If you’re just starting your yoga journey, choosing the right yoga mat can make a huge difference.
As someone who practices almost every day—morning flows, stretching sessions, and the occasional Pilates workout—I’ve realized that comfort, grip, and thickness matter far more than the color or the brand name.
Below, I’m sharing my personal experience and thoughts on how to pick a great beginner-friendly yoga mat and giving you my honest take on the 5 mats from the image you shared.
🌿 What Beginners Should Look For in a Yoga Mat
Before jumping into the product reviews, here are the 3 things I always tell beginners to focus on:
1. Thickness (Comfort for Knees & Wrists)
If you’re new, your joints likely aren’t used to pressure yet.
A thickness of 6mm – 10mm is ideal for cushioning without losing balance.
2. Grip (So You Don’t Slip)
Sweaty palms? A mat with a textured or non-slip surface is a lifesaver—especially for downward dog.
3. Durability
A cheap mat will start peeling or stretching out quickly.
Look for strong foam or rubber with good density.
⭐ My Review of the 5 Yoga Mats from the Image
🥇 1. Gaiam Essentials 2/5″ Thick (10mm) Yoga & Pilates Mat
View On Amazon
This one is incredibly comfortable, especially for beginners with sensitive knees.
The 10mm thickness feels like landing on a soft cloud during kneeling poses.
What I love
- Super cushioned
- Comes with an easy-cinch strap
- Great for yoga, Pilates, or floor exercises
Who it’s best for:
Anyone who wants maximum comfort or feels pain on thin mats.
🥈 2. Gaiam Yoga Mat – Premium 6mm Print Edition
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This is the mat I would pick for someone who wants both style and durability.
The grip is solid, even when hands get sweaty, and the design options are beautiful.
What I like
- Good balance of cushioning & stability
- Tons of color/pattern choices
- Reliable grip for beginners
Best for:
People who want a mat that feels good and looks good.
🥉 3. Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat – 1/2″ Thick (12mm)
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If you want serious cushioning, this one is extra thick.
Perfect for Pilates, stretching, and restorative yoga—but it’s a bit bulky to carry.
What stands out
- Very gentle on joints
- Anti-slip surface
- Comes with a nylon strap
Best for:
Beginners with knee/wrist pain or who prefer slow-paced yoga styles.
4. Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Mat
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This mat surprised me by how comfortable and steady it feels for the price.
It’s simple, no-frills, and does the job extremely well.
Why I’d recommend it
- Soft and thick
- Affordable
- Great for stretching & floor workouts
Best for:
Budget beginners who want great comfort without overthinking brand names.
5. Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat – 1″ Thick Heavy-Duty Edition
View On Amazon
This is the thickest mat on the list—more like a mini workout pad than a typical yoga mat.
It’s amazing for anyone who struggles with pressure on knees, elbows, or hips.
What I appreciate
- Maximum cushioning
- Non-slip grip
- Ideal for stretching, Pilates, or meditation sessions
Best for:
People with joint pain or who prefer ultra-soft surfaces.
💬 Final Thoughts — Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re a beginner and unsure where to start, here’s my quick guide:
- Best for comfort: Gaiam Essentials 10mm
- Best all-around grip + style: Gaiam Premium 6mm
- Best for joint pain: Retrospec Solana 1″
- Best budget pick: Amazon Basics Extra Thick
- Best for mixed workouts (yoga + Pilates): Retrospec Solana 1/2″
