The Best Yoga Mats

Are you on the lookout for the ideal yoga mat to enhance your practice, perfect tree pose, and cultivate mindfulness? Your search ends here for at least two of these goals, as we have compiled a comprehensive guide to the best options available.

Choosing a yoga mat extends beyond aesthetics; while an appealing design can catch the eye, functionality plays a crucial role in your practice. A mat that offers a secure grip and a comfortable surface is essential to mastering poses—from dynamic movements like dolphin plank and crow pose to restorative savasana at the practice's conclusion. A supportive yoga mat can significantly enhance your experience.

Important attributes include grip, flexibility, and materials that are easy to clean. Additionally, consider portability—a lightweight mat may be beneficial if you plan to transport it frequently. If you seek a mat versatile enough to accommodate activities such as Pilates or strength training, opt for a design capable of catering to multiple forms of exercise, not just pigeon pose. To evaluate each of the recommended mats, we consulted health coach Maite Brines von Melle, founder of Superhealth Playbook. Our top overall recommendation is the Lululemon mat ($118), but for those prioritizing travel, the Manduka eKO Superlite ($54) stands out.

Best Overall Yoga Mat: Lululemon The Mat 5mm ($118)

This yoga mat is our top overall choice for its exceptional comfort and support during various movements. It provides a plush yet balanced underfoot experience, with reliable grip. You'll feel stable during downward dog, and it remains supportive for barefoot weight sessions.

Available in four visually appealing marbled finishes in shades of pink, blue, green, and black, the mat is constructed from FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)-certified rubber and is reversible, allowing you to alternate between a smoother, grippier side and a more cushioned surface as you prefer. The mat is designed to absorb moisture, which is particularly advantageous in sweat-inducing practices, making it suitable for hot yoga. However, it does contain latex, which is important to consider if you have allergies.

Health coach Maite Brines von Melle praised this mat as well. "This was my favorite of the bunch," she states. "I like the design, and it's very versatile—I taught Pilates and resistance training on this mat, and it performed admirably. It's cushioned and comfortable for restorative yoga such as yin, plus it’s not too heavy to carry across town to class. It wipes clean easily, keeping it fresh."

Specs:

• Thickness: 5 mm
• Material: FSC-certified natural rubber with latex
• Weight: 5.24 lbs
• Dimensions: 26 in. x 71 in.

Best Yoga Mat for Grip: Manduka Prolite Yoga Mat 4.7mm ($112)

This yoga mat features a closed-cell PVC construction that effectively seals out moisture, sweat, and bacteria, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance. Its standout attribute is the nonslip dot pattern on the bottom layer, which keeps the mat firmly in place during practice. Additionally, it is latex-free, making it a preferable choice for individuals with allergies.

Comfortable for yoga practice, the mat's texture provides the right amount of grip without feeling excessively sticky. Its smooth finish feels soothing at rest. Importantly, the dense cushioning offers support for knees while in kneeling plank. It is available in a variety of rich colors, including Black Sage green, and its surface does not easily attract dirt, dust, or hair. If it does become soiled, it is straightforward to wipe clean.

"The Manduka ProLite is one of my favorite yoga mats, featuring a fabric-like finish that gets grippier with age," Brines von Melle remarks. "This mat is versatile for an array of exercises—from yoga to strength training—and I felt secure without slipping, which is always a testament to good design."

Specs:

• Thickness: 4.7 mm
• Material: Oeko-Tex certified Standard 100 PVC
• Weight: 4.6 lbs
• Dimensions: 24 in. x 71 in.

Best Yoga Mat for Travel: Manduka eKO Superlite Yoga Mat ($54)

For those wishing to practice yoga while on vacation, this lightweight travel mat is an excellent option. At 1.5 mm thick, the eKO Superlite is considerably thinner than standard mats, enabling it to roll up compactly for easy packing.

The mat is 24 inches wide and comes in both standard 71-inch and an extended 79-inch length. The standard size accommodates typical yoga moves, while the longer version adds only half a pound for taller users.

Constructed from sustainably harvested 99 percent latex-free tree rubber, this mat provides excellent grip. The "orange peel" surface ensures stability and prevents slipping during poses such as warrior. Although it lacks the padding of standard mats, adding a towel can protect the knees. Its closed-cell surface effectively isolates moisture and bacteria, and regular wiping with a yoga mat spray maintains hygiene.

Specs:

• Thickness: 1.5 mm
• Material: 99% latex-free rubber
• Weight: 2 lbs
• Dimensions: 24 in. x 71 in.

Best Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat: JadeYoga Harmony Yoga Mat ($115)

JadeYoga's Harmony mat is not only the brand's most popular design, but it has also garnered numerous accolades. It's produced in the USA from natural, non-toxic, eco-friendly rubber, and for every yoga mat sold, a tree is planted.

This mat stands out for its premium appearance and feel, made from natural, eco-friendly rubber without PVC, EVA, or synthetic rubber. It has been crafted to provide superior grip and cushioning compared to synthetic alternatives. While the texture may not be the smoothest, it offers excellent traction and is easy to handle, rolling up conveniently for storage.

Available in a thickness of 5 mm, it comes in lengths of 68 inches and 74 inches, making it suitable for both tall and shorter users. The 68-inch variant provides ample space for comfortable stretching and relaxation post-practice. A variety of stylish colors is offered, and this mat dries quickly, allowing you to store it back in your yoga bag for the next session.

Specs:

• Thickness: 5 mm
• Material: Natural rubber
• Weight: 5 lbs
• Dimensions: 24 in. x 68 in.

Best Latex-Free Yoga Mat: Sweaty Betty Balance Yoga Mat ($114)

For individuals with a latex allergy, this attractive mat by Sweaty Betty is constructed from durable and smooth TPE fabric. Renowned for its balance capabilities, the latex-free rubber provides stability for secure foot positioning. While a textured mat may be preferred by some, the smooth yet grippy surface ensures comfortable movements without sliding or squeaking.

The mat features alignment markings on both sides, aiding body positioning in specific poses like downward dog and warrior. Weighing 4.85 pounds, it strikes a balance between easy transport and substantial feel, fitting neatly into a yoga bag post-class.

Specs:

• Thickness: 3 mm
• Material: Polyurethane and rubber
• Weight: 4.85 lbs
• Dimensions: 26 in. x 72 in.

Best Yoga Mat for Alignment: Liforme Tropical Paradise Yoga Mat ($190)

This vibrant tropical mat not only showcases eye-catching design but also features Liforme's "alignment system," printed with eco-friendly, non-toxic ink. This unique graphic assists practitioners in achieving optimal positioning of their hands, feet, and body during poses such as warrior and flowing sequences.

The mat is well-suited for hot yoga and those who sweat, thanks to its "GripforMe" surface, which consists of a thin layer of proprietary polyurethane that absorbs moisture to prevent slipping. Constructed from foamed natural rubber, the mat also boasts a non-absorbent barrier layer that allows sweat to evaporate rather than seep into the material. Though it comes with a higher price tag, the purchase includes a convenient carrying bag.

Brines von Melle expressed admiration for the mat's performance. "It's got very good grip, and I really enjoyed practicing on this mat," she states. "The grip was excellent in downward dog and during sun salutations, and the alignment points are a great aid for newcomers to yoga."

Specs:

• Thickness: 4.2 mm
• Material: Sustainably sourced polyurethane and rubber
• Weight: 5.5 lbs
• Dimensions: 26 in. x 72 in.

Best Less Expensive Yoga Mat for Alignment: Lululemon Align Yoga Mat 5mm ($128)

At first glance, the Lululemon Align mat may appear quite similar to the brand's top pick. Both mats utilize FSC-certified rubber with a smooth top layer that provides an effective grip and cushioning, especially beneficial during high-sweat practices. Unlike the marbled design of the top pick, the Align mat features subtle alignment lines that assist in achieving stability within poses, guiding foot and hand placement without distraction.

Offered in three solid colors—pink, black, and Meadow Haze green—the mat can be somewhat cumbersome to roll up due to the material's tendency to flap, but overall, it remains one of the best options available. It feels secure on wooden floors, and the smooth surface offers comfort during resting postures, while also being easy to clean and dry.

Specs:

• Thickness: 5 mm
• Material: Natural rubber base with polyurethane (PU) top layer
• Weight: 5.24 lbs
• Dimensions: 26 in. x 71 in.

Best Yoga Mat for Dynamic Exercise: Les Mills MBX Mat ($86)

Similar in thickness to the Lululemon mat, the Les Mills MBX mat also measures 5 mm but features a distinctly different finish and feel. Crafted from high-density eco-PVC, this mat is designed to withstand intense workouts. Its surface provides stability during vigorous training sessions. The gray side features an anti-slip coating suitable for high-impact exercises and weight training, while the red side offers outstanding grip for yoga practices.

Though its surface may not be as smooth or tactile as traditional yoga mats, the versatility is commendable. It is easy to clean and demonstrates durability even under heavy use.

Brines von Melle noted its effectiveness for general exercise. "I appreciate that this mat has two distinct sides to cater to different activities," she commented. "While it may not be the most comfortable yoga mat, it performs well during movement and is convenient for storage. It includes eyelet holes on one end for easy hanging and air drying if needed."

Specs:

• Thickness: 5 mm
• Material: PVC
• Weight: 4.85 lbs
• Dimensions: 24 in. x 71 in.

Best Yoga Mat for Light Movement: Bala The Play Mat ($99)

Ideal for yoga, Pilates, strength training, and any light movement exercise, the Play Mat is available in both a 5-mm version for everyday practice and an 8-mm version designed for more intense workouts.

Bala's products are known for their playful design, and the mat—offered in a lively bubblegum pink hue—complements the brand's other accessories. The mat, along with its accessories and the Bala app, delivers both aesthetic appeal and functionality.

The top of the mat is made from high-grade synthetic polyurethane (PU), which, while not renewable, offers good grip and a non-slip surface. The cushioned support is particularly gentle on knees and joints during dynamic poses. The base features FSC-certified natural rubber, ensuring eco-friendliness. While the 5 mm thickness is effective, an additional 8 mm option is available for those needing extra joint support.

Due to its light color, the mat tends to show dust and dirt, necessitating regular cleaning after each use. It rolls up neatly for storage, though a separate Mat Scrunchie or yoga mat bag can help prevent unraveling.

Specs:

• Thickness: 5 mm
• Material: High-grade polyurethane (PU) and FSC-certified natural rubber base
• Weight: 11 lbs
• Dimensions: 26 in. x 71 in.

Best Yoga Mat for Balance: Manduka eKO Yoga Mat 5mm ($114)

Similar to the Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Mat, the eKO Yoga Mat 5 mm is made from natural tree rubber, making it a suitable choice for those without latex sensitivities. Its material provides excellent traction, facilitating balance during practice without undue sliding.

Available in tranquil hues like Elderberry Midnight, this mat is heavier than some alternatives and thicker than the travel option, yet it can still be rolled tightly for transportation. Be aware that the natural rubber odor may require time to dissipate.

While the texture may not be quite as smooth against the skin compared to mats from Liforme or Lululemon, the cushioning feels supportive and enhances balance during yoga practice. You will feel stable in poses like tree pose and downward dog, and the material remains non-sticky even when perspiring. Cleanup is straightforward as well.

Specs:

• Thickness: 5 mm
• Material: Natural rubber with 30% recycled content
• Weight: 7 lbs
• Dimensions: 26 in. x 71 in.

Best Nonslip Yoga Mat: JadeYoga Jade Mushroom Mat ($105)

The JadeYoga Mushroom mat offers a sustainable option made from renewable natural rubber and USDA Certified Organic oyster mushroom waste, free from PVC and synthetic plastics. While color options may be limited compared to the Harmony mat, the available choices—forest green, midnight blue, berry pink, and purple—remain appealing.

Although it may not roll up as neatly as some sleeker competitors, using a yoga mat bag can facilitate transportation. Its textured surface does attract dust, making maintenance more challenging than that of standard mats.

A key feature of this design is its enhanced springiness and cushioning, providing both grip and stability. It is available in two lengths to accommodate different height users. The 68-inch option is particularly well-suited for yoga and stretching.

With its cushioned surface, this mat is especially comfortable during savasana at the conclusion of your practice, making it an excellent choice for restorative sessions or yoga nidra.

Specs:

• Thickness: 5 mm
• Material: Natural rubber and organic oyster mushroom waste
• Weight: 4.5 lbs
• Dimensions: 24 in. x 68 in.

Best Yoga Mat for Kids: Liforme Playful Kids Yoga Mat ($100)

This premium choice for young yogis is the Liforme Playful Kids yoga mat, which offers superior quality tailored to children. With limited design options available in the market, this mat stands out as particularly attractive—often more visually appealing than many adult mats.

Designed to be 15 inches shorter and approximately one pound lighter than the adult Liforme yoga mat, it is manageable for smaller hands. The inclusion of a carry bag adds convenience.

Introducing a mat like this can inspire children to participate in yoga sessions, encouraging them to stretch and unwind effectively.

Specs:

• Thickness: 4.2 mm
• Material: Rubber and polyurethane
• Weight: 4.4 lbs
• Dimensions: 24 in. x 57 in.

Top Yoga Accessories

Bala Bangles Wrist & Ankle Weights ($65)

These wrist and ankle weights add a toning element to your workout, available in 1, 2, or 3-pound options. Incorporating the 1-pound weights can enhance the challenge in poses such as Warrior Two.

Lululemon Stackable Yoga Cushions (2-Pack) ($48)

Replace the makeshift rolled-up towel with these attractive Lululemon cushions designed for supportive comfort. These stackable yoga cushions provide instant relief for palms, elbows, knees, and hips.

Merry People Billie Clog ($120)

Quick and easy on-off shoes are essential for getting to yoga class, and these Merry People Billie clogs are ideal for the task. Made from natural rubber, these waterproof clogs are soft yet supportive and available in various colors.

How to Choose a Yoga Mat

Thicker isn't always better. Maintain a strong connection to the ground to support balance; aim for a thickness of 3 to 5 mm. Additional cushion can be positioned in the center for knee support, but too much cushioning under hands and feet may disrupt stability.

Look for good grip. For activities like hot yoga, ensure the mat offers increased grip when wet. A washable design contributes to sanitary conditions. Some microfiber-finished mats can be machine washed (following the manufacturer's instructions), or you might consider using a "yoga towel" to cover it for easy cleaning.

Take a travel mat. When traveling, a lightweight 1.5 mm mat can be easily rolled or folded in your suitcase. These mats perform well on hotel room carpets; they can also provide extra support with a towel beneath your knees when required.

Make it easy to work out. If you intend to use your mat for various fitness activities—including Pilates, weights, yoga, and HIIT—consider investing in a larger mat that remains stable underfoot. These mats tend to be a bit heavier and sturdier, allowing for better stability during movements.

What Type of Mat Is Best for Yoga?

A well-constructed rubber-based mat featuring good grip and cushioning strikes an appropriate balance in providing support while maintaining stability.

Is It Worth Buying an Expensive Yoga Mat?

Investing in a quality mat is beneficial, as it often results in superior durability and grip, significantly impacting your practice. Less expensive mats may wear out quickly or become slippery over time.

How to Properly Clean a Yoga Mat

Maintaining a clean yoga mat transcends personal hygiene; a clean mat extends its longevity. Given the variety of materials utilized, it's vital to follow the manufacturer's cleaning guidelines.

Some mats require merely a damp microfiber cloth for cleaning, while others may be submerged in the bath or machine-washed for a more thorough cleanse. Specialized cleaning sprays for yoga mats help sanitize, prolong their lifespan, and improve odor.

Liforme Ultimate Everyday Yoga Mat Cleaner ($24): This plant-based cleaning foam comprises 95 percent natural ingredients, offering a light and fresh scent. Quick and user-friendly, the foam dissolves with ease.

Manduka Yoga Mat Wash and Refresh ($18): Made from 100 percent naturally derived components, this spray features a soothing lavender aroma. Apply it directly to your mat for quick refreshment or generously for deeper cleaning prior to drying.

Moxe Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray (2 for $20): Infused with rosemary and lemon essential oils, this refreshing solution includes a soft microfiber cloth for straightforward cleaning and drying.