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When you’re working out from home, it helps to create a dedicated space for your home gym — but if you reside in a cozy apartment or don’t have the real estate to section off part of your home, getting into the workout headspace while in your basement, bedroom, or living room can be kind of hard. One small thing that helps? A quality yoga mat. Not only does it signal to your brain that it’s workout time when you roll it out, but it also provides cushioned support and a nonslip surface that’s much more suited to exercise than, say, a carpet or hardwood floor.
Even if you head to the gym or a studio for workouts, it can be helpful to have your own mat. Often, the soft, foamy ones in gyms and studios aren’t very nonslip and can be prone to crumbling. Not to mention, they’re quite literally covered in germs.
All this is to say, a yoga mat is a simple yet necessary fitness tool for anyone who works out. And in case you weren’t aware, yoga mats aren’t just for yoga; you can utilize them for Pilates, strength training, stretching, bodyweight training — or any time you need a stable and supportive surface for an at-home workout. That said, not all yoga mats are created equal. Some are better suited to sweaty workouts, some provide more cushion, and others are specifically designed to stand up to sneaker scuffs or extreme wear and tear. If you’re wondering what the best yoga mat is for your specific needs, the good news is, we’ve got you covered. We rounded up the best yoga mats on the market for every type of workout and personal preference.
Whether you want something super thick to protect your knees or a thin mat that’s flexible and easy to travel with, there’s a yoga mat here for you. We found several yoga mats with nonslip surfaces — even one ideal for hot yoga. If you like to work out with a partner, there’s also an extra-large yoga mat that can fit two people. There’s even an option if you want to work out with your kid. Keep reading for yoga mat picks from Alo, Lululemon, Manduka, Gaiam, and more.
— Additional reporting by India Yaffe, Jenny Sugar, and Lauren Mazzo