I’m always tempted to buy my yoga mat and workout gear from Target. It’s easy, convenient, cheap. And I can get my groceries at the same time? SOLD. While there’s nothing wrong with this, there are a ton of excellent options out there, and there’s something to be said for taking the time to pick the best one for you. Most noticeably, it can change your practice and the way you relate to yoga.
You might not know it, but your current mat may be too grippy, too slippery, or not padded enough. And if you’re like me, you grabbed the generic one and thought it was a one-size-fits-all—not knowing what a difference a quality yoga mat can make. For instance, if you travel frequently, have chronic injuries, are on a budget, or just want to be the coolest yogi in your class, having a better mat will up your yoga game.
However, deciding which yoga mat is the right one for you can take some time, and most of us don’t have too much extra of that. While some studios have different mats to try out, this isn’t always an option. Additionally, purchasing a few of these can quickly add up. That’s why we’ve done the dirty work and scoured the yoga world for the most well-loved mats. In our inclusive buying guide, you’ll find something for the beginner yogi, something for the pro and something for everyone in between.
Best Yoga Mat for Travel
Manduka eKO SuperLite
Price: $44
Size: 71″x 24″
Thickness: 1.5mm
Weight: 2lbs
Why we love it:
The ultimate mat for the traveling yogi. First, it’s bendy so packs down easily. Second, it’s very lightweight. Additionally, it has a natural rubber grip, is sustainably made, and biodegradable, so you can feel good about purchasing it. Like all Manduka products, it’s durable and well-made, and is hygienic with a closed-cell construction. This mat is best for anyone who travels or for the lunch-hour yogi.
Compare Prices: REI Ι Moosejaw Ι Amazon
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Best Budget-friendly Yoga Mat
Gaiam Print Premium
Price: $30
Size: 68″x 24″
Thickness: 6mm
Weight: 2lbs
Why we love it:
Gaiam has many quality yoga products, and this mat doesn’t fall short. It comes in a variety of fun and colorful patterns so you can stand out in the crowd. In addition, it’s lightweight, but has a lot of cushion, which is great for comfort and anyone with joint issues. A few more pros, it’s got good grip and is eco-friendly and durable. Most importantly, it won’t break the bank. We recommend this mat for the beginner yogi.
Check Price: Amazon
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Most Popular Yoga Mat
Manduka PROLite
Price: $92
Size: 71 x 24”
Thickness: 4.5mm
Weight: 4lbs
Why we love it:
The holy grail of yoga mats. While the price tag is a bit steeper, this is a mat you’ll keep for life. It’s first pro is that it’s thick and comfortable with lots of cushion for anyone wanting some more comfort while they practice yoga. Additionally, the grip is great, so you can take this into a warmer yoga class and not worry about slipping. Like most Manduka mats, it’s sustainably made, hygienic and has a closed-cell construction. We recommend this product for the veteran yogi who wants to treat themselves or for anyone with joint or pain issues.
Compare Prices: REI Ι Backcountry Ι Moosejaw Ι Amazon
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Grippiest Yoga Mat
Jade Fusion
Price: $135
Size: 68” x 24”
Thickness: 7.5mm
Weight: 7lbs
Why we love it:
Steep price tag, but totally worth it. This Jade mat is extra grippy providing major slip-resistance. It even stays grippy with perspiration on the mat, making it perfect for a hot yoga class. Like other Jade products, this mat is open cell, natural rubber, and non-toxic. It’s also durable and very cushioned (the thickest mat on our list), providing extra comfort for your yoga session. Go ahead, sweat it out!
Check Price: REI
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Yoga Mats with Fun, Motivating Prints
Society 6 Travel Mat
Price: $32
Size: 70”x 24″
Thickness: 6.35mm
Weight: 3.6lbs
Why we love it:
Society 6 offers a unique way to enjoy yoga with mats adorned with fun prints and phrases. If you’re looking for some extra inspo or a conversation starter, look no further than their chic selection of yoga mats. This one is extra comfy, thick and durable. It includes a carrying strap which makes rolling in and out of class a breeze.
Check Price: Amazon
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The “Take your practice to next level” Yoga Mat
Liforme
Price: $150
Size: 72”x 26”
Thickness: 4.2mm
Weight: 5.5lbs
Why we love it:
The Liforme has a unique “align for me” alignment system which makes practicing certain poses easier and more consistent. Additionally, this mat has great grip and is eco-friendly. It even includes a mat bag. This is best for the veteran yogi who wants to elevate their practice or for someone interested in alignment-based classes.
Check Price: Amazon
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Here are all of the best yoga mats summarized in a chart:
| Category | Yoga Mat | Price | Thickness | Weight | What we love |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travel | Manduka eKO SuperLite | $44 | 1.5mm | 2 lbs | Lightweight and packs down easy |
| Budget-friendly | Gaiam Print Premium | $30 | 6mm | 2 lbs | Good quality for the price and extra cushion |
| Most popular | Manduka ProLite | $92 | 4.5mm | 4 lbs | Performance grip and comfortability |
| Grippiest | Jade Fusion | $135 | 7.5mm | 7 lbs | Extra grip and extra cushion |
| Fun, motivating prints | Society 6 Travel Mat | $32 | 6.35mm | 2.5 lbs | Unique prints and phrases |
| Take your practice to the next level | Liforme Yoga Mat | $150 | 4.2mm | 5.5 lbs | Unique “AlignForMe” alignment system |
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