The 8 Best Yoga Mats for Sweaty Hands: Top Picks for a Slip-Free Practice

One time, after a long, hot yoga session, I thought I’d practice my arm balances. I had been working on eight-angle pose for months and had come this close to achieving it, but could never hold it for more than a moment or two.

But on this day, I delighted in how easy it felt as I crossed my feet at the ankles and floated them off the ground. But just as I was about to celebrate (“Look ma, no feet!”), my sweaty hands slipped, causing me to collapse after only a few seconds.

If you also struggle with sweaty hands, you may have a similarly frustrating story. But the good news is we don’t need to let a little moisture dampen our spirits! The solution is usually the simple matter of finding the best yoga mat for sweaty hands.

As someone who has experienced their fair share of sweaty palms, I have compiled a list of my top recommendations – the top two of which I have personally used, and the rest are rigorously vetted and what I would choose based on extensive research and experience with yoga mats and the common materials that are used to create them. (Over the years, I’ve owned at least ten different mats!)

So without further ado, allow me to help you get a grip!

Disclosure: there are affiliate links in this article, which means that if you make a purchase after clicking on one, I may earn a commission. Full disclaimer here.

My Top Picks

Best Yoga Mats for Sweaty Hands

#1. BMat

My top pick for non-slip yoga mats in any situation, the BMat is the grippiest mat you will ever down-dog on.

Pros:

• Ideal thickness

• The grippiest of grippy mats for sweaty hands!

• Eco-friendly: Made from biodegradable rubber

• Durable

Cons:

• No alignment markers

• Limited color options might not appeal to everyone.

• There is definitely a strong rubber smell, though it fades over time.

• Pricey

If you need something with absolutely zero slide, this is the mat for you. Made from 100% natural, biodegradable rubber, this mat is as good for the environment as it is for sweaty hands. I bought this mat back in 2016 when my Jade harmony mat had all but disintegrated after constant use, and to date, it was the best mat I have ever owned for practicing yoga.

Yes, it does smell like rubber, which is not ideal. But it’s not that bad, especially when compared to the more sinister chemical-ly smell of cheaper, synthetic mats. (Bleh!)

The cushioning is great also, although you may want to consider upgrading to the Strong version if you have sensitive knees.

In terms of appearance, it’s nothing fancy, and there are no versions with alignment lines which is a bummer if you’re used to mats with those. It’s also a bit heavy compared to other mats I’ve owned, so just something to consider if you intend to travel back and forth to a yoga studio on a regular basis.

The mat is durable; it was years before I noticed some signs of wear – but that’s to be expected no matter what mat you get. (It won’t stand up to shoed workouts. If you need something for intense exercise, you’ll want the gorilla mat.)

#2. Manduka Prolite Yoga Mat

My second-top pick, the Manduka Prolite Yoga Mat is the most well-rounded mat that offers a balance of comfort, cushioning, portability in addition to grip.

Pros:

• High-quality material and construction

• Great grip that improves the more you use it

• No noticeable odor, even when new

• Comfortable cushioning for joints

• Easy to clean and maintain

• Beautiful color options

• Lifetime guarantee

Cons:

• A bit pricey

• ‘Breaking in’ period may not suit everyone

• Does not come with a carrying case or strap

• Not great for hot yoga

At 4 pounds and 4.7 millimeters thick, this closed-cell surface mat is designed to prevent sweat and moisture from seeping into the mat, warding off bacterial growth and the unpleasant odor that can come with it.

The mat comes in two lengths (71” is the standard, or you can get 79″ if you need more room) and a variety of colors, making it a versatile choice for yoga practitioners of all shapes and sizes.

The Manduka Prolite Yoga Mat is a bit pricier than some other options out there, but it’s essential to remember: this isn’t just any old mat. With the Manduka yoga mat, you’re investing in quality, durability, and a brand that’s dedicated to its customers.

The grip of the Prolite yoga mat improves with use, but even out of the box, I found the grip was already leagues ahead of most mats.

While not the thickest mat on the market, it’s surprisingly comfortable on my knees and joints. Cleaning was also a breeze, thanks to its closed-cell surface material that prevents the growth of bacteria. But closed cell mats are a double-edged sword, and you may find that, as a result, it is not as grippy in hot yoga or in an environment where the mat may get super wet.

It’s lightweight and easy to roll up and tote around. However, it does not come with a strap or carrying case.

It is indeed an investment, but this mat checks all the boxes, especially considering the quality and lifetime guarantee. If you want more info about my experiences with this mat, be sure to check out my in-depth review.

#3. Manduka GRP

If you need something a little extra grippy for hot yoga sessions, the Manduka GRP Mat is a premium product that is said to offer an unparalleled grip and ultra-quick moisture absorption, making it ideal for hot yoga.

Pros:

• Superior grip and high absorption capacity

• Open airflow tech

• Suitable for hot yoga

• Made from sustainably harvested tree rubber

Cons:

• May leaves marks of hands and feet after use

• A few users reported holes appearing in the mat after some time

• Some say it has a strong rubber smell

The GRP’s open airflow technology allows moisture to quickly pass through to the interior foam layer, boasting 2x greater absorption capacity than comparable mats.

With its 100% open airflow technology that filters moisture immediately, even for max sweat levels, the GRP Mat offers the ultimate towel-less experience.

What sets this mat apart is its commitment to sustainability. It’s made from sustainably harvested tree rubber, and unlike other rubber mats available, there are no toxic chemicals used in its creation.

The Manduka GRP Adapt Yoga Mat has limited color options and measures 71″ in length and 26″ in width with a thickness of 0.2″. The mat weighs 5 pounds – a little on the heavy side, but still portable enough for regular trips to the yoga studio.

The mat has received an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 118 ratings, so although I haven’t used this one myself, it would be my top pick if I went to a hot yoga class. Users have praised the mat’s superior grip, high absorption capacity, and the fact that it doesn’t require a towel even in the sweatiest of sessions. Some users have also appreciated the mat’s thickness, which provides excellent support during their yoga practice.

However, some people reported that the rubber smell is a bit too intense and that the mat leaves marks of hands and feet after use.

But overall, the Manduka GRP seems to be a great investment for yoga enthusiasts, especially those who practice hot yoga.

#4. Heathyoga ProGrip Non-Slip Yoga Mat

The Heathyoga ProGrip Yoga Mat is ideal for those with sweaty hands, offering incredible grip, alignment lines, and eco-friendly materials for various yoga practices.

Pros

• Reported to have excellent non-slip material and grip even when sweaty

• Alignment markers for tracking progress and maintaining proper posture

• Eco-friendly, odorless material

Cons

• Might not provide enough cushioning for those who prefer more support

• Requires specific rolling technique for storing

The Heathyoga ProGrip Non Slip Yoga Mat boasts a top layer made of polyurethane, a material well-known for its non-slip properties. This mat is designed to keep you in place even during challenging poses and provides an even stronger grip when sweating.

It’s perfect for all kinds of yoga practices, notably Bikram, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and Hot Yoga.

Another major draw of this mat is its instructional alignment marks that serve as helpful guides for tracking progress and keeping your body in proper alignment. (Ever since I tried a mat with alignment markers, I love them!)

These markers can assist in improving yoga skills quickly and accurately. Moreover, the mat is eco-friendly and odorless, made from SGS-certified materials, and contains no PVC, unlike other synthetic yoga mats on the market.

Although the Heathyoga ProGrip mat is large (72″ x 26″) and lightweight (2.65lb), its 5mm thickness may be a concern for some users who prefer more cushioned support. It’s important to note that when storing the mat, it should be rolled up with the front side facing outwards to prevent it from bunching up during the next use. Overall, the Heathyoga ProGrip Non Slip Yoga Mat is an affordable option for anyone seeking a solid quality, eco-friendly mat with decent grip.

#5. Hugger Mugger Para Rubber Yoga Mat

A funny-named mat with a serious grip, the Hugger Mugger Para Rubber Yoga Mat is said to be a great choice for those with particularly sweaty hands and feet.

Pros

• Superior, non-slip grip on both sides

• Eco-friendly and sustainably sourced renewable rubber

• Streaked with a colorful, serene pattern

Cons

• Heavier than most yoga mats at nearly 7 lbs

• May have a strong rubber smell initially

• Not suitable for individuals with latex allergy

The Hugger Mugger Para Rubber Yoga Mat stands out for its superior grip on both sides, and thanks to its open cell design, it offers extra stability during those super sweaty sessions. Made from eco-friendly and sustainably sourced renewable rubber, it’s not only a high-quality mat, but also a responsible choice for environmentally conscious individuals.

The biggest drawback of this mat is its weight is that weight a whopping 6.6 lbs, so you may find it more challenging to carry around, especially if you’re attending classes. Also, some users have reported a strong rubber smell initially, which can be off-putting.

The good news is that it should fade over time and its performance and durability make it worth considering for your yoga practice.

#6. IUGA Pro Non Slip Yoga Mat

With its impressive non-slip performance, eco-friendly material, and cute birdie logo, the IUGA Pro Yoga Mat is said to make practicing yoga comfortable and enjoyable for the sweaty-handed.

Pros

• Odorless and eco-friendly material

• Lightweight

• Excellent non-slip performance

Cons

• Slightly thinner than some other mats

• Longevity concern

The IUGA Pro Non Slip Yoga Mat offers an impressive combination of comfort, performance, and environmental consciousness. Designed with a skin-friendly and biodegradable material, this yoga mat ensures a fresh practice without that unpleasant rubbery smell. Despite weighing only 2.5 lbs, it is said to resist flaking, stretching, and falling apart, making it ideal for those who want a lightweight yet durable mat.

Thanks to its superior non-slip performance, the IUGA Pro Yoga Mat stands out for its ability to provide stability and support during even the sweatiest yoga sessions. The 5mm cushion base is a bit on the thin side but enough to provide both balance and comfort to enhance your practice. For those requiring extra space, the mat also comes in an extra-large size (72″ x 26″).

The mat is not in the budget category when it comes to price, but is still significantly cheaper than the other premium mats on this list. However, some users have found faults with it, such as being easily marked/damaged, squeaky, and difficult to keep clean.

That said, the IUGA Pro Non Slip Yoga Mat is still a good choice if you’re seeking a comfortable, eco-friendly, and high-performance mat for hot yoga at a middle-range price point.

#7 Gaiam Print Yoga Mat

The Gaiam Print Yoga Mat is an ideal choice if you want an affordable, lightweight, non-toxic, and aesthetically pleasing mat for basic poses.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable

• Budget option

• Non-toxic and eco-friendly materials

• Attractive design options

Cons

• May need extra cushion for sensitive joints

• Possible initial odor after unwrapping

• Good for basic poses, but not for intense, sweaty flows

The Gaiam Print Yoga Mat is designed to provide necessary cushioning while being lightweight. This makes it an ideal option for individuals who need to bring their mat to yoga classes or use it for home workouts. With an emphasis on eco-friendliness, Gaiam ensures that their mats are free of the top six most harmful phthalates, making it a healthier choice for you and the environment.

One notable feature of the Gaiam Print Yoga Mat is its sticky non-slip texture, which helps offer traction in various poses. Being made of PVC, this may not pass the down-dog test, but it should be enough to keep you from faceplanting during your flow. I also love the variety of beautiful designs it comes in. (Check out Aubergine Point and Winter Bloom!)

However, some users might find the cushioning insufficient for their sensitive joints, especially during longer sessions. By airing the mat out for 2-3 days after purchase, any initial odor should disappear. It’s essential to be mindful of potential slipperiness when sweaty, ensuring extra caution during intense workouts. Overall, the Gaiam Print Yoga Mat is a reliable option for those seeking a lightweight, eco-friendly, and visually inspiring mat for their yoga and fitness routines.

#8 Plyopic All-In-One Yoga Mat

Specially designed for the sweatiest among us, the Plyopic All-In-One Yoga Mat offers a visually awesome and practical way to stay centered during your most intense vinyasa flows.

Pros

• Great reported grip for sweaty hands and hot yoga

• Versatile design for yoga, pilates, and footwear-based exercises

• Dense 3.5mm rubber base offers enhanced stability and alignment

Cons

• A little heavy at 5+ lbs

• Something of a dust magnet

• May not be great for sensitive joints

I have to admit, my favorite thing about these mats is the vivid, beautiful designs. Galaxies, moon phases, and wildflowers are just a few of the many graphics you can get. But this mat isn’t all looks – its unique sweat-grip feature ensures that everyone – particularly those who sweat extensively – can maintain strong and confident poses with smooth transitions.

In addition to its sweat-specific design, it also comes with alignment lines, which are always a plus in my books. It is also a reversible mat that can be flipped over and used with footwear for gym or fitness exercises. Its middle-range price point makes it a reasonably affordable option.

However, it’s worth noting that its weight of 2.4 kilograms may make it a bit of a burden to lug to and from classes. Also, some users have found the mat attracts dust, and the 3.5mm thick rubber base doesn’t provide enough cushioning for sensitive knees.

Best Grip-Enhancing Accessories

Truthfully, you may not need the best yoga mat for sweaty hands, specifically; if you already have a mat, you might want to consider trying grip-enhancing accessories before investing in an entirely new mat. Here are a few options to consider:

Yoga-Stickers Yoga Paws

I bought these paws for my budget mat that I use in my home office whenever I have a few minutes to go through a flow. These adhesive gel stickers can be easily placed on the mat, offering extra grip and support during different poses. Unlike some non-adhesive alternatives, these stickers are intended to stay on the mat permanently.

The Yoga-Stickers Yoga Paws are designed to be long-lasting and comfortable, using a gel material to provide support for achy joints and increased stability on the mat. I like how cute they are, and I do find that they help me stay in down-dog more securely.

However, I would be remiss not to mention that there have been mixed reviews about the performance of the stickers from other people. I imagine it makes a difference the type of mat you try to adhere these to. That said, it’s a very affordable option, so you don’t have much to lose by trying it!

Yoga Socks or Gloves

Slipping on your yoga mat can sometimes be more about your sweaty palms and feet than the mat itself. This is where yoga socks and gloves come in handy. These nifty little accessories come with non-slip grips on the bottom, giving you the traction you need to hold your pose like a pro.

Manduka’s Yoga Grip Gel

Manduka’s Yoga Grip Gel is a specially designed product to improve the grip on your yoga mat. This non-antibacterial, non-toxic gel is like a secret weapon for your yoga mat. Apply it directly to your mat or even your hands and feet, and voila, no more slipping!

However, this gel plays best with closed-cell mats like the Manduka Pro or ProLite. Open-cell mats (like the Manduka GRP) and this gel are like oil and water – they just don’t mix.

Yoga Towel

A yoga towel can be a game-changer for those struggling with a slippery yoga mat during hot yoga or sweaty practices. These large, super-absorbent microfiber marvels are like a sponge for your sweat, reducing the chances of any slip-ups, making them the perfect sidekick for those intense hot yoga sessions.

Just roll out this towel over your yoga mat, covering every inch, and you’re good to go. The best part? You can toss it in the wash after each practice, keeping it fresh and ready for your next flow.

(Aside from gear, there are other things you can do; check out this guide to prevent slipping on your mat helpful!)

Buying Guide

We’ve looked at several of the best sticky yoga mat options, but the truth is there is no single best mat – there is only the best mat for you! So before you make a choice, consider each of the following factors first to ensure you’re making the best pick for your needs and preferences:

Material

The material of a yoga mat is the backbone of its performance. It determines the grip, durability, and overall feel of the mat. For sweaty hands, you’ll want to look for mats made from natural rubber, which is renowned for its excellent traction and slip-resistant properties and provides a secure platform for your practice. Many rubbers are also eco-friendly, which is important!

Some people like natural cork mats for grippiness, but I personally don’t find them as effective as rubber mats.

Thickness

Yoga mats come in a variety of thicknesses, each offering a different level of comfort and support. A thicker mat, around 6mm, provides more cushioning, ideal for those with sensitive joints or who enjoy restorative or Yin yoga. On the other hand, a thinner mat, around 3mm, allows better stability and balance, perfect for active styles like Vinyasa or Ashtanga. It’s all about finding the balance between comfort and functionality that suits your individual needs.

Texture

The texture of a yoga mat can be a game-changer for those with sweaty hands. A mat with a textured or patterned surface can provide extra grip, preventing your hands from sliding during poses. Look for mats featuring raised patterns, subtle lines, or ridges. Some mats even mimic the feel of a woven fabric or natural surface, offering an organic touch that can enhance your connection to your practice.

Size:

The size of your mat should accommodate your height and the style of yoga you practice. You want to ensure you have enough space for stretching out and moving through poses without feeling confined. A standard yoga mat is around 24 inches wide and 68–72 inches long, but if you’re taller or prefer more space, there are longer and wider options available.

Ease of Maintenance

Let’s face it, sweating is a part of exercising, and with sweat comes the potential for bacteria and odors. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a yoga mat that’s easy to clean and maintain. Mats made from closed-cell materials are more resistant to bacteria build-up and are a breeze to clean. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or a diluted vinegar mixture after each practice can keep your mat fresh and ready for your next session.

The only downside is that they’re not as grippy during hot yoga as an open-cell mat.

Cost

Last but not least, consider your budget. Yoga mats can range from budget-friendly to premium, with the cost often reflecting the quality of materials and design features. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that a good quality mat can be a worthwhile investment for your yoga journey. It’s about finding a balance between quality and affordability that suits your needs and lifestyle!

Frequently Asked Questions