Best yoga mat

A yoga mat that is comfortable and strategically designed is a key component of any yoga practice. It can set a professional yogi apart from a beginner because there are multiple mat styles to accommodate multiple yoga types. A mat that works perfectly in your hot yoga class may fall short during your early-morning outdoor routine. This is because yoga mats have unique textures, depths, and features to prevent injury as you pose in your preferred environment. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned vet, these are the best yoga mats for your money.

Most yoga mats are 4 to 6-millimeters thick. The Gaiam Essentials mat measures a bit thicker at 10.16 millimeters, giving you a little more cushioning for floor poses, warming up, pilates, and general exercise. The ribbed outer surface is a great feature because it helps with the grip and stability of your hands and feet. This mat is hand washable, great for beginners and those who focus on floor poses, and comes in multiple colors.

This model from BalanceFrom is an all-purpose 1-inch-thick mat that doubles as an exercise mat. The generous, cushiony foam absorbs impact and provides a lot of give as you learn to hold floor poses or meditate for extended periods. BalanceFrom's mat has a double-sided non-slip surface and is moisture resistant. The included strap wraps around your mat, giving you a way to haul it around and minimize its size for storage.

Gaiam printed yoga mat is 6-millimeters thick and provides a good amount of cushioning for beginners and advanced yogis. This lightweight model comes in 20 different prints and has a highly textured and grippy surface that helps you hold your asanas longer and give you better foot traction. The Gaiam mat is PVC and 6P-free, so it's good for the planet, too. If you need an inexpensive mat for home, travel, or classes, this is the one to get.

Those starting out or getting back into yoga will benefit from the instructional poses printed on the NewMe mat. Illustrations of 70 asanas decorate this indoor/outdoor mat, taking the guesswork out of your form and flow questions while working out at home and alleviating the need to stream a yoga class or consult your favorite pose book. The printed poses are long-lasting and do not wear off over time, and you can grab this mat in multiple colors.

The JadeYoga Harmony comes in two lengths and eight colors and is the best pick for any yoga practice, including hot yoga. Thanks to its all-natural rubber construction and slight texture, the Harmony is grippy on the hands and feet without being overly sticky. The mat's surface is soft without being bouncy and wonderful for everything from balance poses to downward dogs. Like all JadeYoga mats, this one is toxin-free and contains no PVCs, phthalates, heavy metals, or chemicals. 

This high-performance yoga mat from Manduka is expansive and heavy, measuring 71 inches long and weighing over 7 pounds. So, those looking for a substantial mat will love this option. The mat has a closed-cell surface, which delivers phenomenal grip and joint protection while wicking away sweat. Use this multifunctional mat for your relaxing morning practice or an intense workout. When storing the Manduka mat, roll it with the fabric-finish surface facing outwards to ensure that the corners remain flat.

Bottom line

Pairing your yoga routine with a yoga mat that is designed for your type of practice is a great way to elevate your abilities. 

Yoga mats like the one from Gaiam Essentials are good for beginners and those who spend a lot of time working on floor poses. The thicker foam cushions movements, while the ribbed surface gives some much-needed grip. Gaiam Essentials has an integrated cinch carrying handle and is available in several colors.

Yoga mats like the BalanceFrom GoCloud yoga mat are great for everyday use and compatible with various forms of yoga as they feature a balanced mixture of essential components such as non-slip grip and adequate cushioning. 

The JadeYoga Harmony mat is made from natural rubber and works well for every yoga style. It's available in two lengths and multiple colors and is a yoga mat that will last for years to come. The grip is phenomenal, and it's comfortable enough to hold seated poses for long periods and balance on your knees.

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