Ever felt your hands slip on your yoga mat during a tricky pose, like downward-facing dog? It’s a common problem that can shake your confidence and even lead to a tumble. Finding a yoga mat with great grip is super important for a safe and enjoyable practice.
Many yogis get frustrated trying to pick the perfect mat. You see so many choices, and they all promise amazing grip. But how do you know which one actually works? Some mats feel sticky at first but lose their grip quickly. Others are too rough, or maybe they get slippery when you start to sweat.
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a yoga mat grippy and how to find one that’s just right for you. We’ll talk about different materials and features that help you stay put, no matter how much you sweat. By the end, you’ll feel much more sure about choosing a mat that keeps you grounded.
Our Top 5 Yoga Mat For Grip Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Yoga Mat For Grip Detailed Reviews
1. Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat – Fitness and Exercise Mat with Easy-Cinch Carrier Strap Included – Soft Cushioning and Textured Grip – Multiple Colors Options (Green
Rating: 9.2/10
Unroll a world of comfort and stability with the Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat. This green mat, measuring 72 inches long by 24 inches wide and a generous 2/5 inch thick, is designed to support all your fitness needs, from intense yoga flows to simple stretching sessions.
What We Like:
- The 10mm thick, high-density foam offers fantastic cushioning. Your knees and joints will thank you!
- Its textured surface provides a great grip. You won’t slide around, even when you’re really working up a sweat.
- The mat is made with low-odor materials. It’s also super easy to clean with just a damp cloth.
- It’s tough and can handle more than just workouts. People use it for physical therapy, as padding for standing desks, and even for kids’ play areas.
- An adjustable carrying strap is included. This makes it simple to roll up and take your mat to yoga class or store it neatly at home.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the grip is good, some users might want an even more aggressive texture for very advanced or slippery poses.
This Gaiam mat is a reliable and comfortable companion for any fitness journey. It’s a solid investment for anyone seeking a durable and supportive exercise surface.
2. Yoga Mat Non Slip
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to elevate your yoga and workout routine with the Gruper Yoga Mat! This mat is designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re at home or heading to the gym. Its beautiful Matcha Green and Black color is a stylish addition to your fitness gear. The 6mm thickness provides a good balance of cushioning and stability for all your poses and exercises.
What We Like:
- It’s made from a new, eco-friendly material that’s safer and softer than older types of mats.
- The mat has a special sticky texture on both sides to prevent slipping during your workouts.
- It’s built to last with a double-layer design that resists tearing and keeps its shape.
- You get a free carrying strap and storage bag, making it super easy to take your mat anywhere.
- It comes in two thickness options (6mm and 8mm) to suit your preference.
What Could Be Improved:
- The mat is designed for barefoot use; wearing shoes or having pets use it might damage the surface.
- It needs to be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent, and should not be put in a washing machine or dryer.
This Gruper Yoga Mat offers a great combination of eco-friendliness, durability, and anti-slip performance. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable mat for their fitness journey.
3. Gaiam Dry-Grip Yoga Mat – 5mm Thick Non-Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for Standard or Hot Yoga
Rating: 9.2/10
Ready to upgrade your yoga game? The Gaiam Dry-Grip Yoga Mat in a stylish marbled design is here to help you find your flow. This 5mm thick mat offers the perfect blend of cushioning and grip, making it ideal for everything from gentle stretching to intense hot yoga sessions.
What We Like:
- This mat is 5mm thick, giving your joints extra comfort during workouts.
- It has a special non-slip coating that keeps you steady in every pose.
- The stay-dry topcoat is great for hot yoga, wicking away sweat so you don’t slip.
- You’ll enjoy firm cushioning that supports your muscles and joints.
- The mat is made of PU and PVC and is free from rubber and latex.
- It measures 68 inches long by 24 inches wide, a good size for most people.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the grip is good, some users might find it takes a little time to break in for maximum stickiness.
- The marbled design, while attractive, might not be everyone’s first choice.
This Gaiam mat is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable yoga experience. It’s built to handle your toughest workouts while keeping you grounded.
4. Plyopic. Ultra-Grip Pro Yoga Mat – EXTREME Non-Slip Performance – Dry Grip & Wet Grip – Alignment Lines – Comfortable & Sweat Resistant – For Yoga
Rating: 8.9/10
Ready to take your yoga practice to the next level? The Plyopic. Ultra-Grip Pro Yoga Mat is here to help. This mat promises amazing grip, no matter if your hands are dry or sweaty. It’s designed for all sorts of workouts, from gentle yoga to intense hot yoga. Plus, it’s made with your comfort and the planet in mind.
What We Like:
- REVOLUTIONARY ULTRA-GRIP MATERIAL: You’ll feel super secure in every pose. It works great even when you’re sweating a lot.
- YOGA, PILATES, EXERCISE: This mat is perfect for any type of yoga or Pilates you love, like Hatha, Vinyasa, or Bikram.
- HYGIENIC AND BODY-KIND: It’s made from eco-friendly, vegan materials. It’s also free from harmful chemicals like PVC.
- ENHANCED COMFORT AND BODY ALIGNMENT: The mat has a thick, grippy base that keeps it from sliding. It also cushions your joints for better comfort and stability.
- LONGER, WIDER, THICKER: With extra space at 72 inches long and 26 inches wide, you can move freely and comfortably in any pose.
What Could Be Improved:
- The extra thickness, while great for cushioning, might make it a bit heavier to carry compared to thinner mats.
- While the grip is excellent, some users might need a short break-in period to get the absolute best traction from the start.
This mat is a fantastic choice for anyone serious about their fitness routine. It offers superior grip and comfort, making your workouts more enjoyable and effective.
5. CYCLXY 2 Pack Hot Yoga Towel with Grip Dot，Stickyfiber Yoga Mat Towels Non Slip for Hot Yoga
Rating: 8.6/10
The CYCLXY 2 Pack Hot Yoga Towel with Grip Dot is a fantastic addition to any yogi’s gear. These towels are made to keep you steady and dry during your hottest and sweatiest workouts. They fit over your yoga mat and give you extra grip, so you don’t slip around during poses. Whether you’re doing hot yoga, Bikram, Pilates, or just general fitness, these towels will help you focus on your practice, not on sliding!
What We Like:
- Non-Slip Grip: The special grip dots on these towels keep them firmly in place on your mat. This stops you from sliding, even when you’re sweating a lot. Your hands and feet will stay put!
- Sweat Absorbent: Made from super absorbent microfiber, these towels soak up sweat quickly. This keeps you dry and comfortable, so you can concentrate on your yoga.
- Lightweight and Portable: They are very light and fold up small. You can easily take them to the studio or pack them for a yoga session at home or on the go.
- Machine Washable: Cleaning these towels is super easy. Just toss them in the washing machine. They are made to last, so you can use them again and again.
- Ample Coverage: Each towel measures 72 x 26.5 inches. This is a good size to cover most standard yoga mats, giving you a full surface to practice on.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: While the performance is great, there might not be as many color choices as some people prefer.
- Initial Scent: Some users might notice a slight scent from the microfiber when they first open the package. This usually goes away after the first wash.
Overall, these CYCLXY yoga towels are a solid choice for anyone wanting more grip and absorbency in their yoga practice. They are a practical and helpful tool to improve your workout experience.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding Your Perfect Grip Yoga Mat
Finding the right yoga mat makes a big difference in your practice. A mat with great grip keeps you steady and safe. It helps you hold poses longer and feel more confident. This guide will help you choose the best yoga mat for grip.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a yoga mat, focus on these important features:
- Surface Texture: A mat with a textured surface offers more grip. Look for raised patterns, bumps, or a slightly sticky feel. This texture helps your hands and feet stay put.
- Thickness: Thicker mats offer more cushioning. However, very thick mats can sometimes be less stable. A good balance is around 4-6mm. This thickness provides comfort without sacrificing grip.
- Weight: Lighter mats are easier to carry. Heavier mats tend to stay in place better. If you travel with your mat, choose a lighter option. If it stays at home, a slightly heavier mat might be better.
- Durability: A good yoga mat lasts a long time. Look for mats made from strong materials. They should resist wear and tear from regular use.
Important Materials
The material of your yoga mat greatly affects its grip and feel. Here are some common and effective materials:
- Natural Rubber: This is a top choice for grip. Natural rubber mats feel slightly sticky. They offer excellent traction, even when you sweat.
- Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE): TPE is a popular synthetic material. It’s often a good balance of grip, cushioning, and affordability. Many TPE mats are also eco-friendly.
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): PVC mats are known for their durability. Some PVC mats offer good grip, but others can become slippery when wet.
- Cork: Cork mats are naturally antimicrobial. They offer good grip, especially when dry. When you sweat, the cork can become even grippier.
- Polyurethane (PU): Often combined with rubber, PU surfaces are very sticky. These mats provide superior grip, even in sweaty conditions.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make a yoga mat better or worse for grip.
- Moisture Absorption: Mats that absorb sweat well will keep your hands from slipping. Natural rubber and cork are great at this.
- Closed-Cell vs. Open-Cell: Open-cell mats absorb moisture. This can improve grip when you sweat. However, they can also absorb odors and be harder to clean. Closed-cell mats are easier to clean but can become slippery when damp.
- Manufacturing Process: How a mat is made matters. High-quality manufacturing leads to a more consistent and reliable grip. Poor manufacturing can result in uneven surfaces or materials that break down quickly.
- Break-in Period: Some mats need a “break-in” period. This means using them a few times to reach their best grip. Natural rubber mats often need this.
User Experience and Use Cases
The best yoga mat for grip depends on how you practice.
- Hot Yoga: If you do hot yoga, you need a mat that can handle sweat. Natural rubber, cork, or PU-coated mats are excellent choices. They offer superior grip even when very wet.
- Vinyasa Flow: For fast-paced classes like Vinyasa, consistent grip is key. Look for textured mats made from natural rubber or TPE. They will help you transition smoothly between poses.
- Restorative Yoga: Even in gentle practices, a stable mat is important. While extreme grip might not be as critical, a mat that prevents sliding is still beneficial. Most good quality mats will work well here.
- Beginners: Beginners often want a mat that offers both comfort and stability. A good quality TPE or a moderately thick natural rubber mat can be a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes a yoga mat grippy?
A: A yoga mat’s grip comes from its surface texture and the material it’s made from. Sticky or textured surfaces help your hands and feet stay in place.
Q: Is natural rubber the best material for grip?
A: Natural rubber is often considered one of the best materials for grip. It feels slightly sticky and provides excellent traction, especially when you sweat.
Q: Do I need a special mat for hot yoga?
A: Yes, for hot yoga, you need a mat that can handle sweat. Look for mats made from natural rubber, cork, or those with a polyurethane (PU) coating for the best grip.
Q: How does thickness affect grip?
A: While thickness provides cushioning, very thick mats can sometimes reduce stability and grip. A medium thickness, like 4-6mm, usually offers a good balance.
Q: What is TPE, and is it good for grip?
A: TPE stands for Thermoplastic Elastomer. It’s a synthetic material that often provides a good balance of grip, cushioning, and is eco-friendly. Many TPE mats offer reliable traction.
Q: Will a mat become slippery if it gets wet?
A: Some mats become slippery when wet, while others get grippier. Natural rubber, cork, and PU-coated mats tend to offer better grip even when damp.
Q: How do I clean a yoga mat to keep its grip?
A: Clean your mat gently with mild soap and water or a yoga mat cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface and reduce grip. Always let it air dry completely.
Q: Do yoga mats need a break-in period?
A: Some mats, especially those made from natural rubber, benefit from a break-in period. This means using them a few times to help them reach their optimal grip.
Q: Is PVC good for grip?
A: Some PVC mats offer good grip, but others can become slippery when wet. It depends on the specific manufacturing and surface treatment of the PVC mat.
Q: Can I use a regular exercise mat for yoga?
A: While you can use a regular exercise mat, they often don’t offer the same level of grip and stability needed for yoga poses. Yoga-specific mats are designed for better traction and support.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.