The 7 Best Yoga Mats of 2024

Whether you prefer strength training, cardio workouts, yoga, or a combination of exercises, having the right tools and accessories can enhance your performance, motivation, and overall well-being. A high-quality yoga mat is essential for practicing yoga, Pilates, stretching exercises, and floor-based workouts. Exercise mats are not only meant for yoga; they can be used for other floor exercises, like crunches. Thickness: A thicker mat can ultimately feel more comfortable on your wrists, knees, and back. It is preferable to wear thicker mats, which provide better cushioning and are more resistant to wear, but they may also interfere with balance. It offers the perfect balance of grip and lightweight thickness for a well-rounded practice. The best yoga mats are not too soft or hard but hit the Goldilocks balance of "just right." We look for protective cushioning against unforgiving surfaces that is firm enough for you to balance, stabilize, and prevent overextension of joints. I never make it to class as much as I’d like, but when I do get out, my regular teachers are Bob Whittinghill and Patrina Dobish (Bob teaches at Chicago’s Yoga Circle and both Bob and Patrina at the Lake Street Church of Evanston, which interestingly enough has a great yoga program).

Buying a yoga mat without knowing how much you’re actually going to like yoga can be a daunting task, so consider a cheaper option. Sure, it’s cheap for stuff with a designer’s name on it, but the prices are still much higher than what Target shoppers are used to paying, and many bloggers groused that quality was markedly inferior. For the most part, however, experts say that the collection exuded an out-of-touch, let-them-eat-cake worldview that turned off budget-conscious shoppers. Overall, though, Neiman Marcus customers seemed happier with the collection than their Target counterparts. The collection drew flak from Target and Neiman Marcus customers alike. On top of this, Target made some tactical stumbles with the collection. The consensus seems to be that items like these - or rather, prices like these - just don’t belong at Target. Target’s collaboration with Isaac Mizrahi roughly a decade ago introduced the mashup of high fashion and cheap prices that endeared Target to fashion-forward frugal shoppers.

Pam Danziger, owner of Unity Marketing, told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune that prices just weren’t in touch with today’s wallet-minded shoppers, especially given the continued uncertainty of the economy. Retail analyst Jim McComb told the Pioneer Press, "The selection of merchandise confused me… If you want to find a different scent, we love Sephora's vast selection and the fact you can spritz on samples to your heart’s content. Incorporating foam rolling into your fitness routine can help enhance recovery, promote circulation, and prevent injuries. However, many people find that acupressure mats can help to provide relief from nerve pain. When BON is used, it aids in the body’s ability to increase blood flow, and it also combats inflammation, which can cause pain. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are breathable gases that can cause negative health impacts like headaches, nausea, allergies, brain and neurological issues, liver damage, and even fertility issues. It's not necessary to have an expensive yoga mat, but investing in a high-quality mat can improve your practice and last for many years. Finally, we also really like this mat because it is a full 6 mm thick, making it extra comfortable and it ensures that this mat will protect your knees, elbows, Quality Yoga Mats and other parts of your body from the hard ground.

"It’s still soft and squishy for knees and other boney parts that need extra support," she says. The thickness and function of this mat make it a great pick for anyone with sensitive knees or joints. How easily does the mat roll up and store? This mat doesn't fold when you roll over the toes or budge when you jump, rock, or roll. After covering the floor with rubber mats, you can place a carpet or floor mat. A microfiber-finished mat can be put in the washing machine (manufacturers instruction advised) or you can opt for a "yoga towel" you cover the mat with before wiping down and washing after your session. I used the mat at home, took it with me in a tote to the gym, and traveled with it packed in a carry-on for a road trip upstate. Whether you prefer working out at home or hitting the gym, having the right fitness equipment and accessories can make a significant difference in your fitness journey.