I've been practicing yoga for a while, and one thing became increasingly clear: a thin yoga mat wasn't providing enough support for my knees and wrists during longer sessions. That prompted me to switch to a thicker mat that could offer better cushioning while still feeling stable enough for everyday practice.
The difference was immediate. Even a 10mm mat made kneeling poses, stretches, and core exercises much more comfortable on tile and hardwood floors. Thicker mats do require a short adjustment period, as the softer surface can make standing poses feel slightly less stable at first, but that quickly becomes easier with regular practice.
To help you find the right fit, I've rounded up seven of the best thick yoga mats for different workout styles and needs.
Best Overall for Beginners: 10/15mm Basic Extended Non-Slip Yoga Mat
£37.79 £26.99
Why We Like It
If you are just starting your fitness journey and need immediate relief for your joints, this is your go-to option. Rather than overwhelming you with advanced features, this mat focuses purely on high-density cushioning to absorb pressure during floor-based movements.
The Details
The one-piece molded structure prevents the edges from curling up or deforming over time. It even includes a built-in carrying strap for easy transport.
What To Consider
Just keep in mind that its plush nature makes it better suited for gentle yoga and stretching rather than high-impact cardio like jump rope.
Men's Strength Training Choice: 10/15/20mm Home Training Mat
£74.52 £111.48
Why We Like It
Standard yoga mats can feel claustrophobic, especially for male users or those incorporating dumbbells into their routines. We love this mat because it offers a wider surface area and a firmer support structure that doesn’t sink under higher body weights.
Things To Consider
Its minimalist design does not include accessories, and it is not intended for frequent travel use.
Buy for Small Spaces: Foldable 10/15/20mm Yoga Mat with Bag
£40.50 £59.59
Why We Like It
Not everyone wants a bulky foam roll sitting in their living room. This brilliant TPE mat solves the storage problem by folding down flat, allowing you to easily tuck it under a sofa or into a closet when your workout is over.
Key Features
Crafted from water-resistant material, it actively repels sweat and can be wiped clean in seconds. Despite being foldable, it provides excellent support for planks, sit-ups, and daily stretching without losing its shape.
Versatile Option: 15/20mm Dual Thickness Yoga Mat
£37.20 £54.29
Why We Like It
At 185cm long, it’s a lifesaver for taller individuals who often find their feet hanging off standard mats. The textured anti-slip surface guarantees a firm grip during downward dog, while the modern color options (black, pink, purple) look great in any room.
Keep In Mind
While slight compression may occur during shipping, the material quickly regains its structure with regular use.
Best for Maximum Movement: Extra-Wide 6/8/10mm Yoga Mat
£25.34 £33.47
Why We Like It
If you frequently step off your mat during wide-stance poses or flowing sequences, this 80cm extra-wide design is a game-changer. It gives you the freedom to move without restriction.
The 10mm high-rebound cushioning strikes the perfect balance—thick enough to protect your knees, but firm enough to keep you grounded. it’s a premium choice for those who prioritize workout space over compact storage.
Maximum Cushioning: 20mm High-Density Pilates & Fitness Mat
£41 £41
Why We Like It
When joint comfort is your absolute top priority, nothing beats a 20mm thickness. It completely insulates your body from freezing, rock-hard floors, making kneeling poses virtually painless.
Constructed from a blend of natural rubber and TPE, it is sweat-resistant and incredibly easy to maintain. Because of its massive shock-absorbing thickness, it rolls up quite bulky—making it the ultimate dedicated home mat rather than a travel companion.
Best for Pilates & Floor Work: : 15/20mm High-Density Multi-Use Training Mat
£48.71 £49.17
Why We Like It
Pilates requires intense spine rolling and hip-grounding movements. This highly resilient foam mat absorbs that pressure flawlessly while maintaining a medium-firm surface that won't leave you feeling stuck in the mud.
The tear-resistant construction is built to survive daily, rigorous use. Like other extra-thick options, its main compromise is portability, but the unmatched comfort it brings to your spine and joints makes it worth the space it occupies.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Thick Yoga Mat
1. Thickness Guide
Choosing the right thickness depends on your workout style and comfort needs:
10mm: The sweet spot for beginners, gentle yoga, and light stretching.
15mm: Balanced option for stability + cushioning
20mm: Maximum comfort for joints and high-impact protection
Note
Thicker mats naturally reduce proprioception (balance feedback), especially in standing poses like Tree Pose.
2. Stability vs Comfort
There is always a trade-off between softness and balance control. If you focus on fast-paced vinyasa flows, a firmer, moderately thick mat (10mm) works best. If your routine is mostly floor-based stretching and your priority is pain relief, go thicker (15mm-20mm).
3. Size & Portability
Standard width (60–61cm): easier to store
Wide mats (80cm): more movement space but harder to store
Travel considerations: 10mm mats can be carried to the gym; 20mm mats should stay at home.
4. Material Matters
TPE: lightweight, eco-friendly, low odor
High-density foam: best cushioning for joints
Rubber blends: strong grip but heavier
FAQ
Are thick yoga mats better for beginners?
Yes. Beginners often haven't developed the core strength to hold poses lightly, meaning more weight is dumped into the wrists and knees. Extra cushioning helps prevent early practice pain.
Is a 20mm yoga mat too thick?
It depends on your workout style. It’s excellent for floor exercises and joint support but may feel too soft for advanced balance poses.
What thickness is best for home workouts?
10–15mm is a versatile choice, while 20mm is ideal for comfort-focused or high-impact routines.
Are wide yoga mats better?
They provide more space for movement, which is helpful for dynamic workouts, but require more storage space.
