Yoga Mat Thickness Guide: How Thick Should Your Yoga Mat Be?

Yoga mat thickness guide - extra thick yoga mat with knee pad and blocks

The right yoga mat thickness makes a big difference in how comfortable your practice feels, especially on hard floors or if you have sensitive knees. Thicker is not always better, though. Here is how to choose the right thickness for the way you work out.

Yoga Mat Thickness at a Glance

  • 1/16" (about 1.5 mm): travel mats. Light and foldable, but very little cushioning.
  • 1/8" (about 3 mm): a standard thin mat. Good grip and balance, firm feel.
  • 1/4" (about 6 mm): the most common all-purpose thickness.
  • 1/2" to 1" (about 12 to 25 mm): extra-thick mats for pilates, stretching, floor exercises and sore joints.

When a Thin Mat Is Better

Thin mats keep you closer to the floor, which helps with balance in standing poses such as Tree or Warrior III. If your practice is mostly fast-moving flow yoga, a thinner, firm mat is usually easier to balance on.

When an Extra-Thick Mat Is Better

Choose a thick mat if you:

  • Work out on hard floors like tile, concrete or wood
  • Have sensitive knees, wrists, hips or back
  • Do a lot of pilates, core work, stretching or floor exercises
  • Are a beginner and want extra comfort

Our Extra-Thick Yoga Mats

Extra Long 4/5" NBR Yoga & Exercise Mat

The Extra Long 4/5" Thick NBR Yoga Mat measures 76" x 24", so taller people can lie fully on the mat. It comes with a carry bag.

Extra Thick 1" Yoga Mat Set

The Extra Thick 1" Yoga Mat Set includes a knee pad and 2 yoga blocks, so beginners get the props they need in one box.

What Is NBR?

NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber) is a soft, cushioned foam used in many thick exercise mats. It is comfortable and lightweight, which makes it popular for pilates and floor work.

How to Care for Your Yoga Mat

  1. Wipe it down after each session with a damp cloth and a little mild soap.
  2. Let it air dry fully before rolling it up.
  3. Store it rolled, out of direct sunlight, to help it last longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What thickness yoga mat is best for bad knees?

Mats between 1/2" and 1" thick give the most cushioning for knees. A separate knee pad adds extra support in kneeling poses.

Is a thick yoga mat harder to balance on?

It can be a little harder in standing balance poses because the surface is softer. For pilates, stretching and floor work it is usually more comfortable.

Shop all mats in our Fitness & Yoga collection. Free US shipping on orders over $70.