If you do a quick search online for “yoga mat,” you’ll be overwhelmed with options one after another. As yoga grew in popularity, the company jumped into action and produced its own line of yoga mats. While there are many options, not all mats are created equal. This list includes some of the best brands and options on the market today, but before you dive in, it’s important to cover some elements to consider when looking for a new mat.
Matters needing attention
Matters needing attention
If you’re just starting out with yoga, you might think that finding a yoga mat is easy. However, there are a few factors you should consider before buying a yoga mat. Review these points and evaluate what is important and necessary to your lifestyle so you can make the most informed decision when buying a new mat.
Budget: You should think of your yoga mat as an investment. If you intend to practice for many years, you should choose a higher quality, long-lasting mat rather than an inferior one that has to be constantly replaced. However, be mindful of your budget and don’t overspend. There are a variety of options at all price points, so you can find something you like without breaking the bank.
Portability: Some mats are lightweight and easy to carry, while others are more durable. Before diving into mats, you should determine how important mobility is to your lifestyle. For example, if you’re planning to travel with a pad, you may want something that’s easier to carry.
Thickness: You may need to determine if thickness is more important to you than portability — the thicker the mat, the heavier it will be. However, if your joints are particularly sensitive, it’s important to find a pad that gives you the proper cushioning. If you don’t need that extra pillow, you can find a fairly thick but portable option.
Dimensions: A standard mat is usually approximately 24 inches wide and 68-74 inches long. However, if you’re a little taller, you might just need to look for brands and styles that also offer extra-long cushions.
Yoga Style: When looking for a mat, consider the style of yoga you practice most. For example, if you choose to do more intense forms of yoga (such as flow yoga or hot yoga), you’ll want a mat with a good texture and stickiness so you stay firmly in place. For more calming, stretch-oriented practices like restorative yoga, make comfort and thickness a priority.
Aesthetics: You’ll be staring at this mat for years, so find one that really fits your aesthetic. Whether you want a sleek all-black look or a patterned cushion in all the colors of the rainbow, you can find one that really fits your style.
The best of the best yoga mats
Now that you know what to look for in a yoga mat, you can delve into the various options. Below is a glimpse at some of the best brands and cushions on the market right now. As you read, keep your individual requirements in mind, you are sure to find a floor mat that meets all your needs!
jade yoga
Jade Yoga. Courtesy of cdn.shopify.com
Perfect for the environmentally conscious yogi.
JadeYoga popped up in 2000 to fill a major gap in the yoga world: Mats were too slippery. This successful and popular brand now sells non-toxic, eco-friendly natural rubber mats that are free of PVC, EVA and synthetic rubber. To round out their sustainability practices, the brand plants a tree for every mat sold – they’ve now planted over 1.6 million trees and counting!
detail:
- The Harmony mat ($79.95-$84.95) is the most popular mat and is in the middle of the price range JadeYoga offers. It measures from 68 inches to 74 inches in length, weighs about 5 pounds, and is 3/16 inch thick.
- There are also travel mats, more affordable beginner mats, options for longer and wider mats, and more.
Manduka
Seal of Manduka manduka.com
Excellent cushioning and durability.
Manduka is another brand loved by students and teachers alike. They have a huge selection of yoga mats, and the site also includes a quiz to help you choose the best one for your needs. The brand is constantly introducing new styles, so you can find a pattern or color you like. They also often have specials on specific colors and styles, so this is a great brand for anyone looking for a quality mat at a lower price.
detail:
- The two most popular mats are the Manduka PRO and Manduka eKO.
- The Manduka PRO ($120-$150) mat is the best option, perfect for dedicated yogis. They provide high-density cushioning for optimal support. The standard mat is 71 inches long, 6 mm thick and weighs 7.5 lbs. The long pad is 85 inches long, 6 mm thick and weighs 9.5 lbs. PRO mats are guaranteed for life and are manufactured without releasing any toxins into the atmosphere.
- The Manduka eKO ($92-99) mat is eco-friendly, made from tree rubber that isn’t harvested in the Amazon. They provide a grippy surface to keep you from slipping. The standard mat is 71 inches long, 5mm thick and weighs 7 lbs. The long pad is 79 inches long, 5 mm thick and weighs 8 lbs.
- There are also a large number of mats in different colors, lengths and thicknesses. They also have options for different yoga styles.
Prana
prana. Imprint global.prana.com
Great for holding.
prAna is a Carlsbad, California-based company that manufactures athletic apparel