Yoga mats continue to be a must-have fitness equipment for many decades now, being used for Pilates, strength training, body-sculpting workouts, and more that are way beyond just yoga. So if you’re in the market for a brand-new yoga mat or looking to replace your old one, we have just the list for you to choose from the best options of the year. So dive into this product review!
5 Top-Rated Yoga Mats
1. Manduka Pro –
Our top yoga mat pick is the Manduka Pro, as it’s an all-rounder and is widely favored by all the veterans in the fitness game. It’s thick, sturdy, and durable, with excellent cushioning that also allows for a solid grippy surface. The Manduka yoga mat gets better with age and lasts super long too, but it’s a little on the heavier side, so that’s something to keep in mind.
Pricing: $138 on Amazon
Customer review: “…I noticed that all my instructors use Manduka mats… Hmmmm, wonder if the mats are worth the (lots) extra money they cost??? Asked a couple of my instructors, and they all said emphatically “YES!” Sooooo…. Decided to give the $$$ mat a try. I mean, after all, I spend well over $100 for running shoes… and stability and comfort in my yoga mat is also important! Well, I have to say, the instructors are right! I LOVE this mat…” ~ Ron, Amazon customer
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2. Liforme Yoga Mat –
We love this mat for its unmatched grip and built-in alignment markers, making it a great option for hot yoga or those who sweat easily. It has a cute design on it and is wider and longer with more space to use. The material is made from natural rubber, so you’ll have no accidents from a slippery mat. Its price is a bit on the higher side, but it’s known to be worth the investment because of its durability.
Pricing: $149.95 on Amazon
Customer review: “I have used this mat for a week now, and it delivers the goods. Great traction, no slippage at all when sweaty, even in poses like Urdhva Dhanurasana (upward bow), which is where I’ve most often experienced trouble using lesser mats. It’s solid, too, providing a good stable foundation for jumping/floating transitions. The alignment markings weren’t a selling point with me, but I’ve been surprised to find how helpful they are….” ~ JoyX, Amazon customer
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3. JadeYoga Harmony Mat –
For the eco-friendly warriors, this is the perfect yoga mat for you due to its natural rubber material. It has a decent 4.7mm thickness that gives most users the cushioning they like and is also a good option for sweaty practices. Its use of sustainable materials and great traction makes it a common name amongst instructors, but those with a latex allergy should avoid this mat.
Pricing: $91.95 on Amazon
Customer review: “This is a great mat with good stick. It smells like rubber, but it IS rubber so… It is also very heavy., and because it is so heavy, I will need to re-think how to carry around my yoga kit. But based on how nice this mat it, I expect to have it for many, many years.” ~ Steph, Amazon customer
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4. Gaiam Print Premium
For those who are in the market for their very first yoga mat and wish to start off with a budget option that’s also beginner-friendly, then this mat from Gaiam is the route to go. It’s free from phthalates and is made from PVC, being a lightweight product offering decent cushioning. We also love the fun designs and patterns they come in. However, it might be the best pick for serious practitioners as its durability and traction aren’t as good as the more expensive mats.
Pricing: $34.98 on Amazon
Customer review: “For the price of this yoga mat, I have no complaints. It’s thick enough to have a little padding without being too squishy, the grip on the mat is very good as well. It’s nice and light to carry, and the design is very nice. Overall very happy with it!.” ~ Amazon customer
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5. Lululemon The Mat
The Lululemon brand is known far and wide, so it has always been a reliable name in the fitness industry. But the standout feature that makes it stand out from most yoga mats is that both sides of the mat can serve different purposes: one is a smooth surface that’s perfect for the traction you need for sweat-heavy exercises, while the other is softer and cushioned for those who need that extra support. It’s a bit heavier than the average yoga and is known to stain a little, so these are some downsides to look out for.
Pricing: $98
Customer review: “I have been absolutely loving this mat! I’ve struggled the last couple of years with a few different mats that were so slippery. I’d heard great reviews for the lulu mats and am so glad I finally purchased. It does have quite a solid feeling to it, but the grip is unmatched.” ~ Lululemon customer
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What to Look for in a Yoga Mat
So, what are the things to look out for in a quality mat? These are the criteria we looked out for when choosing the list of our favorite yoga mats:
Grip:
This is an essential factor that will ensure that you don’t suffer injuries or strain your muscles when attempting your exercises. A mat with a sticky surface is best for hot yoga sessions.
Materials Used:
An eco-friendly mat is a great option to consider, and these are typically natural rubber mats or mats made out of recycled materials. Also, ensure that the material used is easy to clean and maintain
Thickness:
The thickness of your mat is certainly something that can impact your workouts, especially if you’re someone who requires extra comfort or support for your joints. Options range anywhere from 1 to 6mm thickness.
Budget:
There are budget-friendly yoga mats available in the market and can be great for beginners or those who don’t use the mats too often. But if you’re a serious practitioner we recommend investing in mats that are a bit more expensive but more durable in the long run, as cheap yoga mats may not have the same guarantee.
Based on Practice Style:
Different types of mats can suit different needs and exercises you do, whether it’s vinyasa, restorative yoga, Pilates, hot yoga, or any other yoga practice. The next section will help you understand what mats will suit your needs the best. For even more accurate recommendations for what might suit best for you, seek advice from yoga instructors!
Exercises you can try with yoga mats:
7 MIN Easy Abs Workout For Beginners
Flat Belly and Round Booty Workout
Types of Yoga Mats
Here are some common types of yoga mats and what makes them unique:
Hot Yoga Mats – Designed for sweaty sessions, these mats are usually made of rubber or PVC with a sticky surface to keep you from slipping.
Thick Yoga Mats – With extra cushioning, these mats offer more support and comfort, making them a good pick for anyone with sensitive joints.
Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats – Made from natural rubber, recycled, or biodegradable materials, these mats are a great choice for yogis who want a more sustainable option.
Smooth Surface Yoga Mats – Usually made from PVC, these mats have a sleek feel and are easy to clean, but they can get slippery if you sweat a lot.
Travel Yoga Mats – Lightweight and easy to roll up, these mats are perfect for people who want to practice yoga on the go.
Cotton or Hemp Yoga Mats – Soft, absorbent, and natural, these mats are often used with a rubber backing for better grip or on their own for a traditional feel.
Choosing the right mat comes down to what feels best for your body and practice style.
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Conclusion
We hope that this article has given you all the tools and info you need to invest in a yoga mat that would accurately fit your needs. For more tips and information on how you can lead a fitter and healthier lifestyle, check out the JustFit app!
