Is a thick or thin Yoga Mat Better?

Is a thick or thin yoga mat better / Which yoga mat is best thick or thin these are the important questions several times asked by yogis and from the beginner’s side. And it’s not easy to finalize it because an extra thick yoga mat provides more protection to joints whereas a thin mat can easily move from one place to another.

Keep in mind that the yoga mat is not only something to place between your body and the floor, it helps us to perform yoga exercises well. Because it not only protects our joints during exercises but also gives support to perform well. In this way, we can stay safe from injuries.

Apart from this, it also saves us from the heat waves & coldness that the body can absorb from the direct contact of the floor. So, it is necessary to have a yoga mat for exercise.

Are thick or thin yoga mats better?

Now let’s come to our main question which is the yoga mat thick vs thin. Both of types have their advantages, as I said earlier in my article thick yoga mat is best for protection but not easy to transport whereas a thin mat is not very helpful in protection but is best for travel. So, the simplest answer to the above question is it depends on your needs or requirements. You can read in detail on the yoga mat sizing here.

Thin vs Thick Yoga Mat

It is important to read the advantages and disadvantages of thin or thick yoga mats before buying a new one.

Thick Yoga Mats

• Extra protection & better cushioning
• The best option for those who suffer from joint pains or joint issues
• It is a need for a few exercises in yoga especially for restorative yoga
• It is a good choice for cold weather areas due to its better insulation.
• Typically start from 5mm upwards
• Due to the high thickness level, it’s difficult to move your mat for travel or even sometimes to move it to the studio under severe circumstances.

Thin Yoga Mats

• The best option for traveling
• Easy to carry and store
• A good option for those who are not suffering from any kind of joint or knee issue
• A good option for a dynamic practice
• The worst thing is you are almost directly in contact with the floor, especially in the case of 1-2mm. Through this situation, you can suffer from coldness or heat waves.
• Less insulation in cold weather areas
• Not offer extra support

Is 2mm / 3mm yoga mat too thin?

Yes, it is too thin for those who are suffering from injuries or joint pains and even for beginners because they all require more cushioning. Whereas, if you are not fall from any above situation you can use 2mm or 3mm. A better option is 3mm instead of 2mm.

Which Yoga Mat should I Buy?

I have already explained the pros and cons of thick and thin yoga mats. So, now it depends on your requirements for example if you are living in cold weather, you need a bit thick to stay safe from the harsh weather. And if you are not living in such a country and have an aim to travel with a yoga mat then you should choose a thin mat. So, these are your requirements, and mat size and thickness both will depend on your needs.

Apart from that, you need to pay attention to the yoga mat material, its quality, and its durability. If you want to read in detail about materials and durability you can read here. Lastly, first finalize the size, material (PVC, TPE etc) and thickness of the yoga mat as per your requirements after that you can buy a yoga mat from the top yoga mat brands.

Top Yoga Mat Brands

1. Lululemon
2. JadeYoga
3. Manduka
4. Gaiam
5. Alo
6. Liforme

I have mentioned a few of the top brands that offer yoga equipment. All these brands offer quality products but at different prices. Prices are also the most important factor, if you are a beginner I recommend you not to spend extra money on mats even if it has been confirmed that you are very consistent and loyal with your fitness and practicing yoga daily.

All the above brands offer different material yoga mats in different colors, sizes, thicknesses and patterns. Prices vary depending on all the above features.

Average Yoga Mat Prices

If I talk about an average yoga mat price for PVC or similar material. It ranges from £15 to £30. For rubber or cork material, it ranges from £30 to £60 and the high-quality mats range between £70 to £100+.

Average Prices for Branded Yoga Mat

If I talk about an average branded yoga mat prices start from £40 up to £120+. Depending on the material and other important aspects.

Want to Save Money on it

If you have a plan to save some amount on a good quality yoga mat, you can take a look below. I have shared with you some important discount deals on going on the branded yoga mats.

Hopefully, I have given the answer in full to the question is a thick or thin yoga mat better? Share your thoughts in our comments section.