The best exercise mat for 2025, tested and approved by a personal trainer

Dimensions: 26 in. x 71 in. | Materials: Recycled polyvinyl butyral | Thickness: 0.24 in. | Weight: 4.4 lbs. | Special features: Grippy backside

This exercise mat was overwhelmingly rated as the best despite being the most straightforward option among the nine we tested. It's a prime example of how simplicity can be superior. 

Although it's available only in black and comes at a higher price point, Lululemon has crafted a mat with excellent grip, low maintenance and just the right thickness — thick enough to provide protection on any surface, yet not too bulky. It's functional for high-intensity plyometric exercises like burpees, but also feels comfortable for floor-based exercises like planks or sit-ups. I even tested it on asphalt and didn’t have to worry about the heat seeping through the mat. It's also easy to roll up and store in my closet.

Katie Leonard, CPT, a group fitness instructor at Life Time Lakeshore-Irvine, praises this brand as her favorite because it strikes the perfect balance — not too squishy, with just the right amount of cushioning. She specifically looks for mats that provide good tailbone support. "Too much cushioning can hinder your balance and stability, making it harder to perform exercises effectively," she explains. 

You may be hesitant to lay out $100 for an exercise mat, but my assessment is that it's on par with the quality you'd find at a gym, and its durability is hard to beat. 

Dimensions: 71 in. x 26 in. standard, 85 in. x 26 in. long | Materials: OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 polyvinyl chloride | Thickness: 0.24 in. | Weight: 7.5-9.5 lbs., depending on length | Special features: Limited-edition mats are hand processed, and each pattern is unique.

The standout features of the Manduka PRO exercise mat include an extra-grippy top for secure yoga movements, a proprietary dot-patterned bottom that prevents the mat from moving around during your flow and a generous level of cushioning for added comfort.

Sandra Gail Frayna, PT and founder of Hudson Premier Physical Therapy & Sports in New Jersey, says this is her favorite brand. "This mat is a good option as it has deep cushioning, which makes it gentle on your joints. This durable mat is made to last, [and it's] safe with its slip-free material."

However, we did notice that the mat can become slightly slippery when wet, making it less ideal for hot-yoga enthusiasts or anyone performing outdoor or sweaty HIIT routines. Also, it's on the heavier side, so if you need something more portable, a lighter option, like the Lululemon Workout Mat, might better suit your needs.

That said, this mat's cushioning and comfort are excellent and earned high marks overall. Its grippy texture kept our hands and feet securely in place during lower-intensity workouts and stretching routines, making it a top choice for those seeking support, stability and comfort. 

Dimensions: 71 in. x 24 in. | Materials: High-density foam | Thickness: 0.5 in. | Weight: 2.55 lbs. | Special features: Includes sling for portability

Crafted with high-density foam, this thick exercise mat from ProsourceFit proved versatile during our yoga and Pilates tests. Its extra thickness provides superior cushioning, which can be a significant advantage, especially for those with back injuries or wrist or shoulder pain, as it offers excellent protection from hard flooring. However, this level of cushioning might not be ideal for everyone, and is harder to use when performing higher-intensity exercises like burpees.

Despite the mat's thickness, we had no trouble transitioning between lower-intensity yoga poses or Pilates moves, and we appreciated the durable, high-quality material that promises long-lasting use. Plus, it comes with a free yoga mat sling, making it easy to transport to your next class.

Erica Walters, a fitness and Pilates expert and owner of Pilates Fit Studio, praises the mat for supporting her back and hips, "making it perfect for yoga and Pilates." She also likes how easily the mat rolls up for convenient storage.

That said, the mat's grip isn't the best, likely due to its thickness, and it was more inclined to move around on the floor. It sometimes felt more like a pool floaty than a steady exercise mat. In general, it's a better fit for lower-intensity exercises and stretch sessions as well as more restorative yoga work. 

Dimensions: 80 in. x 24 in. | Materials: Not provided | Thickness: 2 in. | Weight: 65 lbs. | Special features: Wooden dowel handles and optional foot boxes

The Gratz Folding Mat is undeniably an investment with a price tag that reflects its premium quality. However, this well-crafted mat stands out as an alternative to more expensive Pilates equipment (which can run thousands of dollars) and is customizable with 85 different upholstery color options, making it a stylish addition to the home. 

With its superior finishes and exceptional durability, you can expect it to last a lifetime. I found it remarkably sturdy, even after dragging it across the floor. I had no concerns about the fabric or handles tearing or coming loose.

While it takes up more space than a traditional mat, the Folding Mat offers more convenient storage, making it suitable even for those with limited room.

Walters is a fan, saying it's the "holy grail" of exercise mats for Pilates lovers — the included dowel handles and fabric loops make it easy to perform Pilates-specific movements with focus. "This mat has it all. It combines comfort and support. [It] ensures improved flexibility, increased muscle tone and focused exercise," she says.

A bonus is the option to purchase foot boxes, allowing you to get even more out of your Pilates workouts. 

The primary downside is its high price — it's certainly an investment piece — and because each product is made to order, the lead time for delivery can take months. 

It's also important to note that aside from other stretching or yoga workouts, the Folding Mat isn't intended for other routines. This isn't one you want to use if your primary form of exercise is strength training or HIIT. 

Dimensions: 72 in. x 24 in. | Materials: Polyethylene foam | Thickness: 1.5 in. | Weight: 4.65 lbs. | Special features: Folding

Unlike other exercise mats that roll up, this ProsourceFit mat folds in half for easy storage and features a side handle for portability. I found it convenient to slip into my car and take it to the park for outdoor workouts. And to that end, its extra thickness made it more comfortable to use on uneven surfaces like grass and gravel (you don't have to worry about a stray pebble poking you in the back like you might with a thinner mat).

At 1.5-in. thick, it offers ample cushioning, making it ideal for exercises that require jumping and landing, like jump squats. And for those who practice handstands in yoga, the mat's sturdiness and cushioning provide an extra level of support, although some people may not like the feel of the added padding.

Jason Kozma, CPT and former Mr. America bodybuilder, says this is his favorite stretching mat for hard floors. "It's just large enough for most stretch positions," he says. And it's high quality. "It's the same kind of portable mat we have at my gym."

While this mat doesn't have as much grippiness as some of the other mats on this list, at 4.65 lbs., it does a good job of staying put through most movements.

Dimensions: 68 in. x 24 in. | Materials: Polyvinyl chloride | Thickness: 0.16 in. | Weight: 840 g. | Special features: Folds up like a towel

You may hesitate to pack your exercise mat the next time you take a flight if you think you have to make space for a more traditional mat. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that travel often involves extended periods of sitting, which can increase your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. A quick stretching session between flights or after you land can help get your blood flowing and potentially prevent serious health issues.

That said, packing a large rolling mat or a heavier option may not be feasible. With this mat, there's little need to worry about its size or weight — it folds up like a towel and weighs less than 2 lbs. You can easily tuck it among your shirts and pants without taking up much space.

Of course, this level of portability often comes at the expense of functionality. That said, I was impressed by how well the mat maintained its grip and shape even after being folded for hours. I took it on a trip to the Paris 2024 Olympics, and after over 17 hours in my luggage, it held up beautifully. I even rinsed it off under the faucet in my hotel room without any issues.

I also appreciate the range of pretty colors it comes in, making matching the mat to my luggage easy.

On the downside, the mat is relatively thin and doesn't provide much cushioning, so I wouldn't recommend it as your go-to yoga mat for everyday use. However, keeping it tucked away in your luggage can be a great way to stay active while on vacation. Plus, if you leave it in your suitcase between trips, you'll never forget to pack it!

Dimensions: 69 x 24 in. flat, 24 x 3 x 12 in. folded | Materials: Not provided | Thickness: 12 mm. | Weight: 3 lbs. | Special features: Unique folding design allows it to fold in sections

Sometimes you need an exercise mat that offers more cushion for your hands, elbows or knees. Sometimes you need an exercise mat that's less cushioned and more dense for active movements or those that require greater stability. It can be a balance to find a mat that does a little bit of everything (which could explain why a corner of my house is filled with five different mats, all of which I use for different activities). 

The Stakt mat offers a high level of versatility due to its unique folding design. When unfolded, it functions much like a traditional yoga mat, but with a more cushiony, 12-mm base (most yoga mats range from 5-8 mm thick). 

When you're craving a little more cushioning, the mat's design enables you to fold individual sections, "stacking" them on top of each other. This gives you the freedom to create more padding where you need it. For instance, if you want more cushion under your knees when performing a kneeling hip flexor stretch or under your hands when performing push-ups, you can fold one or two segments to enjoy additional support. You can also fold it all the way up for easy storage or to use it as a low platform for performing additional exercises, like triceps dips. 

I really like the design, comfort and feel, and the mat is lightweight, making it easy to transport and store. That said, it's not as grippy as some mats, and its lighter weight means it's more likely to move around when doing more active exercises, like lateral slides. 

Dimensions: 72 in. x 24 in. x 2 in. | Materials: PU leather exterior, PE cotton filling | Thickness: 2 in. | Weight: Not specified | Special features: Tri-folding design, carry handles

This exercise mat earned our highest overall score during testing, and it's easy to see why. The Metis Tri-Folding Mat wins big on versatility, acting like three mats in one. Lay it flat for cushy support during stretches, core work or high-impact moves. Fold it once for a bit of lift during moves like split squats. Fold it all the way for a sturdy 6-inch platform that’s perfect for Bulgarian split squats, step-ups or tricep dips.

We were wowed by the build quality. The PU leather cover feels tough and professional, while the dense PE cotton inside delivers firm, reliable support without veering into "too squishy" territory. It even earned high marks when performing barbell deadlifts, offering solid floor protection and absorbing impact so well that you barely hear the barbell land.

We loved its joint-friendly design. At 2 inches thick, it cushions the knees and ankles during floor work yet still feels stable enough for controlled, precise movements. Unlike overly thick mats that can wobble underfoot, this one nails the balance between comfort and control, though it's not ideal for yoga or other practices in which you want to ensure a good "floor feel."

When it's time to pack it away, just fold the mat into a compact 24 x 24 in. square, slip it into a closet or under the bed and go. The carry handles are strong and well-stitched, which make hauling it around a breeze.

Dimensions: 72 in. x 27 in. x 5 mm | Materials: Natural rubber base with polyurethane top layer | Thickness: 5 mm | Weight: Not specified | Special features: Widest mat tested, includes ventilated mesh carrying case

This standout mat from Pilates pro Lia Bartha's brand blew us away in grip testing — especially when things got sweaty. The traction is next-level. Even after spraying it with water, hands and feet stayed locked in place without a single slip. Its polyurethane top layer actually performs better with a little moisture, creating a surface that almost feels tacky in the best sort of way.

At 27 inches wide, it's the most spacious mat we tried, giving you extra room for wide stances, bigger stretches and dynamic moves. Trainers on our panel loved the added width, especially for taller clients or anyone who values the ability to spread out a bit for added stability.

The natural rubber base keeps the mat firmly anchored to the floor — no creeping or bunching mid-workout. At 5 mm thick, it delivers enough cushioning to keep joints happy while still letting you feel the floor for precise balance work and smooth transitions.

The surface manages to feel silky yet grippy, and the overall quality more than earns its premium status. It's easy to clean, though it does tend to pick up dust and pet hair a bit faster than some other options. The included mesh carrying case is a handy bonus, even if it's not quite as luxe as the mat itself.

Dimensions: 72 in. x 23 in. x 3/8 in. | Materials: Dual-sided textured surface | Thickness: 3/8 in. (measured at 0.5 in.) | Weight: Not specified | Special features: Integrated grommets for hanging storage, dual-textured surfaces

The Balanced Body Pilates Mat earned some of the highest scores in our cushioning tests, making it a dream for floor-based Pilates sessions or any exercises where joint comfort is key. We measured ours at half an inch thick (although the brand website indicates it's a bit less thick at 3/8 in.), and found that it delivers outstanding relief for the knees, elbows and spine during long workouts. Our testers found it especially supportive for rolling moves, side-lying leg work, and supine (exercises performed lying on your back) spine articulation.

One of its standout features is the dual-sided texture — each side offers a different feel, with the back side providing noticeably stronger traction (though it was very slippery when we performed our spray test). The built-in grommets are a clever touch, making it easy to hang for storage, whether in a studio or at home with limited space.

We loved how it pairs generous cushioning with enough stability for clean, precise movements. It avoids the "wobbly" feel of overly soft mats, so you can maintain control during even the trickiest sequences.

Of course, that thick, cushy build comes with some compromises. When wet, the surface can get slick, so it's not the best pick for hot or sweaty workouts. And at this size, it's more of a studio mat than a travel companion.

At $58, it offers strong value compared with higher-priced Pilates gear, while still delivering professional-level performance for dedicated practitioners.

Dimensions: 72 in. x 24 in. x 5 mm | Materials: Natural cork top, FSC-certified natural rubber base | Thickness: 5 mm | Weight: Not specified | Special features: Moisture-activated grip, tree planting program

If sustainability is high on your list, this Yogo mat is a standout. The natural cork surface has a warm, grounded feel that we adored — it's organic and tactile in a way synthetic mats just can't replicate.

It also topped our charts for cushioning, with excellent joint protection and pressure relief for knees, elbows and other sensitive points during floor work. The grip is steady and even improves slightly with a touch of moisture, though it's not built for heavy sweat sessions.

Its eco credentials are also pretty impressive: an FSC-certified natural rubber base, plus Yogo plants a food-producing tree in Africa for every mat sold. We also love the cork's natural antimicrobial properties, which keep it fresh and easy to clean — dirt and oils wipe away without the need for harsh cleaners. A huge bonus is that it doesn't collect lint or pet hair like many other mats.

One minor drawback is a noticeable odor at first that needs time to air out. The mat also doesn't roll up as tightly as some synthetic mats, which makes storage a bit trickier. It's also a bit pricey, but for eco-conscious yogis who want comfort, sustainability and a mat that feels amazing underfoot, this one hits the mark.

Dimensions: 24 in. x 24 in. x 8 mm per tile | Materials: Interlocking rubber | Thickness: 8 mm | Special features: Water-jet-cut edges, 5-year warranty, Made in USA

These interlocking tiles make it easy to create a pro-level gym floor at home without committing to a permanent install. At a sale price of $20.49 each (covering 4 sq. ft.), they come in at about $5.12 per square foot, which is competitive with commercial flooring but far more flexible.

We loved the precision fit. The water-jet-cut edges lock together so cleanly that the seams are almost invisible, giving a sleek, high-end look. At 8 mm thick, they absorb the shock of dropped weights while still feeling solid underfoot for lifting and high-energy workouts.

These mats work just as well over carpet as they do on hardwood or concrete, and the interlocking system stays secure while still letting you rearrange or expand your setup as needed. We liked how easy it was to customize coverage and finish the edges with some simple cuts for a more polished look.

The textured surface provides plenty of traction whether you're barefoot or in sneakers, and heavy equipment stays put without sliding. After years of home gym use, these tiles still look and perform like new, even after multiple moves and withstanding heavy traffic. The main downside? You'll notice a pretty strong rubber smell when you first use them, but this dissipates over time.

Dimensions: 68 in. x 24 in. x 1.7 mm | Materials: FSC-certified natural rubber | Thickness: 1.7 mm | Weight: 2.3 lbs. | Special features: Unique folding design, attached straps, top never touches bottom

This clever travel mat from Yogo makes packing for practice ridiculously easy. Instead of rolling, it folds accordion-style into a bundle about the size of a newspaper, held neatly in place with built-in straps. The result is a compact mat that slips right into a backpack or carry-on without hogging space.

We were most impressed by the grip and strong traction of the natural rubber on both sides of the mat, and the textured surface felt reassuringly sturdy for something so thin. It stayed rock-steady on tile floors and even outdoor surfaces during our sessions.

The folding design saves space and is also cleaner. Because the top never touches the bottom, you’re not transferring floor grime or outdoor debris into your bag after a workout on the go. After use, you can give it a quick rinse in the shower and hang it to dry with the attached straps.

We loved that it offers nearly full-size yoga mat dimensions, unlike many travel mats that feel cramped. The trade-off of this travel mat is that cushioning is minimal, and it can get slippery when wet. It's not meant to replace your everyday mat, but for travel, it outperformed other options we tried. Plus, it comes in gorgeous, earthy colors like ocean (pictured), fern and orchid.

Dimensions: 6 ft. x 4 ft. (other sizes up to 21 ft. x 6 ft. available) | Materials: Premium materials (specific type not provided) | Thickness: 8 mm | Special features: Lifetime warranty, extra-large size, multiple size options

If your workouts tend to spill past the edges of a standard mat, this one's built for you. At 6 x 4 feet, it gives nearly twice the training space — perfect for tall athletes, wide-stance strength moves, plyometric drills, mobility flows or partner workouts.

The 8 mm thickness offers joint-friendly cushioning for floor work while keeping a stable base for weightlifting, resistance band training or high-intensity circuits. We found the premium materials noticeably sturdier than budget mats, holding up to everything from kettlebell swings to burpees without shifting.

Sizes go all the way up to 21 x 6 feet ($392), which makes these mats ideal for group classes, martial arts, or creating a dedicated home gym floor. There's also a lifetime warranty to back up its long-term durability.

We liked its versatility for stretching sessions, agility drills or heavy training days when extra space makes all the difference. There’s a strong rubber smell at first, but like other rubber mats, it will fade over time.

Dimensions: 71 in. x 26 in. x 4 mm | Materials: Polyester suede top, 100% natural rubber base | Thickness: 4 mm | Weight: 6.2 lbs. | Special features: Premium suede surface, cotton carrying strap

This mat from WeGym feels like the yoga equivalent of checking into a five-star spa. Its premium polyester suede surface is unbelievably soft against bare skin, so even a short practice is a bit more indulgent. While many mats feel purely functional, this one brings a sense of calm luxury to your yoga sessions, which is why we found ourselves reaching for it long after testing was over.

One unexpected (but totally underrated benefit) is that it lies perfectly flat with no annoying edge curl, even after days rolled up. That means no tugging or stomping to get the corners down mid-class. And the suede top has surprisingly dependable grip for most poses, though it’s not quite as "sticky" as some high-grip mats.

Build quality is top-notch. The suede holds up beautifully to regular use, resisting scratches and signs of wear. Underneath, the 100% natural rubber base keeps it anchored while also being a more eco-conscious choice.

We found it especially well-suited for restorative and gentle practices where comfort is the priority. It comes with a cotton carry strap, which is a thoughtful touch that adds to the mat's premium appeal.

It isn't the best choice for super sweaty sessions, as the grip drops off when wet. The price is on the higher side, but for anyone who values softness, stability and an elevated practice experience, this mat is pure bliss.

Dimensions: 30 in. x 23.6 in. x 5.9 in. per pad | Materials: High-density foam interior, durable PVC outer cover | Thickness: 5.9 in. | Weight: Sold in pairs | Special features: Carry handles, designed for barbell drops

If you need a solution for heavy lifts, forget standard mats, these pads are in a league of their own. Designed for serious lifters, they're built to take the full force of loaded barbells while protecting your floors and keeping noise to a minimum. In testing, they swallowed the sound of overhead drops and heavy deadlifts almost entirely, making them a lifesaver for apartment workouts or shared spaces.

The build quality is top-tier. The dense foam core barely compresses under impact, and the PVC cover shrugs off repeated barbell strikes without scuffing. Stitching is clean and heavy-duty, giving them a professional feel that puts budget versions to shame.

At 6 inches thick, they deliver unmatched protection for both your floor and your equipment. The generous 30" x 24" surface gives you room for less-than-perfect landings, while the integrated handles make moving them around surprisingly easy. They also stay planted exactly where you put them — no shifting mid-session.

We were impressed with how well they absorbed impact without creating dangerous bounce that could send a barbell rolling away.

However, they are bulky, costing more than $200 for the pair, and the thickness can limit the range of motion for certain lifts. But for anyone regularly doing overhead work, cleans, jerks or heavy pulls, these drop pads are essential kit.