Natural fitness yoga mat – A personal review

Updated post: 01/05/2025

Even if you are new into yoga or practice for a while, it’s important to keep in mind that your practice depends on your mat.

Of course, there are other aspects to keep in mind, but the mat is your base as I mention in this article “Lose weight with yoga at home – a personal approach“.

Today’s article is all about natural fitness yoga mat and the best options to choose from.

Many years back (let’s say around 50), on the market it has been only one type of mat: PVC. If you do not know the material, it will difficult for you to know who is who. Even for me, it’s hard to distinguish between them.

PVC is a sticky material, soft but not biodegradable. It has a long durability, but it’s not an eco-friendly material.

Nowadays you have the choice to select based on preferences and priorities.

I think you have some questions in your mind, like:

– how to make the right choice?

– how to choose a no slippery mat?

A good mat should offer good cushioning and grip, not too soft not to hard, protects your back and shoulders.

Let’s see together how to choose a mat which you like, feels comfortable and it’s on your budget.

Before you choose a mat keep in mind the following: thickness, composition, material, stability, eco-friendly, price, style, grip.

Eco Friendly Yoga Mat Non Slip

Eco-Friendly Upgrade: Made with premium, earth-friendly materials (way better than the old-school PVC or EVA stuff). It’s softer, safer, and just feels good to use for both you and the environment.

No-Slip, No-Rip: With a double-layer design and textured surface on both sides, this mat gives you awesome grip without compromising on comfort. Plus, it’s tough resists tears, stretching, and wear way better than your average mat.

Pick Your Perfect Size:
Standard: 72″ x 24″, 6mm thick (2.6 lbs)
Extra Thick: 72″ x 24″, 8mm thick (3.1 lbs)
Whether you want something lightweight or super cushy, you’ve got options.

Easy to Care For: Just wipe it down with a damp cloth (cold water or mild soap), lay it flat to dry, and you’re good to go. Tip: no machine washing or long sun exposure. And it’s best for barefoot workouts, shoes and paws might damage the surface.

Comes With a Strap & Bag: Yep, no need to buy extra gear. You’ll get a carrying strap and a storage bag, so it’s easy to take your mat wherever you go: gym, studio, or your backyard.

• Size: 72 x 24 inch, 0,24 inch thick
• Pros: thickness, color, value for money, weight, good cushioning, no smell, eco-friendly ingredients, light
• Cons: the surface is very soft
• Overall Rank: 4.5 out of 5
• Click to view on Amazon

Print Yoga Mat

Light as Air, Just Enough Cushion: It’s super light and easy to carry, but still cushioned enough to keep your knees, wrists, and spine happy during any yoga or fitness routine.

Grippy & Grounded: The sticky, textured surface gives you great traction, so you can focus on your flow not slipping out of poses. Bonus: the fun design helps keep you inspired.

Safer for You & the Planet: Made from PVC but 6P-free (so no DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP, or DNOP). Definitely a healthier option if you’re trying to be mindful of what you’re practicing on.

Free Yoga Class Included: Yep, it comes with a free downloadable yoga workout to help you get started or switch things up!

Size & Care: Measures 68″ x 24″ and 4mm thick, just right for everyday use. Heads up: it might have a bit of a “new mat” smell at first, so just unroll it and let it air out for a couple days. Spot clean with cold water and mild detergent, and keep it out of direct sun to make it last longer.

• Size: 68 x 24 inch, 4 mm thick
• Pros: price, thickness, good cushioning, comfort, good grip, durability, design
• Cons: smell
• Overall rank: 4.5 of 5
• Click to view on Amazon

Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness

All-Purpose Fitness Mat: Whether you’re into yoga, Pilates, stretching, or just need a soft spot for floor workouts, this classic mat has your back and your knees.

Extra Thick & Supportive: With 2/5 inches of cushy padding, it’s perfect for home or studio use and honestly, it’s even great to have around the house for extra knee support or as a comfy standing pad while cooking or working.

Soft & Beginner-Friendly: Made from NBR foam, it’s super soft.

Easy to Carry: Comes with a carrying strap, so you can roll it up, toss it over your shoulder, and go. Simple as that.

Generous Size: 72″ x 24″ and just the right thickness for cushy support without feeling bulky.

• Size: 72 x 24 inch, 2,5 mm thick
• Pros: thickness, good cushioning, quality, comfort, value for money, non-slippery
• Cons: smell
• Overall rank: 4,6 of 5
• Click to view on Amazon

Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat

Extra Thick = Extra Comfy: With a full 1-inch of cushiony support, this mat helps take the pressure off your joints, hips, and hands, so you can stretch, sweat, or meditate in total comfort. It’s 72″ x 24″, giving you plenty of room to move.

No More Slipping & Sliding: Thanks to its non-slip surface, Solana stays put during your flow or HIIT session. That means less worrying about balance and more focus on your practice.

Tough But Travel-Ready: Built from durable foam that can handle your daily grind, plus it comes with a handy strap so you can roll it up and run your workouts.

Clean & Chemical-Free: Made without phthalates, latex, or heavy metals. Heads up: there might be a new-mat smell at first. Just unroll and air it out for a day or two.

Easy to Clean: A quick wipe with mild soap and water is all it takes. Just let it air dry and it’s good to go.

And it’s available in multiple colors.

• Size: 72 x 21 inch, 1 inch thick
• Pros: good grip, no slippery
• Cons: smelly when the first usage
• Overall rank: 4.6 of 5
• Click to view on Amazon

CAP Barbell High Density Yoga Mat with Strap

Thick & Supportive: With 12mm of plush padding, this mat gives your spine, hips, knees, and elbows the TLC they deserve. Whether you’re flowing through yoga or crushing a core workout, it’s all about comfort and stability.

Perfect Size: At 68″ x 24″, it’s roomy enough for most movements but still compact for easy storage.

No Slipping, No Sliding: The non-slip surface keeps you steady, even in sweaty downward dogs or intense planks. Stay focused on your form, not on trying to stay in place!

Travel-Friendly: Comes with a carrying strap, so you can roll it up, sling it over your shoulder, and head to the gym or studio hands-free. Super convenient.

Easy to Clean: Just wipe it down with a damp cloth after your session. And yes, it’s hand wash only, but honestly, it’s really low maintenance.

Made from durable, high-density NBR, this mat’s built to last and feels amazing every time you roll it out. Available in multiple colours.

• Size: 68 x 24 x 0,47 inch thick
• Pros: no slippery
• Cons: the smell
• Overall rank: 4.6 of 5
• Click to view on Amazon

Gaiam Cork Yoga Exercise Mat

Naturally Awesome Materials: Made with a smooth, natural cork top and an eco-friendly TPE bottom, it’s designed to give you a stable, comfy surface for any workout without compromising on sustainability.

Sweat-Resistant & Fresh: Cork naturally resists moisture and odors, so your mat stays clean and fresh, even when things heat up. No more worrying about funky smells or trapped sweat!

Perfect for Hot Yoga: This mat really shines in hot yoga classes. As the cork warms up and gets a little damp, it actually gets grippier, so you stay grounded through every pose.

Cushioned Comfort: It’s got just the right amount of softness to support your joints and keep pressure points happy, making your practice feel great from start to finish.

Versatile & Reliable: Whether you’re flowing through vinyasa, holding a plank, or just stretching it out, this mat holds up and keeps you stable. Great for yoga, Pilates, or any floor workout you’re into.

• Size: 68 x 24 inch, 5mm thick
• Pros: extra long, cotton carrying strap which can be used as a yoga strap, no slippery, grip, great traction, no smell, you can use it on both sides, lightweight, thickness
• Cons: because of the composition it feels uncomfortable on the skin, price
• Overall rank: 4.4 of 5
• Click to view on Amazon

Premium Yoga Cork Mat

Eco-Friendly Vibes: Made from high-quality, sustainable cork, this mat is both renewable and biodegradable. It’s a simple way to support the Earth while supporting your practice. Feels good, right?

Solid Grip, No Slips: The natural cork surface gives you amazing grip, even as you sweat. Whether you’re holding Warrior II or flowing through Vinyasa, you’ll feel grounded and secure every step (or pose) of the way.

For Every Practice: From beginner to seasoned yogi, this mat’s got you. It’s perfect for all kinds of yoga: Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, you name it. It adapts to your flow.

No-Fuss Cleaning: Just wipe it down with a damp cloth or a little soapy water and it’s good to go. No harsh chemicals, no lingering odors, just a clean, fresh surface for your next session.

Lightweight & Travel-Ready: Easy to roll up and carry wherever you go studio, gym, or even on the road. It fits right into your yoga bag or backpack, so you can keep up your practice no matter where life takes you.

• Size: 72 x 25 x 0,16 inch thick
• Pros: thick, non-slippery, longer size, eco-friendly material, no smell, strip available
• Cons: a bit pricey
• Overall rank: 4.7 of 5
• Click to view on Amazon

Conclusion

There are a lot of options to choose from.

I personally have “Natural fitness warrior yoga mat” model. I practice yoga and Pilates daily, and I have it for about 4 years, and it’s still in good shape.

The only thing for you to do is to decide what do you expect from your yoga mat. Choose wisely because this small accessory will be with you in your yoga sessions.

Which one is your favorite? What do you think about price/quality?

I’m just waiting for you to share your thoughts in the comments below.