The best yoga mats: 6 perfect picks worth the investment

Truth be told: I've never understood the appeal of yoga mats, let alone finding one of the best yoga mats on the market. See, not only am I the least zen person on the planet (and have no shame!) but as a former collegiate athlete, when I feel an ache or pain rapidly approaching, nine times out of ten, I'll grab a foam roller or indulge in an ice bath. 

A yoga mat has and will always be the last thing from my mind — or at least, up until last year it was. 

Last year (right before COVID struck), my best friend and I attended an after-work workout class led by one of those Instagram-famous fitness trainers. Mid-way through the workout, I felt out-of-shape, and my muscles were cramping in places I didn't even know was possible — and as someone who works out four to five times a week, you can understand my confusion. 

When the class finally came to a close — and I rushed to grab my bag and get out of there as fast as possible — the trainer said there was one more part of the class; which is where she proceeded to hand out yoga mats (which we later were able to keep). 

Here, the trainer explained that yoga mats weren't just for mediation or working downward dog (although, if that's your thing: go for it!), but having a yoga mat (like the one she handed out) was an essential part of any workout regimen. 

While exercise or pilates mats are stellar options (I have no qualms against them), a yoga mat is phenomenal for anyone trying to improve their stability while preventing bone and muscle fatigue. Which meant, if you've just endured a rigorous workout as I had, a yoga mat was what my body needed right about now. 

Now, I fully understand some of you might not have been as lucky as me and gifted one of the best yoga mats, and in that case: fear not! Today is your lucky day. 

Whether you're like me and looking for ways to avoid muscle fatigue post-workout or are hoping to keep your chakras in check, we've not only rounded up a handful of yoga mats; we've rounded up the best yoga mats on the market. We've trialed and tested dozens to find you the best options for every price point, level of expertise, and size.

Don't believe us? Continue scrolling to see the six best yoga mats — and don't forget to check out our best dumbbell buying guide! 

The six best yoga mats to invest in:

Hard-pressed that you will find a yoga mat better than the Yogi Bare Paws; this mat is undoubtedly the best option available on the market (if not in the top five), and why are we so smitten over this one? 

Good for the planet

Easy, let us start with the basics: this made is constructed from 100% natural PU rubber, eco-friendly, biodegradable, and recyclable (after use, of course). But, why is this such a gamechanger? Well, since we're living in a world where sustainability is key, and we need solutions in terms of reducing our carbon footprint? This mat seems like a pretty safe bet (for us and the environment). 

Features

In the event you lack grace or coordination, rest assured, you're not alone. This mat will not only help with your stability but provide the marks you'll need to perfect your position. But how? Here, users will notice a 'central line design' that acts as a marker on where you should (and shouldn't) place your hands and feet. All you have to do is follow them to the end, and ta-da — you're look like a pro, whether you are or not. 

Design

Sure, we hit briefly on its design in the last section, but let us further elaborate: this mat is perfection. It features an extreme non-slip grip; that offers an extra firm perforated rubber surface to stop sweaty hands and feet from slipping during practices. Which if asking us? Absolute magic! 

Here, you can endure rigorous exercises for hours on end and never have to interrupt your workout to wipe your mat down. This is even more exceptional since this mat is suitable for everything from Bikram/Hot Yoga to HIIT training! 

Another top contender is the IUYGA Yoga Mat; it's ideal for those who are not looking to compromise comfort for performance. 

Suitable for

Whether attending a HIIT class on the weekends, pilates on the weekdays, yoga occasionally or simply looking for an at-home mat, this option offers it all. Plus, it is suitable for everything you throw its way. 

Design

This mat is 100% eco-friendly and completely free of latex, PVC, and other harmful materials. However, there is no need to worry about this mat lacking in design, we assure you: this mat is superior.

Here, this mat features a polyurethane top layer that absorbs sweat and ensures a slip-free surface. This mat is perfect for those who are worried about sweaty sessions resulting in unsafe sessions. 

Features

This perfect piece also offers peace of mind and will no show signs of wear and tear of time. Additionally, there is no flaking, stretching, or falling about either. This mat weighs roughly 2.5lbs — half the weight of traditional rubber yoga mats — and was designed for the long haul. 

Are you a fan of hot yoga — if so, we highly recommend turning your attention to the Aurorae Synergy yoga mat (as users will find it particularly beneficial). 

First of its kind

The one major takeaway about this yoga mat? This mat is a league of its own and the first product of its kind; it bonds the bottom surface with a 5mm patented material and has a lush, non-slip microfiber towel on top. 

Design

This mat is 5mm thick and is foldable. In addition to that, this mat is SGS tested, free-from latex, silicone, and phthalates, too. More importantly: it's design favors function over anything else. All of the five available colors offer a non-slip experience that provides a strong grip.  

The TOPLUS yoga mat is brilliant for sweaty yogis or if you want something to use on a slippery floor.

Good for the environment

The upgraded TOPLUS Yoga mat is made with premium TPE friendly material. While the brand notes this is design comes at a pricer cost to them, they have no regrets. Compared to the traditional non-green PVC, NBR, and EVA yoga mats, this mat — and the TPE material — it's made of, offers the latest technological improvements on the market.  

Design

This 1/4-inch thick yoga mat provides a double-sided, non-slip texture that includes a superior grip suitable for wood floor, tile floor, and even cement. Plus, the material is flexible and stretched for durability and cushion. 

Support

In the event your someone who is dealing with achy joints, bad knees, or in need of a little added support? You're in luck. This mat provides all of the above and is the optimal level of support and cushion is highly favored amongst current users. 

Another fantastic option — and #1 bestseller — is this BalanceFrom GoYoga All-Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Mat.  

Versatility

Available in seven sensational shades, every option measures 71" long 24" wide. According to the brand, this mat easily adjusts to any user's weight or size, and the material is flexible. Plus, you can use this mat for anything from hot yoga to HIIT classes. 

Design

Like our other recommendations, this mat features a double-sided non-slip surface, resistant to sweat, and looks to avoid any injuries. The moisture-resistant technology is easy to wash with soap and water, and the added strap makes it easy to carry from one location to the next. 

Lastly, if you're new to yoga — or yoga mats — the Yogi Bare Paws is designed for all beginners out there. 

Why we love it

It offers a similar experience to that of the Yogi Bare Paws – our top favorite yoga mat – since it has body alignment lines to ensure your feet and hands are in the correct places. 

Good for the environment

Furthermore, this mat is also eco-friendly and made from TPE, while it boasts a double-layer structure design for optimum grip and cushioning. 

Design

In addition, to its wide range of colors (there are six in total!), there's also a carrying strap to easily transport this version from one area to the next. And, as if that wasn't favorable enough? This mat is slightly wider than other mats at 26-inches; here, this 72-inch version will accommodate all heights and sizes.

How to choose the best yoga mat

When choosing a yoga mat, be sure to bear in mind some key features from its price to its size. You'll also want to consider what kind of exercises you'll be using it for. A thicker mat is great for meditation, but won't be as good for your latest Joe Wicks workout.

Make sure you consider the eco-credentials of the product and whether it can be recycled once it's worn out. 

And finally, if you plan to take your yoga mat to the gym with you, make sure you choose one with a strap and carry handle. If you're only using it for home workouts, there's no point paying extra for these features.