13 Best Yoga Mats in 2023 That'll Get You Through Your Toughest Workouts
By Jennifer Hussein
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You don't have to be a die-hard yogi to get great use out of the best yoga mats on the market. Whether you're practicing your first downward dog or are a seasoned vet of headstands (or, as professional yogis call this pose, adho mukha vrksasana), you can use yoga mats for a wide range of floor-based activities beyond the beloved fitness practice. These squishy picks can also be used to provide cushioning support during stretching, HIIT workouts, pilates, you name it.
Kind of like snowflakes, the beauty of these exercise mats is that they come in an array of materials, thicknesses, and sizes to choose from. There are extra-thick mats that are ideal for anyone who needs added support, options with an excellent grip that comes in handy during super-sweaty workouts like hot yoga, and ultra-long mats for taller folks. Basically, there is a seemingly infinite array of yoga mats to fit your at-home workout needs these days, so we compiled the best of the best to take any guesswork out of the equation.
Without further ado, take a look at the following 13 multifunctional yoga mats that will support beginners and pros alike during their home practice.
As its name suggests, Bala's The Play Mat was made to handle any posture you find yourself experimenting with. It's five millimeters thick, which is the usual thickness of most standard yoga mats, but what makes this rubber mat special is its nonslip, antimicrobial, and waterproof polyurethane top layer.
Youur next vinyasa yoga session will be smooth sailing when you whip out Luluemon's The Workout Mat. This six-millimeter mat has a textured surface that has a great grip so you can flow into your asana with total ease. Its closed-cell texture also keeps moisture and sweat out to repel any odor-causing bacteria.
For the ultimate no-budge grip, Allure commerce writer Jennifer Hussein relies on the Hugger Mugger Earth Elements Yoga Mat. "Over a year ago, my yoga teacher recommended this mat, and I've sworn by it ever since," she says. "My feet and hands never feel slippery or sweaty when I use it, so a yoga towel is never necessary." She also notes that this five-millimeter mat provides extra cushioning during poses that are usually uncomfortable on her wrists. With that being said, keep in mind that this yoga mat is made from a biodegradable rubber alternative that'll wear down in extreme heat, so you don't want to use it during a hot yoga class.
Those who are taller will want to grab the Nike Mastery Long Yoga Mat, stat. This extra-long mat is five millimeters thick and is made from a natural stone rubber base to keep you cool and provide grip and support as you flow through your yoga practice.
Through the All In Motion Natural Cork TPE Yoga Mat, you can have the non-irritating grip of cork and the comfort of squishy thermoplastic elastomer (also known as TPE) in one comfy yoga mat. Like most mats, it clocks in at five millimeters in thickness, but it stands out through its lightweight feel, portability, and under-$50 price tag.
On the hunt for a thicker mat? Look no further than the Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat. This thicker option is half an inch thick to provide much-needed comfort and relief where you need it most and it has a textured top layer for traction. Not to mention, it already comes with its own carry-on strap so you can easily tote it to your yoga studio.
If you want a slightly thinner mat, the Athleta Flow Freely Yoga Mat is a stellar option. It's four and a half millimeters in thickness and swaps materials like polyvinyl chloride (also known as PVC) for a plant-based Yulex rubber. Keep in mind that that means this mat is not suitable for hot yoga practices.
Alo Yoga's Warrior Mat features a matte rubber top that minimizes moisture retention, prevents slippage, and won't allow odors to form. It also comes in pretty colors, like the muted mauve shade pictured above, jungle green, white with metallic detailing, and classic black.
Manduka's Prolite Yoga Mat comes in an array of fun colors like bright blue (pictured above), millennial pink, forest green, purple, and more. Allure deputy digital editor Kara McGrath loves it because it's extra cushiony, comes in two sizes (standard and tall), and because it's made of high-quality PVC material that won't peel, flake, or fade no matter how much you use it. It also features a special dot pattern, which helps to prevent sliding during sweat-drenched workout sessions.
Allure contributor Kat Suico swears by Repose Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat, as it features a nonslip surface made of natural rubber padding that gets her through even the hottest of workouts. Additionally, its cork exterior makes it extremely durable — not to mention better for the environment because it doesn't contain plastic.
Some of our editors with back or knee problems say they appreciate Gaiam's Thick Yoga Mat as it provides added support and an ultra-cushiony feel. What's more, its fabric features what's known as "closed-cell construction," a technology that works to wick away germs, odor, and bacteria. (We would still recommend always wiping your mat down after using it, but this is a nice feature nonetheless.) Its cushiony material also provides the grip you need to keep your hands and yoga blocks from sliding around.
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Durable, comfortable, and super cute, the Adidas by Stella McCartney Training Mat is an all-around awesome choice for any fitness lover. The neon yellow carry strap is an added bonus, as is the grippy material.
JadeYoga's Harmony Mat is made with plant-based rubbers as opposed to synthetic materials, but that's not the only reason why we love this five-millimeter mat. It also comes in three different lengths (68, 71, and 74 inches) and has 16 colors to choose from.
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best yoga mats Bala's The Play Mat Luluemon's The Workout Mat. Hugger Mugger Earth Elements Yoga Mat Nike Mastery Long Yoga Mat All In Motion Natural Cork TPE Yoga Mat Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat. Athleta Flow Freely Yoga Mat Alo Yoga's Warrior Mat Manduka's Prolite Yoga Mat Repose Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat Gaiam's Thick Yoga Mat Adidas by Stella McCartney Training Mat JadeYoga's Harmony Mat Now, zen out with more of our favorite wellness must-haves and trends: Now, watch Anna Kendrick try nine things she's never done before: