How To Choose Yoga Mat Thickness

Yoga mats provide support, cushion and protection for your body while giving you a portable studio space to literally roll out anywhere to practice your poses. No longer standard blue vinyl, yoga mats come in variety of colors, fabrics, textures and thicknesses to support your individual needs and personality. Ranging from 1/16 inch to 1/4 inch, the right yoga mat thickness that is right for you depends on where you plan to practice yoga as well as the kind of support you need.

Step 1

Decide whether you will use the mat most often in a yoga studio on a hardwood floor, at home on a carpeted or tile floor or outdoors. Think about how much cushioning you need for your knees, spine or and other body parts while practicing the floor poses. At the same time, consider the thickness that best enables you to maintain a connection with the floor or the ground while doing your standing poses.

Step 2

Consider a traditional vinyl mat with the standard 1/8 inch thickness for the greatest degree of stickiness to the floor if you plan to practice on a carpet surface or on grass. Choose a thicker mat made of rubber, jute or cotton for a mat that yields to pressure if you plan to use it on a hard surface.

Step 3

Get a mat that conforms around your hands and feet to provide a secure grip and that doesn't slide around on the floor. Select a mat with a raised, tactile pattern to avoid slipping while doing your poses. Choose a vinyl mat if you prefer a smoother mat surface.

Step 4

Select a mat that requires minimal maintenance -- one that needs only an occasional wiping down with a damp cloth. Don't choose a machine washable mat because it probably won't be thick enough to cushion your body, to stick to the floor or to provide a solid grip for your hands and feet.

Step 5

Consider how much room you have to store your mat. Think about whether you might want to pack your mat in a suitcase -- buy a thinner mat if you plan to travel frequently with your mat. Consider the weight you prefer for your mat, especially if you plan to carry it back and forth on foot. Try out the mat before you buy it, if you can.

Tips and Warnings

A standard 1/8 inch thick vinyl mat generally will the the least expensive option.
Avoid avoid mats made of natural rubber if you are allergic to latex. Avoid mats made of vinyl if you are concerned about the environment. Vinyl mats don't break down in landfills and are hard to recycle.