How to buy a yoga mat

When it comes to choosing a yoga mat, Gaiam can help you understand your best options to fit your unique needs. Get started by using our yoga mat buying guide above. Let us know if you are new to yoga (beginner level yoga), or already practicing and we’ll take it from there.

Why do you need a yoga mat?

Practically speaking, your yoga mat defines the space and provides a stable foundation for your practice. It keeps you from sliding, cushions your joints and helps guide the placement of your hands and feet in each pose. More importantly, your yoga mat is a sacred space, a signal for you to step out of the hum of life and give back to yourself.