The Manduka PRO is the overall best yoga mat for durability and joint protection, while the Lululemon Reversible Mat is the top alternative for grip. Both are frequently recommended by NYTimes and owners for long-term use.
Check price on AmazonYoga mat shopping can be overwhelming with endless options. We analyzed owner reviews, expert roundups, and durability reports to find the mats that actually hold up. Our ranking focuses on grip, cushion, and longevity, not flashy marketing.
Whether you need a mat for hot yoga, travel, or daily practice, these are the best yoga mats NYTimes readers and experienced yogis recommend. We ranked them based on traction, thickness, material quality, and owner satisfaction.
How we rank
We analyzed owner reviews across multiple retailers, expert roundups, and comparative testing data to rank mats on grip, cushion, durability, and portability. See our method.
Quick picks
| Best for | Product | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | PRO Yoga Mat | Serious yogis who want a durable, high-traction mat for daily practice |
| Best for Grip | The Reversible Mat 5mm | Hot yoga practitioners and those who need maximum traction |
| Best Lightweight | eKO SuperLite Travel Mat | Travelers and yogis who need a portable mat |
| Best Premium | Manduka Begin Yoga Mat 5mm | Stylish yogis who want a grippy, cushioned mat for all practices |
| Best Value | PROlite Yoga Mat | Budget-conscious practitioners who want Manduka quality in a lighter form |
| Best for Alignment | The Mat 5mm | Alignment-focused yogis and teachers who want guide markings |
| Best Budget | Everyday Yoga Mat 6mm | Beginners or casual yogis seeking an affordable mat |
The picks, compared
PRO Yoga Mat
The Manduka PRO is widely considered the gold standard for yoga mats. It features a dense, closed-cell PVC surface that provides excellent grip even when wet. Owners report this mat lasts for years without peeling or losing cushion. It offers superior joint protection with its 6mm thickness and firm stability.
What owners say: Owners consistently praise the Manduka PRO for its longevity and slip resistance, with many reporting over five years of use. Some note a break-in period for grip and the mat's weight as drawbacks.
- Excellent grip when sweaty
- Extremely durable construction
- Great cushion for joints
- Heavy and not portable
- Initial break-in period for surface texture
The Reversible Mat 5mm
Lululemon's Reversible Mat offers two surfaces: a natural rubber side for grip and a polyurethane side for sweat absorption. It maintains traction even when wet. Reviewers note it stays put on hardwood floors. The 5mm thickness balances comfort and stability.
What owners say: Owners love the grip in hot yoga classes and the mat's non-slip performance. A common complaint is the natural rubber smell initially and sensitivity to moisture if not dried properly.
- Outstanding grip in hot yoga
- Two usable surfaces
- Stays flat on floors
- Initial rubber odor
- Requires air drying to prevent peeling
eKO SuperLite Travel Mat
The eKO SuperLite is a foldable, 1.5mm mat that rolls down to compact size. Made from natural tree rubber, it provides good grip without heavy weight. Owners use it as a travel mat or on top of gym mats. Its thin profile sacrifices cushion but offers unparalleled portability.
What owners say: Owners appreciate the ultra-light design and eco-friendly materials. Some wish for more cushion and note the rubber smell can be strong initially.
- Compact and lightweight for travel
- Eco-friendly natural rubber
- Good grip on smooth surfaces
- Thin padding, not for hard floors
- Rubber smell takes time to fade
Manduka Begin Yoga Mat 5mm
Lululemon’s “The Mat” line comes in 1.5mm, 3mm and 5mm versions, with no 6mm variant. Based on manufacturer specs, the Manduka Begin is a comparable 5mm mat built for cushioning and stability, with an alignment stripe to help guide pose setup.
Aggregated owner reviews describe it as a comfortable, well-cushioned option for home practice and beginner classes, at a lower price point than premium studio mats.
- Budget-friendly compared to premium yoga mats
- alignment stripe helps with pose positioning
- lightweight and easy to carry to class
- Less cushioning than thicker mats for sensitive joints
- shorter 68-inch length may not suit taller users
PROlite Yoga Mat
The PROlite offers the same dense PVC as the PRO but at 4.7mm thick and 4 lbs lighter. It retains the closed-cell surface that prevents sweat absorption and bacterial growth. Owners say it provides excellent traction and durability for half the weight of the PRO. It is a top choice for those who want a long-lasting mat without the bulk.
What owners say: Owners rave about the thinner profile for balance poses and the lifetime durability. Some find the texture less grippy initially and note it can be slippery when new.
- Lighter than PRO but same durability
- Good cushion for most practices
- Non-absorbent surface
- Less padding for sensitive knees
- Requires break-in for grip
The Mat 5mm
Liforme mats feature proprietary alignment markers printed on the surface, helping yogis perfect poses. The natural rubber base provides excellent grip, while the 5mm thickness offers comfort. Owners report the mat stays put during intense sessions. It is a favorite among yoga instructors for its practical design.
What owners say: Owners praise the alignment guides for improving form and the mat's grip. Some note the markers wear off over time and the mat is heavier than expected.
- Unique alignment guide system
- Superior grip on both sides
- Eco-friendly materials
- Alignment markers can fade
- Heavy for travel at 5.5 lbs
Everyday Yoga Mat 6mm
Gaiam's Everyday mat offers a good balance of cushion and portability at a low price point. It features a textured PVC surface for moderate grip and is available in many colors. Owners appreciate its value for occasional practice. While not as durable as premium mats, it serves well for starting a yoga journey.
What owners say: Owners find it comfortable for gentle yoga and easy to clean. Some report it wears out within a year and can be slippery when wet.
- Very affordable
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Multiple color options
- Less durable than premium mats
- Slippery in hot yoga
How to choose
- Thickness. Thicker mats (6mm+) offer more joint cushioning but reduce stability for balancing poses. Thinner mats (3mm or less) provide better ground feel and are lighter for travel, but offer less comfort on hard floors.
- Material. PVC mats are durable and non-absorbent, making them ideal for sweaty practices. Natural rubber offers excellent grip and eco-friendliness but may have a strong odor initially. TPE or jute options are lighter but less durable.
- Grip. Look for mats with closed-cell surfaces that prevent moisture absorption and maintain traction when wet. Open-cell mats (like some natural rubber) require drying to avoid slipping. Some mats have a textured or suede-like top layer for added grip.
- Portability. Consider weight and rolling mechanism. Heavy mats (7+ lbs) are great for home practice but cumbersome to carry. Foldable or super-thin travel mats are light but sacrifice cushion. Some mats come with carrying straps.
- Eco-Friendliness. Natural rubber, jute, and TPE mats are biodegradable alternatives to PVC. Some brands use recycled materials or non-toxic manufacturing. Note that natural rubber mats may have a shorter lifespan and can degrade in sunlight.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best yoga mat for hot yoga?
The best yoga mat for hot yoga is the Lululemon Reversible Mat or the Manduka PRO. Both have excellent grip when wet, with Lululemon's polyurethane side absorbing sweat and Manduka's closed-cell PVC preventing absorption. The Alo Yoga Warrior Mat also performs well in hot classes due to its suede-like top.
How thick should a yoga mat be?
For most practices, 5mm to 6mm is ideal, providing cushion without compromising stability. Thicker mats (8mm+) are better for restorative yoga or sensitive joints, while thin mats (3mm or less) suit travel or advanced practitioners who need ground feedback.
Are natural rubber yoga mats better?
Natural rubber mats offer superior grip and are eco-friendly, but they can have a strong initial odor and may degrade faster than PVC. They are excellent for static practices but may become slippery when wet if not properly cared for. PVC mats are more durable and moisture-resistant.
How do I clean my yoga mat?
Mix water with a few drops of mild dish soap or a specialized mat cleaner. Spray on a cloth and wipe the mat, avoiding soaking. Air dry completely before rolling. Some mats can be machine washed on gentle, but check manufacturer instructions. Avoid harsh chemicals that can break down the material.
What yoga mat do NYTimes recommendations suggest?
NYTimes has recommended the Manduka PRO for durability, the Lululemon Reversible Mat for grip, and the Liforme Mat for alignment. Their picks emphasize long-term use, material quality, and owner satisfaction over price.
Can I use a yoga mat on carpet?
Yes, but a thinner non-slip mat works best to maintain stability. Thick mats can feel unstable on carpet. Some yogis place a thin rubber mat over a rug for extra grip. Avoid thick, plush mats that may sink.
The verdict
The Manduka PRO is our top pick for its unmatched durability and joint support, making it ideal for daily practitioners who want a mat that lasts. For hot yoga or those who prioritize grip, the Lululemon Reversible Mat is the best alternative. Budget-conscious beginners should consider the Gaiam Everyday Yoga Mat for its affordability and decent performance.