10 Best Mats For Yoga 2025 in the United States

The Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat is a reliable choice for various fitness and exercise routines, including yoga and Pilates. Made from Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) foam, this mat provides a soft cushioning, making it particularly comfortable for beginners or anyone who appreciates additional support during their workout.

The mat measures 72 inches long by 24 inches wide, providing ample space for most exercises. With a thickness of 2/5 inch (approximately 10mm), it offers a good balance between comfort and stability, ensuring that your joints are well-cushioned during use. One of the standout features is its portability, thanks to the included easy-cinch carrier strap. At a weight of approximately 953 grams (around 3.11 pounds), it is light enough to carry to the gym or studio without much hassle.

While the NBR foam ensures comfort, it may not be as durable as mats made from other materials like PVC or natural rubber, especially with frequent or intense use. The texture provides decent grip, but it might not be the best option for hot yoga or very sweaty sessions as it can become slightly slippery. Hand washing is required for maintenance, which can be a bit inconvenient for some users. In terms of size, it is suitable for most users, but those who are particularly tall might find it slightly lacking. The Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat is a solid option for those seeking comfort and portability in their fitness mat, especially for general floor exercises and light to moderate intensity workouts.

The Manduka PRO Yoga Mat is well-regarded in the fitness community, often recommended by instructors and therapists. Made from 100% latex-free PVC, it’s a responsible choice with a STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX certification, indicating it’s made in a sustainable way. The mat is 71 inches long and 26 inches wide, providing ample space for various types of workouts, including yoga, Pilates, and general exercise routines.

One of its standout features is the 6mm thickness, offering high-density cushioning for superior support, stability, and joint protection, which is especially beneficial for those with joint issues or those who practice on hard surfaces. However, at 7.5 pounds, it may not be the most portable option, particularly for those who frequently carry their mat to different locations for classes. The mat also requires a break-in period to achieve its full non-slip potential, which might be a drawback for some users looking for immediate grip.

Care-wise, it’s easy to maintain with the recommended Yoga Mat Wash & Refresh spray, although it must be hand-washed only. Despite its premium features and durability, the initial cost is higher compared to other mats on the market, but the investment is often justified by its long-lasting use. The Manduka PRO Yoga Mat is an excellent choice for dedicated practitioners looking for a durable, high-performance mat, though its weight and break-in period might be considerations for some users.