Any yoga enthusiast will tell you that having the best yoga mat is vital in getting you ready for your next downward dog.
During times of stress, yoga has a way of lowering anxiety, rejuvenating us to feel at peace and helping our bodies feel good.
No matter where you’re practicing your vinyasas, the mat is really where the magic happens.
From preventing slips to keeping energy above the surface of the ground, it supports you physically and mentally while you centre yourself.
In fact the right floor companion can soften hard surfaces and increase the support of softer ones, such as carpet.
From thickness and grip to sustainability and aesthetics, there are endless amounts of yoga mats to help you perfect your pose.
With those in mind, we’ve narrowed down our favourites for you to reach your zen.
The 11 best yoga mats to buy in 2024
01
Performance Premium Support Seaglass 6mm Yoga Mat
from $54.95 at The Iconic
Best for: comfort and support
A much-loved mat amongst yoga devotees, this extra-thick yoga mat from Gaiam has all you need for a supportive and comfortable yoga session.
Key features:
- 6mm thickness
- Latex free
- Beginner friendly
- Light-tac ridged profile
- Mat carry sling included
Available at:
02
Liforme Travel Yoga Mat
from $174.95 at Amazon
Best for: grip
The perfect balance between grip, support and moisture absorption, the Liforme range seems to tick all the right boxes.
Key features:
- Warrior-like grip
- Eco-friendly
- Biodegradable
- Ultra-lightweight
- Sweat resistant
03
Gaiam Performance Earthsaver 3mm Yoga Mat
from $74.95 at The Iconic
Best for: environmentally conscious yogis
If you are looking for a sustainable and eco-friendly option, this cork-based mat is naturally anti-microbial and anti-fungal.
Perfect for the environment and for your flow.
Key features:
- Recycled cork
- Best for intermediate to advanced
- Staybase rubber backing
Available at:
04
The Mat 5mm
from $79 at Lululemon
Best for: Beginners
As a newbie to yoga, finding the right yoga mat can be overwhelming. With all of the basics, this Lululemon favourite is the perfect mat to get you started.
Key features:
- Natural rubber base
- Extra cushioning
- Antimicrobial additive
- Reversible
- Grip layer
05
Cotton On Body Yoga Mat
$20.99 at Cotton On
Best for: Affordability
Salute the sun whether it’s morning or night with this all-round excellent mat. Perfect for yogis of any experience level, it won’t break the bank.
Key features:
- 4mm thick TPE
- Lightweight & portable
- Textured surface adds grip
06
The Travel Mat 1.5mm
$85 at Lululemon
Best for: Affordability
Lightweight and foldable, this popular Lululemon yoga mat allows you to take your practice on the road.
Key features:
- Textured grip
- 1.5mm thickness
- Grid-textured top layer adds light grip in low-sweat, low-heat practices.
07
Manduka eKO Lite Yoga and Pilates Mat
$206.73 at Amazon
Best for: Everyday mat
The natural rubber in this mat from Manduka, not only provides the perfect amount of springiness and resistance but is cushioned enough to keep any yoga lover comfortable.
Key features:
- Super light
- 71″ long
- Machine washable
08
Luxe Recycled Yoga Mat
$109 at The Iconic
Best for: carpeted surfaces
Lightweight and an ultra-grippy thanks to its microfibre suede top layer fused to a natural tree rubber base, this mat is suitable for all yoga styles (including hot) and surfaces.
Key features:
- Ultra-grip microfibre suede top layer
- 100% biodegradable natural tree rubber base
- Anti-microbial and anti-fungal
09
Manduka PRO Yoga and Pilates Mat
$191.40 at Amazon
Best for: tall yogis
Ideal for tall yoga lovers or for those who prefer a bit more space to stretch out. Measuring out to 85 inches in length, this mat is made to be wider and longer for taller users.
Key features:
- Medium thickness at 4.7mm
- Closed cell construction resistance to sweat
- 71″ x 24
10
The Play Mat
$165 from Bala
Best for: balance
If improving your balance is a must-have, this mat from Bala will help push you to improve your alignment. And, at a 8mm thick, its the most luxuriously comfortable come time for your warm-down meditation.
Key features:
- 8mm thick
- Made of a polyurethane top-coat and rubber base.
- Made with FSC™-certified natural rubber.
11
Salty Peach Yoga Mat
$129.99 at The Iconic
Best for: aesthetics
If you want your yoga mat to make a statement then you can’t go past Yogi Peace Club’s cut Salty Peach Yoga Mat with it’s cool print.
Key features:
- Natural tree rubber
- Non-slip grip layer
- 3.5 mm thick
How Do You Clean A Yoga Mat?
Yoga mats don’t usually come with a cleaning manual but anyone who’s ever used one knows how sweaty (and grotty) they can get.
The best way to clean a yoga mat is simply by wetting a cloth and wiping it over the back and front of the mat. You can use warm water or a sanitising solution to do so.
Some yoga mats are also machine washable, so it’s a good idea to check if yours is before throwing it into the washing machine.
Can You Bring A Yoga Mat On A Plane?
Most yogis can’t imagine travelling anywhere without their favourite yoga mat.
While it does depend on your airline’s specific restrictions, you’re usually allowed to bring your mat in the cabin as long as it fits in your hand luggage.
To make sure your mat can come, you might opt for a foldable style.
If you’re looking for a yoga mat at THE ICONIC, you can find an exclusive discount code to use here.
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