The 10 best yoga mats for zen-like comfort

From downward dog to Shavasana: supportive mats for every pose.

The best Yoga mats - one rolled up, one rolled out, with yoga block, towel and trainers

by Gemma Lavers |
Updated on

The best yoga mats act as your little sanctuary, sacred space, and personal oasis in the chaos. The second you step on the mat, you're transported to a world of zen – much like Aladdin's magic carpet, minus the genies. As we embark on this journey to enhance our yoga practice, one thing is clear: not all yoga mats are created equal.

The best yoga mats, at a glance

• Best overall yoga mat: Core Balance Yoga Mat – View on Amazon
• Best yoga mat for grip: Sweaty Betty Flow Yoga Mat – View on Sweaty Betty
• Best cork yoga mat: Bulk Yoga Mat – View on Bulk

Deriving from the Sanskrit word 'yuj', meaning to unite or join, yoga is more than just a workout. It's a way of life. Dating back thousands of years, yoga encompasses various practices, including physical poses (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama) and meditation. Its principle relies on cultivating balance on and off the mat, within the mind and spirit. Although often passed off as a low-intensity workout, yoga is actually a sacred union of movement and breathwork and invites yogis to connect with their deepest selves and the world around them.

Rolled up yoga mat with towel, yoga block and trainers
©What's The Best/Steven Shaw

Feeling convinced and ready to connect? Armed with your yoga block and yoga socks, we're here to help you feel prepared for your yoga sessions. And you never know, the quest for the ideal mat might be as enlightening as the practice itself.

Our expert pick of the best yoga mats

Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.

Best overall yoga mat

Core Balance Yoga Mat
Price: $12.99

Starting strong with the Core Balance yoga mat. With just the right amount of thickness (6mm), it offers enough cushioning to support your body without compromising your connection with the floor. Made from PVC foam, this mat provides a non-slip surface that feels 'sticker' than other yoga mats. This is so you can get that greater grip throughout poses. So whether you're mastering mountain climbers, conquering burpees, or powering through floor sprints, this mat has got your back – literally. And, when the class finishes, simply roll it up, secure it with the attachable strap, and you're good to go.

Health & Fitness Writer Gemma Lavers tested this mat and said, "The Core Balance yoga mat works perfectly for me. I wanted a mat that rolled up small so I can take it to classes, and because of the thinness of this mat, it rolls up to be rather small. I have the purple colour and I love the brightness of it too. The only downside is that the mat is quite malleable. So when you press hard on the mat, or step on it with shoes, it leaves quite a big indent that doesn't go away. Saying that, I'd still recommend this mat to beginner yogis out there."

Pros

  • 6mm thick - the perfect balance between stability and comfort
  • Made from a 'sticky' feeling PVC foam for grip
  • Comes with an attachable carry strap

Cons

  • Best for bare footwork as shoes leave a lasting mark on the mat
DimensionsL173cm x W61cm x D0.6cm
Weight1kg
ColoursVarious colours available, including: Purple, Pink, Grey, Teal and Black
MaterialPolyvinyl chloride foam

Best yoga mat for grip

Sweaty Betty Flow Yoga MatSweaty Betty

This Sweaty Betty yoga mat is made from latex-free TPE (Thermo Plastic Elastomer), which is soft and durable. There are different patterns on each side, each offering slightly different grip levels, ensuring you stay firmly grounded as you flow through your poses. Its sleek rectangular silhouette with rounded corners not only adds a touch of sophistication to your yoga space but also provides ample room for movement. It’s designed to be hard wearing and kind to the environment. As well as yoga, it’s suitable for barre, Pilates and even strength training, meaning you can make use of it for a wide variety of workouts.

Pros

  • Rectangular silhouette with square edges
  • Pattern points align to yoga poses for better balance and posture
  • Sleek colour

Cons

  • Hair and dust seems to stick to it
Dimensions2kg
WeightL183cm x W61cm x D0.6 cm
ColourBloom pink
MaterialTPE (Thermo Plastic Elastomer)

Best cork yoga mat

Best cork yoga mat

A cork yoga mat is a great choice purely because of its exceptional grip alongside antimicrobial and hypoallergenic features. Cork is also very environmentally friendly, so if you want to do your bit to help the planet while still having a practical yoga mat, this is a great choice.

Cork yoga mats are also highly durable and long-lasting, capable of withstanding regular use without deteriorating or losing their integrity over time. Plus, this Bulk yoga mat will be perfect for any yoga you participate in – whether that be hot yoga or not. This is because cork's natural properties offer insulation, keeping the mat cool in hot conditions and warm in cooler conditions.

Pros

  • Lightweight to carry
  • Includes a shoulder strap for easy transport
  • Cork is naturally anti-bacterial and is eco-friendly

Cons

  • Not much cushioning
Dimensions180cm x 61cm
Weight0.72kg
ColourNatural/cork
MaterialCork

Best yoga mat with 3D texture

Lululemon Take Form Yoga Mat
Price: $79 (was £128)

www.lululemon.co.uk

We love this Lululemon Take Form yoga mat because of its unique 3D texture. There's nothing more annoying than spending your entire yoga class staring at your mat, so these 3D bumps help you feel your way around the mat. All without looking down. Made with FSC-certified rubber, each practice becomes a step towards environmental stewardship as you connect with the earth beneath you.

Pros

  • Grippy top layer to absorb moisture and help you stay grounded
  • Made with natural rubber that's sustainably-sourced
  • The 3D texture is there to help you feel your way around the mat and stay centred without looking down

Cons

  • Contains latex so individuals with rubber or latex allergies should steer clear
DimensionsW66cm x L180cm x D0.5cm
Weight2.24kg
ColourBlack, Black/white
MaterialNatural rubber

Best high-end yoga mat

Alo Yoga Warrior Mat
Price: $135
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=349f95720ce5cc9591e15152a710dbb3&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=W0BNFkoPGB1HFBIbAg9WTFZWBB9WXlgdEUVeVBEBFkAbTlEJDAVAHRQERxEKVkcUXARFGEJYXQpOHEERAxBHTgYQWEdeU14XWAZbUg8MDwNcCQ0FAAtXEVVZFwMAX1F6E0tHUlxTGiBGFwpUVE1U&x=v1&prdId=9876137759&barcode=AwQIXwgDAAUBVlcAUVU%3D

Designed to ignite strength and grace in your practice, this Alo Yoga Warrior mat offers support and grip. The bottom is made from all-natural rubber it is formaldehyde-free and non-toxic, while the top is PU leather. Its oversized design means you'll never fall off the mat, while its anti-odour, dry-wicking and slip-free qualities are all bonuses. Although we've voted this mat as 'the best high-end yoga mat', it feels luxurious. That's thanks to the matte finish and gorgeous colour selection, so you can find a mat that matches your mood.

At 3.6 kilos (eight pounds) it is one of the heavier mats on our shortlist - the added weight making it less likely to slip under your feet, and adding to that premium feel.

Pros

  • Anti-odour, dry-wicking and slip-free, wet or dry
  • Oversized design so you never find your feet off the mat
  • Made with ethically sourced, premium, all-natural rubber

Cons

  • A little heavy
DimensionsL188cm x W67cm x D0.5cm
Weight3.6kg
ColoursVarious colours available, including: Smoky quartz, Black, Dove grey, Powder pink
MaterialPolyurethane leather

Best yoga mat for yogis on a budget

For yogis on a budget, this Opti Basic yoga mat is a fantastic choice. Cheap and cheerful, this mat boasts a bright blue colour, an easy-to-clean surface and a lightweight PVC material. Weighing only 1kg, this mat is perfect if you're a regular yoga classgoer or want to practice yoga at home. Although, if you prefer a thicker yoga mat to protect your knees and joints, this one might not be the best for you as it's only 4mm thick.

Pros

  • Great value
  • Easy to clean
  • Made from a lightweight PVC material

Cons

  • Not the most grippy yoga mat on our list
DimensionsL173cm, x W61cm x D0.4cm
Weight1kg
ColourBlue
MaterialPVC

Best thick yoga mat

The Reebok yoga mat is perfect for yogis who prefer their mats to have a little more cushioning than normal. 6mm is a fair amount of cushioning for a yoga mat, and you'll still be able to feel grounded, just with a little more support. This mat also has a non-slip bobbled grip on both the top and bottom, with a compact yet pliable texture of offers the stability you're looking for. Plus, if you want to take your mat from class to class, it comes with a handy carry strap and is easily rolled. It's also a relatively light 1.5 kilos (3.3 pounds), so it's perfect when you're on the go.

Pros

  • Non-slip bobbled grip on both the top and bottom for stability
  • Comes with a handy carry strap
  • Lightweight design for easy portability

Cons

  • Best for yogis who prefer a thicker yoga mat
DimensionsL173cm x W61cm x D0.6cm
Weight1.5kg
ColourPurple/Grey
MaterialPVC

Best yoga mat with body alignment lines

YOGATI Yoga Mat With Alignment Lines

Rrp: $29.55

Price: $24.99

The unique feature of the YOGATI yoga mat is its alignment lines, which help perfect your poses and stay focused in your classes. The mat is also 6mm thick and features a double-layer structure which means the mat suits any surface, whether that be hard or soft floor. Made from TPE, YOGATI's mat promises to be the mat you gravitate towards time after time. It also weighs less than a kilo and has a carry strap - so it's easy to roll up and take with you when you've finished your session.

Pros

  • Features a double-layer structure that ensures superior grip
  • Integrated body alignment lines to help you perfect your poses
  • Crafted from TPE so it's environmentally-conscious

Cons

  • Dry clean only, which isn't ideal for regular sweaty yoga sessions
DimensionsL183cm x W61cm x D0.6cm
Weight0.79kg
ColourPurple
MaterialThermoplastic Elastomer

Best patterned yoga mat

It would be impossible to ignore the pattern on this KIMJALY mat. Available in three different colour options: green, blue and mahogany (aka brown), this mat is sure to make a statement when you unravel it in your classes. At 8mm thick, this yoga mat is on the chunkier side of things, but it's perfect for those who need maximum support during their flow. It's still relatively lightweight at 1.85 kilos (4.1 pounds) and the carry strap makes it easy to take to and from classes. A final great thing about KIMJALY's mat is that it's easily washable by hand. All you need is a soft cloth and soapy water.

Pros

  • Comes with a carry strap so you can easily take the mat anywhere
  • Great coloured pattern selection
  • The mat can easily be wash by hand with a soft cloth and soapy water

Cons

  • The 8mm thickness of this mat isn't for all yogis
DimensionsL173cm x W61cm x D0.8cm
Weight1.85kg
ColoursGreen, Blue, Bordeux
MaterialFoamed PVC

Best cotton yoga mat

Finishing with a mat that can be used in combination with other yoga mats on our list, but also on its own. Although, if you are doing the latter just be careful not to slip. The KIMJALY cotton mat takes inspiration from the Indian roots of yoga, with its mottled design and cotton material. It can easily be carried, as the cotton means it can be folded into a square or rolled up. It's easily washed too - unlike many yoga mats it's quite happy in the washing machine at 40 degrees. Plus, at 4mm thick, this cotton mat helps you feel the most grounded you can.

Pros

  • Easily folded into a square or rolled up for easy transportation
  • Machine washable at 40 degrees to remove any bacteria or sweat
  • Can be used either by itself or on top of another mat

Cons

  • Because of the cotton material it slides on most floors, so is better used in conjunction with another mat
DimensionsL183cm x W68cm x D0.4mm
Weight1.5kg
ColourGrey
MaterialCotton

Buying the best yoga mat: FAQs

Yoga mats with differing thicknesses
©William Austin-Lobley

What thickness of mat is best?

As you've probably seen with some of our picks, a standard thickness of yoga mat is anywhere from around 4mm-8mm. This is because this thickness offers good balance, cushioning and stability. All while giving your joints enough support, but still allowing you to feel grounded during your practice.

If you suffer from sore joints or knees, opting for a thicker yoga mat of 6mm or more might be more appropriate. On the other hand, if yoga for you is all about a connection with the ground, a thinner mat of 4mm or less may be better.

What is a yoga mat actually for?

The humble rectangle isn't just a piece of foam or rubber or your run-of-the-mill exercise mat. On the surface, it's there to provide cushioning to your knees and joints during certain poses. But, the best yoga mat represents much more than that. Your mat is a space where you can unleash your inner warrior, flow through your practice and find stillness in the chaos. So a mat is not just for grounding your feet, it's for lifting your spirit and embracing the journey towards self-love, one pose at a time.

How often should I replace my yoga mat?

How often you should be replacing your yoga mat really depends on how much love you're showing it. If you're reaping the benefits of yoga and using your mat daily, for serious downward dog action or sweaty hot yoga sessions, it's a good idea to replace it every six months to one year. If you use your mat less than that, you might be able to get away with longer.

There are some key signs to look out for when weighing up whether it's time to bid adieu to your mat. They are; noticeable wear and tear, unpleasant odours and if it has lost its spring. It's essential to know that a good mat makes for a good flow - so treat it with care!

Gemma Lavers is a Health & Fitness Writer for What's The Best. From understanding nutrition to practising yoga and Pilates to delving into the psychology of motivation. She enjoys demystifying the latest fitness trends and staying on top of the dynamic health landscape, whether that's the best gym leggings, fitness trackers or the benefits of yoga.

When Gemma’s not writing, she can be found attending Pilates, yoga and Zumba classes. She’s also a bit of a home workout aficionado, constantly trying out new ways to keep her moving at home. Between writing, exercising and shopping, there’s nothing she loves more than hopping on a plane and exploring new cultures.

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