Jewelyn Butron

A true yogi knows that the practice is about finding balance and grounding yourself, but it can be really hard to get Zen or master even beginner yoga poses on the floor when you're in pain, amirite? If that's the case, and you're sick of doubling up your regular yoga mat for seated asanas, it may be time to opt for some extra cushioning.

Thick yoga mats are a great option for people with band knees or sensitive wrists. In addition, Candace Moore, an E-RYT500 yoga instructor and owner of Namaslay Studios, says theyre also ideal for seniors or anyone looking to primarily practice hatha (a slow style of stretching) or restorative yoga, as thick yoga mats provide extra layers of support.

To put things into perspective, a standard yoga mat is usually 3mm (1/8 inch) thick, while a thick yoga mat starts at approximately 5mm and goes up from there. The most important thing when picking at your own is personal comfort. That said, if you don't have bad knees or prefer a more dynamic form of yoga, stick to a traditional mat as those provide a more stable surface for your practice, says Moore. "A regular yoga mat, due to its stickiness and thinness, will be better for balancing on, she explains.

On the fence? There are yoga mats that do strike a fair balance between supporting your joints and providing stability. If you think you can benefit from a little extra cushioning, here are the best thick yoga mats you can buy right now. All of the below are best-sellers with A+ reviews from real people who swear by them.

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Best For Yogis Who Still Need Good Grip

Thickness:5 mm

Don't worry about unintentionally losing your balance while trying to master eagle pose. This Manduka matdelivers shock-absorbing cushioning so that it hurts a little less when your joints literally hit the mat.

Rave Review: "Used it about 10 times so far and I couldn't be happier. Strikes the perfect balance between price and quality. The mat is a great thickness and length. Really grippy and kinda heavy but not terrible."

Best Foam Thick Yoga Mat

Thickness:15 mm

Want extra, extra cushioning? You got it. This mat delivers 3/4 inches of high-density, non-stick foam. It's also made with a non-slip bottom to keep the mat in place and prevent injuries as you work out.

Rave Review:"This is the thickest yoga map I've ever seen. It's greatvery comfortable for knees and lying postures."

Best Sustainable Thick Yoga Mat

Thickness:6 mm

Perfect for those who like to sweat it out during hot yoga sessions, this yoga mat is made with a charcoal-infused natural rubber that absorbs sweat and eliminates odor. The material is also anti-slip, so that means more protection for your joints.

Rave Review: "I practice six days a week and sometimes twice a day. I was using a towel but after practicing on the GRP, I do not need a towel and the grip is outstanding. Ive been recommending it to fellow practitioners. The only issue I have: I wish I purchased it months ago."

Most Stylish Thick Yoga Mat

Thickness:6mm

This mat is as beautiful as it is durable. It doesn't sacrifice design for comfort and durability, but it still checks out all three. The cushioning is made with a slip-resistant texture to support your balance as you go.

Rave Review: "For about a year, Ive been doubling my mat for some poses. I decided to admit Im not as young as I used to be and bought the 6mm mat. Its very comfortable and just what my old boney knees were asking for."

Best Extra-Long Thick Yoga Mat

$39.99

Thickness:6 mm

Ever feel like you're only working out on half a mat? This Merrithew mat was specifically made for those with long limbs, akataller people, and keeps comfort and stability in mind.

Rave Review: "As a tall person, I needed a little bigger mat. This was just right. In addition, the thickness was comfortable."

Best Budget-Friendly Thick Yoga Mat

$19.99

Thickness:5 mm

If you want an inexpensive buy that's worth it, try this yoga mat, which can seamlessly take you through your yoga sessions, but can also be used for other kinds of mat-based exercises. Two other perks: it's non-slip and easy to clean.

Rave Review:"Just started yoga classes and didn't want to spend a fortune on a mat. This does everything I needed. Thick enough to protect knees, but thin enough for good stability."

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6 Best Thick Yoga Mats For Joint Support - Women's Health