Exercise is essential for both our physical and mental well-being, and yoga stands out as a favoured low-impact option. It’s renowned for enhancing strength gently, boosting flexibility, and promoting mental health. Yet, doing yoga on hard surfaces or thin carpets can be less than ideal, even causing discomfort.
Yoga mats are game-changers for those who practice yoga or other barefoot exercises at home. They strike the right balance between cushioning for the joints and stability for the poses. Speak to any yoga aficionado, and they’ll tell you their yoga mat is indispensable.
If you’re on the hunt for your first yoga mat or thinking of getting a new one, there are several things to consider. From price, thickness, and material to size, weight, and added features, each detail matters.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the top yoga mats available in Canada in 2024 and provide insights to help you make the right decision. Let’s delve into our top five picks.
The Lolë Pose Yoga Mat stands out in the crowded yoga mat market for several reasons. Firstly, its commitment to sustainability is evident. The mat is recyclable and made from 100% Thermoplastic Elastamer (TPE), which is both PVC and latex-free. This means that not only is it kinder to the environment, but it’s also hypoallergenic, making it suitable for those with sensitivities.
In terms of functionality, the mat boasts a thickness of 0.2 inches, which provides cushioning for various yoga poses, especially those that put pressure on sensitive joints like the knees and elbows. The hygienic closed-cell construction ensures that sweat and moisture won’t seep into the mat, preventing bacterial growth and odours.
One of the standout features of the Lolë Pose Yoga Mat is its grip. Whether you’re practicing in a humid environment or have sweaty palms, the mat offers a super grip both when wet and dry. This is crucial for maintaining stability during challenging poses and transitions.
Additionally, the mat comes with an elastic yoga strap, which serves a dual purpose. It can be used as a carrying strap, making transportation easy, and as a resistance band for certain yoga and exercise poses.
The design, with its two-tone appearance, is aesthetically pleasing and can complement various yoga outfits and environments, whether you’re practicing at home, in a studio, or outdoors.
Reviewers have consistently praised the Lolë Pose Yoga Mat for its comfort and functionality. Many have highlighted its excellent grip and its cushioning, which provides support during various poses. The eco-friendly aspect of the mat has also been a hit among users, with many appreciating the brand’s commitment to sustainability. The dual-purpose strap has been noted as a convenient feature, with users finding it useful both for carrying the mat and for enhancing their yoga practice. However, some reviewers mentioned an initial plastic odour, which seemed to dissipate after a few uses.
Material: 100% Thermoplastic Elastamer
Dimensions: 61x180cm/24x71inch
Weight: 1.15gr
Thickness: 0.2 inch/5mm+
Features: Eco-conscious, recyclable, PVC and latex-free, hygienic closed-cell construction, super grip (wet and dry), elastic yoga strap included
Pros:
Eco-friendly and recyclable
Excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions
Adequate cushioning for comfort
Dual-purpose strap included
Hypoallergenic (PVC and latex-free)
Cons:
Performance: 4.5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 4.5/5
The Lolë Pose Yoga Mat is a well-rounded product that offers both functionality and sustainability. Its eco-friendly construction, combined with its excellent grip and comfort, makes it a top choice for both beginners and seasoned yogis. The added bonus of the dual-purpose strap enhances its value, making it a worthy investment for your fitness journey.
At a mere 3.7 pounds, the Cambivo Large Yoga Mat stands out not just for its size but also for its portability. It’s lightweight, making it easy to move around. One of the standout features of this mat is its eco-conscious design. Made entirely from recyclable materials, it not only serves its immediate purpose but also ensures that, at the end of its lifecycle, its disposal won’t harm the environment. This choice of material underscores a commitment to sustainability and bolsters recycling endeavors.
The mat’s versatility is another of its strong suits. It’s spacious enough to accommodate a variety of barefoot activities. Whether you’re into dance, gymnastics, traditional bodyweight exercises, yoga, or pilates, this mat has got you covered. The dual-sided anti-slip texture is meticulously designed to ensure the mat remains firmly in place on hard floors, providing you with a stable platform. Moreover, Cambivo has managed to strike a balance between support and comfort, ensuring that your sessions are both effective and enjoyable.
However, every product has a few hiccups. While the mat excels on hard surfaces, it might not be the best fit for carpeted areas. Additionally, its generous dimensions, though an asset during workouts, mean that it becomes quite bulky when rolled up. This bulkiness might pose a challenge for those who wish to carry it to yoga classes or bring it travelling.
Reviewers are really happy with the quality of the Cambivo Large Yoga Mat. The gigantic size makes it easy for multiple people to enjoy yoga together, and individuals can enjoy the extra space to fully stretch out and stop worrying about where they are putting their feet. People find the mat very lightweight considering its size, but most choose to use it as an at-home mat.
Floor Coverage: 48” x 72”
Thickness: 0.24”
Weight: 3.7 lbs
Material: Thermoplastic elastomers
Colour: Black, blue, grey, pink, or purple
Pros:
Made from 100% recyclable materials
Large enough to accommodate any barefoot exercises (yoga, pilates, dance, gymnastics, etc.)
Dual-sided anti-slip texture
Strikes a balance between support and cushioning comfort
Cons:
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 5/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 5/5
Overall, the Cambivo Large Yoga Mat is the best option in the extra-large category. Its bulk does make it a bit more difficult to travel with, but it can be used for any barefoot exercises you can dream up. Its recyclable design offers a lot of peace of mind when it comes time to upgrade, too.
For aficionados of organic products, this Maraal mat will be a dream come true. Crafted entirely from natural materials, it caters to those seeking an eco-conscious addition to their yoga routine. Beyond its green credentials, the mat’s antimicrobial nature ensures hygiene without relying on chemicals.
A standout feature of this Maraal mat is its grip. You’ll feel secure, and there’s no worry about it shifting on the floor. The robust materials promise longevity, ensuring it remains a staple in your sessions for years.
While exceptional in many ways, it does come with a premium price tag, which might be a hurdle for some. Additionally, its weight makes it less travel-friendly compared to lighter alternatives. And while it’s durable and grippy, some users might desire a bit more cushioning, especially when used on harder surfaces.
Reviewers are in love with this Maraal yoga mat. Many of them say that this mat is the most durable and best-feeling yoga mat they’ve ever owned. The extra length is appreciated by many, and the design on the mat surface helps create the relaxing atmosphere they love for yoga. Some people find the weight a bit heavy for taking to yoga classes, but it’s perfect for at-home use.
Pros:
Cons:
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 5/5
Overall, the Maraal Organic Cork & Tree Rubber Yoga & Fitness Mat is the best natural choice on the market. It comes with a gorgeous design, offers a well-balanced surface, and will last for years to come.
This BalanceFrom yoga mat is a standout product, and it’s no surprise that it’s our budget-friendly recommendation. Crafted from a high-density cotton fabric, it boasts moisture-resistant properties, ensuring it remains fresh even after intense sessions. Cleaning it is a breeze; a simple mix of soap and water will do the trick. Designed with the everyday yogi in mind, this mat provides a comfortable and supportive foundation, aiding in achieving and holding poses with ease.
What makes this purchase even more valuable is the inclusion of a carrying strap and yoga blocks. These additions are designed to elevate your yoga experience, ensuring you get maximum benefit from each session. Durability is another strong suit of this mat. It’s reinforced with an anti-tearing net seamlessly woven into its fabric, ensuring it stands the test of time. And if aesthetics matter to you, the mat doesn’t disappoint. With seven colour options, it caters to everyone’s preferences.
However, while the mat scores high on multiple fronts, there’s a minor point to consider. The cotton fabric, though comfortable, might not provide the robust support that some other materials offer. This could be a factor for those delving into advanced yoga poses that exert significant pressure on the wrists or for enthusiasts who take longer classes.
Reviewers love this BalanceFrom yoga mat. The thickness is perfect for almost every user (some still find it doesn’t provide enough cushioning for longer workouts) and the wide colour selection has allowed everyone to choose their favourite. Reviewers love this mat for yoga classes since it is standard in size and only weighs a pound and a half.
Floor Coverage: 24” x 68”
Thickness: 0.25”
Weight: 1.5 lbs
Material: Cotton
Colour: Black, blue, grey, green, red, purple, or pink
Warranty: 2 years
Pros:
Built-in anti-tearing net improves durability
Comes with a carrying strap and yoga blocks
High-density, eco-friendly material provides excellent cushioning and support for average workouts
Moisture-resistant, can be washed with soap and water
Cons:
Performance: 4.5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
All in all, this BalanceFrom yoga mat performs remarkably well for its price point. It provides excellent support and cushioning, and it is designed to last. For beginners, this mat is the perfect yoga companion.
The NewMe yoga mat is crafted from polyvinyl chloride, a material known for its moisture-wicking properties, making it ideal for sweat-inducing hot yoga sessions or rigorous workouts. It’s easy-to-clean nature makes it a prime choice for homes with pets or for those who enjoy outdoor sessions. With a palette of eight vibrant colours, you’re sure to find one that fits your personal style.
Its defining feature is the illustrative design: 70 distinct yoga poses are etched onto the mat, serving as a guide and source of inspiration, eliminating the need to rely on electronic devices. Built to last, the mat boasts tear-resistant properties, ensuring its longevity and consistent performance over the years.
However, potential buyers should be aware of a couple of considerations. Firstly, its price point leans towards the higher end, with the premium largely attributed to its unique printed design rather than superior mat quality. Secondly, while it performs exceptionally on hard surfaces, it might not be the best fit for carpeted areas as it tends to shift.
People are loving how lightweight and portable this mat is, and the material is reportedly very easy to keep clean. Many yoga newbies chose this mat specifically for the yoga poses that are printed on its surface. The design helps them discover new poses, put their own routines together, and enjoy their yoga experience so much more.
Floor Coverage: 24” x 68”
Thickness: 0.2”
Weight: 2.5 lbs
Material: Polyvinyl chloride
Colour: Grey, rust, purple, green, blue, pink, orange, or black
Pros:
70 yoga poses are printed on the mat surface
Moisture-wicking material is great for hot yoga or more intense sessions
Cleans very easily for use indoors and out
Tear-resistant
Cons:
Performance: 4.5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 4.5/5
Overall, this NewMe yoga mat is the best option for beginners looking to expand their knowledge about yoga poses. This mat makes it very easy to choose a new routine each day and explore new poses as your skill develops. It can be used indoors and out and is suited to every type of yoga.
Yoga mats can range from under $10 to over $200. Generally, higher-priced mats offer durability, enhanced cushioning, and larger dimensions. Set a budget and pinpoint essential features to ensure value without overspending.
Mats can be made from various materials, including natural rubbers, cork, foam, cotton, and more. The material influences the mat’s feel, comfort, weight, and resilience against wear and moisture. Understand material properties to ensure your choice aligns with your needs.
Mats differ in thickness. A 0.2-0.3” mat usually balances stability and cushion. Those engaging in seated poses might prefer thicker mats, while others might opt for thinner ones for better balance. Thicker mats are bulkier when rolled and can be heavier, factors to consider if you’re frequently on the move.
Standard yoga mats measure two feet in width and span 68 to 72 inches in length. However, for those needing more space, wider and longer variants are available.
Yoga mats typically weigh between 3 to 8 pounds. Heavier mats offer better floor stability but might be cumbersome for transport, especially to classes.
Some mats come bundled with extras like yoga blocks, straps, or towels. If you’re keen on diverse poses, consider a mat that includes these add-ons to save on multiple separate purchases.
The texture affects traction and can influence how much sliding or slipping occurs. Some people prefer a smoother mat, while others might want a raised, tactile pattern for better grip.
If you’re environmentally conscious, look for mats made from sustainable materials or those that don’t release harmful chemicals during manufacturing.
Consider how often you practice. If you’re a daily practitioner, investing in a durable mat might be more cost-effective in the long run.
If you’re always on the go, consider a lightweight mat or one that comes with a carrying case for convenience.
While function is paramount, the design and colour might be important for some. Choose a mat that resonates with your personal style.
Some mats, especially those made from certain materials, can have a strong smell initially. If you’re sensitive to odours, you might want to look for mats that are known to be odour-free or have minimal off-gassing.
By considering these criteria, you can find a yoga mat that perfectly suits your needs and enhances your practice.
Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We’ll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes. The products in this list are ranked by independent third parties. Rankings are based on both reviews and independent testing.
