11 Best Yoga Mats Under $50 In 2023

Pursuing yoga may not be too expensive for some. You can still find yoga equipment that will not harm your wallet but still provide adequate support and cushion to your body. A yoga mat is one example of yoga equipment that you can buy at a wide range of prices.

We feature the ten best yoga mats under $50 but still provide better performance even if you are a beginner or a long-time practitioner.

11 Best Yoga Mat under $50- Reviews 2023

1. BalanceFrom GoYoga All-Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick High-Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat

The BalanceFrom GoYoga 1/2-Inch Extra Thick yoga mat does not only cost less than $50. It cost way lower than you thought. Moreover, the price varies depending on the color. The price goes even lower when you pick the light-color one. But will this high-density yoga mat protect you? Yes, it does!

You see, the mat is ½-inch (12.7mm) thick, 71 inches (5.92 feet) long, and 24 inches in width. It has a thickness enough to protect your knees, spine, elbows, and other parts of your body against a solid floor. The purchase comes with a knee pad.

Pros

• The yoga mat is ideal for yogis up to five feet 10 inches tall or below.
• The mat comes with a carrying strap for easy transport.
• The high-density feature will allow more balancing.

Cons

• Yogis who are taller than five feet 10 inches do not suit the length of the mat.

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2. Amazon Basics 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat

It seems Amazon not only delivers goods that satisfy people, it even has a signature yoga mat that yogis can trust. Like the Amazon Basics 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat. The Amazon Basic yoga mat comes in seven colors with an extra thickness you can use for daily sessions.

The mat is 74 inches (6.17 feet) long, 24 inches wide, and ½-inch thick. The sheet is ideal for yogis that do several poses. Its extra thickness provides maximum comfort and cushions even if you use the mat outdoors.

Pros

• The extra-thick yoga mat is perfect for tall people.
• Three-people yogis may find the mat reliable for their poses.
• The mat has a carrying strap when you want to bring it to the gym, etc.

Cons

• The foam material is susceptible to fire.

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3. BalanceFrom GoYoga All-Purpose 1/4-Inch High-Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat

BalanceForm GoYoga Mat features more sheets that provide support to any yogis. Just like the BalanceFrom GoYoga 1/4-Inch Anti-Tear Yoga Mat. But this is thinner than the ½-inch variety and shorter than the 74-inch model, which is more suitable for children and young yogis.

This GoYoga mat is ¼-inch thick, 68 inches in length, and 24 inches wide. The material is eco-friendly and child-friendly so, it will not cause skin allergies to you and your kids. The mat has double sidings, which are both non-slippery, keeping you away from injuries.

Pros

• The eco-friendly mat is also pet-friendly.
• The anti-tear mat suits the average height of yoga practitioners.
• It is moisture resistant and can be washed with soap & water only.

Cons

• Not advisable for plus-size users.

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4. Gaiam Yoga Mat – Premium 6mm Print Extra Thick Non-Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat

Are you aware that there are yoga mats for all types of yoga?The Gaiam Yoga Mat with dimensions of 68 x 24 inches of length and width, respectively, is great even for Pilates and other floor workouts. It also has different prints and designs.

The mat is polyvinyl chloride with a soft but sturdy density that will not wear out early. The thickness (6mm) is enough to support your entire body, while the mat is lightweight for transporting. The material is non-toxic and child-friendly.

Pros

• The yoga mat is 6mm (0.236-inch) thick.
• The non-slip yoga mat comes with various stunning prints.
• The lightweight but thick yoga mat cushions sensitive parts of the body.

Cons

• The mat releases a strong but harmless odor when unwrapping. Better to unroll and air out the mat for 2-3 days before use.

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5. Gaiam Yoga Mat – Premium 6mm Print Reversible Extra Thick Non-Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat

Gaiam has proven its worth in the field of low-cost but high-quality yoga mats for all seasons. The mat comes relatively much lower than $50! The Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium Non-Slip Fitness Mat is highly reliable for all yoga poses, including Pilates.

If you want a different design, the mat has wide-ranging colors and prints with diverse styles. Some of the eye-catching designs are the lotus prints, geo feathers, and plum etchings. The mat is sticky but non-slip to keep you away from injuries.

Pros

• The thick mat is also ideal for various floor workouts.
• The mat has a reversible feature with different prints on both sides.
• The lightweight mat is 68 inches long, 24 inches wide, 6mm thick.

Cons

• Not ideal for cardio and other extensive workouts.

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6. Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium 6mm Print Extra Thick Non-Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat

If you are looking for a yoga mat that is lightweight; but thick enough for various poses, think of the Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium 6mm Print Extra Thick. The mat suits all types of yoga postures and even Pilates. The mat is also non-toxic, so your kids and pets will not be at risk during your home sessions.
The yoga mat is 68 inches long, 24 inches wide, and 6mm thick, made of 6P-free PVC. Even if the mat is lightweight, it is durable with a non-slip surface but a sticky underside. It provides the cushion you need during sessions.

Pros

• The 6mm yoga mat is ideal for other floor workouts.
• The stylish print is visible even from afar.
• You can roll the fitness mat for easy storage.

Cons

• Not ideal for workouts that require high-jumping and heavy lifting.

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7. Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat Exercise Mat, Yoga for Kids with Fun Prints

Do you want your kids playing on a yoga mat? The Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat will surely make them safer! It is not costly investing in this type of product for your kids or toddlers because it is child-friendly.

Your kids can have their fun times playing with a soft sheet underneath them. The mat even has fun prints to let children appreciate colors and styles while they play. So, if your children want to start early doing yoga or play around, this Gaiam mat is perfect!

Pros

• The mat is kid-size with dimensions of 60 inches long x 24 inches wide and 3mm thick.
• Also, ideal as a baby mat because it is hypoallergenic.
• The texture is sticky but non-slip to keep kids safe.

Cons

• Keep the mat clean before and after use.

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8. ProsourceFit Extra Thick Yoga Pilates Exercise mat

If you want a thicker yoga mat, the ProsourceFit Extra Thick Yoga Pilates Exercise mat comes with a 1-inch (25.40mm) thickness. The material is NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) foam and water-proof. Even if you sweat heavily, it will not penetrate the foam.

The ProsourceFit Extra Thick Yoga Mat will provide optimum support even if you are 3-person yogis. The mat is also ideal for other exercises, such as Pilates and cardio floor workouts. Even if the sheet is thicker, it does not slip during yoga exercises.

Pros

• The high-density foam brings superior comfort during workouts.
• The mat is 71 inches long and 24 inches wide.
• The exercise mat is perfect for people five feet 10 inches (height) and below.

Cons

• The mat is 4.5 pounds (2.04kg) in weight.

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9. Gaiam Yoga Mat – Folding Travel Fitness & Exercise Mat – Foldable Yoga Mat

One of the great yoga mats under $50 is probably is the foldable Gaiam Yoga Mat Folding Travel & Fitness Yoga Mat. It is even way below the $50 mark! But is it worth every penny? We think so!

This foldable yoga mat is also best for traveling because it will fit well in any part of your car or a bag. You can carry it by hand while folded. The mat is forall types of yoga, Pilates, and various floor workouts. The mat is 68 inches long, 24 inches wide, and 2mm thick. The mat is PVC and can easily fold into a square.

Pros

• It only weighs one pound.
• The foldable mat comes in vivid colors with classical prints.
• The sticky texture gives stability to any yoga pose.

Cons

• The price varies with colors, but still much lower than $50.

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10. Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat 1-inch & 1/2-inch Thick w/Nylon Strap for Men & Women

Men and women yogis will have a meditative time doing yoga using the Retrospec Solana Non-Slip Exercise Mat. However, if you and your partner want two yoga mats with different thicknesses, the Solana offers ½-inch and 1-inch with diverse prints. Just like couple-shirts.

Both thickness types come in 72 inches long and 24 inches wide. The mat has no harsh chemicals (Phthalate-free), so it is also ideal for kids. The mat provides cushions on the hips, joints, knees, back, and hands.

Pros

• Also, you can choose identical prints with different thicknesses.
• The mat comes with a free carrying strap for portability.
• It is easy to clean and maintain.

Cons

• The mat may emit a harmless but strong odor when unwrapped. It is better to unroll it and air in 1-2 days.

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11. Sivan Health and Fitness 1/2-Inch Extra Thick 71-Inch Long NBR Comfort Foam Yoga Mat

Did you ever wonder that a yoga mat may come thick yet lightweight? The Sivan Health and Fitness Yoga Mat come with something like that! It will even cost you way below $50! The material is Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) foam that is non-porous and closed-cell elastomeric sponge foam.

The thickness (1/2-inch) is ideal, not only for yoga but also for various floor exercises and Pilates. This mat is perfect for beginners and wants to enjoy the benefits of a low-cost yoga mat.

Pros

• The NBR material is more pliable and soft.
• You can hand wash the mat with only soap & water.
• The mat comes with a free carrying strap.

Cons

• The mat is available in only eight solid colors.

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Best Yoga Mat Under $50- Buying Guide

1. Thickness

is the first to consider when buying a yoga mat. But before you think about the thickness, it might be better to consider what type of yoga you want to pursue. If you like to focus on a yoga technique that requires more intense postures, a thicker mat is what you need.

On the other hand, if you want simple yoga poses, a thinner yoga mat might suffice. A ¼-inch (6.35mm) and above yoga mat is considered thick. A sheet with a thickness of about 1/16- inch (4mm) or below are the thin ones.

However, one of the downsides of thin yoga mats is their less cushioned support for the body.

2. Material

Picking a cheap yoga mat should not compromise you with inferior material. There are a lot of low-cost mat brands that still offer satisfying materials that are user-friendly. Some of the best materials for cheap yoga mats are foam and PVC (or vinyl). Foam mats are eco-friendly and offer the same level of performance that of vinyl.

The PVC mats endure most extreme yoga poses and may last more than a decade if you care for them properly. The high-end Lululemon yoga mats are natural fiber or rubber and polyurethane on the other side. Lululemon also offers cork yoga mats, which are at the higher price range.

The material of the mat will ascertain the sponginess, stickiness, and texture of the sheet. It will also determine the eco-friendliness of the yoga mat. Premium yoga mats made of rubber have cotton and jute in them, but they are less spongy.  

3. Weight

You can use a heavy mat in other exercises, like a burpee, not just for yoga. But most yoga mats under $50 are lightweight, no matter how thick or thin they are. Although most pricy yoga mats are portable to bringing them outdoors and placing them on rough surfaces may damage its exterior.

Most yoga mats weigh more than six pounds where they can be too bulky when brought outside. So, it is better to choose a lightweight yoga mat if you want to take it to a yoga studio or gym. Moreover, lightweight yoga mats can be folded or rolled and strapped for easy transport. 

One of the best high-end yoga mats with ideal weight is the Jade Yoga Mat. On the other hand, the cheap ones include the BalanceFrom GoYoga All-Purpose 1/4-Inch High-Density Yoga Mat; Sivan Health and Fitness 1/2-Inch Extra Thick; and the ProsourceFit Extra Thick Yoga Pilates Exercise mat.

4. Size/Length

There is no definite standard in the size or length of a yoga mat. However, most mats have a standard width of 24 inches. But how do you pick the correct length for you? One thing for sure is: it must fit your whole body with a space allowance for added movements.

Here is a guide in choosing the correct size of a yoga mat considering your height:

Five feet five inches or below: Go with a mat that is 68 inches long.

Five feet five inches to six feet: Choose a yoga mat that is at least 72 inches long.

Six feet and over: An 80 or 84 inches long yoga mat is suitable.

5. Minimum maintenance

Yogis are always sweating when doing yoga poses. That is one of the main reasons why they do yoga. Some do sweat heavily when doing easy poses like the downward dog, boat pose, four-limbed staff pose, and others. 

In times like these, the yoga mat suffers the brunt of sweating from the body. The mat becomes oily (slippery) and full of bacteria when not washed regularly. So, it is better to find a mat that needs lesser maintenance, like washing it with only soap & water. 

Factors To Consider When Buying A yoga Mat

1. Odor maintenance

Once you find the correct mat for your needs (like size/length, thickness, etc.), it is now time to consider if the mat gets smelly. However, the lack of proper hygiene, like cleaning the mat after use, may enhance the growth of bacteria and fungi.

The PVC material, aside from being affordable, is easier to wash. It also hampers the growth of fungi and bacteria because of its moisture resistance.

2. Versatility

Some cheap yoga mats under $50 come thicker and longer. Some have lengths that could fit children and even babies and toddlers. Moms could use the mat for her sessions while her kids may utilize them as a play station: Like the Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat Exercise Mat, which comes in sizes where petite moms can fit.

3. Design

If you feel like being pampered by the design of a yoga mat, you can choose the best pattern you think would excite you most. Yoga mats nowadays have eye-catching designs, prints, and colors that give rousing vibes to yogis.

The various designs of yoga mats address the discriminating moods of yoga enthusiasts. So, you are free to pick the best in your mind!

4. Grip

When we talked about the yoga mat grip, it usually pertains to the texture of the material. The consistency will provide the non-slip feature of the mat. The bottom of the mat should have this feature.

The side of the mat touching the floor or ground should not slip or skid to keep you stable. The non-slip bottom provides stability during yoga sessions and other workouts.

However, some yoga mats come with a reversible feature, like the Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium Reversible. You can flip over this kind of mat when you need to use the other side.

FAQ’s 

1. What is the best yoga mat for the money?

We may consider the Gaiam yoga mats as one of the best yoga mat brands for the money. Gaiam yoga mats come in a wide range of thickness between 2mm and 8mm and sizes from 68 to 80 inches (length). The latter length (80 inches) is ideal for three-person yoga.

However, the standard width of most yoga mats, whether high-end or otherwise, is 24 inches. Moreover, if you used the mat for a 3-person pose, keep the mat clean before and after every use.

2. Is a 3mm or 5mm yoga mat better?

The 3mm yoga mat is better if you want universal accessories associated with the practice. The accessories may include the different types that will suit your workouts. On the other hand, the 5mm yoga mat is better if you want extra support cushioning your ankles, hips, knees, wrists, and joints.

3. How much does a decent yoga mat cost?

Most yoga experts suggest that a decent yoga mat may cost between $50 and $100. MarketWatch.com traces Amazon.com’s pricing of yoga mats from $7 to $200 in 2021. However, since we featured yoga mats that cost way below $50, the brands and their featured products show outstanding qualities. 

In this regard, we may suggest that beginners buy two or three similar or different products. The purchase may amount to less than $50, but you will have more than one mat in your closet. From there, you can start a simple yoga routine using cheap yoga mats that will develop into skills that you desire.

You may alternate the use of the mats available to you until you become successful in your goals in pursuing yoga.

4. What thickness of the yoga mat is best for beginners?

Most yoga veterans’ advised beginners to start with a cheap regular mat that is around 1/8-inch thick. They can adjust to a thicker or thinner mat once they figure out their needs and skills.

5. How often should you replace a yoga mat?

Many yoga advocates recommend changing the yoga mat every six to twelve months. However, it will depend on the intensity of the routines and how often you use the mat. Most yogis take care of their mats more religiously, while others do not.

Moreover, one of the most compelling reasons to replace your mat is when tear and wear start to appear. Some of the signs of tear & wear: when the mat becomes slippery, have scratches on the surface and have uneven edges. 

Conclusion

Several theses and studies found out that yoga helps improve balance, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and the overall quality of life. 

In the United States, the Harvard School of Medicine reported more than 36 million yoga practitioners nationwide in 2016 . The report also pointed out that 15% of Americans have done the exercise for at least six months.

The yoga mat has a crucial role in helping practitioners hold stronger on the surface. The mat also provides a cushion between the body and the ground. But do you need an expensive yoga mat to pursue the practice? Maybe not!

We strongly recommend the Gaiam Foldable Yoga Mat as one of the best yoga mats under $50. 

Read more: 15 Best Yoga Mat For Carpet