The 7 Best Yoga Mats Overall – My Top Picks for 2023

Let’s be honest—juggling work, family, and social life leaves little time for exercise, let alone actually making it to the gym. But here’s the good news: You don’t need to step out of your home to get fit. All you really need is a quality yoga mat to transform any corner of your home into your personal yoga studio or workout space.

A quality yoga mat is more than just an accessory; it’s your partner in carving out those precious moments for yourself. Ready to find the best yoga mat that suits your needs? Here’s my curated list based on the many mats I’ve used over the years.

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.

Overview

1. Manduka Prolite: Best Overall

When it comes to yoga mats, the Manduka Prolite stands out as the best overall choice. Crafted with closed-cell PVC material, this mat offers a perfect blend of cushioning and durability. Whether you’re doing restorative yoga or sweating it out in hot yoga classes, this mat provides great grip and support.

Its textured surface ensures that your hands and feet won’t slip, even during a challenging downward dog. It’s also a versatile mat that you can use as a workout mat for other forms of exercise.

Why I Love the Manduka Prolite

The Manduka Prolite is my top pick for overall use. It’s durable and high-quality at a reasonable price point. It also provides a stable and grippy surface that allows you to focus on your yoga practice without worrying about slipping.

There is a bit of a break-in period, but for me it was minimal. Once it’s broken in, it’s a fantastic companion to have in your practice. (Interested to learn more? Read my full Manduka mat review.)

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Great grip and support

  • Durable and long-lasting

  • Versatile for various yoga practices and workouts

• Cons:

  • Not the best pick for hot yoga

  • Requires a break-in period

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2. BMat: Best for Grip and Non-Slippage

If you’re looking for a mat that will keep you grounded, look no further than the BMat. Made from 100% natural rubber, this mat is the epitome of stability. It’s especially great for hot yoga practices where you’re prone to sweating a lot.

The surface of the mat has a sticky quality that ensures you stay put during your yoga sessions. Whether you’re a certified personal trainer or someone who loves their home-based yoga class, this is a mat that won’t disappoint.

Why I Love the BMat

This hands down the grippiest mat I’ve ever used. Most yoga mats turn into a slip n’ slide before long, but not with the BMat! Even in downward facing doc, I never slip, even when I get really sweaty. The natural rubber provides an incredibly sticky mat surface that keeps your hands and feet exactly where you place them.

The only downside with this one is that it does show signs of wear and tear after a couple of years; I started noticing flakes of rubber after about two years of use.

Read this round-up mat review for more great options if you slide around a lot or get really sweaty.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Exceptional grip

  • Made from 100% natural rubber

  • Excellent for hot yoga

• Cons:

  • Strong rubber smell

  • May not be ideal for those with rubber allergies

3. Gorilla Exercise Mat: Best for Carpet or Hardwood

The Gorilla Exercise Mat is specifically designed to provide a stable surface on either carpet or hardwood floors. This double-sided yoga mat is made from high-density foam, making it ideal for cushioning your body during yoga sessions.

The mat is also versatile enough to be used as a play mat or a workout mat for various forms of exercise. Its textured surface ensures that you’ll have a non-slip yoga mat, providing you with the stability you need to focus on your yoga practice.

Why I Like the Gorilla Exercise Mat

The Gorilla Exercise Mat is best for multi-purpose use cases. With its high-density foam, this mat provides excellent cushioning, allowing you to focus on your yoga poses rather than worrying about discomfort. It’s also incredibly easy to clean; a simple wipe down is all you need to keep this mat in top condition.

Its versatility also extends beyond yoga, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a mat that can also be used for other workouts. I used to do high-intensity, high-impact training on this puppy, – with my shoes on – and it stands up to the punishment beautifully.

The drawback? It’s a beast to lug around. If you need something you can carry back and forth to yoga class, this mat ain’t it. Although, it does come with a carrying case so you can roll it up and tuck it out of the way when you need to.

Want to get specific about mats based on floor type? Check out my roundup of best workout mats for hardwood, and the best for carpet.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Versatile for various surfaces like carpet or hardwood

  • Easy to clean

  • High-density foam for extra cushioning

• Cons:

  • Expensive

  • Not the grippiest mat

  • Heavy— not great for toting around

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4. Umineux Extra Thick Yoga Mat: Best Under $50

If you’re on a budget but still want a quality yoga mat, the Umineux Extra Thick Yoga Mat is a great choice. Made from eco-friendly TPE material, this mat is not only affordable but also kind to the environment. It’s an extra thick mat, providing ample cushioning for your joints. This mat comes with a carrying bag, making it a lightweight yoga mat that you can easily take to your yoga studio or classes.

Why I Like the Umineux Extra Thick Yoga Mat

I bought this a few months ago to keep in my home office. I roll it out every now and then during lunch to do 15-20 minutes of yoga and pilates, and it’s perfect for that purpose. I do find I slip a bit in downward facing dog, but with I got some yoga paws to put on it, and it helps me stay in place.

The Umineux also comes in an array of beautiful colors, which is always a plus. (I got the mint and grey one!)

Overall, this mat is a very affordable solution for yoga practitioners. The extra thickness provides the cushioning you need, especially if you’re into restorative yoga or have sensitive joints.

I also appreciate that it comes with a carrying bag, making it convenient to take to yoga classes or even on trips. Its eco-friendly material is a big plus, especially if you’re mindful of your environmental impact.

Interested in more budget picks like the Gaiam mat and Vione hot yoga mat? Check out my comprehensive roundup of the best budget-friendly picks.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Affordable

  • Eco-friendly TPE material

  • Comes with a carrying bag

• Cons:

  • Not the most durable

  • May not be ideal for hot yoga due to being a less grippy mat

5. Jade Mat Extra Thick: Best for Bad Knees

If you have sensitive joints or bad knees, the Jade Mat Extra Thick is your go-to option. Made from natural rubber tapped from rubber trees, this mat offers premium quality and exceptional cushioning. It’s an extra thick mat that provides both comfort and stability, ideal for those looking to protect their joints during yoga sessions.

Why I Like the Jade Mat Extra Thick

The Jade Mat was one of the most comfortable mats I’ve ever used. The extra thickness of the fushion is perfect for someone like me who appreciates a bit more cushioning during yoga sessions. It feels like a soft yet firm support under your joints, which is especially helpful when I’m doing poses that put pressure on my knees.

Fair warning, though, I found this mat wasn’t super durable over the long term; there were clear signs of disintegration near the top and bottom of the mat, where my hands and feet frequently are. (Read about more great mat options for sensitive knees.)

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Exceptional cushioning for joints

  • Made from natural rubber

  • Jade Yoga plants a tree for every mat sold

• Cons:

  • Not the most durable over time

  • Slightly more expensive

6. Gorilla Premium Large Mat: Best for Durability and Large Space

If you need a mat that covers a large area, the Gorilla Premium Large Mat is a fantastic choice. This extra-large version is built to last, capable of withstanding the impact of shoes and heavy dumbbells without showing signs of wear. Not only does it provide a large workout space, but it also includes a towel, a carrying bag, and straps, making it a complete package for home workouts.

Why I Like the Gorilla Premium Large Mat

Like we covered earlier, the Gorilla Mats are built to last. I’ve dropped my dumbbells on it, and exercised in my shoes, and it has never made so much as a dent. If you’re serious about setting up a home gym, this extra-large version mat provides the space and durability you need. Plus, the included towel is perfect for wiping away moisture, and absorbing sweat, which is a nice touch.

Again, it’s super heavy so not good for yoga classes. It’s also one of the most expensive mats you can buy, which may not be ideal if you’re on a budget.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Extremely durable

  • Covers a large area

  • Includes towel, carrying bag, and straps

• Cons:

  • Very heavy and not easily transportable

  • Expensive

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7. Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat: Best for Travel

The Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat is a lightweight mat perfect for those who love to practice yoga on the go. This ultra-portable mat rolls and folds easily, fitting into a carry-on with no problems. Made from biodegradable, 100% natural tree rubber, it’s a sustainable choice for the eco-conscious traveler.

Why I Like the Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat

I bought one of these years ago for a trip to the Bahamas. It folded up so nicely that I was able to pack it in my carry-on. (I never travel with a suitcase I need to check in!)

The grip and quality are really good, as to be expected with Manduka mats. However, it’s super thin, so practicing on hard or tiled floors proved to be a bit painful on the knees, but that’s the price you pay for portability. If you can, try to find a thin carpet to roll it out over or lay a towel over it.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Ultra-portable

  • High-quality grip

  • Eco-friendly material

• Cons:

  • Thin, less cushioning for joints

  • Not ideal for hard or tiled floors

How to Choose the Best Yoga Mat

We’ve reviewed a variety of yoga mats, each with its own unique set of features and benefits, tailored for different needs and yoga practices. From mats designed for durability to inexpensive mats to those perfect for travel, we’ve covered a broad spectrum.

But how do you determine which one is the best yoga mat for you? In this section, we’ll dive into the key factors you should consider when choosing a mat that best aligns with your personal needs, preferences, and yoga practice.

Material: Natural vs. Synthetic

When it comes to the material of a yoga mat, you generally have two options: natural or synthetic. Natural materials like cork or rubber provide excellent grip and are eco-friendly. For example, the Jade Mat Extra Thick is made from natural rubber, which not only offers great cushioning but also contributes to sustainability, as a tree is planted for every mat sold.

On the other hand, synthetic materials like PVC or TPE can be more affordable and offer their own sets of benefits, like durability and ease of cleaning. The Umineux Extra Thick Yoga Mat is a great example. Made from eco-friendly TPE material, it’s budget-friendly and easy to maintain.

Thickness: Thin, Standard, or Extra Cushioning?

The thickness of your yoga mat can greatly impact your comfort, especially if you have sensitive joints. A thicker mat like the Jade Mat Extra Thick offers exceptional cushioning, making it ideal for anyone who has bad knees or prefers a softer surface.

This can be particularly helpful in poses that put pressure on your joints, such as kneeling poses or any posture that requires you to put weight on your hands and knees.

However, if you’re someone who prefers to feel the ground beneath you for better stability, a thinner mat may be more up your alley. The Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat is super thin, making it great for those who want closer contact with the floor. But beware, this may not offer the cushioning needed for sensitive joints.

Size: Standard vs. Extra Large

The size of the mat can also be a deciding factor, especially if you have a specific practice area in mind. Standard yoga mats are generally sufficient for most yoga practices, but if you’re planning on using your mat for more than just yoga, you might want to consider something larger.

The Gorilla Premium Large Mat is perfect for those who need more room for their practice or other forms of exercise. It’s large enough for any cardio, strength, or dance workout, effectively transforming any room in your house into your personal gym. On the flip side, if you’re limited on space or need something portable, the standard-sized Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat or Umineux Extra Thick Yoga Mat would be more suitable.

Grip and Texture: How to Avoid Slipping

Grip and texture are crucial elements in a yoga mat, especially if you’re into hot yoga or have a vigorous practice that includes a lot of movement. A mat with good grip will help you maintain your poses without slipping, even when you’re sweating.

The BMat and Manduka Prolite are my top picks for grip. However, if you practice hot yoga, then you’ll want an open cell rubber mat that absorbs sweat and helps you stay in place even when there’s a lot of moisture.

However, if you prefer a more natural feel, cork mats offer a great grip that actually improves when wet. Unfortunately, none of the mats we reviewed are made of cork, but many quality yoga mats on the market offer this feature. Just be mindful that a cork yoga mat usually requires a bit of a break-in period to reach its full grippy potential.

Portability: Travel-Friendly vs. Home Use

If you’re a yoga instructor, someone who travels frequently or likes to take your yoga practice on the go, a lightweight and foldable mat is a must. The Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat is perfect for this, as it easily rolls and folds, fitting conveniently into a carry-on. Its 1.5mm thickness makes it ultra-portable, though it sacrifices a bit on the cushioning front.

On the other hand, if you mostly practice at home or have a dedicated space for yoga, portability might not be a top concern. In this case, a thicker, more luxurious mat like the Jade Mat Extra Thick or Gorilla Premium Large Mat would be more suitable. These mats offer excellent cushioning and durability but are not designed for easy transport.

Durability: How Long Will Your Mat Last?

When investing in a yoga mat, you’ll want something that can withstand the test of time. If durability is a major concern for you, the Gorilla Premium Large Mat is a fantastic option. Built to last, this mat can withstand the impact of heavy dumbbells and shoes, making it ideal for a home gym setting.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a mat specifically for yoga and want something that’s built to last, the Jade Mat Extra Thick is made from natural rubber and offers exceptional durability along with its cushioning. However, it’s worth noting that natural rubber mats like this one can begin to wear out over time, especially with frequent use, so they may require replacement sooner than synthetic options.

Sustainability: Eco-Friendly Options

In today’s world, sustainability is more important than ever, and many of us want to make eco-friendly choices where we can. If this is a priority for you, you’ll want to look for a mat made from sustainable materials. The Jade Mat Extra Thick stands out here, made from natural rubber tapped from rubber trees. Plus, for every mat sold, Jade Yoga plants a tree, allowing you to contribute to a greener planet.

Another eco-friendly option is the Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat, made from biodegradable, 100% natural tree rubber. It’s free from PVC, harmful plasticizers, and toxic foaming agents, making it a sustainable choice for the eco-conscious traveler or home practitioner.

Ease of Cleaning: Keep Your Mat Fresh

Keeping your yoga mat clean is crucial for hygiene, especially if you’re engaging in hot yoga practices where sweating is inevitable. Some yoga mats are easier to clean than others, so this could be a deciding factor depending on your yoga practice. Mats like the Umineux Extra Thick Yoga Mat are made from TPE material, which is generally easier to clean; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth will usually do the trick.

On the other hand, natural rubber mats like the Jade Mat Extra Thick might require a specialized cleaner to maintain their texture and grip. Always check the cleaning instructions for your specific mat to ensure you’re not damaging it in the process of trying to keep it fresh.

Final Thoughts on the Best Yoga Mats

We’ve rolled out all the details for you, from the best yoga mats designed for durability, like the Gorilla Premium Large Mat to travel-friendly options like the Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat. Whether you’re looking for a mat with great grip for those intense hot yoga classes, or something with extra cushioning for a more restorative yoga practice, there’s a perfect yoga mat out there for you. We’ve even touched on sustainability and ease of cleaning to keep your yoga practice as fresh and eco-friendly as possible.

So go ahead, roll out your new mat, and let your yoga journey unfold. Whether you’re a hot yoga enthusiast or a certified personal trainer, the right mat can truly transform your practice.

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