This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
A good mat makes every floor workout more comfortable, but the choices can be confusing. Thickness matters most. Here’s a simple guide.
Thickness at a Glance
- 4–5mm: the classic choice. Good balance of cushion and stability for yoga flows and standing poses.
- 6mm: a little more padding for knees and wrists, still stable enough for balance poses.
- 10mm (2/5″): thick and soft. Best for pilates, stretching, ab work and floor exercises, not ideal for balance poses.
Our Picks
Best all-rounder: Gaiam Dry-Grip (5mm)
Grippy surface that stays put during sweaty workouts.
Gaiam Dry-Grip Yoga Mat (5mm)
Non-slip, cushioned mat for yoga, hot yoga and home workouts.
Extra cushion: Gaiam Premium Print (6mm)
Gaiam Premium Print Yoga Mat (6mm)
A little more padding for knees and wrists, with fun print options.
For pilates and floor work: Gaiam Essentials (10mm)
Gaiam Essentials Thick Mat (10mm)
Thick foam cushioning with a carry strap. Great for ab work and stretching.
Premium natural rubber: JadeYoga Harmony
A favorite for serious yoga practice thanks to its grip and natural rubber feel.
Other Things to Check
- Grip: if your hands sweat, look for a dry-grip or natural rubber surface.
- Size: standard mats are 68″ long. Taller people may want a longer mat.
- Weight: thick and rubber mats are heavier to carry to class.
- Cleaning: wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap, and let it air dry.
Bottom Line
Choose 5–6mm for yoga and mixed workouts, and 10mm if you mostly do pilates, stretching and core work on a hard floor.
See each product page for the current price. Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
