Best Yoga Mats of 2026: Tested Across Every Style

Your yoga mat is where every practice begins and ends. The right mat provides grip when you sweat, cushion for your joints, and enough stability for balancing poses. We tested 12 mats across hot yoga, vinyasa flow, and restorative practices.

What We Evaluated

We measured wet and dry grip, cushion thickness and density, weight for portability, durability after 100 sessions, material safety, and environmental impact.

Top Picks

Best Overall: Manduka PRO

The Manduka PRO is the mat that yoga instructors choose for themselves. The 6mm thickness cushions joints without compromising balance. The closed-cell surface prevents sweat absorption and bacteria growth. It improves with use, developing better grip over the first 20 sessions.

Best for Hot Yoga: Liforme Original

The Liforme dominates hot yoga studios. Its unique GripForMe surface gets stickier as you sweat, the opposite of most mats. The alignment guides help you place hands and feet precisely. The eco-polyurethane top layer wipes clean after class.

Best Budget: Gaiam Premium 6mm

Under 30 dollars, the Gaiam Premium provides solid performance for home practice and studio classes. The 6mm thickness protects knees during kneeling poses, and the non-toxic PVC construction offers decent grip that improves after a few uses.

Thickness Guide

3mm travel mats fold for portability but provide minimal cushion. 5mm mats balance grip and comfort for most practices. 6mm mats add extra joint protection and are ideal for restorative and yin yoga. 8mm mats are for fitness-style yoga or practitioners with sensitive knees.

Material Matters

PVC mats offer the best durability and grip for the price but are not biodegradable. Natural rubber mats provide excellent grip and are more eco-friendly but can trigger latex allergies. TPE mats are a middle ground: lightweight, recyclable, and allergen-free.

Care Tips

Wipe your mat after every practice with a damp cloth or mat spray. Deep clean monthly by submerging in a bathtub with mild soap. Air dry completely before rolling. Never machine wash or use harsh chemicals. A well-maintained mat lasts 5 to 10 years.