Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Determining Your Yoga Style and Needs
- Understanding Mat Materials and Sustainability
- Finding the Right Grip for Your Practice
- Choosing the Correct Thickness
- What Are the Best Yoga Mats to Buy for Your Specific Goal?
- The Role of Yoga Props in Your Purchase
- How to Care for Your Investment
- Making the Final Decision
- The Yoga Design Lab Story
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
We have all been there. You are halfway through a challenging Vinyasa (flow) class, your palms are starting to sweat, and suddenly your hands begin to slide forward in Adho Mukha Svanasana (downward-facing dog). Or perhaps you are holding a seated pose and realize your knees are pressing painfully into a floor that feels far too hard. Choosing the right gear is about more than just aesthetics. It is about creating a foundation that supports your body, respects the planet, and makes you excited to move. At Yoga Design Lab, we believe that your mat should be an extension of your practice—blending high-performance functionality with artful design. This guide explores the different types of mats available and helps you determine which one fits your specific needs in our yoga mats collection. Whether you are a dedicated hot yoga fan or just starting your journey, here is everything you need to know about what are the best yoga mats to buy.
Determining Your Yoga Style and Needs
Before you look at colors or patterns, you must identify how you actually spend your time on the mat. Not all yoga practices are created equal. A mat that works perfectly for a slow, restorative Yin yoga class (a deep, passive style of yoga) might be a disaster in a high-intensity, heated room.
Consider the temperature of your practice. If you primarily attend hot yoga or Power Vinyasa classes, moisture management is your top priority. Standard foam mats often become slippery "slip-and-slides" when they get wet. For these practices, you need a surface designed to absorb moisture or one that becomes grippier as it gets damp.
Think about your joints and comfort levels. Do you have sensitive knees or wrists? If so, the thickness and density of the material will be the most important factors for you. While some yogis prefer a thin mat to feel "grounded" and stable in standing balances, others need the plush support of a thicker mat to protect their bones during floor work. If you want a deeper framework, our guide to yoga mat thickness can help.
Evaluate your lifestyle and travel habits. If you only practice at a studio five minutes from your house, weight might not be an issue. However, if you are a commuter or a frequent traveler, a heavy, 7-pound mat will quickly become a burden. In those cases, looking for travel mat options is a much better choice.
Key Takeaway: The "best" mat is entirely subjective and depends on your specific style of yoga, your physical needs for cushioning, and how often you plan to transport your gear.
Understanding Mat Materials and Sustainability
The material of your mat determines its grip, its "give," and its impact on the environment. For many years, the industry standard was PVC (polyvinyl chloride). While PVC is durable and cheap, it is often treated with phthalates and is not biodegradable. Today, many practitioners prefer more eco-conscious options.
Natural Tree Rubber
Natural rubber is a popular choice for those seeking a high-performance, sustainable base. It provides excellent "rebound" and cushioning. It is also a renewable resource. We use natural tree rubber as the foundation for our mats because it stays firmly planted on the studio floor without bunching up or sliding during transitions. It is also part of our sustainability story.
Recycled PET Microfiber
For the top layer of many performance mats, recycled PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is a standout. This material is made from recycled plastic bottles. When bonded to a natural rubber base, it creates a surface that feels soft like a towel but provides the stability of a mat.
Natural Cork
Cork is a fascinating material for yoga. It is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees without harming the tree itself. Cork is naturally antimicrobial, meaning it resists the growth of mold and odors. It also has a unique cellular structure that provides a firm, grounded feel, and the Cork Yoga Mat collection shows why.
Myth: Eco-friendly mats are less durable than synthetic ones. Fact: High-quality natural rubber and recycled PET mats are engineered for longevity and can withstand years of daily practice when cared for properly.
Finding the Right Grip for Your Practice
Grip is usually the number one concern for people wondering what are the best yoga mats to buy. There are two main types of grip: "dry grip" and "moisture-activated grip."
Dry grip mats are often made of polyurethane (PU) or textured foam. They feel "sticky" the moment you touch them. These are great for people who do not sweat much or for very gentle practices where you stay dry throughout the session.
Moisture-activated grip mats are different. If you touch them with bone-dry hands, they might feel smooth. However, the moment you begin to generate heat and moisture, the surface locks your hands and feet into place. This is why our signature Combo Mat is so popular in the hot yoga community. It combines a mat and a towel into one product. By eliminating the need for a separate bulky towel on top of your mat, you get a smoother, more stable surface to move on.
Note: If you find yourself slipping on a moisture-activated mat at the very beginning of class, simply spray a tiny bit of water on the areas where your hands and feet go. This "wakes up" the grip immediately.
Choosing the Correct Thickness
Thickness is a balancing act between comfort and stability. Here is a breakdown of common mat thicknesses and who they are for:
- 1.5mm (Ultra-Thin): These are specifically designed for travel. They are often foldable and can fit into a carry-on bag. They provide almost no cushioning, so they are best used over a studio-provided mat or on a soft surface like grass or carpet.
- 3mm to 3.5mm (Standard): This is the "Goldilocks" thickness for most practitioners. It offers enough padding for the knees while remaining light enough to carry easily. It provides a solid connection to the floor, which helps with balance poses like Vrksasana (tree pose).
- 5mm to 6mm (Cushioned): These mats are ideal for restorative yoga, Yin yoga, or anyone with joint sensitivities. They provide a luxurious feel and excellent shock absorption.
What Are the Best Yoga Mats to Buy for Your Specific Goal?
For the Hot Yoga Devotee
If you spend your mornings in a room heated to 105 degrees, you need a mat that thrives in humidity. The Ultimate Hot Yoga Companion is our recommendation here. Because it features a recycled PET microfiber top bonded to a natural rubber base, it acts like a high-performance sponge. Instead of sweat pooling on top of a plastic mat and causing you to slip, the moisture is absorbed into the surface, which actually increases your traction.
For the Eco-Conscious Practitioner
If sustainability is your primary driver, look toward the Cork Collection. Cork is 100% renewable and biodegradable. Our cork mats use water-based inks for their designs and are free from toxic glues. They offer a beautiful, earthy aesthetic and a firm grip that performs exceptionally well even when wet.
For the Traveler and Commuter
If you are constantly on the go, Travel Yoga Mats are the logical choice. At only 1.5mm thick, they can be folded into a neat square and tucked into a backpack. They are also machine washable, which is a massive bonus when you are practicing in different environments or outdoors and want to keep your gear fresh.
For Maximum Joint Support
For those who need extra "squish," the Infinity Mat offers premium cushioning and a textured surface. It is designed for practitioners who want a high-grip, supportive mat that feels substantial under the body. It is particularly helpful for those practicing inversions (poses where the head is below the heart), as the extra thickness protects the head and neck during transitions.
For Beginners Building a Foundation
When you are just starting, you might not want to overcomplicate things. A versatile everyday mat like our Flow Yoga Mat is a great starting point. It provides a reliable grip and standard cushioning that works across various yoga styles as you explore which path of the practice resonates most with you.
The Role of Yoga Props in Your Purchase
Buying the best mat is only part of the equation. Often, your practice can be significantly improved by incorporating the right accessories.
Yoga Blocks: Do not view blocks as a "crutch." View them as a way to bring the floor to you. If your hamstrings are tight, a Cork Yoga Block under your hand in Trikonasana (triangle pose) allows you to maintain a long, healthy spine instead of rounding over to reach the floor. Cork is a preferred material for blocks because it is firm and stable, unlike some foam blocks that can feel wobbly.
Yoga Straps: These are essential for improving flexibility without straining. A yoga strap collection helps you "close the gap" in poses where you cannot yet reach your feet, ensuring you maintain proper alignment (the physical positioning of the body).
Yoga Wheels: If you are looking to improve your backbends or open up your chest, a Cork Yoga Wheel is a wonderful addition. It supports the spine and allows you to move deeper into heart-opening poses with confidence.
How to Care for Your Investment
Once you have decided which mat to buy, you want it to last. Proper care is the key to longevity.
Step 1: Clean after every use. / Use a gentle, non-toxic mat wash or a simple solution of water and a drop of mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that can break down natural rubber. Step 2: Air dry completely. / Never roll up a damp mat. Hang it over a chair or a railing out of direct sunlight. Sun can "bake" natural rubber and make it brittle. Step 3: Roll it correctly. / Always roll your mat with the top side (the design side) facing out. This ensures that the mat will lay flat the next time you unroll it for class. Step 4: Deep clean occasionally. / If you have a microfiber-topped mat like the Combo Mat, you can occasionally give it a deeper clean. Some practitioners even put their Travel Combo Mats in the washing machine on a cold, gentle cycle with no bleach.
Note: Never use oils or oil-based cleaners on a cork or natural rubber mat, as this can clog the pores of the material and ruin the grip.
Making the Final Decision
Choosing between these options can feel overwhelming because there are so many high-quality choices. If you are still feeling stuck, we recommend using our Mat Quiz. It is a quick tool designed to match your specific practice habits—like how much you sweat and how often you travel—to the perfect mat for your lifestyle.
Choosing a mat is a personal ritual. It is the one piece of equipment that stays with you throughout your growth as a yogi. Whether you choose the plush support of an Infinity Mat or the moisture-activated grip of a Combo Mat, ensure it is a piece of gear that makes you smile when you see it sitting in the corner of your room.
The Yoga Design Lab Story
Our journey began in 2014 when our founder, Chad Turner, was practicing in Ubud, Bali. He looked around the room and saw a sea of uninspired, mass-produced grey and blue mats. He realized that yoga gear could be both high-performing and incredibly beautiful. He set out to create products that blended nature-inspired prints with sustainable materials like recycled plastic bottles and natural tree rubber. Today, we continue that mission, creating artful gear that inspires you to show up on your mat every single day. We believe that when your gear is a work of art, your practice feels like one too. To learn more about the brand behind the mats, visit our About Us story.
Conclusion
The best yoga mat to buy is the one that removes obstacles from your practice. It should stop you from slipping, protect your joints, and align with your environmental values. By focusing on material, thickness, and your specific style of yoga, you can find a foundation that will support you for years to come.
- Hot Yoga: Go for the Combo Mat for integrated towel grip.
- Eco-Focus: Choose the Cork Mat for renewable materials.
- Travel: Pick the Travel Combo Mat for portability.
- Comfort: The Infinity Mat is your best bet for extra cushion.
The right gear is an investment in your well-being. Take the time to choose a mat that feels like home. If you want a personalized recommendation, head over to our Mat Quiz to find your perfect match.
FAQ
Is a thicker yoga mat always better?
Not necessarily, as it depends on your needs. A thicker mat (5mm–6mm) offers more protection for sensitive joints, but it can be heavier to carry and sometimes feels less stable during balance poses. Many practitioners find that a medium thickness (3.5mm) provides the best balance of comfort and a solid connection to the floor.
Why do I slip on my new yoga mat?
Slipping often happens because of the type of grip the mat uses. If you have a moisture-activated mat, it requires a bit of dampness to "lock" in; try lightly spraying the mat with water before you start. If it is a new rubber or PVC mat, there may be a thin manufacturing residue that will disappear after a few uses or a gentle cleaning.
Are cork yoga mats good for beginners?
Yes, cork mats are excellent for beginners because they provide a very stable, firm surface that helps with alignment. They are also naturally antimicrobial, which is great for people who are still learning how to properly maintain their gear. The grip on cork also improves as you get warmer, supporting you as your practice becomes more active.
Can I wash my yoga mat in the washing machine?
You should only machine wash mats that are specifically labeled as machine-washable, such as the Travel Combo Mat. Most natural rubber or cork mats should never go in the machine, as the agitation can damage the natural fibers. For most mats, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild soap is the safest and most effective cleaning method.