The 5 Best Yoga and Exercise Mats

So what makes a good exercise mat? First, think of its purpose: You use a mat for yoga, Pilates, or strength training because it provides a nonslip surface for moves that need stability. “They also cushion you against the floor, making exercises more comfortable.”

That’s why thickness is vital, but that doesn’t mean thicker is always better. While it certainly depends on what feels comfortable for you, what you are using it for also plays a role. For instance, a thick, cushiony yoga mat may feel great for easy moves when you’re sitting or lying down, but too much cushioning may actually make you feel less stable, especially on standing moves where you need to feel more grounded, says Duval. That means it may not be the best choice for strength training that requires lots of stability, like squats and deadlifts.

Then, think of portability. If you’re looking for an exercise mat you can carry with you—even if it’s just into the backyard for some outdoor yoga—or need to stow it under your bed, you may want to choose one that fits in a yoga strap or rolls up easily. If you intend to keep it parked on the floor, like as a permanent part of your home gym, you have a little more wiggle room on size and stiffness, says Perkins.

Especially in these stressful times, it can also be helpful to think outside its functionality for just a minute and choose a mat that just brings a smile to your face. “Find yourself a fun color or pattern so that you’re actually excited to roll out your mat,” says Duval.

Need some inspiration? Take a look at these picks for the best yoga mats and other exercise mats, chosen by fitness pros and instructors.\

For Easy Portability: Manduka ProLite Yoga Mat

This latex-free yoga mat has a unique fabric-like surface and is also made of a “closed-cell” material, which helps prevent sweat and moisture from soaking into the mat. Bonus: It comes in 12 fun colors.

“Manduka ProLite provides the perfect amount of cushion and the ability to be folded without the bulk. It’s light and easy to carry. In addition, the material is super supportive and easy to clean.”

“Manduka mats are my absolute favorite yoga mat because they offer comfort and support without being too ‘fluffy.’ You want to be able to feel the ground beneath you rather than having the feeling like you are balancing on marshmallows. I find that the Manduka mats are also the best for hand and foot grip. When things get sweaty, you want to feel that sense of security.”

Available in 71″ and 79″.

For Classic Pilates Support: STOTT Pilates Pilates Express Mat

This super-cushy mat is 10 millimeters thick, offering extra support for your joints and spine during your mat workout. It also comes with integrated Velcro straps for easy portability—even if you just need to carry it up the stairs when your workout is finished.

“When it comes to a demographic that wants a little more comfort or more support for their joints, I highly recommend the STOTT Pilates mats, in particular the Pilates Express Mat. They are definitely on the thicker side, but for a classical Pilates workout that has an emphasis on rolling through the spine, I find that people love the comfort of these mats.” —Duval

Available in 70″.

For Hot Yoga: Yoga Design Lab Combo Mat

This mat is made of natural rubber and an absorbent, sueded microfiber fabric that comes from recycled plastic bottles for great grip and cushioning. Plus, it’s available in 20 colors and patterns and comes with a carrying strap.

“It is a yoga towel and mat in one. The best surface for yoga imaginable—the perfect amount of grip, without restricting movement. Bonus: you will never have to worry about remembering a towel for a sweaty or heated class with this mat.”

Available in 70″.

For Extra Grip: JadeYoga Harmony Mat

Made of natural rubber for extra grip and nearly a quarter of an inch thick, this mat is also great for giving a charitable boost: For every mat sold, JadeYoga will plant a tree. And if you purchase certain colors, some of the proceeds will be donated to a cancer charity.

“Jade won my heart—and my dollars—because it is not too heavy and never slips off the floor. (It is absurd that any yoga mat slips, slides, or bunches up for every Upward Dog, but many do.) It is a great weight: heavy enough not to move, but light enough not to hurt my back carrying it.” —Kristoffer

“This is a great mat with grip! I recommend it for power or hot classes that tend to steam up a room and have you in Downward-Facing Dog with sweat dripping out of you. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but if you’re looking for a long-lasting mat to withstand the test of time, this is a great choice. Plus, since Jade mats come from trees, they decided to give back by planting a tree for every mat sold!”

Available in 68″ and 74″.

For Asana Yoga: Alo Yoga Chakra Mat

This natural rubber mat has an asana grid etched into it for optimal help with poses. Plus, it has an antimicrobial, moisture-wicking surface that’s great for preventing slippage.

“I love this mat because it has an alignment grid etched into the design of the mat. It also is nonslip, wet or dry, which means if I take a sweaty hot yoga class, I don’t need to worry about slipping around on my mat. It’s thick yet light, so it’s not too heavy to carry around.”

Available in 68″.