The Best Yoga Mats for Hot Yoga - 2024 Reviews & Comparison

Hot yoga has exploded in popularity over the last decade. The heated vinyasa-style classes take place in studios cranked up to around 100°F with 40% humidity. The combination of heat and sweat makes for an intense cardiovascular and flexibility workout.

But all that perspiration creates a unique challenge for your yoga mat. You need a superior grip to keep from sliding around on a drenched mat in compromising poses. The material also needs to be antimicrobial to prevent nasty bacteria growth.

This roundup compares the top-rated yoga mats specifically designed for hot yoga classes. We evaluated over 15 leading brands and yoga mats based on traction, moisture wicking, padding, durability, and value to narrow down the top five.

What Makes the Best Yoga Mat for Hot Yoga?

Contents

Hot yoga requires a few special features in your yoga mat to handle the intense sweat and heat:

Traction in Heat: You need a mat that maintains grip even when saturated in sweat. Materials like PVC or natural tree rubber provide the best-wet traction.

Moisture Wicking: The mat surface should diffuse sweat and moisture through open-cell construction to avoid puddling.
Antimicrobial: The mat needs antimicrobial properties to prevent mold, mildew, and bacteria growth in hot humid conditions.
Durability: It must withstand daily hot yoga classes and frequent cleaning without wearing down or becoming scratchy.

Cushioning: Extra padding protects joints and knees from hard studio floors without being overly squishy and unstable.
Weight: Since you carry the mat to and from class, a lighter mat makes that trek easier but can compromise durability.
Eco-Friendly: For the yogis concerned about sustainability, look for phthalate-free PVC or biodegradable natural rubber.

With these criteria in mind, let’s look at the top hot yoga mat picks!

Yoga Mats comparison Table:

Mat	Price	Rating	Material	Thickness	Texture	Pro’s	Con’s
Lululemon Reversible Mat	$88	4.6⭐	Polyurethane	5mm	Smooth top, textured bottom	Superior grip, moisture-wicking, reversible	Expensive, delicate over time
Manduka PRO Yoga Mat	$120	4.5⭐	PVC	6mm	Uniform dot texture	Excellent cushion & stability, minimal slip	Heavy, needs breaking in
Gaiam Print Yoga Mat	$30	4.3⭐	PVC	6mm	Textured	Budget-friendly, decent traction	Can tear with extensive use
Jade Harmony Yoga Mat	$80	4.5⭐	Natural rubber	3/5mm	Textured	Sustainable, great grip when broken in	Not reversible
Liforme Yoga Mat	$150	4.7⭐	Natural rubber	4.2mm	Unique grip system	Unbeatable traction, alignment markers	Very expensive

Below we dive into detailed reviews for each of the top 5 hot yoga mat picks:

Lululemon Reversible Mat – The Overall Best Hot Yoga Mat

Price: $88
Thickness: 5mm

The Lululemon Reversible Mat lives up to its reputation for excellence in the hot yoga space. It strikes the ideal balance of cushioning and grip at a reasonable price point for serious yogis.

The mat uses antimicrobial polyurethane material ideal for hot yoga. The cross-section of sturdy foam covered in a thin polyurethane layer provides a firm 5mm thickness perfect for stability and joint padding.

The smooth side provides an ultra-grippy stickiness when your palms and feet get sweaty in headstands and planks. Flip it over for a lightly textured side with a different visual appeal.

We love the low profile, lightweight feel that makes it easy to tote to class or roll up tightly. The moisture-wicking properties draw sweat away from your skin for superior traction. This prevents slipping in poses like downward dogs.

For all-around performance and value, the Lululemon Reversible Mat stands out as the best yoga mat for hot yoga. The superior construction and materials justify the higher $88 price tag for serious yogis.

Ideal For: Yogis who want a high-performance mat with excellent moisture wicking and grip for daily hot yoga.

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Manduka PRO Yoga Mat – Most Cushioned

Price: $120
Thickness: 6mm

The Manduka PRO claims near-legendary status in the yoga world for its unmatched density, cushioning, and stability. The thick 6mm PVC provides unparalleled support and joint padding for daily practice on hard floors.

The proprietary dot texture underneath grips floors well when broken in. But be prepared to go through a break-in period where the mat will be slippery at first.

With extended use, the mat develops a tackiness that Manduka calls “the sweet spot” where the grip shines. The density also provides excellent support in balanced poses compared to softer mats.

At over 7 lbs, the Manduka PRO is heavier than competitors but worth it for the supreme cushioning. Advanced yogis practicing daily hot yoga will love the joint protection and minimal sliding once broken in.

Ideal For: Advanced yogis who want maximum padding and stability with zero sliding or slippage during practice.

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Gaiam Print Yoga Mat – Best Budget Hot Yoga Mat

Price: $30
Thickness: 6mm

The classic Gaiam Print yoga mat proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for decent grip and cushioning. This basic PVC mat comes in a rainbow of prints and colors to match your style starting at just $30.

Despite the low price tag, the textured finish helps Grab the Floor and traction reasonably well, even when wet with sweat. At 6mm thick, the mat provides adequate cushioning for bones and joints against hard floors.

The open cell surface diffuses moisture to avoid pooling and skidding. It also limits odors and bacteria growth in humid conditions.

Just don’t expect the same longevity and performance as pricier mats. For beginners practicing hot yoga 1-2x a week, the Gaiam holds up respectably well with proper care. The affordable price makes it easy to replace once it does wear down.

Ideal For: Beginner to intermediate yogis on a budget who want basic traction at an affordable price point.

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Jade Harmony Yoga Mat – Most Sustainable

Price: $80
Thickness: 3/5mm

For an eco-friendly hot yoga mat, look no further than the Jade Harmony. It’s crafted from natural rubber tapped from trees. This renewable material makes it biodegradable and free of the toxic chemicals in synthetic mats.

The open-cell rubber construction absorbs sweat like a sponge for excellent wet grip and zero slickness. The textured surface provides steady traction once worn in.

At 3/5mm thick, the Jade Harmony offers sufficient knee and joint padding. It has good density but less plushness compared to PVC mats. For those sensitive to smells, the natural rubber has a mild rubbery odor at first.

The main downside is losing the reversible option, so visible stains can be an issue. For eco-conscious yogis who want a sustainable mat with an impressive grip, the Jade Harmony delivers.

Ideal For: Students who want a natural sustainable mat with great traction after a break-in.

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Liforme Yoga Mat – Best Grip

Price: $150
Thickness: 4.2mm

The Liforme yoga mat stands in a class of its own when it comes to grip. The proprietary “GripForMe” material covers the surface in a dotted patter of silicone nubs and suction cups. This unique texture grabs onto floors like a gecko, even when drenched in sweat.

The 4.2mm thickness hits the sweet spot of squishy yet stable. The sweat-wicking natural rubber feels similar to the Jade Harmony but with superior traction. Alignment lines run down the center and sides helping you find proper positioning.

The Liforme mat is on the heavier side at almost 8lbs. And that unmatched performance comes at a steep $150 price. But for hot yogis who want the ultimate non-slip stability, the Liforme mat is well worth the investment.

Ideal For: Yogis who want maximum grip and alignment markings without breaking the bank on Lululemon pricing.

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How to Choose the Best Hot Yoga Mat – Buyer’s Guide

All five mats deliver outstanding traction and moisture management perfect for hot yoga. But to find your ideal match, here are the key factors to consider:

Price Range

Budget Under $50: Basic PVC mats like the Gaiam provide decent performance at wallet-friendly pricing of around $30.
Mid-Range $50 – $100: You can find high-quality grip and cushioning in this price sweet spot from brands like Jade and Lululemon.
Premium $100+ Top-tier mats from Manduka and Liforme push towards the $150 range but deliver unmatched quality and durability.

Material Composition

PVC: Polyvinyl chloride mats provide excellent traction, cushioning, and durability for daily practice. They should be phthalate-free with antimicrobial additives.
Natural Rubber: Made from renewable rubber trees, these sustainable mats provide good wet grip once broken in. Look for tree sap or non-Amazon harvested sources.
Cotton/Jute: More absorbent to soak up sweat but less grip and durability. Best for gentle, occasional practice.

Polyurethane: Lightweight grip and cushioning but more delicate over time. Ideal for combination and travel mats.

Weight

Lightweight: Under 5 lbs for polyurethane and thin PVC mats. Better for travel but sacrifice cushioning.
Medium: 5-7lbs hits the ideal balance of padding and easy transport. Good for regular practice.

Heavy: Over 7 lbs with extra thick natural rubber and PVC mats. Provides ultimate cushioning but is not ideal for travel.

Thickness

Thin Under 1/4″: Best for light travel but no cushioning. Risks sore joints and skin irritation.
Standard 1/4″ – 1/8″: balances padding with stability. Ideal thickness for most styles.

Thick 1/4″+: Extra joint protection but can feel too squishy or unstable. Added weight.

Texture

Smooth: Provides sticky grip when wet with sweat but can get slippery. Best paired with textured underside.
Textured: Provides traction dry or wet. Dot or wave patterns are ideal. Can irritate sensitive skin.

Ridged: Dense ridges add cushioning but mixed traction depending on direction.

Special Features

Reversible: Having a different texture/pattern on each side adds visual appeal and function.
Moisture Wicking: Absorbs sweat through the material instead of pooling on top. Helps maintain grip.

Alignment Markings: Lines along center and sides help place hands and feet properly. Most beneficial for beginners.
Carrying Strap: Looped strap on mat makes walking to class easier and prevents flopping.

Beginner vs. Advanced Yogi Recommendations

Here’s how we recommend selecting a hot yoga mat based on your skill level:

Beginner Yogis

As a hot yoga beginner, focus on choosing an affordable, basic mat with decent grip like the Gaiam to get started. Beginner yogis likely won’t need extensive joint padding.

Easy maintenance and portability should take priority over top-tier construction. You can always invest in a premium mat once you confirm your love of hot yoga down the road.

Best Beginner Mats:

Gaiam Print Yoga Mat
Hugger Mugger Para Rubber Mat
Yoga Design Lab Combo Mat

Advanced Yogis

For seasoned hot yoga students, invest in a higher end mat made with top-grade materials like the Manduka PRO or Lululemon. The extra padding protects joints during daily practice.

Prioritize traction and cushioning over aesthetics or trends. Consider a heavier, more durable mat even if it’s less convenient to transport. You need stability and grip for advanced poses, inversions, and flows.

Best Advanced Mats:

Manduka PROlite Mat
Lululemon Reversible Mat
Jade Harmony Mat

Liforme Yoga Mat

Hot Yoga Mat Care and Maintenance Guide

Proper care is crucial to maximize the life and performance of your hot yoga mat. Follow these tips:

Cleaning

Wipe down after every hot yoga class with an antimicrobial yoga mat spray. This prevents germ and odor buildup.

Deep clean weekly using gentle, plant-based cleaners and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
For tough stains, use a soft bristle brush and baking soda scrub.
Rinse thoroughly and air dry away from direct sunlight.

Storage

Roll up loosely instead of folding tightly, which can damage the mat.
Store upright rather than flat to avoid flattening and creasing.
Use a mat sling or strap to avoid mildew if stored damp.

Don’t leave in extreme temps like a hot car or freezing garage.

Breaking In

New mats have a “break-in” period to reach max grip – use frequently at first.
Rubbing salt crystals into PVC mats helps hasten break-in time.

Avoid oil-based cleaners that impede traction.

With proper maintenance, a quality hot yoga mat should last 1-5 years with consistent use. Signs it’s time to replace include flattened cushioning, diminished grip, and visible tearing or wear.

Our Top Pick

While all five mats deliver exceptional performance, the Lululemon reversible mat is our top recommendation for the best yoga mat for hot yoga overall.

It has the ideal balance of cushioning and traction without breaking the bank like more premium options. We love the antimicrobial polyurethane material that provides an impressively sticky grip when wet with sweat. Yet it still prevents sliding in balance poses.

The medium 5mm thickness works well for most levels by stabilizing joints without feeling overly squishy. Plus the smooth/textured reversible sides provide visual appeal and functionality.

While the $88 price tag is on the higher end, the Lululemon mat will last through years of intense hot yoga with proper care. For a durable, high-end mat with an excellent all-around performance, the Lululemon can’t be beaten!

Ready to Get Your Hot Yoga Mat?

Finding the perfect mat makes a world of difference in getting the most from your hot yoga practice. Pay close attention to the traction, cushioning, size, and materials to find your ideal match.

Investing in a quality hot yoga-specific mat prevents slipping, injuries, and discomfort so you can deepen poses and flow freely.

Hopefully, this guide covered all the bases in how to choose the best yoga mat for your hot yoga needs and style! Visit our site for the latest deals and prices on these top-rated mats and other essential gear for yogis.

Happy (hot) yoga practice!

Other Top-Rated Hot Yoga Mats

While we only covered the top 5 mats in detail, here are 5 more excellent hot yoga mat options worth mentioning:

Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Mat

Price: $48

Thickness: 1.5mm

This ultra-portable travel mat weighs just 2lbs for easy packing. Despite the thin 1.5mm thickness, the dense rubber still provides decent padding and traction. The textured dot design absorbs moisture and sweat during practice. Made from biodegradable natural tree rubber, it’s a great eco-friendly option.

Yoga Design Lab Combo Mat

Price: $68

Thickness: 3mm

This reversible mat combines natural rubber and polyurethane for the best of both. The grippy polyurethane side provides excellent traction when wet with sweat. Flip it over to the natural rubber side for an organic grounding feel. At 3mm thick, it offers adequate but not plush cushioning.

Prana Revolution Mat

Price: $85

Thickness: 3mm

The polyurethane top layer of this mat provides a tacky grip when soaked in sweat while the bottom natural rubber grabs traction. The combo of dense cushioning and stability makes it great for balances and inversions. It also has great eco-friendly credentials as part of Prana’s green initiative.

Hugger Mugger Para Rubber Mat

Price: $100

Thickness: 1/4″ (6mm)

Hugger Mugger crafts this yoga mat sustainably using natural tree rubber in the USA. It has great traction once broken in thanks to the open cell surface that absorbs moisture. At 1/4″ thick, it offers ample padding for standing poses but has a heavyweight.

YogaRat Hot Yoga Mat

Price: $50

Thickness: 1/8” (3mm)

This affordably priced hot yoga mat uses an antimicrobial microfiber material that absorbs sweat while providing a decent grip. The thin 1/8” thickness makes it lightweight yet stable. It comes with a carrying strap and absorbent towel attached for convenience.

Hot Yoga Mat Composition Materials Compared

Understanding the components that go into different yoga mat materials will help guide you in finding the right balance of qualities:

Natural Rubber Mats

Made from renewable rubber tree sap
Biodegradable and recyclable
Provides good wet traction once broken in
Less cushioned padding than PVC
Strong rubber scent needs airing out

PVC Mats

Synthetic material is durable and flexible
Cushioned support with excellent grip
Look for phthalate-free with less toxic plasticizers
Anti-microbial additives help reduce odors
Avoid mats containing latex which can cause allergies

Cotton Mats

Absorbent and breathable natural fibers
Better for gentler styles of yoga, not hot
Less cushioning and traction than rubber or PVC
Machine washable but wears down faster

Jute Mats

Made from natural burlap fibers
Eco-friendly and sustainably made
Provides a decent grip when dry
Poor moisture absorption leads to slipping
Minimal padding or joint support

Top Yoga Mat Brands for Hot Yoga

With so many yoga mat brands on the market, it helps to look for these industry leaders known for quality:

Manduka

Manduka is renowned for its iconic PRO mat that is beloved by yoga teachers everywhere. Their incredible traction and dense cushioning perform impressively in hot yoga once broken in. They also offer more eco-friendly eKO mats made from natural tree rubber.

JadeYoga

JadeYoga focuses on crafting sustainable yoga mats using natural materials like renewable rubber. Their Harmony mat is a top choice for hot yoga thanks to its unmatched grip and moisture absorption.

Liforme

Liforme has made a splash in recent years with their patented grip technology and alignment marker system. For hot yogis seeking ultimate non-slip performance, Liforme mats deliver.

Lululemon

Lululemon’s studio yoga mats are favored by athletes for their combination of traction, padding, and sweat-wicking. Their reversible mat is perfectly designed for hot yoga’s intense sweat sessions.

Yoloha

Using sustainable cork harvested without harming trees, Yoloha mats offer good grip and cushioning. The premium cork provides impressive traction even when soaked. Their Chakra mat is ideal for hot yoga.

Gaiam

Gaiam is known for excellent quality at very wallet-friendly price points. Their classic printed PVC mat performs better than expected for hot yoga, especially for beginners.

Final Tips for Choosing a Hot Yoga Mat

Test mats in person when possible by doing poses on the floor and feeling the grip. Don’t just judge by looks.
Read reviews and ask fellow hot yoga students about how their mats hold up over time to avoid disappointments.
Match the padding thickness to your experience level. Beginners can start thinner while advanced students need more cushioning.
Consider your budget but know that durability and traction improve significantly in more premium mats.
If traveling, pack a lighter second mat to avoid weighing down your luggage with your main one.
Look for mats offering a solid warranty (5+ years) to protect your investment in case of defects.
Make sure any custom image or print mats use non-toxic inks to avoid irritation or off-gassing.