Buying a yoga mat: how to choose the right material, thickness and size

A yoga mat should stay firmly in place during your workout, provide enough cushioning and be easy to carry. In practice, vague product descriptions, unsuitable dimensions or a surface that’s difficult to clean can often lead to the wrong purchase. This applies not only to yoga, but also to Pilates, stretching, gymnastics, HIIT and other floor exercises.

Common mistakes when buying a yoga mat

1. “Non-slip” doesn’t automatically mean a secure grip

The term non-slip yoga mat often refers to a textured surface. The amount of grip you get also depends on the floor, moisture and the movements you’re doing. An embossed surface may provide good grip when your hands and feet are dry, but behave differently when you’re sweating. Always place your mat on a clean, flat, dry floor.

2. A thicker mat isn’t better for every exercise

A thick yoga mat can feel more comfortable for exercises done sitting or lying down. However, a very soft surface can feel less stable during balance exercises. For dynamic yoga and standing poses, 4 to 6 mm is often a practical middle ground. If you mainly exercise on a hard floor or need extra cushioning, you could consider a 12-mm mat.

3. Larger dimensions are often mistaken for heavier weight

A long, wide mat gives you more room to move, but also takes up more storage space. Dimensions such as 183 × 61 cm are often easier to manage in a small home or when travelling regularly to the studio. By contrast, an XXL mat measuring 190 × 80 cm or 190 × 100 cm is a good option if you don’t want to bump into the edge of your mat during Pilates, gymnastics or floor exercises.

What to check before you buy

Material: PVC, TPE, NBR or cork

The material affects the surface, weight, flexibility, cleaning and how the mat wears over time.

• PVC yoga mat: PVC mats are often shape-retaining, easy to wipe clean and available with different surface textures. An embossed surface can help provide grip. Only take environmental certifications into account if they’re clearly specified.
• TPE yoga mat: TPE is used in many lightweight exercise mats. The models in this selection have textured surfaces on one or both sides and offer some flexibility.
• NBR: NBR foam is often used for more heavily cushioned mats. Capelli Sport’s 12-mm version is made from NBR, providing a thicker surface for floor exercises.
• Cork yoga mat: The cork mat in this selection has a cork top and a TPE underside. The product description gives its dimensions as 61 × 183 cm and its thickness as 5 mm. Cork can look and feel different from PVC or TPE; follow the care instructions for the specific product.

Thickness and intended use

Choose a thickness that suits both your exercises and the floor beneath you:

• 4 mm: Low-profile, with a close feel to the floor. Suitable for yoga, Pilates and standing exercises.
• 5 to 6 mm: A good balance of cushioning and stability for fitness, stretching and general floor exercises.
• 12 mm: More cushioning and distance from a hard floor for exercises done lying down, sitting or kneeling. If you do challenging balance poses, check that the mat feels stable enough for you.

Size, weight and transport

A yoga mat with a carrying strap is handy if you regularly take it between home, the gym and your class. As well as the strap, check the mat’s weight and how much space it takes up when rolled. A strap makes it easier to carry, but doesn’t replace suitable storage. After exercising, let the mat dry completely before rolling it up.

Our picks for different needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners

Capelli Sport 4mm Non-Slip Yoga Mat

Why it suits this profile: This 4-mm PVC mat measures 68 × 24 inches and is suitable for yoga, Pilates, fitness and floor exercises at home or at the gym.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The PVC material, thickness and dimensions are clearly specified. The surface is embossed, but care is still needed when it’s wet.

Key benefit and strengths

4 mm thick, with an easy-to-wipe PVC surface and dimensions suited to common workout spaces.

Ideal for: Buyers looking for high quality

Miss Lulu Non-Slip TPE Yoga Fitness Pilates Mat

Why it suits this profile: Measuring 190 × 80 cm, this TPE mat offers a wide workout area and a textured surface on both sides for yoga, Pilates and fitness exercises.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The texture on both sides and the clearly stated dimensions reduce the risk of choosing a mat that’s too narrow for movements that need more room.

Key benefit and strengths

190 × 80 cm, 6 mm thick, made from TPE and supplied with a carrying strap.

Ideal for: Specific uses and frequent workouts

5MM Cork Yoga Mat

Why it suits this profile: Combining cork and TPE, this mat is for anyone looking for a different surface texture for yoga, workouts and more sweat-inducing sessions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The material combination and 5-mm thickness are clearly stated. After exercising, dry the mat and clean it according to the care instructions.

Key benefit and strengths

Cork-and-TPE construction, 61 × 183 cm dimensions and a size designed for a wide range of workouts.

Ideal for: Comfortable floor exercises

Capelli Sport Exercise Mat, 61 × 183 cm, 12 mm

Why it suits this profile: This 12-mm NBR mat is designed for fitness, Pilates, stretching and floor exercises where extra cushioning is needed.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The thickness, NBR material and dimensions are clearly stated. Before using it regularly for balance exercises, bear in mind that the softer cushioning may affect stability.

Key benefit and strengths

12-mm NBR foam, 61 × 183 cm dimensions and an elastic carrying strap.

Care and safe use

• Unroll the mat on a flat, clean surface before using it for the first time.
• After your workout, clean it with a damp cloth and, if suitable, mild soap.
• Leave it to air-dry completely before rolling it up.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, extreme heat, naked flames and sharp objects.
• Stop using the mat if you notice cracks, heavy wear or deformation.
• If you do exercises that make you sweat a lot, check whether the surface becomes more slippery.

Frequently asked questions about yoga mats

How thick should a yoga mat be?

For many people, 4 to 6 mm offers a good balance for yoga, Pilates, fitness and stretching. If you need more cushioning for floor exercises, you could choose a 12-mm mat. For balance poses, avoid a mat that’s too soft.

What’s the right way to clean a yoga mat?

Most of the models in this selection can be cleaned with a damp cloth. If needed, mild soap is suitable, provided the product’s care instructions allow it. The mat must be completely dry before you roll it up. Harsh cleaning products can damage the material and surface.

How long does a yoga mat last?

How long it lasts depends on how often you exercise, the floor, how it’s stored and how well it’s cared for. Friction, direct sunlight, heat and sharp objects can damage the surface more quickly. Check the mat regularly for cracks, peeling or permanent deformation to help you decide when it’s time to replace it.