Whether you’re going to a local studio or practicing at home, a quality yoga mat will be the foundation of your practice. The best yoga mats offer grip, comfort, and support during downward facing dogs, warrior poses, and more. They're also versatile enough to enhance a variety of other exercises, including stretching, mobility work, and strength training. To help you find the right yoga mat for your practice, we first consulted with experts to identify the key features to prioritize when shopping. Then, we tested 26 different options in The Verywell Testing Lab and at home in our regular routines over a four-week period. Throughout testing, we evaluate each mat's design, comfort, grip, portability, and overall value. We also assess whether the mats can stand up to sweat without becoming slippery. Our Top Picks Best Budget: Best for Hot Yoga: Best for Travel: Best for Beginners: Most Firm: Best on Amazon: Most Comfortable: b halfmoon b mat impact 10 mm Yoga Mat at Bhalfmoon.com (See Price) In This Article Our Picks Yoga Mats We Also Tested What to Look For How We Tested Our Experts Frequently Asked Questions Why Trust Verywell Fit Pros Balanced thickness Feels grippy but not sticky Neutral design Cons Difficult to clean Materials: PVB (polyvinyl butyral) and foam | Thickness: 5 millimeters | Size: 26 x 71 inches | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Overall Rating: 4.9/5 Best for committed yogis who want a lightweight mat to carry to and from the studio that will hold up overtime. Lightweight, durable, grippy, and more, lululemon’s The Lightweight Mat checks all the boxes we’re looking for in a yoga mat. When we first picked up the rolled mat, our immediate impression was how lightweight it felt compared to others. We found it easily portable to and from the studio. Upon unrolling it, we found it laid completely flat, boasting a sleek, neutral aesthetic. As we began our sun salutations, we were pleasantly surprised by the mat's supportive and well-cushioned feel, especially considering its lightweight nature. It strikes an ideal balance between thinness and thickness, making it a comfortable and versatile choice for most yogis. In terms of grip, the grid-textured top layer provides stability without any unpleasant stickiness, ensuring stability even when sweating. We think this mat offers exceptional value for its price, making it a worthwhile investment overall. Our tester practices yoga both at home and in the studio, favoring mats with dependable grip and comfortable cushioning. She particularly values lightweight options that are effortless to carry to and from class. She appreciates that this mat delivers consistent grip while remaining shockingly lightweight. Pros Provides ample support Reliable grip improved our balance Versatile for other workouts Cons We wish it had a carrying strap Materials: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) | Thickness: 5 millimeters | Size: 24 x 68 inches | Weight: 2.5 pounds | Overall Rating: 5/5 Best if you want to try yoga, but don’t want to make a large investment yet. Gaiam’s Classic Solid Color Yoga Mat pleasantly surprised us, proving to be just as durable as other higher-priced options. Throughout testing, we found it helped elevate our workouts to the next level, even enhancing our balance during challenging flows thanks to its textured, grippy top layer. The bottom also has a tacky texture, providing extra non-slip traction and making the mat reversible. Finding the perfect thickness can be challenging, especially with budget-friendly yoga mats, but this one strikes the right balance. It offers ample cushioning without sacrificing stability, ensuring we remain steady during practice. Despite its support, we appreciate that this mat remains one of the lighter options on our list for easy portability. Our tester, an experienced yogi who leans towards low-intensity yoga and Pilates workouts, was recovering from an elbow fracture during the testing period. She needs a mat that’s well-cushioned and supportive. She found the thick padding and ample support of this mat particularly beneficial, allowing her to practice comfortably despite her injury. Pros Excellent grip Durable Sustainable design Lingering rubber smell Materials: Rubber | Thickness: 4.7 millimeters | Size: 24 x 68 inches | Weight: 4 pounds | Overall Rating: 4.4/5 Best if you frequent hot yoga classes. If you gravitate toward hot yoga or simply tend to sweat while you practice, Jade Yoga's Harmony Yoga Mat is our top choice. The natural, open-cell rubber creates a non-slip surface perfect for staying put on your mat, even in sweaty sessions. An important note: No matter how grippy your hot yoga mat, you may want to consider using a yoga towel for added safety, says Mandy Ingber, yoga teacher and author of Yogalosophy: 28 Days to the Ultimate Mind-Body Makeover. During testing, we found that this mat provides an optimal amount of padding without being too plush. It’s not just beneficial for your practice—it’s great for the environment as well. Jade Yoga plants a tree for each mat sold, so you can feel confident that your purchase makes a positive impact. Pro Feels super lightweight Can be rolled or folded Easy to clean Cons May feel too thin for some Materials: Rubber | Thickness: 1.5 millimeters | Size: 24 x 71 inches | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Overall Rating: 4.2/5 Best for yogis who need a lightweight option for travel or commuting from home to the studio. If you’re on the go and don’t want to miss a day of your yoga flow, you’ll love how easy it is to transport Manduka’s eKO Superlite Mat. Weighing just 2.2 pounds, it is among the lightest mats we tested, which is especially impressive given its standard size. You can roll it up regularly or fold it to the size of a laptop for even easier portability. Made from non-toxic rubber, this ultra-thin mat provides enough stability for faster flows. We also found the semi-sticky grip supportive enough for use at the studio, in a hotel room, outdoors, and more. It’s also easy to clean, which is a major plus for travelers. Pros Feels very grippy Easy to clean Good for travel Cons May feel too thin for some Materials: PVC | Thickness: 5 millimeters | Size: 24 x 68 inches | Weight: 3 pounds | Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best for those who are getting started with yoga and prefer a thinner mat with less cushioning. The top of NewMe Fitness Yoga Mat features 70 illustrated yoga poses to help you master new movements, making it a great choice for beginners. We found each pose visually clear and easy to follow. Alongside its visual appeal, this mat also boasts dependable grip and comfortable cushioning—offering support without compromising balance. During testing, we found the lightweight mat to be portable—it rolls up easily and is comfortable to carry. We also appreciate that it’s priced lower compared to other options we tested, making it even more appealing to beginners. The mat is also easy to clean so you can confidently use it during indoor and outdoor flows. Our tester is an experienced exerciser who does yoga, Pilates, and barre workouts five to six days each week. She found this mat to be a remarkably high-value option, particularly for beginners embarking on their yoga journey. Pros Durable Great for taller yogis Balanced thickness Cons Much heavier than other options Materials: Rubber | Thickness: 6 millimeters | Size: 26 x 85 inches | Weight: 6 pounds | Overall Rating: 4.3/5 Best for tall yogis or those who simply prefer extra space during their practice. We found the perfect mat to support tall yogis from their initial cleansing breath to the final Savasana of the day— the B, Halfmoon B, Strong Long Mat. While standard yoga mats typically suit individuals who are 6 feet or shorter, taller practitioners may require a longer mat for optimal comfort, says Ingber. With its impressive length of 85 inches, this mat delivers. During testing, we also appreciated the strong grip and balanced thickness of the mat, which facilitated seamless transitions during flows and provided stability during holds. Whether in beginner or advanced poses, even during heated sessions, we felt confident on this mat. Plus, the extra room makes this suitable for a wide variety of workouts. Our tester is an experienced at-home exerciser who enjoys strength training, Pilates, and yoga. She prefers a mat that provides grip and cushion for a variety of exercises. Pros More budget-friendly than others Ample cushioning offers extra comfort Great for seated or lying poses Cons Offers less grip than others Thickness makes it slightly bulky Materials: NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber) | Thickness: 10 millimeters | Size: 24 x 72 inches | Weight: Not listed | Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best if you prefer a thick, well-cushioned mat for added support during gentle yoga flows. Looking for added support? Gaiam’s Fitness Mat is the thickest option we tested, offering cushioned comfort perfect for gentle flows. However, as excessive padding can impact balance, we recommend using this mat primarily for seated or lying holds and stretching. Surprisingly, despite its thickness, this mat feels lightweight. Throughout testing, we also valued the included carrying strap, which enhances portability for those who opt to take their mat on the go. We also appreciate the reasonable price of this mat, especially considering its superior support compared to other, pricier options. Our tester, an experienced yogi who prefers low-intensity yoga and Pilates workouts, was recovering from an elbow fracture during testing. She required a yoga mat with extra cushioning for added support, and she particularly appreciated this mat for its extra-thick padding. Pros Feels super lightweight Grippy but not sticky Helps with stability Cons May feel too thin for some Materials: Rubber | Thickness: 3 millimeters | Size: 24 x 68 or 74 inches | Weight: 3 pounds | Overall Rating: 4/5 Best if you appreciate a firm, thin mat to encourage a grounded practice. Jade Yoga’s Travel Yoga Mat provides the stability you need without an overly sticky feel. With a different texture on the bottom, we discovered it stays securely in place on the floor as you move through each asana. The combination of texture and material ensures a slip-free experience, whether you're practicing at home or in a sweaty studio session. If you’re seeking grounding during your practice, this super-thin mat fosters a connection with the Earth. It’s one of the firmest, thinnest mats we’ve used, yet it never feels uncomfortable during poses. We also found it light enough to take on the go. Our tester regularly practices yoga both at home and while traveling. She notes that her bony joints need additional cushioning and she prefers mats that offer a balance between firm support and soft padding. Despite being the thinnest yoga mat she's ever used, she finds this lightweight mat still offers enough support for her practice. Pros Feels very well-cushioned Lightweight and easily portable More budget-friendly than others Cons Not as durable as other options Materials: Spec | Thickness: 13 millimeters | Size: 24 x 73 inches | Weight: 2 pounds | Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best for those who are beginner yogis and want a mat with a carrying strap for easy transport. Our top pick from Amazon offers everything a beginner could need in a yoga mat—easy to carry, effortless to roll and unroll, and a balance of support and cushioning. We found that the AmazonBasics Yoga Mat's non-slip grip makes it suitable for hot yoga practices, while its cushioning level ensures you can enjoy each pose without discomfort in your knees, elbows, spine, or other sensitive areas. During testing, we also appreciated how easy to clean this mat is, with a simple wipe, making it an ideal choice for yogis on the go. Available in three colors and equipped with an elastic strap for convenient carrying, it's a versatile option for any practitioner. Pros Extremely cushioned Excellent grip Surprisingly lightweight Cons Difficult to roll Materials: NBR | Thickness: 10 millimeters | Size: 26 x 71 inches | Weight: 4 pounds | Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best for stretching, meditation, and restorative yoga. If you want a mat that’s comfy enough for long holds and peaceful poses, we recommend the B, Halfmoon B, Impact Mat. It provides a blend of soft cushioning and reliable stability that helps us maintain poses without struggle. Plus, the surface of the mat features a ridged texture that also enhances grip. During testing, we were pleasantly surprised by the mat's lightweight feel, particularly considering its generous cushioning. We loved taking it from home to studio practices. We also appreciate that the mat caters to yogis with injury-prone joints since it provides ample thickness for protective support. Our tester enjoys yoga, Pilates, and bodyweight exercises at home. Although she doesn't experience any ongoing pain, she's cautious with her shoulder following an injury sustained a year ago. She appreciated the thick padding and ample cushioning this mat has to offer. Pros Materials feel high-quality Offers enhanced comfort and balance Durable Cons Feels heavier than other options Materials: PVC | Thickness: 6 millimeters | Size: 24 x 72 inches | Weight: Not listed | Overall Rating: 4.76/5 Best for hot yoga classes or if you’re prone to sweaty hands and feet. We've all experienced it—sliding and slipping during a yoga class, wishing for better grip on our mat to seamlessly transition between poses. Enter the two-layered Aeromat’s Pro Mat: it boasts a grid pattern on the practice side, ensuring your hands and feet stay firmly anchored, while the hexagon pattern on the underside keeps the mat secure on any surface. During testing, we found that this mat blends cushioning and stability, offering enough comfort for sensitive joints without compromising balance. We were also impressed by the mat’s durability, confident that its non-slip grip and high-quality design will last for years of practice. Our tester, an experienced yogi, prioritizes mats made from high-quality materials that can withstand frequent cleaning. Given her slender frame and existing neck and back conditions, she needs a mat that offers ample support. She appreciated this mat’s cushioned comfort. Pros Larger than other mats Versatile for other workouts Durable Cons Not portable Materials: PVC | Thickness: 6 millimeters | Size: 52 x 79 inches | Weight: 22 pounds | Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best if you want a large yoga mat for various exercises to put in your home gym. No home gym is complete without a yoga mat, and Manduka’s Pro Long and Wide Mat is an investment worth making. It's crafted from durable materials with a high-quality construction that will last for years. In addition to being a supportive option for yoga, we found that this hefty mat is equally well-suited for bodyweight exercises and weight training. Along with a textured top side, the mat has a bubble-textured bottom layer that delivers even more grip and security. This double-sided grip helps us feel safe and confident that the multi-purpose mat won’t move under us during any type of exercise. Our tester, an experienced exerciser and yogi, dedicates five to six days a week to yoga, Pilates, and barre workouts. She prefers a mat that she can keep in her home workout space, preferring not to transport it between home and class. She loved this mat's high-quality, durable design for her home gym. To find the best yoga mats, we tested 26 mats in The Verywell Testing Lab and then at home in our regular workout routines. When testing, we evaluate each yoga mat based on the following important criteria: We collaborated with yoga experts throughout our research, testing, and reporting for this story. Their insights guided us in identifying the key features to consider when shopping and also informed our testing process. Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and natural rubber are often considered the best materials for yoga mats due to their combination of grip, durability, and eco-friendliness. Mats made with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) are also easy to clean and long-lasting. If you prioritize comfort and cushioning, choose a mat thicker than 5 millimeters, but if you prefer stability, opt for one that's 5 millimeters or less. Most yoga mats are 68 inches long and 24 inches wide, giving most yogis ample space for their practice. However, taller users may prefer longer mats, typically around 72 inches, for extra comfort and support. A quality yoga mat will typically cost between $20 and $280. While cheaper options might seem appealing, especially if you're not committed to long-term yoga practice or don't intend to use the mat frequently, they often lack durability compared to more expensive ones. Amanda Berkey, M.S.Ed, has been practicing yoga for more than two decades. She loves finding yoga mats that strike the perfect balance of support, cushioning, and great aesthetics. In addition to using her mat for her regular practice, she also loves settling in on a nicely cushioned mat with a foam roller for post-run stretching. Key Specs
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Best for Travel
Manduka EKO Superlite Yoga Travel Mat
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Meet Our Tester
Key Specs
Who It’s For
Why We Love It
Potential Flaws
Key Specs
Who It’s For
Why We Love It
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Tester
Key Specs
Who It’s For
Why We Love It
Potential Flaws
Meet Our Tester
Key Specs
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Potential Flaws
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