Ever felt your hands slip during a challenging pose, sending a jolt of panic through your practice? That sudden loss of balance can be frustrating and even a little scary, interrupting your flow and making you question your mat’s ability to keep up.
Choosing a yoga mat with good grip is super important. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about safety and helping you deepen your poses. But with so many mats out there, it’s tough to know which one will stick with you, literally. You want a mat that feels secure, not slippery, especially when you start to sweat.
In this post, we’ll explore what makes a yoga mat grippy and how to find the perfect one for your practice. You’ll learn what to look for and avoid, so you can finally say goodbye to those shaky poses and hello to confident, stable movements. Get ready to find a mat that supports you every step, and stretch, of the way.
Our Top 5 Yoga Mat For Grip Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Yoga Mat For Grip Detailed Reviews
1. Gaiam Dry-Grip Yoga Mat – 5mm Thick Non-Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for Standard or Hot Yoga
Rating: 8.9/10
The Gaiam Dry-Grip Yoga Mat in a cool marbled design is your new best friend for any workout. It’s 5mm thick, giving your joints extra comfort whether you’re doing gentle yoga, intense hot yoga, Pilates, or just floor exercises. Its special non-slip coating helps you hold poses longer and with more confidence, even when you’re sweating.
What We Like:
- This mat is 5mm thick, which means it offers really good cushioning for your knees and elbows.
- It has a special dry-grip coating that stops you from slipping, even during sweaty hot yoga sessions.
- The surface is designed to wick away sweat, keeping you steady and focused.
- It provides firm support, making intense poses feel more comfortable.
- The mat is a good size at 68 inches long and 24 inches wide, perfect for most people.
- It’s made without rubber or latex, using PU and PVC instead.
- The marbled design looks really stylish!
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for hot yoga, some users might find the grip slightly less effective in very humid conditions compared to specialized hot yoga mats.
- The PU and PVC materials, while durable, might not be the first choice for those seeking entirely natural or eco-friendly mats.
This mat is a solid choice for anyone wanting comfort and a secure grip during their fitness journey. It’s a reliable mat that helps you perform your best.
2. Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat – Fitness and Exercise Mat with Easy-Cinch Carrier Strap Included – Soft Cushioning and Textured Grip – Multiple Colors Options (Green
Rating: 9.1/10
The Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat is a great choice for anyone who wants a comfortable and stable surface for their workouts. This mat gives you plenty of cushioning, so your knees and joints will feel good. It also has a special grip that stops you from sliding, even when you’re sweating. Plus, it’s easy to clean and comes with a strap to carry it around.
What We Like:
- Super soft cushioning helps protect your knees and joints during exercises like yoga and Pilates.
- The textured grip keeps the mat from sliding, so you can focus on your poses without slipping.
- It’s made with materials that don’t have a strong smell and are easy to clean with just a damp cloth.
- This mat is tough and can be used for many things besides exercise, like physical therapy or even as a comfy spot for kids to play.
- A handy strap is included, making it simple to roll up the mat and take it to your class or store it away easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- While generally durable, some users have noted that over very long periods of intense use, the foam might show signs of wear.
- The “low-odor” claim is mostly true, but a very faint scent might be noticeable for a short time after unrolling for the first time.
This mat offers excellent comfort and stability for a variety of activities. It’s a solid investment for your home fitness routine or trips to the studio.
3. Plyopic. Ultra-Grip Pro Yoga Mat – EXTREME Non-Slip Performance – Dry Grip & Wet Grip – Alignment Lines – Comfortable & Sweat Resistant – For Yoga
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of slipping during your yoga practice? The Plyopic. Ultra-Grip Pro Yoga Mat promises to change that with its revolutionary non-slip material. It’s designed for all your favorite activities, from Hatha and Vinyasa to hot yoga and Pilates. You can finally focus on your poses, not on sliding around.
What We Like:
- The Ultra-Grip material is amazing. It gives you super strong grip, even when you’re sweating.
- It works for all kinds of yoga and exercise, so it’s really versatile.
- The mat is made from good, eco-friendly materials. It’s also free from yucky stuff like PVC.
- You get great comfort and support for your joints. The alignment lines help you get your poses just right.
- It’s bigger and thicker than many other mats, giving you more room to move.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the grip is excellent, some users might find the initial scent of the material a bit strong.
- The premium materials and features might place it at a slightly higher price point compared to basic mats.
The Plyopic. Ultra-Grip Pro Yoga Mat is a fantastic investment for anyone serious about their practice. It provides the stability and comfort you need to truly excel.
4. Eunzel Hot Yoga Towel – Microfiber Non Slip Yoga Mat Towel with Grip Dot Sweat Absorbent Towel for Hot Yoga
Rating: 8.9/10
Ready to upgrade your yoga practice? The Eunzel Hot Yoga Towel is here to help you stay grounded and focused, no matter how intense your workout gets. This super absorbent microfiber towel is designed to give you maximum grip, so you can move with confidence.
What We Like:
- The special Grip Dot bottom sticks to your mat. This keeps you from slipping during tricky poses.
- It soaks up sweat really well. This means you can hold your poses longer without worrying about sliding.
- It’s a great size, 72″ x 24″, and fits most yoga mats. It’s also super light and easy to fold up and take anywhere.
- You can use it for many things besides yoga, like a beach towel or a picnic blanket.
- The Dark Cyan/Orange design is really cool and bright. It makes your yoga gear look exciting.
- The colors stay bright even after washing.
- It’s simple to clean. You can toss it in the washing machine and dry it on low heat, or just hang it up.
What Could Be Improved:
- For some, the towel might be a little thin.
- While the Grip Dots are good, a few users wished for even more grip on very slippery mats.
This yoga towel is a fantastic addition for anyone looking for a more stable and enjoyable practice. Its smart design and vibrant look make it a standout choice.
5. Gaiam Yoga Mat – Premium 6mm Print Extra Thick Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of Yoga
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to elevate your workouts with the Gaiam Yoga Mat in the beautiful Violet Vision design! This mat is built to support you through all your yoga, Pilates, and floor exercises. Its extra thickness provides amazing cushioning, making it easier on your joints. Plus, the cool non-slip texture helps you stay put and focused on your moves. It’s also a healthier choice for you and the environment.
What We Like:
- The 6mm thickness offers fantastic cushioning for your knees and wrists.
- Its non-slip texture gives you a secure grip, so you won’t slide around.
- It’s made from non-toxic PVC, which is better for your health and the planet.
- The mat is lightweight, making it easy to carry to class or the gym.
- A free downloadable yoga class is included to help you get started.
- The Violet Vision print adds a stylish touch to your workout space.
What Could Be Improved:
- There might be a slight odor when you first unroll the mat, so it’s recommended to air it out for a few days.
This Gaiam yoga mat is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for comfort, stability, and a bit of style in their fitness routine. It’s a great way to make your workouts more enjoyable and supportive.
Finding Your Perfect Grip: A Yoga Mat Buying Guide
Welcome, yogis! Today, we’re diving deep into the world of yoga mats, specifically focusing on what matters most: grip. A slippery mat can turn your peaceful practice into a frustrating tumble. We’ll help you find a mat that keeps you grounded and confident through every pose.
Why Grip Matters
Imagine holding a tricky balancing pose, and your hands or feet start to slide. It’s not ideal! Good grip prevents slips and falls. It helps you stay in poses longer and with more control. This means you can focus on your breath and alignment, not on staying upright. A mat with excellent grip makes your practice safer and more enjoyable.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a yoga mat, keep these important features in mind:
- Surface Texture: This is the biggest factor for grip. Look for mats with a textured surface. This can be bumpy, ridged, or have tiny dots. These textures create friction, which helps your hands and feet stick.
- Thickness: While not directly about grip, thickness can impact stability. A mat that’s too thick can feel squishy, making it harder to balance. Most yogis prefer a mat between 3mm and 6mm thick. This offers cushioning without sacrificing stability.
- Size: Make sure the mat is long and wide enough for you. You don’t want to run out of space during your practice. Standard mats are usually around 68 inches long and 24 inches wide. Taller people might want to look for extra-long mats.
- Durability: A mat that lasts longer is a good investment. Look for mats made from sturdy materials that won’t wear down quickly. Good grip should also last over time.
Important Materials
The material your mat is made from greatly affects its grip and feel.
- Natural Rubber: This is a popular choice for its excellent grip, especially when wet. It’s also eco-friendly. However, some people are allergic to latex.
- Polyurethane (PU): PU is often found on the top layer of mats. It provides amazing grip, even when you sweat a lot. Many high-performance mats use PU.
- Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE): TPE is a synthetic material that’s lighter and often more affordable than rubber. It can offer good grip, but it might not be as grippy as natural rubber or PU, especially in sweaty conditions.
- PVC: This is a common and durable material. However, PVC mats can sometimes feel a bit slippery, especially when new or dry. They are also not the most eco-friendly option.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a yoga mat’s grip better or worse.
- Sweat: For many yogis, sweat is the ultimate grip test. Some mats get grippier as they get wetter, which is fantastic for hot yoga. Others can become very slippery. Check reviews to see how a mat performs with sweat.
- Newness: Some mats, especially those made of rubber, need a “break-in” period. They might feel a little slick at first but improve with use.
- Cleaning: How you clean your mat matters. Using the wrong cleaners can damage the surface and reduce its grip. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Moisture: If your mat gets damp and isn’t dried properly, it can affect its grip over time and potentially lead to odors.
User Experience and Use Cases
The best mat for you depends on your yoga style and how you practice.
- Beginners: You want a mat that offers good all-around grip and some cushioning. A TPE or a moderately thick rubber mat can be a great starting point.
- Hot Yoga / Sweaty Practices: If you sweat a lot, you need a mat that becomes grippier with moisture. Natural rubber or PU-topped mats are excellent choices.
- Restorative / Gentle Yoga: While grip is still important, cushioning might be a higher priority. A slightly thicker mat with a comfortable surface can work well.
- Travel: For yogis on the go, a lightweight and foldable mat is useful. Some travel mats still offer good grip, so don’t sacrifice it entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important thing for yoga mat grip?
A: The surface texture is the most important thing for yoga mat grip. It creates friction.
Q: Do rubber yoga mats slip when wet?
A: No, natural rubber yoga mats often get grippier when they are wet.
Q: Is a thick yoga mat better for grip?
A: Not always. A mat that is too thick can feel unstable. A moderate thickness is usually best for balance and grip.
Q: Should I buy a mat that is eco-friendly?
A: Many eco-friendly mats, like those made from natural rubber, offer excellent grip. It’s a good option to consider.
Q: How do I clean my yoga mat to keep its grip?
A: Always use a cleaner recommended by the mat’s maker. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: What does “break-in period” mean for a yoga mat?
A: It means the mat might feel a bit slippery when new, but it gets better grip after you use it a few times.
Q: Are PU yoga mats good for sweaty hands?
A: Yes, PU yoga mats are known for providing excellent grip, even with a lot of sweat.
Q: Can PVC mats be slippery?
A: Yes, PVC mats can sometimes feel slippery, especially when they are new or dry.
Q: What size yoga mat should I get?
A: A standard size is usually fine, but taller people might want an extra-long mat.
Q: How often should I replace my yoga mat?
A: You should replace your mat when it starts to show wear and tear, like cracks or a significant loss of grip.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.