Top 5 Yoga Mats
Best For Hot Yoga: Iodoo Cork Thick Yoga Mat
The Iodoo Cork Yoga mat has a cork surface and a non-toxic rubber underside. The two materials create a non-slip, tear-resistant, sweat-absorbing, quick-drying, and aesthetically pleasing mat. While the mat is great for hot yoga, it also works well for a variety of other yoga and pilates exercises.
Key Features
2.87 pounds Cork and rubber material 72 inches long by 32 inches wide by 0.24 inches thick Alignment markings Carrying bag included
What Customers Are Saying
Comfort, durability, and size were some of the many qualities customers called out in their positive reviews. While there weren’t any negative comments about the product, future customers may find it cumbersome to clean because of its cork material.
Best Grip: Yogi Bare Paws Yoga Mat
This yoga mat is made with naturally sourced closed-cell rubber to resist bacteria growth and maximize friction. Both ends of the mat have square rubber designs printed on them, giving you more grip for your hands and feet. This mat is also easy to clean with just lemon juice and warm water on a cloth. Key Features
5.5 pounds Polyurethane and rubber material 61 inches long by 26 inches wide by 0.17 inches thick Alignment markings Five color options Carrying bag included
What Customers Are Saying
Reviewers stated that the mat had excellent grip and was made from high-quality materials. Many also complimented the mat’s thickness and design. However, some were disappointed by the mat’s inability to absorb sweat.
Key Features
2.5 pounds Foam material 74 inches long by 24 inches wide by 0.5 inches thick Seven color options Carrying strap included
What Customers Are Saying
Customers complimented the mat’s softness, stability, and durability, stating that it provided adequate support for their bodies through years of yoga workouts. Customers who weren’t satisfied with their purchase said that the mat gave off a chemical smell.
Best For Beginners: Heathyoga Non-Slip Yoga Mat
The Heathyoga Non-Slip Yoga Mat has detailed markings on its top, bottom, left side, right side, and center, helping beginners determine where they need to place their hands and feet. The mat also has a double-layer design that prevents slipping. Plus, it comes with a carrying strap.
Key Features
2.2 pounds Rubber material 72 inches long by 26 inches wide by 0.25 inches thick Alignment markings Seven color options Carrying strap included
What Customers Are Saying
Customers said that this yoga mat provided sturdiness and comfort, especially considering its price. However, its affordable price meant that it wasn’t made from the most high-quality materials, as customers said that it didn’t last long-term.
Most Lightweight: IUGA Yoga Mat
The manufacturer of this yoga mat consulted yoga instructors and other yoga enthusiasts to create this high-quality product. The mat is guaranteed to be toxin-free, odorless, tear-resistant, and lightweight. It also has a reversible design that maintains traction on both sides.
Key Features
Two pounds Rubber material 74 inches long by 24 inches wide by 0.25 inches thick Five color options Carrying strap included
What Customers Are Saying
Most customers complimented the mat for being soft on their knees, stomach, back, hands, and feet and for being lightweight enough to carry to and from yoga classes with ease. A common complaint among unsatisfied customers was that it didn’t work well for hot yoga.
Buyer’s Guide
Your yoga mat should meet the needs of your favorite yoga exercises. Here are four factors to consider when making a selection.
Material
The material of a yoga mat can have a great impact on its liquid absorption, traction, ease of transportation, and more. Individuals who participate in hot yoga should look for mats that are made with cork, as this material absorbs sweat easily. Those who use yoga mats for their daily at-home workouts should look for a mat made with thicker material, such as foam or rubber, for more cushion.
Size
The size of a yoga mat can determine whether or not you have enough space to stretch and exercise without touching the floor. Most mats are between 70 and 75 inches long and 25 and 30 inches wide.
Grip
Choose a mat that has two textured surfaces. This prevents the underside of the mat from sliding across the floor and your body from slipping off the mat’s surface.
Design
Yoga mats typically come in solid colors. Some also have patterns, such as mandalas, printed on them for more design. You can also find mats with alignment lines, which help you position yourself more accurately during poses.
How do I clean my yoga mat?
Most yoga mats must be hand-washed with soap and water, although some require other ingredients, such as lemon juice or vinegar. Simply wipe your mat with your solution of choice, and let it air dry. Don’t place your mat in a washing machine, as this can cause it to flake and tear.
Can I wear sneakers when I’m using my mat?
Most yoga mat companies suggest that you don’t wear sneakers because they can leave permanent marks.
Can yoga mats with more cushion make me lose my balance?
Yes. Yoga mats with more cushion can cause instability during some yoga poses. More advanced yogis should opt for a mat with a moderate amount of cushion to keep this from happening.
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