Home / Health & Fitness / The Best Yoga Mats
Health & Fitness
The Best Yoga Mats
Grippy, supportive mats for home practice, studio classes, and everyday workouts.
We independently choose every product we recommend. When you buy through our links, Nivef may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Photo: Pexels
Our picks at a glance
Lululemon The Mat 5mm
Excellent grip, good cushioning, and an easy-to-clean surface.
Check price →JadeYoga Harmony Mat
Natural rubber with excellent grip and a soft, grounded feel.
Check price →A good yoga mat keeps your hands and feet from slipping, cushions your knees, and lasts for years. The right thickness and material depends on how and where you practice.
Why you should trust us
Nivef guides are written to answer one question clearly: which one should you buy? We compare specifications and prices, read long-term owner reviews, check warranty and customer-support policies, and use products hands-on wherever possible. Manufacturers never pay for placement, and they don't see our guides before they're published. Read more about how we test.
Who this is for
These picks are for yoga practitioners of all levels, plus anyone who uses a mat for stretching, Pilates, or bodyweight workouts.
How we picked
Here's what we looked for:
- Reliable grip, even when hands get sweaty
- Enough cushioning for knees without feeling unstable
- Durable surface that doesn't flake or tear
- Reasonable weight for carrying
- Easy to clean
- Materials without strong odors
Our picks in detail
Lululemon The Mat 5mm
Excellent grip, good cushioning, and an easy-to-clean surface.
The Mat 5mm offers a grippy polyurethane top layer that stays secure even in sweaty classes, with enough cushioning for knees and wrists.
What we like
- Excellent grip
- Good cushioning
- Easy to wipe clean
Flaws but not dealbreakers
- Heavy to carry
- Shows marks
Manduka PRO
A dense, supportive mat that can last for a decade.
The Manduka PRO is famously durable and stable. It needs a short break-in period, but then it offers dependable grip and support for years.
What we like
- Extremely durable
- Very stable
- Lifetime guarantee
Flaws but not dealbreakers
- Heavy
- Slippery when new
Gaiam Premium 6mm Yoga Mat
Extra cushioning and fun designs at a low price.
For beginners and home workouts, Gaiam's thicker mat is comfortable and inexpensive, with a wide range of colors and prints.
What we like
- Inexpensive
- Thick and cushioned
- Many designs
Flaws but not dealbreakers
- Wears faster
- Less grip when sweaty
JadeYoga Harmony Mat
Natural rubber with excellent grip and a soft, grounded feel.
Made from natural rubber, the Harmony mat offers outstanding grip and pleasant cushioning. Note that it isn't suitable for people with latex allergies.
What we like
- Outstanding grip
- Natural material
Flaws but not dealbreakers
- Contains latex
- Rubber smell at first
What to look for
Thickness
4 to 5mm is a good all-around choice. Thicker mats are comfier but less stable for balance poses.
Material
Polyurethane tops grip best; PVC is durable and cheap; natural rubber is grippy but heavy.
Size
Taller people should look for extra-long mats (about 74 inches or more).
Frequently asked questions
How do I clean a yoga mat?
Wipe it with a damp cloth and mild soap or a mat cleaner, then let it air dry away from direct sun.
How long does a yoga mat last?
Budget mats may last a year of regular use; premium mats can last many years.
