspace Scheduling Time Workout Options Full-Body Workouts Bodyweight Exercises 20-Minute Full Body Cardio How to Do Cardio At Home 20 Cardio Exercises At-Home HIIT Workout Strength Beginner Strength Workout Intermediate Strength Workout Advanced Strength Workout 20-Minute Strength Workout Gear & Apps Everything You Need Fitness Apps What To Buy: Adjustable Dumbbells What To Buy: Treadmills What To Buy: Exercise Bikes What To Buy: Yoga Mats What To Buy: Kettlebells Motivation How to Stay Motivated Expert Tips Expert Inspiration How Working Out Changed Life Better Results The 18 Best Yoga Mats of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Alo Yoga's Warrior Mat is thick and offers plenty of space for workouts By Ashleigh Morley, Ashleigh Morley Ashleigh is the director of commerce for the Health Group at Dotdash Meredith where she oversees health, fitness, family, and mind content. She has covered the health and wellness space through a variety of lifestyle lenses for more than 10 years. She is also a certified barre instructor teaching at a boutique studio. Learn about our editorial process Emily Stone, Emily Stone LinkedIn Emily Stone is a writer specializing in health, wellness, and fitness. She writes about fitness and health products across all of the Verywell brands. Learn about our editorial process and Michelle Parente, CYT Michelle Parente, CYT LinkedIn Twitter Michelle Parente, CYT, is a New York City-based yoga sculpt instructor and lifestyle journalist specializing in health, wellness, and fitness content. As a commerce writer, it's Michelle's mission to provide researched and reliable product recommendations. Learn about our editorial process Updated on May 23, 2023 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Sara Clark Reviewed by Sara Clark Facebook Sara Clark is an EYT 500-hour certified Vinyasa yoga and mindfulness teacher, lululemon Global Yoga Ambassador, model, and writer. Learn about our Review Board Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Verywell Fit / Nick Kova Yoga mats are an incredibly versatile piece of fitness equipment and an integral part of many home workout routines. Whether you’re going to a local studio or practicing at home, having a quality yoga mat that provides the right amount of grip and support is critically important. To know what to look for in a yoga mat, we consulted Mandy Ingber, a yoga instructor and author of Yogalosophy: 28 Days to the Ultimate Mind-Body Makeover, and chose mats for our test based on material, size, thickness and grippiness, as well as price and portability. Ingber also suggests considering aesthetics when choosing a mat, as your mat's colors and design may inspire you to spend more time enjoying your practice. To find the best yoga mats, we tested 24 mats in The Verywell Testing Lab and at home over a four-week period. After over 1,100 hours of testing, we evaluated how well each mat unrolled and laid flat, how well the padding and thickness supported our practice, whether the mat provided a non-slip surface, and how portable they were. We also evaluated whether the mats could stand up to sweat and humidity without growing slippery. Finally, we cleaned them to make sure they were easy to take care of over time. Our top picks are ideal for hot yoga, traveling, at-home use, and more. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Alo Yoga Warrior Mat at Aloyoga.com Jump to Review Best Overall Runner-Up: lululemon Workout Mat at Lululemon Jump to Review Best Budget: Aeromat Elite Yoga Pilates Mat at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget Runner-Up: IUGA Pro Non-Slip Yoga Mat at Amazon Jump to Review Best Splurge: Jade Yoga XW Fusion Yoga Mat at Amazon Jump to Review Best Extra-Long: Lululemon The Reversible (Big) Mat 5mm at Lululemon Jump to Review Best Non-Slip: Manduka PRO at Amazon Jump to Review Best Thick Mat: BalanceFrom GoYoga All-Purpose Yoga Mat at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Hot Yoga: Jade Yoga Harmony Yoga Mat at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Home Use: Liforme Original Yoga Mat at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks We Also Tested How We Tested What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall Alo Yoga Warrior Mat 4.8 Alo View On Aloyoga.com View On Holtrenfrew.com View On Net-a-Porter Our Ratings Grip 5/5 Portability 4/5 Value 5/5 Unboxing 4/5 Padding & Thickness 5/5 Pros Rolls up tightly Available in 10 colors Easy care instructions Cons Heavy Colorful versions may show dirt After a full day in the Lab, Alo Yoga's Warrior Mat was our top overall pick for its simple, high-quality design. We found the mat to be thick and roomy, with plenty of space for an intermediate vinyasa flow. It struck the perfect balance of cushioning and support that didn’t cause wrist fatigue in positions like Downward Facing Dog. This Alo mat also provided a strong grip out of the box, with no break-in period—we didn’t slip once while using it. The 5-millimeter thickness provides enough support for your knees when holding poses like Lizard Pose or Frog Pose for longer during a yin yoga practice. Since it weighs just over 6 pounds, it’s not a light mat. However, it rolls up into a tight coil that makes it easy to tote around. We tested a light color of this mat, and we noticed that dirt showed up on the surface easily. We also found that sweat and water leave a light, temporary stain that evaporates when you let the mat dry flat for a few minutes after your practice. However, the easy care instructions make cleaning it a breeze. Price at time of publication: $128 Key Specs:Thickness: 5 millimeters | Material: Sustainably-sourced rubber and polyurethane leather | Size: 74.4 x 26.4 inches | Weight: 6.2 pounds Verywell Fit / Nick Kova Best Overall Runner-Up lululemon The Workout Mat 6mm 4.8 lululemon View On Lululemon Our Ratings Design 5/5 Comfort 4.5/5 Grip 5/5 Portability 4.7/5 Pros Attractive design Texture provides excellent grip Stable support for all types of exercise Cons No carrying strap May not lay flat if stored rolled up This stylish yoga mat from lululemon provides excellent grip and stability for a variety of poses, making it our best overall runner-up. During testing, we noted the raised texture on the mat surface provided great traction so there was no slipping, even when our hands were sweaty. We liked the bubbly texture and found that it made the mat very grippy. At 6 millimeters, this mat is thick enough to provide plenty of support and is more cushioned than other lululemon mats we tested. We realized that we didn't need any additional padding, even for exercises done on our hands and knees. We also like that it's 2 inches wider than the typical 24-inch width that most mats offer. The mat had a slight chemical smell when it was unboxed but that dissipated quickly and we noted that it was easy to roll and stayed rolled. However, when the mat was stored rolled up, the end did not lay flat right away when unrolled. This mat also doesn't come with a carrying strap, which can make it more difficult to bring with you to and from the studio. Price at time of publication: $98 Key Specs:Thickness: 6 millimeters | Material: Synthetic rubber | Size: 71 x 26 inches | Weight: 4.4 pounds Best Budget Aeromat Elite Yoga Pilates Mat 4.8 Amazon View On Amazon View On Aeromats.com Our Ratings Design 4.5/5 Comfort 5/5 Grip 5/5 Portability 5/5 Pros Comes in multiple colors Slight sticky surface provides good grip Comes with a strap and carrying handle Cons Has a mild plastic smell This yoga mat from Aeromat checks all the boxes—in testing, it scored top marks in comfort, grip, and portability. Plus, we love that it's budget-friendly. We noted that this mat has just the right amount of cushioning: not too much to make it unstable, and not too little to be uncomfortable. This mat has a slightly sticky feeling that helps with grip. We noted there was no sliding around, even when our hands and feet were sweaty. It comes with a strap and carrying handle, and the mat is lightweight so it's easy to transport. The Elite Yoga Pilates Mat is latex and phthalate-free and is made with a built-in mesh material that keeps the mat from stretching while in use. It also comes in two different thicknesses and several colors. Price at time of publication: $45 Key Specs:Thickness: 5-6 millimeters | Material: PVC | Size: 72 x 24 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds Best Budget Runner-Up IUGA Pro Non-Slip Yoga Mat 4.2 Amazon View On Amazon Our Ratings Grip 4/5 Portability 5/5 Value 4/5 Unboxing 2/5 Padding & Thickness 3/5 Pros Lightweight Includes carrying strap Available in five colors Cons Takes time to lay completely flat Shows stains and dirt Lingering chemical odor While most mats made from natural rubber can be heavy, IUGA's Pro Non Slip Yoga Mat weighs in at a relatively light and comfortable-to-carry 2.2 pounds (the manufacturer records 2.8 pounds, but we found it to be lighter when we weighed it in our Lab). We also love that it comes with a carrying strap for trips to and from the studio or gym. The drawback to such a light mat, however, is that it doesn’t have the heft to lay perfectly flat out of the box like some of the heavier mats we tested. As a result, it only received a score of 2 out of 5 for unboxing. The 5-millimeter-thick IUGA has the distinction of being one of the grippiest mats from our test. This mat also excelled during our sweat test, making it a great pick for anyone who regularly practices hot yoga. It's also worth noting that the manufacturer states this mat is odorless, but the rubbery smell was evident when we were laying on the mat during Child’s Pose. Price at time of publication: 60 Key Specs:Thickness: 5 millimeters | Material: Sustainably harvested tree rubber | Size: 72 x 26 inches | Weight: 2.5 pounds Verywell Fit / Nick Kova 9 Best Yoga Blocks to Add Support to Your Practice Best Splurge Jade Yoga XW Fusion Yoga Mat 4.8 Jade Yoga View On Amazon View On Jadeyoga.com Our Ratings Design 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Grip 5/5 Portability 4.5/5 Pros 8mm thick Suitable for taller users Cons Heavy and bulky This mat from Jade Yoga will help your practice feel luxurious. The mat is 8 millimeters thick and is available in an 80-inch length for plenty of grippy surface area. It has a higher price point than most other mats we tested, but we think the size, cushioning, and quality of materials make it worth the splurge. The XW Fusion mat is made from sustainable, natural rubber, and we like that Jade Yoga plants a tree for every mat sold. In testing, we found that the mat provided substantial cushioning but still had some give to it to allow for stability. The grip is solid even when sweating, and the texture feels pleasant and kept us from sliding around. We noticed that the size of this mat can make it a little cumbersome to roll up and bulky to travel with. But the texture and grip keep it rolled well, to help improves your daily practice. Price at time of publication: $200 Key Specs:Thickness: 8 millimeters | Material: Natural rubber | Size: 80 x 28 inches | Weight: 9 pounds Best Extra-Long Lululemon The Reversible (Big) Mat 5mm 4.8 Huckberry View On Lululemon View On Matchesfashion.com Our Ratings Grip 5/5 Portability 4.5/5 Unboxing 4.5/5 Padding & Thickness 5/5 Pros Wide Easy care instructions Quick-drying Cons Lingering rubber smell on one side Heavy The Lululemon The Reversible (Un) Mat Is Travel-Friendly lululemon, known for their high-quality activewear (which we also put to the test in the Lab when finding the best lululemon leggings), makes this extra-large mat—a rare find for tall people. At 28 inches, it is the widest of all the mats we tested—and was second in length only to the Manduka PRO. Its size easily made the biggest impression on us: One of our testers, who is 6 feet tall, liked that they could lie down and still have plenty of room to stretch. Throughout our testing, 5-millimeter-thick mats were consistently rated highest for padding and thickness, and this lululemon mat was no exception. We also found that this mat provided the perfect soft yet firm cushioning that supported our flow while still allowing us to feel grounded. While this mat is reversible, we preferred the polyurethane side because we found it to be more absorbent, with better grip during both the dry and sweat tests. Meanwhile, the textured rubber side showed more dirt, was more prone to slipping, and had a stronger, lingering smell. Price at time of publication: $124 Key Specs:Thickness: 5 millimeters | Material: Natural rubber, synthetic rubber, polyurethane, polyester, and nylon | Size: 84 x 28 inches | Weight: 7.05 pounds Verywell Fit / Nick Kova Best Non-Slip Manduka PRO Yoga Mat 4.2 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's Our Ratings Grip 5/5 Portability 3/5 Value 4/5 Unboxing 4/5 Padding & Thickness 4.5/5 Pros Available in two lengths Lifetime guarantee Latex-free Cons Expensive Heavy High-maintenance care instructions Manduka PRO Yoga Mat Review If you’ve been looking at yoga mats with the intention of making an investment that will stand the test of time, then chances are good you’ve at least heard of Manduka's PRO Yoga Mat. It has a reputation for being one of the highest-quality mats available and is often the pick of seasoned yogis and instructors. And in our test, we found that it held up to the hype. The Manduka PRO is known for requiring a bit of a break-in period before it becomes the non-slip mat people rave about. Compared to some of the other mats we tested, like Manduka's EKO Superlite Travel Yoga Mat, we were impressed by its out-of-the-box grip. We didn’t need to use a yoga towel to prevent slipping, like the brand recommended. We tested the long version of this mat (it’s available in two lengths), and with length comes weight. At 8.8 pounds, the Manduka PRO was easily the heaviest mat we tested—notably, the manufacturer states that it weighs 9.5 pounds. For such a heavy mat, and at this higher price point, we wish it came with a bag or carrying strap. For these reasons, this mat had some of the lowest portability, storage, and care scores of the entire test, at a 3 out of 5. Price at time of publication: $109-$155 Key Specs:Thickness: 6 millimeters | Material: PVC | Size: 71 x 26 inches and 85 x 26 inches | Weight: 7.5 pounds and 8.8 pounds Verywell Fit / Nick Kova 10 Best Yoga Mat Bags, Reviewed and Approved By a Personal Trainer Best Thick Mat BalanceFrom GoYoga All-Purpose Yoga Mat 4.5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Balancefrom.com View On Moxey.health Our Ratings Grip 4/5 Portability 5/5 Value 5/5 Unboxing 4.5/5 Padding & Thickness 5/5 Pros Lightweight Budget-friendly Includes carrying strap Cons Squeaks occasionally Takes time to lay completely flat Measuring almost 13 millimeters, this mat was easily the thickest in our test. The foam material is softer and lends more supple cushioning than any other we tested, which is great for anyone with sensitive joints or who wants a versatile mat to aid them in bodyweight exercises. And for a fraction of the cost of most other mats on our list, we like that this one has all the grip and padding you'd expect. However, such a thick mat may make you feel less stable or grounded in certain poses, especially when you need to focus on balance. A thinner mat may be better for yoga, while a thicker mat is a better choice if you want to use it for Pilates or other workouts. Ultimately, yoga mat thickness is a matter of personal preference. Despite providing good grip even during the sweat test, we found that this mat occasionally made squeaking noises when transitioning into certain poses. The noise was distracting, so we wouldn’t recommend it to anyone who prefers a more meditative practice. It's also worth noting that it takes time to lay completely flat after pulling it out of the box. Price at time of publication: $19 Key Specs:Thickness: 12.9 millimeters | Material: High-density foam | Size: 71 x 24 inches | Weight: 2 pounds Verywell Fit / Nick Kova BalanceFrom GoYoga All-Purpose Yoga Mat Review Best for Hot Yoga Jade Yoga Harmony Yoga Mat 4.3 Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Jadeyoga.com Our Ratings Grip 4/5 Portability 4/5 Value 4.5/5 Unboxing 4/5 Padding & Thickness 5/5 Pros Available in three lengths Rolls up tightly Jade Yoga plants one tree for each mat sold Cons Lingering rubber smell Whether you gravitate toward hot yoga or simply tend to sweat while you practice, Jade Yoga's Harmony Yoga Mat is our top choice. We found it provided an optimal amount of padding without being too plush. And the natural rubber absorbs moisture, which allows the mat to provide excellent traction throughout any workout. This Jade mat weighs in at just under 5 pounds, and we found that it easily lays flat during the first use. It’s not the lightest mat available but is far from the heaviest we tested. We ultimately scored it a 4 out of 5 for portability—while it doesn’t include a carrying bag or strap, it rolls up tightly and isn’t too burdensome to take from your home to the studio and back again. We also like that Jade Yoga plants a tree for each mat that's sold, so you can feel confident that you're making a difference with your purchase. Choose from three lengths between 68 and 74 inches. Price at time of publication: $85-$90 Key Specs:Thickness: 4.7 millimeters | Material: Naturally-sourced tree rubber | Size: 68 x 24 inches and 74 x 24 inches | Weight: 4.8 pounds Verywell Fit / Nick Kova The 5 Best Yoga Towels of 2023 Best for Home Use Liforme Original Yoga Mat 4.8 Amazon View On Amazon View On Liforme.com Our Ratings Grip 5/5 Portability 5/5 Value 4/5 Unboxing 5/5 Padding & Thickness 5/5 Pros Alignment guide marked on mat Includes carrying bag Quick-drying Cons Expensive Shows stains and dirt What sets the Liforme mat apart from all the others is the alignment guide that's etched on the polyurethane top layer. While this can come in handy during studio classes, it’s really a distinguishing feature for at-home practices when you don’t have the benefit of an experienced yoga instructor to help adjust your form. There is a small guidebook attached to the carrying bag that further explains the alignment system, so you can get started using it right away. The length and width are both more generous than standard-size mats, which means you’ll have ample space for active flows and stretching. In the Lab, we found that the 4.2-millimeter thickness provided just the right amount of cushion and support. The surface of the mat also provided an ideal grip during both the wet and dry tests. The eco-polyurethane surface is PVC-free, and, while we noticed that it was easy to see dirt and water stains, the top layer is absorbent and quick-drying—so the water and sweat didn’t impact our workout. We thought this mat shared several things in common with Alo Yoga's Warrior Mat, our best overall pick. The size of the mat and the grip and feel under our hands and feet were almost identical. But ultimately, we think the Alo mat is a better value since it costs around 40% less. Price at time of publication: $150 Key Specs:Thickness: 4.2 millimeters | Material: Natural rubber and eco-polyurethane | Size: 72.8 x 26.7 inches | Weight: 4.6 pounds Verywell Fit / Nick Kova Best for Travel Manduka EKO Superlite Yoga Travel Mat 4.2 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Zappos Our Ratings Grip 3/5 Portability 5/5 Value 4/5 Unboxing 5/5 Padding & Thickness 3.5/5 Pros Lightweight Can be rolled or folded Non-toxic Cons May be slippery at first Thin If you want nearly all of the benefits of a stellar yoga mat in a smaller, travel-friendly package, we recommend Manduka's EKO Superlite Travel Yoga Mat. At 2.2 pounds, it was among the lightest rubber mats wet tested, which is especially impressive considering it measures 71 x 24 inches. Made from non-toxic rubber, this mat can be rolled or folded up for easy storage in a gym bag or suitcase. However, with only a 1.5-millimeter thickness, we scored it a 3.5 out of 5 for padding because it may not provide enough support for all users. Manduka’s mats often require a break-in period before they reach the sticky and grippy qualities they are known for. Unlike the Manduka PRO, which we found to be grippy enough out of the box, the eKO Superlite was more slippery upon first use than we would have preferred. We rated it a 3 out of 5 for grip and feel, but we will continue testing this mat at home and update our review with insights about the grip once we’ve spent more time breaking it in. Price at time of publication: $52 Key Specs:Thickness: 1.5 millimeters | Material: Eco-friendly rubber | Size: 71 x 24 inches | Weight: 2.2 pounds Verywell Fit / Nick Kova Best with Firm Support Athleta Flow Freely Yoga Mat 4.7 Athleta View On Gap.com Our Ratings Grip 5/5 Portability 3.5/5 Value 4/5 Unboxing 5/5 Padding & Thickness 4/5 Pros Available in six colors Rolls up tightly Easy care instructions Cons Heavy Expensive Whether you're inverted in Crow Pose or standing in Warrior 1, Athleta's Flow Freely Yoga Mat provides a sturdy base and firm support. If you're a beginner or seasoned yogi who prefers the stability of a firm mat, this 4.5-millimeter pick is an ideal choice. We appreciated the anti-slip natural rubber that kept our hands and feet secured, even when things got sweaty. The generous length and width provide plenty of space to move about freely, allowing you to stay focused during flows. We also love the beautiful color range and overall style, as well as easy spot clean care instructions. The mat rolls up tightly, but at a heavy 6.7 pounds, we found it difficult to carry—earning a low portability score. It's one of the more expensive options on our list. However, we always recommend investing in high-quality fitness equipment that will last for dozens of Downward Facing Dogs to come. Price at time of publication: $119 Key Specs:Thickness: 4.5 millimeters | Material: Responsibly-sourced rubber | Size: 81 x 26 inches | Weight: 6.7 pounds Best on Amazon Amazon Basics 1/2-inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat 4.5 Amazon View On Amazon Our Ratings Design 4.5/5 Comfort 5/5 Grip 4.5/5 Portability 4/5 Pros Versatile - can be used for other types of workouts Budget-friendly 12.7 millimeters thick Cons Doesn't stay rolled on it's own Mild plastic smell Amazon Basics makes plenty of high-quality products, and this Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat is no exception. We like the versatility of this mat provided by its 1/2-inch thickness, making it a good choice for all types of exercises. During testing, it was used for planks and wall handstands, as well as yoga, and provided plenty of cushioning and stability. We also noted there was no slipping even when hands and feet were sweaty. Despite its thickness, this mat, made of foam rubber, still weighs under 3 pounds, so it's lightweight and easy to carry with the included strap. It has a smooth side and a textured side to provide comfort, support, and stability no matter what exercise you're doing. We noted the mat has a mild plastic smell and doesn't stay rolled without the strap. Still, we think it's the best value for a yoga mat on Amazon, and we like that it comes in multiple colors. Price at time of publication: $27 Key Specs:Thickness: 12.7 millimeters | Material: Foam rubber | Size: 73.2 x 24 inches | Weight: 2.45 pounds Best for Power Yoga YogaAccessories 1/4 Inch Thick High-Density Yoga Mat 4.7 Amazon View On Amazon View On Yogaaccessories.com Our Ratings Design 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Grip 5/5 Portability 4/5 Pros Double-sided, non-slip texture Available in multiple colors Cushiony without being unstable Cons Doesn't come with a carrying strap This mat from Yoga Accessories provides good grip and just the right amount of support, making it perfect for the faster pace of power yoga. We noted that it's 1/4-inch thickness is soft, without feeling like you will sink into it and be unstable. It was supportive even when kneeling for various exercises. We found in testing that the mat is also grippy enough to prevent slipping even when doing sweaty planks. The mat has a double-sided, non-slip texture, and is Latex and phthalate-free. We didn't notice any chemical or rubbery smell at all upon unboxing, and we like that the mat is easy to clean. It does not come with a carrying strap. Even so, it's lightweight and portable, comes in multiple colors, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Price at time of publication: $30 Key Specs:Thickness: 6.3 millimeters | Material: Foam | Size: 74 x 24 inches | Weight: 3.4 pounds Best Reversible Manduka Begin Yoga Mat 4.6 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's Our Ratings Design 5/5 Comfort 4.5/5 Grip 4/5 Portability 5/5 Pros Lightweight Center alignment stripe Multiple color options Cons Smaller than other mats on this list Doesn't come with a strap This yoga mat from Manduka has a center alignment stripe and is reversible with a lighter side and a darker side. We like that the reversibility extends the use of this mat. In testing, we found it to be very lightweight and portable but less cushioned than others we tested. We like that it has a stripe down the center to help with alignment and we noticed that there was no significant rubber or chemical smell after unboxing. It has a nice texture and good grip that keeps it from sliding around on the floor. We noted that it's very easy to roll up but doesn't stay rolled by itself, and it doesn't come with a strap or carrying case. This mat comes in several different color combinations. You can also order a bundle including the brand's yoga mat cleaner at an additional cost. Price at time of publication: $58 Key Specs:Thickness: 5 millimeters | Material: Natural rubber | Size: 68 x 24 inches | Weight: 2.5 pounds Best for Beginners Jade Yoga Level One Mat 4.2 Jade View On Amazon View On Jadeyoga.com Our Ratings Design 4/5 Comfort 4/5 Grip 4/5 Portability 4.7/5 Pros Great grip from natural rubber Easy to roll Cons Thinner than other mats on our list No carrying strap This non-toxic mat from Jade Yoga has great grip and balance support, making it a good choice for beginner yogis. The natural rubber this mat is made from provides better grip than synthetic mats, giving people new to yoga more confidence as they move through different poses. The budget-friendly price point helps, too. We noted in testing that this mat did not slide around even when hands were sweaty and didn't pick up a sweaty smell. We also found that it is thinner than other mats on our list, and holding certain poses for too long put some pressure on our joints. However, we noticed that it was easy to balance on, another benefit for beginners. The Level One mat is easy to roll, but note that it doesn't come with a carrying strap. Price at time of publication: $50 Key Specs:Thickness: 4 millimeters | Material: Natural rubber | Size: 68 x 24 inches | Weight: 4 pounds Best with Pattern Gaiam 6mm Premium Reversible Lunar Wave Yoga Mat 4.7 Amazon View On Getactv.com View On Kohls.com Our Ratings Design 4.2/5 Comfort 4.5/5 Grip 5/5 Portability 5/5 Pros Calming colors and patterns Reversible design Access to online library of yoga content Cons Doesn't come with a carrying strap This sturdy mat from Gaiam has a pleasant blue and green lunar wave design that makes your practice feel luxurious. The mat is reversible, so you can choose whichever design suits your mood. In testing, we found that the mat has a grippy nice texture that kept it from sliding around. The grip is very sticky without feeling uncomfortable, and we were easily able to stay in place, even in Downward Dog. We noted that sweaty hands did not affect the grip at all. The mat is thick enough to be supportive and stable, but we noted that it may be a bit thin if doing a lot of exercises or poses on your knees. The mat's texture helps it roll easily and stay rolled so it's easy to transport even without a strap. We noted it had a mild smell upon unboxing, but the scent disappeared after a couple weeks. And we like that it comes with access to an online library of yoga content. Price at time of publication: $40 Key Specs:Thickness: 6 millimeters | Material: PVC | Size: 68 x 24 inches | Weight: Not stated Best for Studio Workouts Bala Play Mat 4.6 Goop View On Shopbala.com Our Ratings Design 5/5 Comfort 3.9/5 Grip 5/5 Portability 4.5/5 Pros Chic design Smooth surface Available in five colors Cons No carrying strap Thinner than other mats on this list This Bala mat rolls up tightly and works well for faster-paced yoga classes and studio workouts. In testing, we noted that the mat is lightweight, portable, and easy to travel with; however, it doesn't come with a carrying strap. It comes in minimal, recyclable packaging, and we noticed no significant smell when the mat was unboxed. We like the chic design of this mat with a curved top end and five color options. The surface of the mat is smooth, which makes it very comfortable, but it also offers good grip. We noted in testing that there was no sliding around even when sweaty, and poses felt secure, stable, and safe. This mat feels a bit thinner than other mats we tested, so it would be better for faster-paced classes rather than restorative yoga. It would not be well suited for practices or exercises that require you to rest on your joints for a long period of time. Price at time of publication: $100 Key Specs:Thickness: 5 millimeters | Material: Natural rubber | Size: 71 3/8 x 26 1/2 inches | Weight: Not stated How We Rated Yoga Mats 4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best yoga mats we tested. We recommend them without reservation.4.5 to 4.7 stars: These yoga mats are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great yoga mats, but others are better.3.5 to 3.9 stars: These yoga mats are just average.3.4 and below: We don't recommend yoga mats with this rating; you won't find any on our list. Verywell Fit / Nick Kova We Also Tested CAP's Reversible Yoga Mat is one of the more budget-friendly mats on the market. But we thought the lower price also meant lower quality for this mat. We scored it a 2 out of 5 for both grip and feel because we found she couldn't maintain proper grip throughout our flow. Although we loved the portability of Gaiam's Yoga Folding Travel Mat, we didn't appreciate how thin the mat was—it didn't offer much cushioning at all. And although it's budget-friendly, we found it to be pretty unstable and slippery while practicing. We think SISYAMA's Circle Round Yoga Mat could be good for certain practices and for people who need a mat with extra surface area. But overall we think its odd, round shape, and the fact that it felt quite slippery during practice doesn't make it worth the higher price. We liked the thickness of Manduka's GRP 6mm Mat. It provided plenty of cushioning, but also felt stable and didn't affect our balance. However, we found it had poor grip, causing us to slip during testing. We liked Nike's Mastery Yoga Mat because it was durable and supportive, but we noticed it had a strong rubber scent that did not go away during our testing period. This mat is lightweight, but not flimsy. However, it doesn't stay rolled tightly without a strap, which is not included. We think lululemon's Carry Onwards Travel Yoga Mat is a good option for carrying in a tote bag, backpack, or even a suitcase because it folds instead of rolls. But its grip on the floor is not very secure, and the mat is thin, so it may not be ideal for those with joint pain. How We Tested the Yoga Mats To make our list of the best yoga mats, we consulted with experts, Kayla Hargett, E-RYT and former yoga teacher training co-lead based in Tampa, Florida, and Mandy Ingber, yoga instructor and author of Yogalosophy: 28 Days to the Ultimate Mind-Body Makeover. They shared their opinions on which features to look for when purchasing a new yoga mat. They also helped us understand how different elements of a yoga mat can affect your practice, like the thickness and the grip. Then, we tested 24 yoga mats in The Verywell Testing Lab and in our homes for a month to see how they performed in key areas, like unboxing, padding and thickness, grip and feel, portability, storage, care, and overall value. Our team of 18 testers—including a certified yoga instructor, a certified personal trainer, a certified barre instructor, and other experienced exercisers—spent four weeks using the mats for over 230 exercise sessions. Prior to our first Mountain Pose, we unrolled the mats, taking note of packaging, any lingering chemical smells, and evaluating how well the mats laid flat. We also observed how well the mat stayed flat under our hands and feet throughout testing and if this changed over time. We tested each mat twice through a guided vinyasa flow in the Lab. Before the second test on each mat, we sprayed our hands and feet with water to see how the mats would hold up to moisture from external factors like sweat and humidity. We evaluated the padding and thickness of the mat and made note of how supportive the mat felt under our hands, feet, joints, and head. We also focused on the grip and feel of each mat—in both dry and wet conditions—noting how much our hands and feet slid around in poses like Downward Facing Dog. Verywell Fit / Nick Kova We cleaned the mats regularly, paying attention to how fussy the care instructions were. Low-maintenance mats that could be cleaned with a damp towel or microfiber cloth received higher marks than those that required specific cleaning solutions. We rolled the mats and took them with us to classes, or the park, or while traveling to rate their portability and storage. Mats that included a carrying bag or strap were rated higher on these attributes. We also rated each mat for “overall value,” a subjective score that weighs all of the other attributes (unboxing, padding and thickness, grip and feel, portability, storage, and care) against the price of the mat. If a mat scored highly on all attributes but was significantly more expensive than the other mats, we did not give it a perfect 5 out of 5 for overall value. Since some yoga mats require a break-in period or may have a reputation for becoming grippier over time, we are continuing to test these mats. We will update our recommendations regularly based on these insights. Catherine Song / Verywell What to Look for in a Yoga Mat Thickness The thickness of the mat plays a role in both cushioning and stability. “A thicker mat will offer more comfort for your wrists and knees, but a mat that’s too thick may make it difficult to stay grounded and stable during standing asanas and inversions,” says Hargett. For this reason, some people opt for thinner mats so they can feel the ground beneath them. Material Yoga mats are made from a variety of materials, both eco-friendly and synthetic. The most common materials used are PVC (polyvinyl chloride), TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), and natural rubber. PVC mats are easy to clean, durable, and long-lasting, but they aren’t considered eco-friendly. TPE mats feel more like rubber and can be recycled after use, whereas natural rubber mats like IUGA's Pro Non Slip Yoga Mat are favored for their traction and slip resistance. “I typically suggest the standard mats that are made of PVC, as they work really great for most styles of classes, including heated ones where you’ll need that stickiness and durability,” notes Hargett. We recommend Manduka's PRO Yoga Mat, which is our pick for the best non-slip mat because of its grippy PVC surface. She adds that any mat that offers stickiness or texture is great for heated classes as long as it can be easily cleaned. Verywell Fit / Nick Kova Length The standard length for a yoga mat is 68 x 24 inches. People over 5-feet-5-inches tall may want to consider sizing up for a bit more room on both ends of the mat, allowing for full-body stretching. To test out the length of a yoga mat, move into a Downward-Facing Dog and make sure your hands and feet are firmly planted on the mat. If both fit without hitting the edges, the mat is the proper size for you. For larger mats that offer plenty of room to bend and stretch, our top picks are Liforme's Original Yoga Mat and lululemon's The (Big) Mat. Cell Type Open-cell mats are porous and absorb sweat and moisture effectively. For heated and high-sweat practices like Bikram, open-cell mats provide more traction, along with a slip-resistant surface. But they can also lead to trapped odors and bacteria growth. When using an open-cell mat, it's important to clean it and air it out after each use. Closed-cell mats are great for low-intensity practices since they’re hygienic and don’t absorb moisture. However, they don’t offer as much traction as open-cell mats. They are also easy to clean and waterproof—designed to last for years, thanks to their water resistance. Verywell Fit / Nick Kova Frequently Asked Questions How much does a good yoga mat cost? A quality yoga mat will typically cost between $20-$150. Cheaper options may be tempting and could work if you're not looking for a long-term investment or if you don't plan on using your yoga mat very often. But they tend to be less durable than pricier mats. A dedicated yogi who practices yoga daily might want to invest in a more expensive mat that's made to last.The cheapest yoga mat on our list is often available for less than $20, while our top recommendation, Alo Yoga's Warrior Mat, was $128 when we published this list. What's the difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat? A yoga mat is typically thinner than an exercise mat, with a textured surface for helpful grip. Yoga mats also have a medium firmness for support, comfort, and grounding. Meanwhile, an exercise mat tends to be much thicker and is either very firm to support heavy gym equipment, like a rowing machine, or very cushioned to keep you comfortable during bodyweight exercises. Verywell Fit / Nick Kova Why Trust Verywell Fit Ashleigh Morley is the editorial director of commerce for Verywell Fit and a certified barre instructor who uses yoga mats several times a week. While testing yoga mats in The Lab, she paid special attention to the versatility of each mat for different kinds of workouts (because yoga mats aren’t just for practicing yoga). Ashleigh conducted side-by-side comparisons of each mat and gathered first-hand data and insights. Additional reporting by Emily Stone Emily Stone is a Chicago-based journalist specializing in fitness and lifestyle content. Emily uses different mats for different workouts. For yoga and pilates, she’s a fan of Alo Yoga's Warrior Mat, as it provides excellent traction and stability. Meanwhile, she uses BalanceFrom's GoYoga All-Purpose Yoga Mat for non-yoga workouts because it features extra cushioning for her joints. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? 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