YOGA is all about relaxing, practising mindfulness and meditation, while simultaneously building your core strength. But you can’t do any of that without a comfortable yoga mat to exercise on.
Spending money on classes and an appropriate gym wardrobe? Save money with our list of cheap yoga mats.
You may think that cheap mats entail uncomfortable yoga sessions. But that’s where you’re wrong as there are lots of affordable ones out there that don’t sacrifice quality.
You don’t want a skimpy, thin yoga mat (you need to protect your joints as studios normally have hardwood floors) but you need it to be lightweight enough to transport easily in between classes.
The best ones provide cushioning whilst you’re practising poses and won’t slip around while you’re in a downward dog or trying to balance in warrior III.
Your mat should make your life easier, so that you can fully immerse yourself in the relaxing realm of yoga.
Those that cost the earth won’t exactly help align your chakras but don’t worry, we’ve LITERALLY got your back with an array of bargain yoga mats that you can order today.
Best for your wallet – Opti Basic Yoga Mat
We said we’d find you bargains – this yoga mat is a huge steal for under £10!
It provides a non-slip workout area so you can fully relax.
Plus, it’s lightweight, easy to roll up as well as to wipe clean.
Although, it’s great value for its price, it is less durable than other mats in our round-up.
As it is quite thin, we recommend to use it indoors only.
Best for beginners – EVA Non-Slip Fitness Mat with Carrying Strap
The EVA non slip yoga mattress is great for beginners who are looking for something cheap and cheerful but don’t want to spend too much.
Available in eight colours, it’s also waterproof and easy to clean.
Just like with the previous model, it is quite thin, so it might be best to use it indoors.
Best for grip – Opti Airflow Yoga Mat
A little step up from your basic mat, this one from Argos features airflow design technology.
The textured, non-slip surface gives you excellent traction so it won’t move around whilst you’re yoga-ing.
It’s super comfy and comes with an elasticated strap at both ends to keep it neatly rolled up.
Best for body weight workouts – Women’s Health Double Sided Yoga Mat
This yoga mattress is double sided, non-toxic and eco-friendly – what more could you ask for?
At 6mm the extra cushioning is brilliant for those who want to do some body weight exercise on the floor or those who suffer from sore knees.
It’s also lightweight and easy to carry around.
Best Pattern – Gaiam Be Free Reversible
If you’re a yoga enthusiast, you might have seen Gaiam’s collection of funky mats before – we love this reversible one available at John Lewis.
It’s textured to create a non-slip surface, plus it has a 5mm thickness so your joints will be protected when you lay down for that tricky savasana.
Whether you love the black and pink side or the purple, blue and pink, you can switch it up everyday.
Best value for money – The Reversible Mat 3mm
Lululemon undoubtedly leads the field when it comes to high-quality yoga mats – but they tend to be pricey
The Reversible Mat, part of Lululemon’s core collection, is the perfect solution if you’re looking something durable but still affordable.
A polyurethane top layer absorbs moisture to help you get a grip during sweaty practices.
Users also praise it for its excellent traction, comfort, and the stability it offers.
It is well worth spending your money on it, if you’re a regular at the yoga studio.
Best for the planet – Eco-friendly Yoga Mat
Yoga is all about being at peace with yourself and the world around you, so it makes sense to use an eco friendly mat like this one from John Lewis.
The Manuka Eco yoga mat is developed from non-toxic, non-ozone depleting materials that won’t harm the environment or you.
It’s designed for enduring performance and stability while also being slip-resistant.
And it’s got a pretty lotus flower in one corner, representing patience in Buddhism.
