Whether you’re just beginning your journey on the path of yoga, or you know your way around - let's explore the sacred realm of yoga mats – the foundational piece of our practice.

When I first started yoga, I had a crusty old mat someone had given me. It was thin, slippery and provided zero support. It made my practice harder than it needed to be and was just all over a bad experience.

Fast forward, i’ve had many mats over the years and i’ve found investing in quality mat will help to enhance your experience. But rest assured, you don’t have to break the bank.
For a variety of reasons the mats i’ve listed below have been my trusted companions on this yoga journey over the years.
If the first thing you think of when you think of important characteristics your yoga mat should have is it’s aesthetic, i’d urge you to delve a little deeper. Ultimately this should be the most supportive and comfortable piece of your yoga kit.

What to look for when investing in a yoga mat:

1. Material Harmony: Opt for eco-friendly materials like cork or jute. Beyond being kind to the environment, these materials are non-toxic and durable, creating a harmonious connection between your practice and the world around you.

2. Cushioning Comfort: The thickness of your yoga mat matters, ranging from 4mm to 8mm. If you have sensitive joints or engage in restorative or yin yoga, a thicker mat provides the necessary cushioning for your comfort and support during meditative moments.

3. Surefooted Stability: A non-slip mat is crucial for safety and performance. If you’re a sweaty Betty like me, the grip of your mat ensures stability during challenging poses, reducing the risk of injuries from accidental slips. Your mat should be a steady foundation as you navigate the fluidity of your practice.

4. Size Matters: While standard mat sizes generally suffice, consider your height and personal space preferences. Taller individuals might find solace in a longer mat, and if you enjoy a bit more wiggle room, opt for a wider mat. Your mat should be an extension of your practice, tailored to your unique dimensions.

5. Versatility Vibes: If your yoga mat doubles as a stage for various fitness exercises beyond yoga, ensure it aligns with those needs. A versatile mat adapts to your diverse workout routines, making it a dynamic companion on your wellness journey.

Now, I get it; not everyone wants to splurge on a high-end mat, and that's totally cool. So, whether you're on a budget or ready to invest a bit more in your sacred space, I've got you covered with my top 6 favourite yoga mats that cater to all budgets.

JADE VOYAGER MAT - travel mat

The Jade Voyager Mat stands out for me as it’s the thinnest, lightest, and most portable choice in Jade's lineup. It folds up to the size of a yoga block! It's perfect for on-the-go yogis, fitting snugly into suitcases or backpacks. Weighing just 680g and at 1.5mm thickness, it's excellent for light travel.

PRO: Super light weight and foldable. CON: May not be the most durable for daily use.

Manduka EKO - Eco high performance mat

The EKO is love at first downward dog. It’s designed with the sustainable yogi in mind as it’s made from all natural tree rubber (none of that harvested from the Amazon). It is ULTRA cushy for all those sore knees or tender hands out there. Unlike other mats that need some time to be broken in - the EKO is grippy right out of the wrapping thanks to it’s non-slip top layer! I’d honestly say this is up there for me as my #1.

PRO: Cushioned, friendly on knees & wrists . CON: Price.

Liforme - OG Mat

Liforme reigns supreme as the pinnacle of yoga mats, offering a very cool alignment system on the mat so that you know you’re in the right place while you move. Elite quality meets functionality. Its innovative design, eco-friendly materials, and exceptional grip elevate the practice, providing stability and comfort first and foremost.

PRO: The alignment system on the mat. CON: Lighter colours stain easily.

Second Earth - Connected MAt

I LOVE these mats from Second Earth - this is what i’m currently practicing on plus one i’ve got kicking around in the back of my car for any yoga emergencies! 100% sustainable, 100% eco-friendly, 100% non-toxic, ethically sourced material, amazing durability, plus carbon neutral delivery! The grip on these mats sometimes take a few uses to break in, the blend of jute and tree rubber makes for a very natural look. Not too heavy, and a good all rounder mat that won’t break the bank.

PRO: Australia owned and operated business. CON: Small colour range to choose from.

GAIam - yoga mat

This was the first yoga mat I ever bought. An affordable, entry level yoga mat that’s stable and soft - great for beginners. Added bonus of beautiful print on both sides - yep, they’re reversible! This mat is 6mm thick so it’s soft enough to cushion your body when practicing on hard surfaces. This does have non-slip technology built in, but it’s not as advanced as the other mats i’ve listed.

PRO: Affordable entry level mat. CON: Can be slippery if you are prone to sweaty palms and feet.

lululemon - the mat

I had this yoga mat gifted to me. Hesitant at first, a yogis mat is a very personally piece after all - but I quickly fell head over heels. Grippy and sticky so no chance of slipping. The top layer is smooth to the touch. Most importantly it’s sturdy, firm and cushioned enough to keep cranky knees happy. This mat was extra absorbent - good for my sweaty little paws.

PRO: Soft to touch, absorbent and non slip. CON: Contains latex for those that are allegic beware.

Remember, your yoga mat is a vessel shaping your experience – invest wisely, so that your practice can be a harmonious place in all ways!

Integrity 101: When available, I use affiliate links and may even earn a commission.