Best Yoga Mats Australia in 2024 - Upgrade Your Pilates, Yoga or Stretching Practice
Since yoga class without a mat is like the morning without coffee, heres the best yoga mats in 2024 to stay grounded in your practice
Best Yoga Mats Australia in 2024
Yoga mats are an important part of any yogi's practice, providing a comfortable and stable surface to help you maintain proper alignment while performing your poses and in fact most Yoga, Pilates and Stretching classes require you to have a mat to join the class. But with so many yoga mats on the market, it can be tricky to know which one is right for you.
To upgrade mindful practice, whether it is yoga, pilates, meditation, stretching or any other movement session, get a quality mat between your body and the floor so you don’t have to worry about always adjusting and slipping around the room. To help you on your way, we've put together this list of the best yoga mats Australia 2024.
Getting into yoga online at home or in a class means you will need a good yoga mat made from quality materials like cork, natural vegan rubber, latex-free or eco-friendly recycled plastic bottles . In this article, we will show you what you'll need to know about finding the best yoga mat for your practice whether it be a vinyasa flow, yin, hatha yoga or meditation.
Best Yoga Mats Australia - Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Valka Yoga Black Yoga Mat
The Valka Yoga Black Yoga mat is the overall best yoga mat on the market in 2024. It's wet and dry grip as well as a thick, reversible design and included carry strap makes the Valka Yoga Mat the most comfortable among the bunch. It has a little bit of give, so it's also the most versatile in terms of the type of yoga you can practice on it. Don't worry about slippage, though, since it's also slip-resistant.
Use code RECOVERYGURU for 10% discount at checkout
Best Pro: Alo Warrior Mat
The Alo Yoga Mat is one of the most popular mats on the market. These yoga mats are everywhere, and the Alo Warrior Mat features 100% formaldehyde-free, non-toxic and PVC-free material, made with ethically sourced rubber and over 8 different colour options to choose from.
Best Reversible: Lululemon The Reversible Mat 5 mm
Lululemon's The Reversible Mat is the best yoga mat in our opinion. It's made from natural rubber and is free from PVC, latex and other synthetic materials. It's also reversible, comes with a great grip, and provides excellent cushioning even when sweaty.
Best Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat: Mobeco Cork Yoga Mat
Eco-friendly and made from natural materials, Mobeco's Cork Yoga Mat is the perfect choice for those looking for an environmentally friendly option. The cork is sourced from sustainably managed forests, and the mat is free from PVC, latex and other harmful chemicals.
Use code GURU for 10% discount at checkout
Best Travel Mat: Gaiam Performance Premium Support 6 mm Yoga Mat
The Gaiam Premium Support Yoga Mat is lightweight and comes with a free strap designed to make it easy to carry on the go. The mat is made from high-grade PVC, making it durable and able to withstand heavy use. It also has a textured surface to provide extra grip during your yoga practice.
Best Recycled: Yoga Design Lab Yoga Mat
The Yoga Design Lab yoga mat is made from recycled PET microfibre top layer using 15 plastic bottles in each mate. The base layer is made with sustainable, non-Amazonian natural tree rubber and all of their beautiful designs are printed with water-based inks. A carrying strap and yoga towel is also included when buying a Yoga Design Lab mat.
Best Lightweight Yoga Mat: POPFLEX Vegan Suede Yoga Mat
The POPFLEX Vegan Suede Yoga Mat is the best lightweight yoga mat because it's made of natural rubber and is biodegradable. Its thickness also makes it comfortable. Plus, it provides a good grip, so you won't slip during your practice.
Best for Beginners: Jade Yoga Harmony Yoga Mat
For those who are just starting to get into yoga, the Jade Yoga Harmony Yoga Mat is a great option. It has a nonslip surface to help you keep your grip during sweaty sessions, especially since you may still need to work on your balance. The mat is also thick enough (5 mm) to cushion your joints while you're doing standing poses or balances.
Best for Advanced Yogis: Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
The Manduka PRO Yoga Mat is a high-density mat that provides support and cushioning for advanced yoga poses and inversions. It is made of PVC, which is durable and easy to clean. The mat has a textured surface to prevent slipping and comes in a variety of colours.
What are the Benefits of Yoga?
Yoga is a low-impact form of exercise that has many benefits for your mind and body. Yoga can help improve your flexibility, build strength and endurance, calm your mind, and reduce stress.
There are many types of yoga, so you can find a practice that’s right for you. If you’re new to yoga, it’s a good idea to take a few classes with a qualified instructor before you start practising on your own.
Yoga mats are an important accessory for yoga sessions. They provide cushioning and support for your body during practice. Just like any exercise accessory, it’s important to find one that meets your needs since there are many types of yoga mats available.
Doing regular yoga, pilates, reformer pilates, clinical pilates, Bikram yoga, Vinyasa flow and other stretching practices on your mat can offer a host of science backed benefits.
Improved Flexibility
It is well known that making time on the mat for yoga and other movement practices can increase flexibility and help to alleviate stiffness, tight muscles and reduce muscle cramping. Various studies show a significant increase in flexibility, indicating 6 weeks of single session yoga training may be effective in increasing erector spinae and hamstring flexibility. Other studies have shown increase the flexibility and balance measured by Sit-reach, shoulder flexibility, and stork stand; dynamic measurements consisted of joint angles as well as whole body measures of male college athletes and therefore, may enhance athletic performances.
Moreover, research has demonstrated improvements in flexibility and balance, as measured by assessments like the Sit-and-Reach test, shoulder flexibility tests, and the Stork Stand balance test. Dynamic measurements, which included joint angles and overall body metrics, have shown that yoga not only increases flexibility but also enhances stability and coordination among male college athletes. These improvements can lead to better athletic performance, reducing the risk of injury and allowing athletes to achieve greater mobility in their activities.
Incorporating regular yoga sessions can therefore be a valuable addition to any training regimen, promoting physical well-being and supporting overall athletic performance.
Stress and Anxiety Relief
Yoga has inherent focus on the breath and connection to mind-body, giving people who practice yoga the ability to reduce stress and anxiety with practice. A study on women living in Iran, found that Yoga is an effective complimentary medicine and has an effective role in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression based on data collected in relation to the Depression and Anxiety Scale.
Other practices associated with yoga like sound healing, chanting, and other sound meditations have also been proven effective on a study of 62 men and women to be a feasible low-cost low technology intervention for reducing feelings of tension, anxiety, and depression, and increasing spiritual well-being.
Increased Strength
Yoga and pilates promotes increased strength and development of stabiliser muscles from conditioning. While many people start doing yoga primarily to improve flexibility, it also naturally increases muscle strength by placing the muscles under load from the weight of the body especially when conducting balancing poses and adding weight to pilates exercises like those in reformer pilates classes. One study of Hatha yoga, found that it is effective at “improving anthropometric characteristics, muscular strength and flexibility among volunteers of different age group and can also be helpful in preventing and attenuating age related deterioration of these parameters”.
In Pilates, especially in reformer classes, adding resistance through springs further challenges the muscles, leading to improved strength and tone. A study on Hatha yoga highlighted its effectiveness in "improving anthropometric characteristics, muscular strength, and flexibility among volunteers of different age groups." This demonstrates that yoga is not just a flexibility tool; it can also be instrumental in preventing and mitigating age-related declines in strength and overall physical fitness.
By integrating both practices into a regular routine, individuals can build a well-rounded foundation of strength, flexibility, and stability, enhancing their overall physical performance and quality of life.
Improved Mobility
Mobility and flexibility are slightly different. While flexibility is a great goal, mobility is the function of the level of strength achieved in our end range of motion. Mobility is a benefit of yoga as some poses increase strength by pushing the body to its end ranges of motion under load. The benefit of mobility practice is that when pushing the body to its end rages of motion in a controlled environment like in a yoga, pilates or movement class on the mat, we are better preparing our bodies to be able to withstand these positions when they arise unexpectedly in everyday life, therefore reducing the chances of injury.
Yoga, in particular, enhances mobility by incorporating poses that challenge the body at its end ranges of motion while under load. This not only promotes flexibility but also builds the strength necessary to maintain those positions. Engaging in mobility practice in a controlled environment—such as yoga, Pilates, or movement classes—prepares the body to handle unexpected physical demands in daily life.
By training the body to move confidently and effectively through its full range of motion, we significantly reduce the risk of injuries. This proactive approach ensures that we are not only flexible but also strong and resilient, enabling us to navigate a variety of physical challenges with ease.
Improved Posture and Body Awareness
Many of us are constantly hunching over our work desk, using a laptop, phone or device that over time causes poor postural alignment, pain and injury. Getting on the mat regularly for yoga or pilates is an effective way to correct or offset these hours spent in unfavourable positions. Using MRI, one study found that yoga has the ability to improve the awareness or perception of the body in space. The neurological data showed evidence that the yoga practice in predominantly healthy subjects, has both a structural and functional effect on brain areas involved in interoception, posture, motivation, and higher executive functions.
Promotes Better Sleep
Sleep is the backbone of optimal health. Indeed, we have struggled with poor quality sleep as the majority of the population has at some point. Advances in tracking like those used in smart watches and other technology like InsideTracker have allowed people a better insight into sleep and it is also true that yoga and meditation practices done regularly has been proven to improve sleep. In general, sleep and exercise have a confirmed positive relationship. Yoga, more specifically, has use for treatment of chronic insomnia and other sleep related conditions and anecdotally we have seen the positive effects that a regular yoga practice has on sleep patterns.
How We Review
These are the factors we considered when choosing the best yoga mats in Australia for 2022:
Thickness
The thickness of the yoga mat is a crucial factor in our review. Most yoga mats are about 1/8” thick, which offers good cushioning for your joints while still allowing you to feel a connection to the ground.
If you’re looking for more support, there are thicker options available (up to 1”), but they can be more difficult to grip and might not provide as much connection or feedback to the ground.
Weight
In connection with the thickness, the weight of a yoga mat is important for portability and comfort. If you plan on travelling with your yoga mat, a lighter option may be best. If you want a little more cushioning under your feet or are concerned about slippage, then a heavier yoga mat may be the better choice.
Grip
The grip of a yoga mat is also an important factor to consider when making your purchase. If you are simply using the mat for home practice, then a less grippy mat may be fine. However, if you plan on using the mat in a studio or hot yoga class, then you will want to make sure that the mat has a good grip.
Yoga mat grip can be further broken down into sticky-ness with either a wet grip or a dry grip which has a few differences.
1. Dry Grip
Most yoga mats have some degree of dry grip being made from some variation of cork, rubber or recycled materials that give it good grip without the presence of sweat or moisture. The dry grip is essentially what stops your feet, hands or body from moving around the mat when moving through poses or doing a vinyasa flow. The dry grip is what gives you the confidence to move through these poses without the fear of sliding and avoiding injury.
2. Wet Grip
Some practices like hot yoga, known as Bikram, or other intense workouts involved in pilates or vinyasa classes, generate a lot of sweat. We have all experienced the annoyance of trying to hold a pose like downward dog or attempting a more complex asana like camel pose or hand balances when you are battling with grip. This is where the importance of wet grip comes into play. Many of the cheaper, lower quality rubber mats will not have great wet grip which means as soon as you sweat a little bit, your grip suffers and so does your practice. Yoga mats that are high on wet grip will allow you to maintain good grip even with high levels of sweat involved.
A yoga mat like the Valka Yoga Mat or the Manduka Pro Yoga Mat are designed to be able to absorb some of the sweat and still give positive grip benefits. Look for a mat with relatively high density and not super soft, squishy foam or rubber. This will help prevent the slip and slide that destroys your flow.
Materials
Most yoga mats are made of PVC, polyurethane, rubber, or a blend of these materials. We prefer mats made from natural rubber because it has enough cushion to keep it comfortable while still maintaining good feedback to the hands and feet with the ground.
However, PVC and polyurethane are also common in yoga mats because they're inexpensive and easy to clean. There are also vegan options made from sustainable materials like jute or cork.
There are a whole bunch of quality yoga mats on the market in 2022 that are eco-friendly and made with 100% recycled materials including recycled rubber tyres and even recycled plastic bottles. Personally, a recycled material yoga mat is something that I aim for, because the technology used to process the materials allows for a fantastic, durable yoga mat that also contributes to environmental consciousness.
We look for mats that do not contain toxic phthalates, dioxins or furans, phenal or heavy metals that are ecologically safer in production.
Reversibility
Lastly, we looked at the mats’ reversibility. Because of their construction, most yoga mats are only usable on one side (the smooth side). However, a few companies make reversible mats that can be used on either side. These are usually more expensive than single-sided mats, but they offer more value in terms of longevity and utility.
Best Yoga Mat Australia 2024 - Review and Buyers Guide
Lululemon vs Jollie vs Manduka vs Gaiam vs Jade Yoga vs Alo
Best Overall: Valka Yoga Black Yoga Mat
The Valka Yoga Black Yoga Mat is our pick for the overall best yoga mat Australia for 2024. The mat has a comfortable, cushiony feel that is perfect for yoga or any other type of exercise. It is also slip-resistant, so you can use it on any surface without worry.
The Valka Yoga mat has unique Chakra designs and can be purchased in a plain cork yoga mat style as well as a large “Grand” size.
Key Features:
Price: $129.99 AUD
Material: Biodegradable polyurethane and natural rubber with zero PVC’s
Thickness: 4mm
Weight: 3kg
Dimensions: 185cm x 68cm
Why We Like It: This black yoga mat includes a carry strap, is 100% vegan product and is made from thick, biodegradable and anti microbial material which makes for superior comfort and cushioning during yoga. The yoga mate features both wet and dry grip so even when sweaty you won't have problems with balancing or slipping in different positions.
Pros
It comes with a carry strap
It is 100% vegan material
Both wet and dry grip for non-slip yoga
Has a 30-day returns guarantee
Cons
It only comes in one colour (black)
Use code RECOVERYGURU for 10% discount at checkout
Best Pro: Alo Warrior Yoga Mat
The Alo Warrior Yoga Mat is our pick for the best pro yoga mat Australia for 2024. The Alo yoga mats are one of the most highyl purchased and most popular yoga mats in the world. You literally see these yoga mats everywhere when you go to a yoga or pilates class.
The Alo Warrior yoga mats are slightly more expensive than many of the other yoga mats by about $20-30 but you they also include free shipping when you buy one. Alo Yoga are a trusted brand with loads of reviews and I have had my Alo yoga mat for about 3 years now and there are very minimal signs of wear and tear which shows that it is quality material.
The Alo Warrior Yoga Mat has a top layer made from polyurethane leather and a bottom layer than is sustainably sourced rubber with no PVC’s. The Alo Yoga Mats have loads of different colour choices which we also love, the Warrior mat coming in eight different colours.
Key Features:
Price: $210 AUD
Material: Polyurethane leather top layer and natural rubber with zero PVC’s bottom layer
Thickness: 5mm
Weight: 3.6kg
Dimensions: 188cm x 67cm
Why We Like It: Trusted brand that has been around for a long time and well reviewed and tested gear. The mat is 100% vegan product and is one of the thickest yoga mats on the market if you like extra cushion on your mat for comfort. The Alo yoga mat has a moisture-wicking and anti odour design, meaning the mat is both non-slip and will repel odour for a long time.
Pros
Comes in eight different colour choices
It is 100% sustainably sourced rubber
Both wet and dry grip for non-slip yoga
Non-toxic, formaldehyde free material
Popular and highly reviewed and recommended
Cons
Higher price
Best For Travel: Gaiam Performance Premium Support 6mm Yoga Mat
Gaiam has a 6mm yoga mat that is perfect for those who appreciate a little extra cushioning during their yoga practice. This mat provides excellent support and comfort, making it ideal for beginners or anyone seeking a more comfortable yoga experience. The Gaiam Premium Support 6mm Yoga Mat is made of durable PVC and features a textured surface. The mat also comes with a free carrying strap for easy transport.
Key Features:
Price: $54.99 AUD
Material: Hi-Grade PVC
Thickness: 5 mm
Weight: 1.4 kg
Dimensions: 68" x 24"
Why We Like It: We love the Gaiam Premium Support 6mm Yoga Mat for its excellent cushioning and support. It provides the most value for money with its superior quality and 6mm thickness. This mat is also latex-free, making it a good choice for those with allergies.
Pros
It’s lightweight making it easy to bring to and from your yoga practice.
The free mat carry sling boosts portability.
Cons
It doesn’t provide as much traction as other mats.
Best Reversible: Lululemon Reversible 5mm Yoga Mat
Lululemon established itself as a premier athletic apparel company, so it's no surprise that their yoga mat would be just as high-quality. The Lululemon Reversible Mat 5mm is perfect for those who want a little extra cushioning during their practice, as it's 5mm thick and reversible for use on both sides or pick your ideal grip and feel out of the two sides.
It's also reversible, so you can choose between a smooth or textured side depending on your preference. The mat is made from PVC, so it's free of toxic chemicals and safe for the environment. Lululemon is one of the most reliable brands for training gear and you can definitely be sure that your Lululemon mat will be with you for years fi you look after it.
Key Features:
Price: $64.00 AUD
Material: Polyurethane top layer with natural rubber base
Thickness: 5 mm
Weight: 3.2 kg
Dimensions: 84" x 28"
Why We Like It: We love the Lululemon The Reversible Mat 5mm for its high-quality construction and comfortable, grippy surface.
Pros
Its reversible feature allows for two different textures.
It’s also slightly thicker and longer, which provides extra cushioning and makes it more comfortable.
Cons
It’s a bit heavier than other yoga mats.
Best Lightweight: POPFLEX Vegan Suede Yoga Mat
Casey Ho, world-renowned Pilates and yoga instructor, founded POPFLEX in 2014. The brand's mission is to make working out fun, while also providing high-quality activewear and equipment.
The POPFLEX Vegan Suede Yoga Mat was designed with both style and function in mind. The mat is made from 100% recycled PVC, which makes it environmentally friendly. The mat has a textured surface that provides grip and cushioning, making it ideal for yoga and Pilates.
Key Features:
Price: $85.00 AUD
Material: Microsuede top layer, high-density lightweight TPE bottom layer
Thickness: 6 mm
Weight: 0.64 kg
Dimensions: 72” x 24”
Why We Like It: A lot of thought was put into the design of this mat, and it shows. The mat is made from high-quality, sustainable materials. Plus, it’s lightweight without sacrificing traction and cushioning.
Pros
It provides excellent grip, especially when moistened.
It comes in different designs, such as Moon Child, Heart in the Clouds, and the bestseller Diamond in the Sky.
Cons
Users have to be careful with the design since it might get scruffed when using exercise equipment, like dumbbells.
Best Eco-Friendly: Mobeco Cork Yoga Mat
One of this yoga mat's unique selling points is that it is made of cork. Cork is a sustainable, eco-friendly material that provides excellent grip. This mat also has a natural rubber base for extra stability.
The Mobeco Cork Yoga Mat is comfortable even when used for extended periods. It is also lightweight and easy to carry around, making it ideal for yoga enthusiasts who travel frequently.
Key Features:
Price: $109.90 AUD
Material: 100% natural and sustainable cork top and 100% natural rubber base
Thickness: 3 mm
Weight: 2 kg
Dimensions: 68” x 24”
Why We Like It: Mobeco's Cork Yoga Mat is made from natural and sustainable cork, making it a great eco-friendly choice. The mat is also lightweight and easy to transport, making it perfect for yoga on the go.
Pros
The sustainable material is durable and eco-friendly.
It’s hypoallergenic and non-toxic.
Cons
The mat might not provide as much cushion.
Best for Beginners: Jade Yoga Harmony Yoga Mat
The Jade Harmony Yoga Mat is a flagship product that's made from natural rubber, which makes it eco-friendly and biodegradable. It also has a closed-cell construction, meaning that it won't absorb sweat or bacteria. The mat has a textured surface to prevent slipping, and is available in a variety of colours.
Key Features:
Price: $123.50 AUD
Material: Natural rubber
Thickness: 5 mm
Weight: 2 kg
Dimensions: 68” x 24”
Why We Like It: The Jade Yoga Harmony yoga mat is perfect for beginners who are exploring yoga or pilates and serious about their practice. It provides great traction and stability for standing poses and is a really good all round yoga mat, much more enjoyable to practice on than a cheap rubber yoga mat.
I have personally had multiple Jade Yoga mats which I bought years ago at Powerliving Bondi, Australia. The Jade is super grippy, which I like because I sweat a lot, and it has lasted over 100 hours of heated yoga without marking, tearing or showing any major signs of wear.
Pros
It comes in multiple colours.
The company donates part of their revenue to charities, depending on the mat colours.
Cons
It can be expensive for those who are just starting out with yoga.
Best on Amazon: Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
The Manduka PRO yoga mat is made of PVC, making it perfect for yoga practices that require a lot of floor contact. The mat has a slip-resistant surface that provides excellent grip, even when sweaty. It is also lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for yoga enthusiasts who travel often. The Manduka Yoga Mat is available on Amazon and is made with virtually zero manufacturing waste and claims to be 100% reclaimable & recyclable.
If you are like I am and want all of your gear to be matching, you can pair up your Manduka Yoga Mat with a Manduka Yoga Block, Manduka Yoga Towel and Manduka Align Strap.
Key Features:
Price: $187.50 AUD
Material: OEKO-TEX® certified PVC
Thickness: 6 mm
Weight: 3.4 kg
Dimensions: 71” x 26”
Why We Like It: The Manduka PRO yoga mat is our top pick for the best yoga mat on Amazon AU for 2024. This mat is extra-long and extra-thick, providing ample cushioning for your joints and bones while you practice.
Pros
It has a firm surface for better stability.
Each mat is handmade.
Cons
It’s on the pricey side.
Best Yoga Mat FAQs
Do I really need a yoga mat?
If you want to do yoga, then yes, you need a good yoga mat. A mat provides cushioning and traction for your hands and feet, which helps you stay safe and comfortable during your practice. Yoga mats also absorb sweat and provide grip so you can focus on your poses instead of slipping around.
What is the most important factor in choosing a yoga mat?
It largely depends on your needs. For most, the material is the most crucial factor. For those who are on the taller side, the length is more important for better comfort during practice.
How do I clean and maintain my yoga mat?
Wipe it down with a damp cloth and a mild soap or detergent, or you can purchase a yoga mat cleaner. Always make sure your mat is completely dry before rolling it up for storage.
Final Word on Best Yoga Mat
A yoga mat is a vital accessory for yogis and you will need one to even show up at most yoga studios. It provides a comfortable, firm and slip-resistant surface to practice on. A good yoga mat will also last for many years with proper care. To date, the best overall yoga mat we have tried is the Valka Yoga Black yoga mat due to its eco-friendly materials, high comfort levels, low slip levels and competitive price.
There are quite literally thousands of yoga mats to choose from online and it is worth shopping around and checking out as many authentic yoga mat reviews as you can. We also suggest having a chat to your local yoga or pilates instructor at your yoga studio or pilates practice near you to get some more authentic advice on the best yoga mats.
