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The best yoga mats – tested by our experts
Whether you practice yoga for recovery, flexibility or mindfulness, you’ll know the frustration of slipping in downward dog, or knee pain during a low lunge. It’s why investing in a good mat is essential. It’s the only accessory you need (aside from a sweat towel and water bottle if you like a hot class).
With so many options out there and prices ranging from £10 to £180, finding the best yoga mat is as personal as your practice.
“Some people love thin, simple mats, others prefer cork and personally, I love rubber mats,” says yoga instructor, Jenny Haynes. “Whichever you choose, we’re looking for grip, cushioning and durability.”
With that in mind, I’ve spent the last month extensively testing the best yoga mats on the market, from global brands like Lululemon and Alo Yoga, through to boutique names like Yogi Bare and Hercule Studio, with all products in this guide regularly reviewed and updated.
The best yoga mats: At a glance
How to choose the best yoga mat
When choosing the best yoga mat for you, the first thing to consider is grip. “The goal is to feel grounded in your movements,” says Haynes, “which can be really challenging with a slippery mat, especially in hot yoga.”
You also need to consider your joint health, and how much cushioning you like beneath you during your practice. “It’s not impossible to practice on thinner mats,” says Haynes, who has used mats as thin as 1-3mm during her training in India. “But I wouldn’t recommend them for anyone with joint issues, as they require you to be far more conscious of how you’re landing, and will offer less comfort, especially when lying down.”
There’s also durability and sustainability to consider. You want a mat which can withstand regular travelling, rolling and cleaning as this will save you from making regular replacements which are costly, both to your wallet and the environment.
Then, of course, there’s portability; especially important if you’re planning to transport your mat to the studio, or away on yoga retreats. For this, we’re looking for something lightweight, ideally accompanied by a strap or case to keep it tightly rolled wherever you go.
