If you’ve ever found yourself wincing in a low lunge or shifting around in child’s pose to avoid that sharp knee discomfort, you’re not alone.
Yoga is meant to be a practice of balance, mindfulness, and, yes, comfort.
That’s where extra-thick yoga mats come in.
But are they really all they’re cracked up to be?
Let’s roll one out (pun totally intended) and find out.
Why Consider an Extra-Thick Yoga Mat?
For many yogis, the transition to a cushioned yoga mat for beginners (or us long term practitioners) is a game-changer.
The added padding offers enhanced joint support, making it ideal for those with sensitive knees, wrists, or hips.
After all, yoga is about harmony, not suffering through discomfort just to hold a warrior pose.
Speaking from experience, I used to practice on a standard 4mm mat, thinking it was all I needed—until one too many side planks left my elbows sore for days.
Switching to a best thick yoga mat for comfort (hello, 6mm cushioning) was like stepping onto a cloud.
My joints have thanked me ever since.
The Wellness Benefits of Thick Yoga Mats
Yoga isn’t just about movement—it’s a holistic wellness practice.
The mat you choose can and will directly affect your experience and overall well-being.
Here’s how an extra-thick yoga mat can support your practice:
- Joint Protection – Thick mats reduce impact on the knees, ankles, and wrists, making poses more comfortable and sustainable.
- Increased Stability – While some might argue that extra cushioning leads to less stability, high-quality mats strike the perfect balance between comfort and grip.
- Enhanced Comfort – If you practice restorative yoga or meditation, the plushness of a thicker mat makes lying down poses feel downright luxurious.
- Better Support for Beginners – A cushioned yoga mat for beginners provides a forgiving surface for learning new poses without discomfort.
Choosing the Best Thick Yoga Mat for Comfort
So, what are some of the top picks?
Based on our teams‘ expert reviews and personal experience, here are a few standout options:
- Gaiam Premium 6mm Yoga Mat – Affordable, supportive, and great for beginners.
- Manduka Pro 6mm Yoga Mat – High-quality and durable, though a bit on the heavier side.
- Liforme Yoga Mat – Offers fantastic grip and alignment guides for proper positioning.
- Alo Yoga Warrior Mat – A top pick for those wanting extra cushion and a sleek design.
Each of these mats brings something different to the table, so consider your needs—do you travel with your mat?
Need extra grip?
Want an eco-friendly option?
There’s a perfect fit out there for everyone.
Is a Thick Yoga Mat Right for You?
While extra-thick yoga mats have many benefits, they may not be for everyone.
If you practice styles that require more balance (like Ashtanga or Vinyasa), a slightly thinner mat might provide better ground connection.
However, for gentler styles like Yin or Hatha yoga—or if you just want to give your joints some extra love—a yoga mat for joint support is a fantastic investment.
Final Thoughts
Yoga is a deeply personal journey, and your mat should support—not hinder—that experience.
Whether you’re a beginner just getting started or a seasoned yogi looking for a bit more comfort, investing in an extra-thick yoga mat could be the small change that makes a big difference.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, my best thick yoga mat for comfort is calling my name for a well-earned savasana.
Happy practicing!
