10 Best Yoga Mats in 2022 (Yoga Instructor-Reviewed)
Yoga is one of the best exercise practices to pick up this year. Whether you've been a practitioner for several years now or you are starting from scratch, having the right mat will be essential for optimal performance.
If you find you’re tired of having people’s sweaty feet marks near your face or if you're too tall for the average yoga mat, you should invest in your own! We made a list of the top 10 best yoga mats to buy, with our top pick as Yogibare's Extreme Grip Yoga Exercise Mat, and created a buying guide to focus on the essential considerations that you should think about before making your decision.
Quick List - Top Yoga Mats
Karin is a certified yoga instructor and HR director in addition to running a successful Instagram account about fashion, lifestyle, and more. She describes herself as "a Boho Girl living in a Yogi World".
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How to Choose a Yoga Mat - Buying Guide
Whether you are planning to practice yoga at a hot yoga studio, outdoors, or at home, it is important that you understand the following specifications of every yoga mat before buying one.
Determine Your Ideal Mat Size
The standard size for yoga mats is 24 inches wide and 68 inches long, which is perfect for anyone five feet, eight inches tall or shorter. If you're taller, though, you'll want a mat that is 74 inches wide by 84 inches long.
These specifications are important so that you can have a full range of motion for poses on the mat without touching the floor. This is particularly helpful if you are doing yoga outdoors and you don’t want your hands or feet getting dirty. Additionally, you don’t want to always hold onto the edges of your mat to keep balanced.
You'll also want a mat that fits your height so that you can have your head and feet both on the mat while lying down. Other poses such as upward facing dog (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana), low plank (Chaturanga Dandasana), and warrior II (Virabhadrasana II) are particularly uncomfortable to do while using a small mat.
Your mat's width is more important for yoga practitioners who like more room when doing poses at the back of the mat. Some specific examples for poses that require a wider mat include bridge pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana), bound angle pose (Baddha Konasana), and wheel pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana).
185 centimeters long by 68 centimeters wide (73 by 27 inches) would be my ideal max dimensions. You can go slightly thinner in length, but I would not go much smaller; otherwise, you won't have enough room to move around.
Decide How Thick You Want it
The ideal density for travel yoga mats tends to be less than one-tenth of an inch thick and can be easily stored at home as well. Be mindful that since they are thinner, they provide less support. However, these are beneficial for practicing balance postures in connection to the floor or light stretching.
Medium-density means the mat is about one-eighth an inch thick and these options are great for traction and balance. They're useful in flow yoga classes where you move from one pose to another in swift movements. The more traction you have, the better stability and control you have on the mat.
High-density yoga mats are about one-fourth an inch thick and are ideal for sensitive joints and for beginners. They can provide support for your back and other postures that can cause your bones to dig into the floor. The downside is that they can be heavier and cumbersome to carry. However, this may not be an issue if you’re doing yoga at home.
Lastly, consider the type of yoga class you take to decide on the correct thickness of your mat. If you're more prone to taking yin yoga classes, you'll want a thicker mat as you will be sitting most of the time. If you focus on stability for active or balanced poses, go for a thinner mat that has a texturized surface to maintain your grip.
Four millimeters (about 0.15 inches) is my favorite thickness. It gives enough cushion for your knees and your joints but is still thin enough to be buoyant if you want to practice hopping or floating back into chaturanga.
Pay Attention to the Material
The material of the yoga mat will affect its texture, which determines how the mat yields to pressure and what is needed for balance. Let's explore the different materials to see how they will affect the durability of the mat and if they will meet your needs.
PVC for Durability
A yoga mat made from plastic polymers, like PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is highly durable, easy to keep clean, and usually grips the floor well. The main downsides are that it is non-absorbent, which can be slippery if you sweat, and it is not biodegradable like other materials.
It is also difficult to properly recycle because of its high chlorine content and other additives that may be harmful to mix with other materials. While it is good to be aware of these concerns, PVC is still a great option if you find that you don't sweat heavily or you need a latex-free option since it does offer that benefit.
TPE, which stands for thermoplastic elastomer, is a foam material made from eco-friendly plastic and rubber polymers. While these may be less durable than a PVC mat, they still have good traction, are biodegradable, and in certain places, can be fully recyclable.
Natural Rubber or Cork for Grip and Sweat
Friction and stickiness are what to look for when you need a mat designed for a secure grip. Mats that are marked as dry grip are great for hot yoga. The best materials for dry grip mats are natural rubber or cork. They may not be as easy to clean as some other yoga mat types, but they'll keep you from slipping during your flow.
Cork material comes from a renewable source that does not damage the tree in harvesting. In cork mats, typically one side of the mat is made of cork while the other is a different material so that it will have a better grip on the floor. A cork mat combined with natural rubber is a great biodegradable option.
Natural rubber mats are made from the sap of rubber trees, making them sustainable and durable for your yoga needs. However, if you are allergic to rubber, you'll want to look into other options.
Soft Mats Like Cotton for Easy Cleaning and Portability
An organic cotton yoga mat is another favorite among yoga enthusiasts with its soft texture, ability to soak in sweat, and stable traction to the floor. Depending on the size you choose, they are usually lightweight and can be a foldable travel companion if you do yoga outside your home.
Apart from its capabilities, an organ cotton mat is biodegradable and can be washed easily. Like most of the other materials, it may not be as durable as a PVC mat, but it can still last for a long time if kept in proper care.
I love a natural rubberized or eco-polyurethane yoga mat surface that's almost tacky. I like a surface that is non-slip and somewhat grippy when damp or wet, so as you sweat throughout your practice, your hands and feet are able to naturally maintain traction on your mat instead of slipping.
A naturally textured rubber bottom surface helps the mat stick to the floor of the studio, whether you're practicing on wooden floors or concrete. The amount of cushion you have in between the top and bottom surface should not be foamy nor absorbent, but a sturdy poly or natural rubber. Cork is also an option.
10 Best Yoga Mats
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Yogibare Extreme Grip Yoga Exercise Mat | | Best Support For Body Alignment and Practicing Poses | |
2 | Manduka PRO Yoga and Pilates Mat | | Dense Cushioning for Support and Stability | |
3 | Liforme Original Yoga Mat | | A Mat That Helps You Effortlessly Find Your Alignment | |
4 | B YOGA B Mat Strong Yoga Mat | | A Popular Choice Among Tall Yogis | |
5 | BalanceFrom GoYoga Yoga Mat | | Anti-Tear and Easy to Clean Yoga Mat for Beginners | |
6 | Aurorae Premium Eco Safe Yoga Mat | | A Durable Yoga Mat That’s Built to Last | |
7 | Gurus Sprout Eco-Friendly Cork Yoga Mat | | Push Through Your Next Hot Yoga Session With This Mat | |
8 | Jade Yoga Jade Fusion Yoga Mat｜568P | | A Sustainable Yoga Mat You Can Feel Good About | |
9 | Gaiam Folding Travel Fitness and Exercise Yoga Mat | | A Portable Yoga Mat That You Can Take Anywhere | |
10 | Hugger Mugger Sattva Jute Mat | | Keep Your Limbs Dry With a Natural Fiber Mat |
YogibareExtreme Grip Yoga Exercise Mat
Best Support For Body Alignment and Practicing Poses
Yogibare's Extreme Grip Yoga Mat lives up to its name with its perforated rubber surface for all your sweaty and slippery needs. Ideally, this mat is for those who perform hot yoga, bikram, and HIIT training. There are guide lines to position your body the correct way so you can get the most benefits out of your workout.
The one downside to this mat is that it is produced with latex, so if you are allergic to this material you may want to proceed with caution. On the other hand, there are many customers who are happy with this mat in that it does have a strong, compact grip that feels high-quality.
Dense Cushioning for Support and Stability
Manduka's high-performance yoga mat delivers top-notch quality with superior joint protection and a lifetime warranty. Its PVC material allows your grip to improve with every use for all types of workouts. It also comes with a cleaning spray that will keep the surface clear of bacteria without any damage or slippage.
Some customers brought up that it can be slippery because of the manufacturing process, so it is suggested to spray a degreaser or use sea salt to break down the oil. However, many yogis adore this mat and the process it takes to break in because it does give stability for the most difficult poses.
LiformeOriginal Yoga Mat
A Mat That Helps You Effortlessly Find Your Alignment
The Liforme Original Yoga Mat is the ideal choice for the beginner looking to enhance their yoga practice. If you find yourself constantly adjusting when learning a new pose, this mat's unique design provides a system to improve your technique and find your place. The mat comes in four colors and includes a travel bag.
Some reviewers have mentioned that the mat does stain easily since it absorbs sweat, and the coating wears off soon after use. However, other reviewers have noted that this mat's material provides a great grip on the top and bottom for pilates, strength training, and aerobics.
B YOGAB Mat Strong Yoga Mat
A Popular Choice Among Tall Yogis
The size of the yoga mat you pick is extremely important. If you're over five foot, eight inches, you'll probably need a bigger mat such as this one. B Yoga promises that the contemporary yet simple design is ideal for any person and can provide a strong reliable grip for pilates and high-intensity workouts.
Reviewers have noted that the mat picks up dirt and dust easily and the lighter the color, the more visible the stains can be. However, some say that if you consistently clean it, it shouldn't be an issue. Many customers are also impressed with the strength of its grip and how much room it gives you to move around if needed.
BalanceFromGoYoga Yoga Mat
Anti-Tear and Easy to Clean Yoga Mat for Beginners
This is the best option for anyone who is just beginning their journey with yoga. The mat can be cleaned with soap and water and be transported anywhere with the accompanying carrying strap. The high-density foam is also tear-resistant while the mat does come with a two-year warranty in case anything happens.
Customers have noted that the foam does tend to leave indentions and that it can shed after only a couple of uses, so it may not be best for a long-term mat. However, there are others who say that the thickness is great for cushioning your knees, hands, and feet for basic workouts.
AuroraePremium Eco Safe Yoga Mat
A Durable Yoga Mat That’s Built to Last
If you're concerned with having a mat that can stand the test of time, we recommend this yoga mat from Aurorae. Stand out in your yoga class with one of the seventeen different colors and designs. It is ideal for pilates or any outside activity, and it is recommended to go by the care instructions after use.
The only downside to this mat, according to reviews, is that it doesn't absorb sweat well and isn't ideal for hot yoga, so you'll need to keep a towel nearby. However, there are others who say it is quite durable and holds up well even up to two years of use.
Push Through Your Next Hot Yoga Session With This Mat
The most difficult part of a yoga session is the possibility of slipping. With this mat, you won't have to worry since it is sweat-resistant, and the grip is more pronounced whenever the mat gets damp. It is also antimicrobial and odor-repellent, so the hassle of cleaning or the mat being smelly shouldn't be a problem.
Previous customers say that this mat does not hold its flat form and that it takes a while for the grip to hold. However, other reviews claim that they enjoy this aspect of the mat, as it is perfect for hot yoga and heavy sweat sessions. It brings a certain steadiness to make you feel connected to the Earth.
Jade YogaJade Fusion Yoga Mat ｜ 568P
A Sustainable Yoga Mat You Can Feel Good About
The Jade Fusion yoga mat is designed for both beginners and long-time yoga practitioners with an ideal thickness and grip. It uses an open-cell design to absorb sweat from your palms to help you avoid slips and falls. This mat also comes from an eco-friendly manufacturer that plants a tree for every mat sold.
However, some reviews say that the open-cell design actually makes it harder to wipe away sweat, which could leave room for bacteria to be captured in the mat. On the other hand, many customers love how sturdy yet cushioned it feels so that you won't slip while one reviewer mentions it was thick enough to be comfortable when doing headstands!
GaiamFolding Travel Fitness and Exercise Yoga Mat
A Portable Yoga Mat That You Can Take Anywhere
If you prefer to practice yoga at your local park, at the beach, or on a weekend getaway, the Gaiam foldable yoga mat is the right option to go with. Weighing less than two pounds, this mat will also fit into most carry-on bags when traveling. Its sticky texture allows the mat to grip in place for stability, yet the mat itself is easy to clean.
There are quite a number of mixed reviews for this mat. Because it's a travel mat, many reviewers claim it is too slippery and not the best support for everyday consistent use for intensive workouts. However, customers love how lightweight and easy it is to fold and pack in your bag with plenty of space left over.
Keep Your Limbs Dry With a Natural Fiber Mat
The Hugger Mugger Mat is made from jute plant material, which makes it extra thick for stability and helps to make it absorb sweat like no other mat can. It is also lightweight to travel around with outside or around the house. This yoga mat has a non-slip, comfortable feel that makes it perfect for all types of yoga classes.
Some customers claim that there is a certain smell that could be strong for those who are sensitive, and the material can be itchy and uncomfortable at times. Others, however, do like this mat for its simplicity and easiness to roll up and port around and they say it is also a perfect mat to develop yoga practice.
How to Take Care of Your Yoga Mat
Before cleaning, the best and safest approach is to read the instructions from the manufacturer or brand to see what they recommend. However, there are two things to remember no matter what: regularly wipe your mat down after you exercise and then give it a good deep cleaning from time to time.
Ways to Clean Your Mat
There are plenty of mat sprays that you can buy, and these are best applied once a week. If you want to make your own cleaner, take a spray bottle and mix a one-to-one ratio of water to vinegar. You can add an essential oil such as tea tree oil to balance out the smell of vinegar; however, be careful as too much oil may damage your mat over time.
You can also go for a diluted soap and water mixture to wipe down your mat. Look for a water-based, organic soap that isn't too heavy. If you have a natural rubber mat, you will want to use another cleaning method as it can soak up the suds and become slippery.
For a deep clean, soak your mat in the tub for a few minutes in enough water that will cover it along with a few cups of vinegar and mild soap. Another method is to hand wash it with the soap and then rinse it off with a hose or in the shower.
If you have a front-load washer, you may be able to wash your mat as these washers are usually more gentle and need less detergent. It is best to set it on a gentle mode and low temperature; however, this method is best for PVC or cotton mats, so if you have another material be sure to check your instructions beforehand.
Make Sure to Maintain Them
Here are some other tips to remember. Make sure you thoroughly rinse off your mat. Unless it is a cotton mat, do not tumble dry your mat since this may tear or damage the material. If you have excess moisture, place a towel on top and roll up the mat; once it is soaked up, lay it flat or let it hang dry away from direct sunlight.
It is best to keep your mats away from direct sunlight since this can cause the material to deteriorate, especially PVC or natural rubber. Instead, let your mats air dry after each yoga session instead of leaving it rolled up.
A hygienic tip for both you and your mat is to wash your hands and feet before each yoga session. This should help maintain your mat's cleanliness by lessening the chance of body oils and dirt showing up, aside from your sweat.
More Expert Tips to Find Your Perfect Yoga Mat
Karin says, "When choosing a yoga mat, think about what type of practice you like and what type of yoga you do most. If you practice hot indoor yoga, consider a mat that has great non-slip reviews. If you like to do your yoga outside, consider a lighter-colored mat; I love a dark or black mat, but it absorbs heat and makes it hot to the touch if practicing in the sun!
Yoga mats, just like anything else, come in all price points. Consider investing in a higher-quality mat that you love to look at. It will encourage you to keep up your yoga practice.
Also, don't forget to purchase a strap or yoga mat carrier. It keeps your mat rolled up, and makes your life ten times easier!"
Here are Some Other Exercise Products You'll Enjoy!
The ideal yoga mat might not be the only thing you need to achieve your fitness goals this year. Here are some more sports and fitness products you might be interested in!
Top 5 Yoga Mats
No. 1: Yogibare｜Extreme Grip Yoga Exercise Mat
No. 2: Manduka｜PRO Yoga and Pilates Mat
No. 3: Liforme｜Original Yoga Mat
No. 4: B YOGA｜B Mat Strong Yoga Mat
No. 5: BalanceFrom｜GoYoga Yoga Mat
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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