LoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyThere’s more to picking a yoga mat than meets the third eye chakra. A stylish design might look good in yoga class, but a mat that feels easy to move on and offers grip is key to perfecting your poses. From dynamic moves such as dolphin plank or crow pose to a restorative savasana at the end of your practice, a supportive and comfortable yoga mat can make all the difference.
Grip, flexibility, and materials that clean easily are all important factors. You might also want to consider a mat that isn’t too heavy for toting around. Or perhaps you’re after a mat you can also use for Pilates or strength training? If so, look for a versatile mat built to cater to all forms of exercise, not just pigeon pose. To help assess each mat, I called on the expert help of health coach Maite Brines von Melle, founder of Superhealth Playbook. Our top pick for most people is this Lululemon mat ($118), but if traveling light is your top priority, check out the Manduka eKO Superlite ($54).
Be sure to read our other health and fitness guides, including the Best Protein Powders, the Best Fitness Trackers, and the Best Walking Pads.
Updated May 2026: I've added the Manduka Superlite, the JadeYoga Harmony, and the Bala Play mats. I've also checked links and prices and removed out-of-stock picks.
Photograph: Maite Brines von MelleSave to wishlistSave to wishlistLululemon
For comfort and support when you’re stretching and moving, this yoga mat is my top pick. It has a plush yet balanced feel underfoot, and good grip. I felt secure while in downward dog, and the mat was equally supportive when I was doing a weights session with bare feet.
Health coach Maite Brines von Melle was impressed with this mat, too. “This was my favorite of the bunch,” she says. “I like the design and it’s very versatile—I taught Pilates and resistance training on this mat and it worked well. It’s cushioned, which makes it comfortable to lie on for restorative yoga such as yin. It's not too heavy to carry across town to class—it wipes clean easily so it stays fresh, too.”
Photograph: MandukaCourtesy of MandukaPhotograph: Maite Brines von MelleChevronChevronSave to wishlistSave to wishlistManduka
This yoga mat has a closed-cell PVC construction that seals out moisture, sweat, and bacteria so it’s durable and easy to maintain. But the real appeal here is the nonslip dot pattern on the bottom layer that keeps the mat firmly in place. It’s latex-free, too, making it a better option than the Lululemon mat if you suffer from allergies.
Overall, this mat felt very comfortable for practicing yoga. Its texture has just the right amount of grip without feeling too sticky, and its smooth, tactile finish felt relaxing to lie on. Importantly, the cushioning was dense enough to support my knees in a kneeling plank. It comes in a choice of lush colors, including a Black Sage green that looks great in my living room, and it didn’t pick up every bit of dirt, dust, and hair like some mats can. If it does get dirty, it's very easy to wipe clean.
“The Manduka ProLite is one of my favorite yoga mats and has a fabric-like finish that gets grippier with age,” says Brines von Melle. “This mat is very versatile for all types of exercise—from yoga to strength training—and I didn’t find myself slipping, which is always a testament to a good design.”
Photograph: Emily PeckSave to wishlistSave to wishlistManduka
If you want to downward dog while drinking daiquiris on vacation, this lightweight travel mat fits the bill. At 1.5 mm, the eKO Superlite is much thinner than the award-winning 4.7-mm Manduka Prolite Yoga Mat, so it's easy to roll up tightly in your suitcase.
Its 24-inch-wide frame comes in a standard 71-inch length and a longer 79-inch model. The standard version gave me plenty of space for standard yoga moves, but if you are tall and need something longer, the 79-inch length is only a half-pound heavier.
Made from sustainably harvested 99 percent latex-free tree rubber, this mat offers excellent grip. It has an “orange peel” top surface for traction so you won’t be slipping around when stretching out in warrior. It’s not as padded as a standard yoga mat, so you might have to protect your knees with an extra towel, but having such a grippy surface will do wonders for your practice. Its closed-cell surface is designed to lock out moisture and bacteria, and wiping it down with a yoga mat spray helps to keep things hygienic.
Photograph: Emily PeckSave to wishlistSave to wishlistJadeYoga
It’s easy to see why the Harmony is JadeYoga’s most popular design and has won numerous awards. Not only is it made in the USA from natural, nontoxic, eco-friendly rubber, but for every yoga mat sold, one tree is planted.
This mat looks and feels premium and is made from natural, eco-friendly rubber with no PVC, EVA, or other synthetic rubber. It has been designed to provide really good grip and better cushioning than synthetic mats, and while it isn’t the smoothest material I’ve tried, I really like how much grip it provides. It’s also easy to handle and rolls up tightly for storing neatly.
It comes in a 5-mm thickness in two lengths, including a 68-inch and 74-inch, so it works well for tall and shorter users. The 68-inch size gave me plenty of space to comfortably stretch out and lie down after my yoga session. It comes in a choice of stylish colors. I chose the raspberry color, which is quite dark, so dust and dirt did show up on it, but this was easy to wipe away using one of my yoga mat cleaning sprays. The mat dries quickly, so I could pop it back in my yoga bag for the next session.
Photograph: Emily PeckSave to wishlistSave to wishlistSweaty Betty
If you suffer from a latex allergy, consider this attractive rubber design made from a smooth and durable TPE fabric. It's from Sweaty Betty, the same brand that sells a sea of wonderfully comfortable and functional activewear.
Sweaty Betty highlights this yoga mat as being great for balance, and I found the latex-free rubber worked well to keep my feet positioned securely. While I prefer a textured mat, the smooth but grippy nature did well to ensure that my feet neither slid around too freely nor awkwardly squeaked while moving.
On each side of the mat there are markings to help you align your body, which can be useful in certain poses such as downward dog and warrior. At 4.85 pounds, the mat has a nice weight to it without feeling too bulky, and it was just the right size to roll up neatly and slide into my yoga bag after each class.
Photograph: Emily PeckPhotograph: Emily PeckChevronChevronSave to wishlistSave to wishlistLiforme
With its vibrant tropical design, this mat has head-turning style. It's PVC-free and features Liforme’s “alignment system” printed in eco-friendly, nontoxic ink. This signature graphic is designed to help you perfect your practice with symmetrical lines to guide the position of your hands, feet, and body. It's useful for performing poses such as warrior or flowing through a sequence.
Several features of the mat also make it a good match for hot yoga and sweaty yogis. Its “GripforMe” surface comprises a thin layer of nontoxic, proprietary polyurethane with an open-celled structure that absorbs moisture and prevents it from becoming too slippery when wet. The base of the mat is made of foamed natural rubber, while a non-absorbent barrier layer in the middle ensures that any sweat evaporates rather than seeps in. It's not cheap, but the price does include a carrying bag.
Brines von Melle was also impressed. “It’s got very good grip, and I really enjoyed moving on this mat,” she says. “I noticed how good the grip was in downward dog and when doing sun salutations, and I think the alignment points are great for anyone new to yoga.”
Photograph: Emily PeckSave to wishlistSave to wishlistLululemon
The mat is a little awkward to roll up, as the material flaps around considerably, but it's still one of the best I’ve tried. It felt nicely secure on the wooden floor in my open-plan kitchen area. The smooth surface not only felt great to lie on after practice, but was also easy to wipe clean and dry.
Photograph: Emily PeckSave to wishlistSave to wishlistLes Mils
Like the Lululemon mat, this Les Mills style is 5 mm thick, but it has a very different finish and feel. It is made up of a red and gray high-density eco-PVC material that is built for working hard. Its surface is made to anchor you during the sweatiest of training sessions. The gray side has an anti-slip coating for high-impact exercise and weight training, while the red surface has excellent grip, ideal for yoga.
While I didn’t find it as smooth or tactile as a standard yoga mat, I did like the versatility. It's easy to wipe clean, and it lasted well. I positioned it under my spin bike for a month (to protect the floor) and was surprised to find that the dent marks from the bike faded fast.
Brines von Melle thought that this was a good option for all-around exercise. “I like the fact that this mat has two sides to it to suit your goals,” she says. “It’s not the most comfortable yoga mat, but it works well when moving, and it’s convenient and easy to store. It has eyelet holes on one end so you can hang it up to air and store if needed too.”
Photograph: Emily PeckSave to wishlistSave to wishlistBala
Designed for yoga, Pilates, strength training and any exercise that involves light movement, the Play Mat comes in both a 5-mm version for everyday flow and an 8-mm version to provide support for more energetic workouts.
Bala products are unapologetically playful in design—just take a look at the mat's bubblegum pink finish that matches Bala’s complementing accessories, including the Bala Beam and the versatile weighted Bala Bangles. After spotting the mat’s unmistakably pink Barbie-esque design on the socials of celebs such as Reese Witherspoon and Victoria Beckham, my superficial self just had to give it a go.
The mat, accessories, and accompanying Bala app (from $24 per month) have substance, too, and I’m enjoying the sculpt, sweat, and dance workouts. I’ve also been diving into more chilled meditation, breathwork, and stretching sessions that are making me feel like part of the trendy Bala club—albeit in my gray sweats, on my own, in my spare room.
The top of the mat is made from a synthetic high-grade polyurethane (PU), and while it’s not renewable, it does provide good grip and is nonslip. The cushioned support felt noticeably gentle on my knees and hands when attempting dynamic poses. Meanwhile, the base is made from FSC-certified natural rubber for peace of mind. The 5 mm thickness worked just fine for me, but if you have achy joints or want more support, I’d go for the thicker 8 mm version.
The mat’s pale color does tend to show every bit of dust and dirt—especially when I work out wearing my sneakers—so a good wipe down after use is a must. It rolls up neatly for storage, but a separate Mat Scrunchie or a yoga mat bag to stop it from unraveling will help.
Like the Manduka eKo Superlite Travel Mat (reviewed above), the eKO Yoga Mat 5 mm is made from natural tree rubber, which is a good option for those who aren’t sensitive to latex. The material created good traction, which made moving around easy and helped me balance without sliding around.
It comes in fewer colors compared to the Manduka travel mat, but its calming shades include the bold Elderberry Midnight (shown) that I found easy on the eye.
This mat is heavier than some of the others and much thicker than the travel mat, but I was still able to roll it up tightly to carry neatly from home to class. It also took a while for the natural rubbery smell you can sometimes get with a new mat to disappear.
While it didn’t feel as smooth against my skin compared to mats from the likes of Liforme or Lululemon, I love how cushioned its surface feels and how much balance I achieved while practicing yoga. I felt grounded in tree pose and downward dog, and the material didn’t stick to my skin when I got hot. The mat wipes clean, too.
Photograph: Emily PeckSave to wishlistSave to wishlistJadeYoga
A sustainable option, the JadeYoga Mushroom mat is made from renewable natural rubber and USDA Certified Organic oyster mushroom waste, with no PVC or synthetic plastics. It may not come in as many color options as the Harmony mat, but I love the offerings of forest green, midnight blue, berry pink, and purple.
It doesn’t roll up as neatly as some of the sleeker mats I’ve tried, but this is nothing that a good yoga mat bag can’t help with. Additionally, the textured surface attracts dust, which made it harder to keep clean than a standard mat.
What sets this design apart, however, is that it’s noticeably more springy and cushioned compared to a standard yoga mat. As a result, it provides good grip and stability. It comes in two lengths to suit your body frame. The 68-inch version served me well when practicing yoga and stretching out.
With its cushioned surface, this mat was particularly comfortable while relaxing in savasana at the end of my practice. I also think it’s a great option for yoga nidra (aka yoga sleep) or any type of meditative or restorative practice where you want that little bit more comfort.
Photograph: Emily PeckPhotograph: LiformeChevronChevronSave to wishlistSave to wishlistLiforme
It's a luxury choice for the little yogi in your life, but the Playful Kids yoga mat offers the best quality in a fun-size bundle. There aren’t that many designs for kids out there, but this is the most attractive I’ve found. In truth, it's better looking than many adult styles.
The mat is 15 inches shorter than the adult-size Liforme yoga mat and about a pound lighter, making it easier to manage for smaller hands. It also comes with a carry bag.
A mat like this can be an enticing way to get kids to join in on a yoga session, such as the popular Cosmic Kids Yoga on YouTube. It worked well for my 7-year-old son, William, who suffers from tight calf muscles after playing soccer. The mat encouraged him to stretch more and unwind before bed.
Photograph: Emily PeckCourtesy of AmazonChevronChevronSave to wishlistSave to wishlistBala
For a bit of resistance while working out, wrist and ankle weights such as these can add a toning element to your practice. They come in a choice of 1, 2, or 3 three pounds. Using the 1-pound versions has made my Warrior Two pose feel just a bit more challenging.
Photograph: Emily PeckSave to wishlistSave to wishlistLululemon
Why use a rolled-up towel to support your knees when there’s an attractive Lululemon prop designed just for the job? I now keep these stackable yoga cushions nearby whenever I practice. as they offer instant support for palms, elbows, knees, and hips.
Photograph: Emily PeckSave to wishlistSave to wishlist
When you’re rushing to yoga class, shoes that are easy to slip on and off are a must. According to the fashionistas, clogs are having a resurgence, and these Merry People Billie Clogs are just the ticket for going to and from yoga and Pilates. They are waterproof, made from natural rubber so they feel soft underfoot yet supportive, and come in an array of colors.
Here are YouTube yoga teacher Sara Beth's tips on buying the best yoga mat:
Thicker isn't always better. You want to support your balance by having a firm connection to the ground beneath you, so aim for a 3 to 5 mm thickness. You can always add more cushion for your knees in the center, but too much cushion under the front and back, where your hands and feet go, can disrupt your balance.
Look for good grip. For hot yoga or sweaty people, make sure your mat gets grippier when wet. A washable design is more hygienic. A microfiber-finished mat can be put in the washing machine (manufacturer's instruction advised), or you can opt for a “yoga towel” to cover the mat with before wiping down and washing after your session.
Take a travel mat. For holidays, a thin, lightweight 1.5-mm mat can be folded or rolled in your suitcase. They work well on hotel room carpet, but if you need more cushion you can always layer a towel under your knees. I’ve also practiced yoga in my hotel room with just a bath towel laid out like a mat.
Make it easy to work out. If you plan to use your mat like a gym floor for Pilates, weights, yoga, and HIIT, then consider investing in a jumbo-size mat (like Gorilla mat), which shouldn't shift underneath you. These are typically a bit heavier and sturdier to better stay in place when you move.
I used these yoga mats for yoga, Pilates, and body balance classes, as well as my own personal practice at home. I assessed the grip, finish, thickness, and design. I also called on the expert help of Maite Brines von Melle from Superhealth Playbook, who was invaluable in assessing each mat and whittling them down to the very best options for your style, size, and budget.
Keeping your yoga mat clean isn't just about basic personal hygiene—a clean mat will also last longer. Given the range of materials used to manufacture them—from polyurethane, PVC, natural rubber, and cork—it's important to heed the manufacturer’s recommendations before you reach for the bleach.
Some mats benefit from a simple wipe down with a damp microfiber cloth, while others can be dunked in the bath or put in the washing machine and left to air dry. And then there are specialized yoga mat cleaning sprays that promise to sanitize and prolong the life of your mat, and make it smell a whole lot better. Here are our suggested cleaners:
Liforme Ultimate Everyday Yoga Mat Cleaner for $24: This plant-based cleaning foam is made from 95 percent natural ingredients and has a subtle, clean scent. I pumped the foam onto a sponge and rubbed it onto my mat. It dissolved quickly and left the surface refreshed.
Manduka Yoga Mat Wash and Refresh for $18: I love the lavender scent, which is made from 100 percent naturally derived ingredients. You can spray the surface of your mat and wipe down for a quick refresh, or spray generously and let soak for two minutes for a deeper clean before drying.
Moxe Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray (2 for $20): With rosemary and lemon essential oil, this solution smells like a sleep spray you’d put on your pillow before bed. It comes with a soft microfiber cloth, making it easy to clean and dry. I use it on my mat before class so I can enjoy the scent during the session.
“A rubber‑based mat with good grip and a bit of cushioning is a good option,” says Clare Walters, mind and body master trainer at Third Space. “It keeps you stable and supported without feeling bulky.”
Is It Worth Buying an Expensive Yoga Mat?
“I think it’s worth spending on a well‑made mat that lasts longer and gives better grip, which makes a big difference to your practice,” says Walters. “Cheaper mats tend to wear out quickly or get slippery.”
Which Three Yoga Poses Provide a Quick Reset?
When you’re short of time, Walters suggests:
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Emily Peck is a journalist with 20-plus years of experience writing about interiors, food, well-being, gardens, technology, and everything in between. She has held in-house positions at the BBC and Ideal Home magazine, and regularly contributes to WIRED, GQ, The Telegraph, Livingetc, Techradar and GoodtoKnow. ... Read MoreWIRED contributorTopicsShoppingbuying guideshealthfitnessapparelYogaStay Charged Around the World With the Best Travel AdaptersWhen going abroad, the right plugs are essential to keep your gadgets charged. These are my favorite travel adapters and chargers.Simon HillThe Best Merino Wool T-Shirts for Every OccasionThese merino wool tees are the last shirts you’ll ever wear. I’m wearing one right now.Scott GilbertsonThe Best Sunscreens for Every BodyWe put 36 sunscreens to the test during summer hikes, spring ski days, and beachside hangs. Out of all the mineral, chemical, and spray varieties we tried, these are our top picks.Kristin Canning17 Adventurous Gifts for Hikers, Backpackers, and Outdoorsy PeopleLet them pick out their own hiking boots. Instead, try gifting a useful blade or a nature journal to delight your outdoorsy friend.Scott GilbertsonThe Best Travel Totes for Digital Nomads Who Never Log OffThese hardworking travel totes handle everything from a work trip to a weekend getaway.Boutayna Chokrane The Best Bug Sprays to Keep Bites at BayOur writer tried some of the most popular insect repellents during runs, hikes, and evening walks. These are the ones we recommend.Kristin CanningThe Best Portable Power StationsWhether you’re going off-grid or safeguarding against blackouts, these beefy, WIRED-tested batteries can keep the lights on.Simon HillThe Cordless Vacuums Made for Your Entire HomeClean your house without the constraint of a power cord with these cordless stick vacuums. Nena Farrell The Best Cat Water Fountains for Pampered PetsEnsuring your cat stays hydrated is one of the best ways to keep your pet healthy. The right pet water fountain can help.Molly HigginsThe Best Automatic Pet Feeders for When You’re AwayWe tested some of the most popular automatic dry- and wet-food pet feeders to see which ones are worth the money.Molly HigginsThe Mother's Day Gifts You'll Love Giving Your MomFrom smart rings and everlasting flowers to weighted vests and LED masks, there's a gift for every kind of mom. Nena Farrell The Best Security Cameras for Inside Your HomeCameras can offer peace of mind, but choose carefully before inviting one into your home.Simon HillWired CouponsSquarespace Promo Code10% Off Exclusive Squarespace Promo Code 2026
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