If you need extra cushioning and your mat is too thin, fold it under your knees or wrists when you’re in a more challenging pose so that your joints are protected and you don’t suffer from any pain during or after practice By the time you’ve finished reading this post you’ll know all the options available to you, have a few myths debunked and be ready to choose the ideal mat according to your practice and personal needs. Ashleigh Morley is the editorial director of commerce for Verywell Fit and a certified barre instructor who uses yoga mats several times a week. While testing yoga mats in The Lab, she paid special attention to the versatility of each mat for different kinds of workouts (because yoga mats aren’t just for practicing yoga). Ashleigh conducted side-by-side comparisons of each mat and gathered first-hand data and insights. This mat feels a bit thinner than other mats we tested, so it would be better for faster-paced classes rather than restorative yoga. It would not be well suited for practices or exercises that require you to rest on your joints for a long period of time.

Adidas 8mm Yoga Exercise Mat - White | Health | Superdrug

The mat offers adequate cushioning and comes with a net carrying bag for portability. Made with durable PVC material, this makes a value-for money investment for the long run. While most mats made from natural rubber can be heavy, IUGA's Pro Non Slip Yoga Mat weighs in at a relatively light and comfortable-to-carry 2.2 pounds (the manufacturer records 2.8 pounds, but we found it to be lighter when we weighed it in our Lab). We also love that it comes with a carrying strap for trips to and from the studio or gym. We like the chic design of this mat with a curved top end and five color options. The surface of the mat is smooth, which makes it very comfortable, but it also offers good grip. We noted in testing that there was no sliding around even when sweaty, and poses felt secure, stable, and safe. Featuring a subtly textured surface to aid grip, the Mat’s ribbed base compliments its surface by enhancing both your traction and stability, combining to offer a well-rounded platform for you to enjoy each Yoga or Pilates session. Yoga mats are made from a variety of materials, both eco-friendly and synthetic. The most common materials used are PVC (polyvinyl chloride), TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), and natural rubber. PVC mats are easy to clean, durable, and long-lasting, but they aren’t considered eco-friendly. TPE mats feel more like rubber and can be recycled after use, whereas natural rubber mats like IUGA's Pro Non Slip Yoga Matare favored for their traction and slip resistance.Yoga mats are an incredibly versatile piece of fitness equipment and an integral part of many home workout routines. Whether you’re going to a local studio or practicing at home, having a quality yoga mat that provides the right amount of grip and support is critically important. Some mats have an extra layer of material inside them to give you that extra joint protection, such as an inner layer of antibacterial cotton that’s there to for added comfort as well as to keep your mat hygienic for longer. This sturdy mat from Gaiam has a pleasant blue and green lunar wave design that makes your practice feel luxurious. The mat is reversible, so you can choose whichever design suits your mood. However, this one is much denser than the previous mats. And so this means that this is a yoga mat for bad knees only if you also use a knee pad or a blanket on top to allow for a softer surface for your knees. Features to love about the Manduka Pro Yoga Mat: For more fitness, fashion and technology releases delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our GQ Recommends newsletter. Shop GQ’s edit of the best yoga mats you can buy…

Best thick yoga mats: stay comfy and protect your joints Best thick yoga mats: stay comfy and protect your joints

Best yet, it can be folded neatly as small as an A4 sheet of paper, allowing you to fit it into your bag and carry it around easily. Delivering both durability and cushioning with an EVA/TPE foam blend, the adidas 8 mm Yoga Mats bring greater comfort to your poses with a medium density feel offering extra stability. Made entirely from non-toxic materials with zero use of PVC, the 8 mm Yoga Mats bring peace of mind to your yoga classes. The key disadvantage of this type of yoga mat is that if you like a bit of extra cushioning, this may not be the yoga mat for you. Who is this perfect for? We noticed that the size of this mat can make it a little cumbersome to roll up and bulky to travel with. But the texture and grip keep it rolled well, to help improves your daily practice. Built for yoga, Pilates and general ground exercise, the 8mm mat provides cushioning and stability; with a non-slip texture increasing traction for stronger and more rooted poses.

Looking for a durable mat that will last, literally, a whole lifetime? Step forward, the Manduka Pro. It’s called Pro for a reason: it’s a serious piece of kit, with a serious price tag, which will really suit hardcore yogis and those looking to delve deeper into the practice. Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more.