10 Best Hot Yoga Mats 2025 in the United States

The Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat is designed to cater to various fitness activities such as yoga, Pilates, and floor exercises. Made from NBR foam, the material is known for its softness, providing excellent cushioning and support. With a thickness of 2/5 inches, it offers significant padding which is beneficial for beginners or those needing extra comfort during workouts.

The mat's dimensions are 72 inches in length and 24 inches in width, making it suitable for most users. The included easy-cinch carrier strap enhances its portability, allowing users to transport it conveniently to and from classes or home workouts. However, the thickness and material might make it slightly bulkier compared to thinner mats, which could be a consideration for those prioritizing ultra-lightweight portability.

The NBR foam material is durable but may be prone to wear and tear with heavy use over time. Additionally, the mat needs to be hand-washed, which may not be as convenient as machine-washable options. The texture is comfortable for a variety of poses but may not offer the best grip for more intense or high-sweat sessions. The Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat is a good choice for beginners or those seeking extra padding and comfort, though it may not be the best option for those looking for ultra-portable or high-grip mats.

The Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat is a thick and comfortable option, measuring ½ inch in thickness, which helps cushion your joints and pressure points during yoga, Pilates, or other floor exercises. Its size of 72 by 24 inches is standard and provides ample space for various poses without feeling cramped. Made from foam, the mat offers a non-slip surface that helps you stay steady, which is especially important for hot yoga where sweat can make mats slippery. The material is BPA-free and doesn’t contain harmful chemicals, making it a safer choice for your skin and health.

Portability is decent thanks to the included nylon strap, which makes it easy to roll up and carry to your classes or workouts. However, at 3 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than ultra-light mats, so it might not be the best fit if you prioritize the lightest gear. In terms of durability, the foam material is designed for everyday use and should hold up well in a home or studio setting, but foam mats generally wear faster than thicker rubber or natural materials, so keep that in mind if you plan heavy daily use. Cleaning the mat is straightforward with just soap and water, but it’s important to avoid submerging it and to air dry it properly to prevent damage.

One minor drawback is that the mat may have a slight initial odor when first unrolled, which some users might find unpleasant, but airing it out solves this quickly. The sage color adds a calm, neutral aesthetic. This mat is ideal for users looking for extra cushioning and stability during hot yoga or other fitness routines who want a balance of comfort, safety, and easy maintenance without breaking the bank.

The Gruper Yoga Mat is an eco-friendly option made from Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE), which makes it safer and softer than traditional PVC and EVA mats. The mat's material is suitable for various exercises including Yoga, Pilates, and other fitness workouts. One of its standout features is the non-slip texture on both sides, which enhances grip and ensures stability during use, critical for hot yoga sessions. Additionally, the double-layer structure helps prevent tearing and deformation, contributing to its durability.

The mat comes in three size options: standard (72 x 24 inches), thickened (72 x 24 inches with 8mm thickness), and large (72 x 32 inches with 8mm thickness), making it versatile for different user preferences. Each mat weighs between 2.6lb to 4.0lb, which generally makes it easy to carry. However, users are advised to only hand wash the mat and avoid using washing machines or dryers. It's also designed primarily for barefoot exercises, so using it with shoes or allowing pets on it might cause damage.

A free carrying strap and storage bag add to its portability, making it convenient to transport to the gym or any location. While the mat’s eco-friendly material and high grip are strong points, its cleaning instructions might be seen as a hassle by some users. The Gruper Yoga Mat appears to be a strong contender for those seeking a reliable, eco-friendly mat for hot yoga and other exercises.