How to Pick a Yoga Mat + My Favorites!
How to pick a yoga mat:
When it comes to picking a mat there are so many options and things to consider that it can often be overwhelming. These are the main features and factors that I consider when choosing a new mat:
Material: The material of a mat dictates not only the grip, but how durable it is, how long it will last; and even how sustainable and biodegradable it is. Often the more durable a mat is the longer it will take to biodegrade, which is also something to consider. Grip is one of the most important factors to me, so I always make sure to choose a mat that has a “no slip” grip.
Weight: If you are mostly practicing at home, weight is not a huge factor. If you plan to bring your mat to studios or travel with it, you might want to consider a lighter mat or investing in a travel mat designed for that purpose.
Dimensions: For those of you who are taller or have longer limbs, you might want to consider a mat that is slightly larger. I also prefer a slightly larger mat to have extra room even though I am not very tall :)
Thickness: For those of you with sensitive knees, or those who will primarily use the mat for stretching, I recommend choosing one of the thicker options. For folks who plan to practice handstands and arm balances, mats that are slightly thinner will be better for wrist health, and make it easier to balance.
Color + Design: I love light and brightly colored mats, but they do tend to show stains and signs of wear faster than darker colors. Having alignment markers on your mat can be extremely useful, but some people find the lines and designs distracting.
Price: Try to decide on a general price point before mat shopping to help you stick to your budget! If you really love one of the more expensive mats you can keep an eye out for sales, or try to find an option that has similar specifications at a lower price point.
Once you’ve gotten an idea of what you are looking for in a mat, it will be much easier to choose!
My favorite yoga mats:
*This blog contains affiliate links and codes. All of the mat companies I work with/recommend with are great companies and have quality products.
Out of all the mats I’ve tried over the years, these are the ones that have exceeded my expectations. They all have outstanding grip and are slightly larger than average yoga mats. No matter which mat you choose, make sure you follow the instructions to properly care for it in order to help it last as long as possible.
Liforme yoga mat
use code FITQUEENIRENE for 10% off
Liforme was the first to create a mat with alignment markers, which can be extremely helpful when it comes to foot positions as well hand placement. I’ve been using Liforme mats for nearly 10 years now. I love the grip, and I find they are the perfect thickness for both yoga and handstands! Another plus is these mats are biodegradable. Many of their colors and styles give back to charity, and overall they are a pretty cool company. The only downsides are the higher price point, and because the mats are biodegradable they typically don’t last as long as the less sustainable options. If you practice daily you can expect this mat to last up to two years (in my experience).
Specs:
Material: Natural Rubber base and eco-polyurethane top surface
Weight: Approx. 5.5lbs (2.5kg)
Dimensions: 72.8” long x 26.8” wide (185cm x 68cm)
Thickness: Approx. 4.2mm
Color/design: Liforme carries a variety of colors and designs, all with some form of alignment markers
Price: $140 and up - mat bag included with purchase
WIWORLDANDI Soul mat
Use code FITQUEENIRENE for 10% off
The WIWORLDANDI Soul Mat is similar to the Liforme mat as far as the specifications go. The main distinctions are that this mat features a more simplified design, and it comes in 17 fun colors! It is also SLIGHTLY thicker and heavier than the Liforme mats. Of course I love the grip, the sustainability of materials used, and the color choices are amazing. The downsides here are also the price point, and it is heavier than the Liforme, but that does assist in durability.
Specs:
Material: Natural Rubber base and eco-polyurethane top surface
Weight: Approx. 6.6lbs (3kg)
Dimensions: 72.8” long x 26.8” wide (185cm x 68cm)
Thickness: 4.5mm
Color/design: 17 colors + simple design with centerline, gaze point, and logo
Price: $175 - purchase includes mat bag and towel
bYOGA “everyday” and “strong” MATs
15% off with code FITQUEENIRENE_15
The BYOGA mat is my top choice for a mat that is less than $100. It features amazing grip, is extremely durable, and comes in awesome colors. There are several options to choose from as far as thickness and length goes, so you can get exactly what you want. This mat is designed to last for over 2 years of everyday practice, and because it has a slightly textured surface it doesn’t show stains and sweat quite as much as the smoother surfaced mats.
Specs for "Everyday”/”Strong”:
Weight: 4.1lbs/ 5lbs
Dimensions: 71” long x 26” wide (180cm x 66cm)
Thickness: 4mm/ 6mm
Color/design: 9 colors, no design other than logo
Price: $84/ $96 (the longer versions are slightly more expensive)