Whether you just got into yoga or you're an advanced yoga enthusiast, it is very convenient to have your own yoga mat at home, especially now that we are in a time when we can't go to yoga studios. Yes, you don't need a yoga mat to start, just a simple bath towel will do, but the comfort, cushioning, and stability of a mat make a world of difference.
Choosing which yoga mat to buy can be quite overwhelming. But don't worry, we've got you covered! We've made thorough research on what you need to know and consider when buying a yoga mat as well as some of our recommendations for the best yoga mats you can buy online, so keep on reading!
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
In that case, it's best to go for longer mats that start at around 72 inches. Keep in mind that when choosing a yoga mat, always get one that is a few inches longer than your height to be be able to accommodate all your poses, especially those that involve stretching out.
Aside from the length and width, thickness is another point to look closely at. This can greatly affect your comfort and stability when doing yoga poses. Keep these things in mind when choosing a mat that will work for you.
Thin mats that are only around 2 mm thick are great for people who want lightweight mats that they can carry around for travelling. They are easy to roll up and stash in luggage, too. Aside from that, thin yoga mats offer a more stable foundation for balancing poses and a stronger connection to the earth. That's why experienced and advanced yoga practitioners prefer this type.
The average mat has a standard thickness of 3 to 4 mm, which is quite agreeable for users of different levels. They strike the sweet spot between thick and thin mats and can offer adequate cushioning and sufficient stability for balancing at the same time.
If you have some back or joint problems, a thick mat of 5 to 10mm would be the right option for you. Thicker mats offer ample cushioning so that it would be less painful on your joints, especially on poses when you have to get down on the floor. This is why thick mats are often used in rehabilitation therapy settings.
Keep in mind, though, that when you’re doing yoga, a thicker mat might make it harder to balance and do some standing poses. Thicker mats might also make you feel less connected to the floor. They are not ideal for traveling, too, as they are heavier and harder to roll up.
Before you purchase a mat, make sure to check out the material it is made of. Manufacturers are required to disclose whatever material they use, so you can check the labels to find out. Read on to know more about the pros and cons of the most common materials used in making yoga mats.
PVC or polyvinyl chloride is one of the most commonly used and affordable materials to make yoga mats. This type has a sticky surface, which helps hugely when it comes to balance and stability when doing poses. However, PVC yoga mats are non-biodegradable, which means that they might last longer, but they’re not environmentally friendly.
A plus, though, is that PVC is latex-free, so it’s safe for those with latex allergies. PVC yoga mats may also come cheaper, so they’re good as a starter yoga mat- perfect for beginners who want to dip their toes into the meditative art of yoga, but aren't ready yet to spend a huge amount of money
Natural rubber yoga mats are very durable, provide excellent cushioning, and have good slip-resistant features. However, they can also come with a smell that is noticeable at first and is not recommended for people with latex allergies.
Cork and hemp are some other examples of natural materials used in mats, although they are less widely used and may be difficult to find in the Philippines. Cork has an antibacterial surface, which is a huge advantage for people who engage in hot yoga. Meanwhile, hemp absorbs moisture well but is not as grippy as the other types and may slide on smooth surfaces.
These mats are also ideal for more advanced yogis since they provide a lot of traction. You don't have to worry about slipping or falling when doing more daring poses. However, compared to PVC and rubber mats, TPE mats are more expensive.
Ethylene-vinyl acetate or EVA is a synthetic material that is very lightweight and has good resistance to cracking. This might be the lightest yoga mat out there, so if you always travel and practice yoga during your journey, EVA yoga mats are your best bet.
They have a high moisture resistance and are relatively easy to clean after your yoga sessions. However, these mats tend to stretch as you work out, and they may contain noticeable chemical odors that can be undesirable.
NBR (nitrile butadience rubber) is a type of synthetic rubber that is non-toxic. This material is thick and dense, usually measuring about 10mm or more, which makes it a good choice for people with joint issues. Despite this thickness, it's lightweight and easy to transport.
More importantly, NBR foam repels sweat and dirt. This makes it one of the best materials for strenuous exercises and Bikram yoga, and it's easy to clean as well. The downside, though, is that it loses a little of its grip when wet.
If you want to get as close as you can to the earth, fabric mats are worth a try. This type consists of a fabric usually stitched on top of another layer, although some are also available as simple yoga towels. Common fabrics used are cotton, microfiber, polyester yarn, and linen. They are soft, absorbent, and washable. Best of all, they are foldable, so they are great for carrying along on trips!
It goes without saying that a good yoga mat should be able to provide some traction to keep you steady as you go about your poses. With that in mind, keep an eye out for mats with textured patterns or raised lines. The rough and bumpy surface will help keep you from slipping and getting injured. However, keep in mind that the more intricate the texture is, the harder it will be to clean, too.
Another thing to check is the bottom of the mat. Non-slip bottoms are essential if you're a beginner or an injured person using a yoga mat for physical therapy. The sticky and grippy side will keep your mat from sliding around on the floor as you go through different movements.
Don't skip your yoga practice or exercise routine even when you're on a trip. Get a foldable mat that you can stash in your luggage or purchase one with its own casing so that you can easily maintain your fitness routine no matter where you are.
From ₱1,778
From its minimalist design alone, it's clear that the Lotus Yoga Mat is your perfect partner for a calm and relaxing session. And since it's made with eco-friendly materials, this mat is 100% recyclable, too.
The top layer is composed of polyurethane leather with moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties. At the bottom, you'll find a rubber backing with a non-slip design to keep you glued and connected to the ground.
Users love how sturdy and heavy this mat feels, as they feel supported and stable even through the most dynamic of poses. It's also a great option for people who prefer smooth textures over patterned ones. The smooth surface also means that it's easy to clean — just wipe with soap and water, and you're good to go!
From ₱3,799
Who hasn't heard of Lululemon? When it comes to yoga, this brand has instant name recall for their high-quality yoga clothing and equipment. This reversible mat gives you two surfaces to work on - a polyurethane layer on one side, and a natural rubber base on the other side.
The polyurethane side is absolutely a winner in terms of grip and stickiness, and the thickness is just right, enough to keep you steady in balancing poses. However, while it is sturdy, it tends to retain marks and scratches easily. The natural rubber side, on the other hand, is scratch-resistant and incredibly tough.
Overall, the surface feels squishy enough without being too cushiony. The size is another plus factor - this one has ample space, measuring a bit wider and longer than standard mats. It also comes with a case for easy transport.
From ₱5,950
This mat is on the more expensive side, but the payoff is huge. It is built to last a long time—a lifetime, actually—and you can be assured that the material will never fade, peel, or flake. It also has a closed-cell surface that makes it moisture-proof, and therefore, antibacterial. This makes it a good choice for people who sweat profusely or those who often participate in hot yoga.
In fact, this product is so well-engineered that the surface texture actually improves with use, rather than degrade or break down. It may feel slippery at first when wet, and it's recommended to use a towel for more stability. But as time goes on and you break it in, you'll find that the more you use it, the better it performs.
From ₱959
This mat is reversible and comes in two colors: blue and pink. One side has lines and markings which help in proper body alignment during poses, while the other side has a wavy pattern perfect for practicing difficult stances. This makes it perfect for both beginners and advanced yogis!
Moreover, this TPE mat is PVC-free and also latex-free. This mat weighs only 870g, so it is still light and easy to transport. Plus, it comes with a carrying strap that can also be used for floor workouts, and a carrying bag for storing and transporting.
From ₱2,500
Tired of plain and boring yoga mats? Move in style with these gorgeous printed mats from Flow Manila. The beautiful nature-inspired prints are an absolute feast for your eyes and will get you excited to start each day with some stretches and meditation.
It's not just about aesthetics, too. Made with vegan suede on top and high-quality TPE at the bottom, this is definitely an eco-friendly choice. The cushioning is thick, yet it is light enough for you to carry along when traveling. Another big plus for this brand is that you can have your mat customized with your name or a motivational quote.
From ₱599
The D & D mat is another favorite of yoga practitioners because of its simple yet versatile design. It has two usable sides, both of them offering superb traction. One side has a bumpy texture, while the other is smooth. Whichever one you use, you can rest easy that it is dense and stable.
Aside from that, this mat is recommended for people with allergies or sensitive skin because it is non-toxic, hypoallergenic and completely free of latex, PVC, and phthalates. It's also environment-friendly and recyclable!
From ₱849
No matter how sweaty you get, this mat will see you through to the end of your yoga session. The TPE material and closed-cell surface ensure that no moisture seeps in, and your mat will stay free of harmful bacteria. Cleaning is easy as well because of this design.
It is also a good choice for people who frequently travel, as the mat is very lightweight and comes with a case. And since it's made of TPE, it's completely recyclable and biodegradable. Best of all, you get this value-packed product at a budget-friendly price!
From ₱3,880
Cork mats are a bit difficult to find, but thankfully, Metis is here to give you a glimpse of how your yoga practice can be so much more grounded and earth-friendly. This mat is made up of cork on the upper layer and a rubber base at the bottom. One of the great things about this is that it gets even more grippy when it's wet—perfect for hot yoga!
It's also skin-friendly and non-toxic, so it's great if you have a sensitivity to latex, PVC, and other typical yoga mat materials. Cork is also naturally antibacterial, so even if you've got sweat dripping all over your mat, you don't have to sweat over the germs!
Stability-wise, it performs really well because, aside from the rubber base, the cork itself does not bunch up as you move around on your mat. On top of that, you also get two cork yoga blocks along with your mat. Talk about real and sustainable value!
From ₱1,000
This mat is recommended for people who have joint problems and those who want a yoga mat with more support. It is extra-thick and extra-wide, allowing you to do any movement freely and with as little pain as possible on your joints It also has horizontal lines that you can use as a guide when doing poses.
The foam itself has a honeycomb cushioning structure that improves resilience and allows the foam to bounce back after use. However, keep in mind that for thicker yoga mats like this, it might be harder to balance when doing standing poses.
From ₱735
Spice up your yoga routine with these colorful tie-dye printed towels. Made of fine fiber material, they are absorbent and machine-washable. While it doesn't have the sticky base commonly found in traditional mats, it does have anti-skid features at the bottom for a little stability.
This mat is perfect for more experienced yoga practitioners, as it is very thin and helps you feel more connected to the ground. And because it's light and foldable, you can easily stash it in its carrying pouch and keep it in your luggage when you travel.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
No. The difference between the two lies in their thickness and firmness. Yoga mats are generally thinner in order to provide stability and connectedness to the ground for the user. They are also designed only for low-impact movements.
On the other hand, exercise mats are thicker and denser in order to withstand high-impact and high-intensity exercises and to help prevent injuries in case of falls. They usually measure around 1 to 3 inches in thickness.
Whatever the material of your mat is, it's a good habit to wipe it down after each session to avoid bacteria and pathogens from building up. In addition to that, it's recommended to deep-clean your mat at least once a month. This usually involves soaking the mat in warm water and a few drops of dish soap and then lightly scrubbing it with a soft cloth.
However, cleaning instructions vary depending on the type of material. Some materials may be sensitive to regular soap and may need a special solution. So, make sure to check the label first before using any cleaning solutions on your mat to make sure you don't damage it.
There's no specific time period for when you should replace your mat. But there are telltale signs that would tell you when it's definitely time to ditch it and get a new one. Watch out for uneven padding, bald spots, disintegration or tearing, loss of grip, and a weird smell. These are pretty reliable markers that your mat is showing significant wear and tear and may no longer be safe for use.
If you want to delve into other sports or activities, here are some more products to help you in your fitness journey!
Author: Rie N.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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