Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (2024)

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    So, you’re on the hunt for one of the best yoga mats. Whether it’s as a means of upping your chances of squeezing in those home workouts you’d planned or you just want to treat yourself to some mindful movement this March, you’re in the right place.

    Why invest in a yoga mat, you ask? Think of it this way: you wouldn’t do jumping jacks without a sports bra, so why do a floor-based yoga class without support for your joints? Yoga mats are specifically designed to provide your workouts with adequate ground cushioning to support your muscles, tendons, and joints and prevent you from getting injured.

    Whether you’re a dedicated yogi who starts every day with a sun salutation or a runner using yin to stretch out your stressed hips, there’s a mat for every type of flow. Here, we’ll talk you through our picks of the best, for every type of yoga class and every budget, big or small. Oh, and do check out the different types of yoga, the benefits of yoga and yoga poses to make you feel good,while you’re here.

    14 best yoga mats available to buy now

    1. Best lululemon yoga mat: The Take Form Mat

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    Fun fact: team LL made this mat with 3D zoned cushioning and visual alignment cues to guide optimal body positioning. It’s perfect for those times when you just really feel like a good stretch. The natural rubber base gives you juicy cushioning and the polyurethane top layer also absorbs any moisture (read: sweat) to make sure you can still get a good grip during the hottest of flows. Extra big, extra cushioned yoga base? Don’t mind if we do.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (1)

    £118.00, lululemon.co.uk

    2. Best Sweaty Betty yoga mat: Super Grip Yoga Mat

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    First up: this mat will go with anything thanks to the grey colourway. Secondly, with a name like ‘super grip’, you can only imagine that it’s really rather good. It’s got a–yep, you guessed it—particularly sturdy grip thanks to the latex material and a strong rubber base, too, which means you won’t be slipping anytime soon. Plus, it’s lightweight at just 2kg, and boasts eco wins, being both biodegradable and eco-friendly. The floor is yours.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (2)

    £65.00, sweatybetty.co.uk

    3. Best yoga mat for bad knees: Manduka PRO yoga mat

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    On the higher end of the price points, but you can see why. A household name in the yoga brand sphere, Manduka, has been making premium yoga mats since 1997 that, they say, boast ‘superior performance and an elevated practice’. Buy for supportive cushioning, top-end joint support and protection, and serious comfort, plus a product lifetime guarantee.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (3)

    From £109.97, amazon.co.uk

    4. Best yoga mat for sweaty hands: Gaiam Premium Yoga Mat

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    If you’re a hot yoga fan or someone who sweats a lot during exercise (which, FYI, is totally normal) then you’ll love this Gaiam mat. It’s 6mm thick (aka, thick) meaning loads of cushioned support, plus topped with a sticky non-slip textured surface to make sure you’ve got the best grip. Plus, you’ll get a lifetime guarantee with every purchase so needn’t worry about having to buy again in a few years. Your bank balance—and the environment—are thanking you.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (4)

    £55.44, amazon.co.uk

    5. Best eco-friendly yoga mat: Yogi Bare Paws

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    Shop local and support independent businesses (and, again, the planet) with this Yogi Bare mat. Not only is it made from all-natural rubber sourced from sustainable forest, but it’s free from animal testing and 100% vegan. Plus, the packaging is 100% recyclable. Basically, you can’t go wrong with a Yogi Bare mat.

    The brand have even introduced a new recycling mat scheme, which not only gives customers peace of mind that their old yoga mat is getting new life, but also gives them 15% off their next yoga mat purchase. They have teamed up with Safer Surfacing,whowill transform old rubber yoga mats into high quality rubber chippings. These rubber chippings will then be used in various different ways to create safer surfaces in local communities, including play areas and parks reducing injuries from trips and tumbles, as well as beingused toprotect hooves in equestrian centres.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (5)

    £74.95, yogi-bare.co.uk

    6. Best yoga mat for travel: Yogamatters Eco Flow Yoga Mat

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    Constantly on the move or just on the hunt for a mat that’s easier to store? The Yogamatters mat is ideal as it’s 4mm thick and easy to roll up. It’s also made from 100% sustainably harvested natural tree rubber, is recyclable and biodegradable, free from toxic chemicals and dyes, and produced with the highest respect for legal environmental and labour standards. Not bad. Not bad at all.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (6)

    £70, yogamatters.com

    7. Best Liforme yoga mat: the Liforme Yoga Mat

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    The clue is in the name. Similar to Manduka, Liforme have been serving the yogi community making great yoga mats for yonks. This is their OG mat, which is generously sized and features their special ‘GripForMe’ material, making it great for hot yoga and power flows. Fun fact: all Liforme mats come printed with their unique AlignForMe system, which are basically alignment markers to help guide you through your practice. Plus, it’s got thousands of 5* reviews.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (7)

    £104.95, amazon.co.uk

    8: Best Argos yoga mat: Opti Floral 6mm Thickness Printed Yoga Exercise Mat

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    If you’re after a more purse-friendly yoga addition, Argos is your best bet. Argos has a range of budget yoga mats to choose from, and this Opti option is less than £20. With a casual 292 5* reviews, we’d say this is a solid investment. If you need extra thickness to support your hips, knees, or wrists, it’s a good option, plus comes with its own carry strap. Ready to assist you through any flow, anywhere.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (8)

    £19, argos.co.uk

    9: Best next day delivery yoga mat: Amazon Basics

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    If you want a yoga mat delivered to your door ASAP, AmazonBasics is the place. Sure, it may not be the highest of quality, but it’ll be with you in no time and do the job. It’s got a textured non-slip surface and is thick enough to provide good support.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (9)

    From £20, amazon.co.uk

    10: Best bargain yoga mat: Comfort Fitness Floor Mat

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    Yoga mats really don’t have to break the bank. If you’re a fairweather yogi or just someone who likes a savasana once in a while, a more budget option may be right for you. Like this Decathlon steal, promising to be perfect for a range of workouts, including yoga. It is 15mm thick and comes with an ultra-practical carry strap. Win win.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (10)

    £24.99, decathlon.co.uk

    11. Best yoga mat with carry strap: Meglio Yoga Mat

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    This 10mm yoga mat from Meglio is a double win: thick enough to support the sweatiest flow and support your joints, but also light enough to carry from class to class. It comes with a handy carry strap, too. What more could you need?

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (11)

    £17.99, mymeglio.com

    12. Best workout mat: Beachbody jump mat

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    Love a wind-down yoga flow but also a fan of higher intensity workouts like HIIT? This Beachbody jump mat is a great all-rounder – promising to be slip-resistant, and pose added grip for safety and support. It says that it’s more durable than average yoga mats, too. Neat.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (12)

    £60.61, amazon.com

    13. Best sustainable yoga mat: Kati Kaia Thalassa yoga mat

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    Like the sound of a soft and comfortable mat that also allows superior grip, too? Then you’ll love the Thalassa mat from Kati Kaia.

    Not only are they effective, but they’re beautiful, too. This gorgeous blue colourway is inspired by the calm Mediterranean sea. Also worth noting: the mats have a 100% natural tree rubber base, a vegan suede up-cycled top, and promise excellent support and joint cushioning.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (13)

    From £80, katikaia.com

    Editor’s pick:

    14. Best aroma spray: Mio Liquid Yoga Space Spray

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    Not a yoga mat, sure, but a yoga mat extra that’s sure to boost both your flow and your mood. This mood-boosting blend of natural essential oils has been designed to calm and relax you. Spray in the air around your yoga mat to create the perfect calming vibe. We love it.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (14)

    £21.00, Lookfantastic

    Everyone’s asking: what’s the difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat?

    A fair question. Yoga mats, generally speaking, are thinner than exercise mats. They’re designed for floor-based flows, crows, and vinyasa, rather than higher intensity exercise, which needs a little more cushioning.

    Your standard yoga mats also normally have more grip on their undersides, to make sure they stay put whilst you’re flowing from downward to upward dog. These are small technicalities, but if you practice home workouts and yoga a lot (and can afford two mats), it may be worth investing.

    Which yoga mat is best for me?

    This depends on what you’ll be using your mat for, and how often. If you’re a keen yogi who’ll be regularly practicing yoga for sleep insomnia, power, and hot flows on your new purchase, spending a little more and investing in one of the pricier mats will probably be worth your money.

    On the other hand, if you have recurring weaknesses or injury problems (work from home posture, we’re looking at you), more padded, specialist mats could save you from pain. Whatever your need, there’s a mat for everyone.

    Best yoga mats 2022: 14 to buy now, from just £12.99 | Marie Claire (2024)

    FAQs

    What is best thickness for a yoga mat? ›

    Yoga Mat Thickness and Weight

    If you're not sure where to start, choose a mat that's about 1/8-in. thick (or 3.175 mm), a pretty standard thickness. These mats are excellent for those in a strong, flowing practice. They allow solid contact with the floor, which helps with stability during a variety of poses.

    Which is better 4mm or 6mm yoga mat? ›

    4mm is by far the most popular. It gives an adequate amount of comfort and enables the most stability out of the three. This could be important if you do a lot of standing or balance poses. If you want more comfort or you practice yoga on uneven or hard surfaces then you may prefer a thicker mat like a 6 or 8mm.

    How much does a good yoga mat cost? ›

    A good price range is anywhere from $50 to $100. What's more, expensive mats may come with perks from their manufacturers, such as quality guarantees or easy replacements if a mat deteriorates, said Angela Leigh, program manager at Pure Yoga in New York City.

    How often should you replace yoga mat? ›

    After hours and hours of performing all kind of yoga poses on your mat, you'll need to replace your yoga mat. People usually replace their yoga mats every six to twelve months, depending on the intensity of their sessions. Performing yoga on a worn yoga mat can negatively impact your body and lead to serious injuries.

    Are thick or thin yoga mats better? ›

    Those comfy, thicker yoga mats, starting around 1/4 inches work best for aching joints, but they are heavier and tend to be more challenging to balance on. Thinner mats can give you better balance and groundedness. Thin mats will also work better with a more active vinyasa or flow styles as they won't bunch up.

    Is there a difference between a yoga mat and a pilates mat? ›

    A yoga mat is thinner so that one can stand and balance properly. A Pilates mat is 1/2-inch thick with compact foam to provide more support for your sensitive body parts. A Pilates mat is dense so that it provides more support to the spine and stay firm on the wooden floor.

    What can be used instead of yoga mat? ›

    If you don't have any yoga mats around, consider using a rug, carpet, bath mat, towel, or firm cushion to support your joints in certain poses. The padding level you need will depend on the firmness of your flooring and the type of poses you are doing.

    How thick should a yoga mat be for hardwood floors? ›

    Because hardwood floors are, well, hard, it makes sense to cover them with thicker mats. For general exercise, an exercise mat should be at least 0.5-inches thick in order to provide good cushioning.

    How thick is a 5mm yoga mat? ›

    1/8" thickness (or 4mm-5mm): This is the most commonly used thickness, also known as standard yoga mats, and it's a perfect combination of performance and portability.

    Which mm yoga mat is best for exercise? ›

    While there are yoga mats available in different thickness options, thick yoga mats are mostly preferred when it comes to durability and comfort. These mats usually have a thickness of 10 mm or more and are suitable for almost all kinds of yoga and exercise routines.

    Is 6mm or 8mm better for yoga mat? ›

    The difference is that 6mm yoga mats provide that extra cushioning which may offer your joints a little extra cushioning. And so between these two, I generally recommend the 6mm option.

    Is 3mm yoga mat too thin? ›

    Thickness: The thickness of the mat varies and helps with cushioning and support. When it comes to thickness there are a few things to think about in terms of performance too. Yoga mats thickness usually vary between 1mm and 7mm. A good mat which can be used for varied yoga practices is usually 3mm thick.

    Is 6 mm yoga mat good enough? ›

    You should choose a mat between 5 and 8 mm thick to help protect your joints. Another quality to look for is "how easy it's to transport" so that you're able to carry it to your classes without much of a hassle.

    Is there a difference between cheap and expensive yoga mats? ›

    Additionally, as a general rule, the more expensive the yoga mat, the better the materials used are, meaning that it tends to be more eco-friendly with better grip. There is even a particular brand that offers a lifetime guarantee for their mats.

    Is it worth it to invest in a good yoga mat? ›

    Your yoga mat is an investment.

    No matter what pose you practice, your mat will be there. So why not spend a little extra on something you will actually use? Whether you're a beginner or super yogi, having a mat that is durable can make a difference in everything from Savasana to Downward-Facing Dog.

    Can I use a towel instead of a yoga mat? ›

    Rolled-up towels are generally a good workout tool, and a great substitute for a yoga mat, especially when you find yourself in need of cushioning against a hard floor. A high-quality, sustainable towel such as the following would be ideal for this particular use: Textile no. Linen Towel, by Karin Carlander.

    Can you use Clorox wipes on yoga mats? ›

    Can I use Clorox wipes on my yoga mat? If you can even find Clorox wipes for sale right now, consider yourself lucky! But you should save them for surfaces other than your yoga mat as they contain harsh chemicals and you can do the same type of disinfecting with less-abrasive options.

    How do you sanitize a yoga mat? ›

    White vinegar: White vinegar, which has antibacterial properties, is a popular natural cleaning solution that yogis use to disinfect their mats. Just mix equal parts white vinegar and water, spray it on both sides of the mat, and gently wipe it off.

    Do I need a yoga mat on carpet? ›

    Yoga is most often done with a yoga mat on an even, sturdy, hardwood floor. This is an ideal stable surface for staying grounded and balanced while holding yoga poses. For many, practicing yoga on the carpet is more convenient but many yoga practitioners caution against it. Viewing ads supports YogaBasics.

    What should a yoga mat be made of? ›

    Options: Most standard yoga mats are made of PVC, otherwise known as vinyl. Newer, more earth-friendly options include natural and recycled rubber, jute, and organic cotton or natural cotton (which means the fabric is not treated with synthetic finishes during manufacturing).

    What is Gaiam yoga mat made of? ›

    Materials: 100% PVC. Latex-Free. 6P Free: Free of DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP, and DNOP phthalates. Care Instructions: Yoga mats release a very strong but harmless odor when first unwrapped.

    Which is harder yoga or Pilates? ›

    Pilates exercises are a lot more intense and results may be noticed much quicker than yoga. Through frequent Pilates exercises, a flatter and firmer stomach may be easier to obtain. If you have back issues, care has to be taken with some yoga poses as they can sometimes exacerbate the problem.

    What type of mat is best for Pilates? ›

    Here are the eight best Pilates mats, according to Pilates instructors:
    • Best Overall: Aeromat Elite Workout Mat.
    • Best Extra-Thick Mat: Stott Pilates Deluxe Mat.
    • Best 12mm Mat: SPRI Exercise Mat.
    • Best Cheap Pilates Mat: BalanceFrom Go Yoga All-Purpose Mat.
    • Best Eco-Friendly Option: Ewedoos Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat.
    26 Sept 2019

    How many times a week should I do Pilates? ›

    Pilates, just like many other fitness systems, should be done for a minimum of 3 times per week. However, to further improve your body's strength, flexibility and endurance, you can do up to 4 or 5 Pilates classes a week.

    Can I use a blanket as a yoga mat? ›

    Some may seem similar, like blankets and mats, but don't confuse them for one another. Yoga mats and yoga blankets are definitely not interchangeable. Your yoga mat grips flooring to keep you from slipping around during your practice and to give your body a little extra support.

    What is the best time for doing yoga? ›

    Iyengar advises doing yoga early in the morning or late in the evening, noting that there are advantages to each. "Practice in the morning makes one work better at one's vocation. In the evening it removes the fatigue of the day's strain and makes one fresh and calm," he said.

    Are exercise mats and yoga mats the same? ›

    Some people might not know that there is difference between a yoga mat and a general exercise mat. Yoga mats are specifically designed for low impact exercises. Compared to exercise mats, yoga mats tend to be thinner and can be found somewhere in the middle of the firmness scale.

    Do yoga mats make a difference? ›

    If you practice yoga on a hard surface such as the living room floor or the yoga studio, a yoga mat is ideal. A mat is more comfortable, warmer for the hands and feet and prevents you from slipping. In addition, it is more hygienic because yoga can make you sweat a lot.

    What is best yoga mat for non slip? ›

    Best non-slip yoga mats at a glance
    • Best lightweight: Manduka PROlite Yoga Mat.
    • Best cushion: Manduka PRO Yoga Mat.
    • Best latex-free: Gaiam Insta-Grip Yoga Mat.
    • Best travel-friendly: Alo Air Mat.
    • Best reversible: lululemon The Mat.
    • Best real rubber: Jade Yoga Harmony Mat.
    • Best for alignment: Liforme Yoga Mat.
    26 Apr 2022

    What is the best yoga for beginners? ›

    Hatha Yoga

    “It's a practice of the body, a physical practice that balances these two energies. So, in reality, it is all hatha yoga,” Vilella says. Best for: Beginners. Because of its slower pace, hatha is a great class if you're just starting your yoga practice.

    Are Manduka mats worth it? ›

    Price: A serious investment for a serious mat

    It's dense, very well-made, and guaranteed to last a lifetime. But if you aren't prepared to put the time into working with it and breaking it in, you aren't going to get a great return on your investment.

    Is there a difference between cheap and expensive yoga mats? ›

    Additionally, as a general rule, the more expensive the yoga mat, the better the materials used are, meaning that it tends to be more eco-friendly with better grip. There is even a particular brand that offers a lifetime guarantee for their mats.

    Is a thick or thin exercise mat better? ›

    It all depends on how much support you think your joints need. I personally use a one-inch-thick fitness mat to support my lower back during core exercises but if you have a floor that's usually carpeted or a dedicated gym floor, you can buy a mat that's a lot thinner — even one that's 0.125 inches thick.

    How thick should a yoga mat be for hardwood floors? ›

    Because hardwood floors are, well, hard, it makes sense to cover them with thicker mats. For general exercise, an exercise mat should be at least 0.5-inches thick in order to provide good cushioning.

    Why am I slipping on my yoga mat? ›

    You're sweating enough to make the yoga mat slick.

    Some people naturally sweat more than others. Or maybe you're doing Bikram yoga and the room is 105 degrees F with 40% humidity. A wet mat can easily become a slippery mat.

    How do I keep my yoga mat sticky? ›

    How to Keep a Yoga Mat Sticky - YouTube

    What is the best non slip material? ›

    Rubber is a naturally slip resistant material. Because rubber has a high coefficient of friction and naturally repels water it is the perfect material for anti slip mats.

    Can you start yoga at 60? ›

    And it's never too late to begin: You can start yoga at any age. (Just be sure to clear it with your doctor before you get going.) Here are some of the benefits of yoga for seniors: Better balance: Many yoga poses for seniors focus on strengthening the abdominal muscles and improving your core stability.

    Is yoga good for seniors? ›

    Yoga has been called one of the best forms of exercise for older adults. Over time and with the proper classes, seniors can improve their flexibility and balance, enhance their strength and boost their mood.

    Who should not do yoga? ›

    Yoga should not be performed in a state of exhaustion, illness, in a hurry or in an acute stress conditions. Women should refrain from regular yoga practice especially asanas during their menses. Relaxation techniques and pranayama can be done instead. Don't perform yoga immediately after meals.

    Why is my Manduka mat so slippery? ›

    Regarding the PRO mat, Manduka states that it regularly takes about three months of daily practice with a little slipping during this time until the friction of hands and feet has broken the surface. If the mat is used less frequently, the "break in" process will of course take longer as well.

    How long does it take to break in a Manduka yoga mat? ›

    This film needs to be worn off, and our customers have found that the best way to “break-in” their mat is to use it on a daily basis for at least a month, although the break-in period varies from person to person because everyone's practice varies quite a bit, and it can take up to to three months of daily practice and ...

    Which side of Manduka mat goes up? ›

    Which side of the Manduka X Mat do I use? The Manduka X Mat is made of the same durable material on the top and bottom, so you are welcome to use either side!

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