10 Best Thick Exercise Mats Of 2024, According To An Expert
Jeremy is a former US Marine and the owner of Jumping JAC’s fitness studio. He has over 10 years of professional fitness experience in training those with chronic conditions, the elderly, weight loss clients, athletes, and tactical operators (military, fire, police).
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Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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rajeshwari das Rajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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In This Article
With hectic work schedules and a constant log of social obligations, you might not have the time to visit a gym for your workout every day. But, if you decide to make your fitness a priority, then getting yourself the best thick exercise mat might be a good decision. A good exercise mat is versatile and durable, making it a great addition to your fitness routine. It not only enables good workouts from home but also makes sure your body is well supported through all the movements. Thickness, grip, weight, and functionality are all important factors when it comes to choosing the best exercise mat for yourself. Jeremy Kring, professional fitness expert, says, “A quality exercise mat is invaluable, even more so if you have a history of joint pain.”To make it easy for you, we have listed down the 10 best thick exercise mats to help you train from the comfort of your home.
[table “4380” not found /]10 Best Thick Exercise Mats For Every Workout
1. Best Lightweight Material:ProsourceFit Tri-Fold Folding Thick Exercise Mat
The exercise mat from ProsourceFit is perfect for stretching, yoga, martial arts, or other exercises. It has a tri-fold design that makes it compact and easy to store in your car, closets, or any gym facility. The 72″Lx24″ Wx1-1/2″T mat size ensures that people of every shape can perform the exercises freely. The resilient foam interiors and the vinyl surface make it durable and waterproof. The thick cushioning is supportive while exercising as it reduces the impact on knee joints, elbow, wrist, etc., making it an essential gym equipment. It comes in a variation of 3 colors -blue, grey, and black. Check this video detailing a tester’s experience of using this mat for more details.
Specifications
- Dimension: 5 inches
- Material: Foam
- Color: Black
Pros
- Foldable
- Lightweight
- Joint-friendly
- Anti-fatigue
- Easy to carry and store
- Heavy-duty
- Easy to maneuver
- Available in 3 color options
- Waterproof
Cons
- None
Trivia
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 13,995 reviews claiming its efficacy.
2. Best Eco-Friendly Material:Gxmmat Large Exercise Mat
The extra-long and wide Gxmmat exercise mat has plenty of space and is perfect for cardio workouts, zumba classes, yoga, and other gym exercises. The double-sided, non-slip, textured surface ensures enough traction and grip and reduces the chances of slipping and other injuries. The 7-mm memory foam provides cushioning and stability to provide extra comfort when doing aerobics. After continuous testing, the extra-long and wide Gxmmat exercise mat has proven its durability and performance. If you want to get a better understanding of the product, check out this video detailing a reviewer’s experience with it.
Specifications
- Dimension: 05×48.43×0.28 inches
- Material: Foam
- Color: Black
Pros
- Non-slip surface
- Large-sized
- Non-toxic
- Eco-friendly
- Odorless
- Latex-free
- Phthalate-free
- Silicone-free
Cons
- Not long lasting
TriviaWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 1,668 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
3. Best Non-Slip Surface:Yo Gorilla Thick Exercise Mats
This thick exercise mat by Gorilla Mats is large enough for yoga poses, stretching exercises, meditation, and other cardio or soft workout sessions. The textured, double-sided surface provides excellent grip and comfort and prevents the mat from sliding. The non-slippery squishy foam surface offers extra padding to protect the knees and joints. It is crafted from high-density and top-quality material, making it durable and long-lasting. You can use it on the hard floor of your garage or basement to create a personal gym area. It comes with a carry bag, two Velcro straps, and a microfiber towel. Still not sure about the product? Check out the multiple rave reviews that boast its quality and exceptional results.
Specifications
- Dimension: 31 inches
- Material: Foam
- Color: Oasis Blue
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Non-toxic materials
- Latex-free
- Odorless
- Non-slip sticky grip
- Stays flat when unrolled
- Foam cushioning
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 1,336 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
ProsourceFit Tri-Fold Folding Thick Exercise Mat Best Lightweight Material | Gxmmat Large Exercise Mat Best Eco-Friendly Material | Yo Gorilla Thick Exercise Mats Best Non-Slip Surface | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 5 Pounds | - | - |
| Dimensions | 72"L x 1.5"W x 24"Th | 72"L x 48"W x 0.28"Th | 96"L x 84"W x 60"Th |
| Material | PVC and EPE foam | PVC | Ultra Comfortable Foam |
| Color | Black | Black Real | Acai Purple Mat with Gray / Purple Towel, 2 Storage Straps and Carry Bag |
| Number of Items | 1 | - | - |
| Dimensions LxWxH | - | 72 x 48 x 0.28 inches | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 13,995 | 1,668 | 1,336 |
| Price | $34 | $109.99 | $189.95 |
4. Best Tear-Resistant Material:JELS Extra Thick Exercise mat
Perform all the difficult yoga poses on this extra thick exercise mat from JELS, as it alleviates the pressure on joints, wrist, knees providing great comfort and balance. The dot design texturing on the mat makes it non-slip, and anti-skid, providing traction and superior grip. The mat is suitable to be used on wood, tiles, and cement flooring. Many reviews indicate that the high-density mat does not tear no matter how intense your workout sessions are, making it durable. Moreover, it does not deform or crack. Here’s an honest review of the JELS Extra Thick Exercise mat.
Specifications
- Dimension: 05×25.98×0.39 inches
- Material: TPE
- Color: Black
Pros
- Tear-resistant
- Durable
- Non-slip texture
- Easy to clean
- Odorless
Cons
- Becomes slippery when wet
"What I like the most about this mat is that it is simple to clean. It is highly stretchable, and I can even bend this mat. It is thick and skid-proof. The material resists sweat, so I can exercise on it comfortably for a long time. The mat comes with a strap for easy transportation."
5. Best Shock-Absorption:Cambivo Large Yoga Mat
The ⅓ inch thick yoga mat from Cambivo protects the knee and foot during yoga, pilates, or any barefoot exercise and supports the spine, elbows, and hips on the hard floor. The double-sided, honeycomb bottomed anti-skid design provides comfort allowing hands to sink deep. Reviewers love the mat because it is spacious enough for two people to exercise on it and absorbs vibrations and noise during different types of workouts. Additionally, its mesh fiber layer enhances durability and lifespan.
Specifications
- Dimension: 65×48.03×0.31 inches
- Material: Foam
- Color: Black
Pros
- Tear-resistance
- Easy to clean
- Shock absorbing
- Easy to store
- Durable
Cons
- Slippery when wet
"This mat is thicker than regular mats. I do my yoga, pilates, and pushups on the mat daily, but I have not seen any signs of tears. It offers a good grip and prevents me from tripping. It absorbs excess shock and protects my joints from harsh impacts."
6. Best High-Density Padding:AG Active gear Large Exercise Mat
This all-purpose exercise mat makes workout sessions even more enjoyable. The unique dot matrix high-density padding and the non-slip design prevent the mat from sliding. Its extra cushioning protects the joints and the floor while performing high-intensity workouts. It adds stability and comfort and is made from non-toxic material, therefore safe to use at all times. You can use it on concrete, wooden, or a carpeted floor. Moreover, you get a jump rope, storage bag, and straps with your order free of cost.
Specifications
- Dimension: 27 inches
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride Foam
- Color: Black
Pros
- Easy to store
- Durable
- Non-slip design
- High density padding
- Eco-friendly
- Non-toxic
Cons
- None
"This high-density mat absorbs shocks and allows me to exercise on it safely. The textured base of the mat prevents it from slipping. The material is sturdy and does not show signs of tear despite daily use. The top layer is soft but firm, ideal for different forms of exercise. I like that the mat comes with a jump rope."
7. Best For Children:Sensu Large Exercise Mat
The top-quality superior surface makes the Sensu’s gym mat stand out from the rest. Its large size and added thickness will help you sail through each workout session with ease. The mat has enough cushioning for joints and helps maintain the balance for your cardio reps. Reviewers on Amazon have noted that its non-slip and non-skid bottom and top provides you extra comfort when you are trying to push yourself further. Additionally, the mat comes with a soft 72×26 inch towel for mopping and a shoulder strap zippered case for easy portability.
Specifications
- Dimension:85 inches
- Material: Foam
- Color: Black
Pros
- Kids-safe
- Odorless
- Non-slip
- Easy to carry
- Super absorbent
- portable
- Latex-free
- Phthalate-free
- Easy to clean
Cons
- None
8. Best Waterproof Material:Anngrowy Large Exercise Mat
The top surface of these workout mats is made with smart PVC material that protects them from scratches and damages, caused by dumbbells and kettlebells during high-impact training for those toned muscles. They have carefully designed circles at the bottom to keep the mat in one place. These are thoughtfully designed with extra thick cushioning to prevent any sports injuries. The 7 mm thickness of this mat makes landing on palms, knees, ankles, and other joints smooth and comfortable. Anngrowy mats are perfect for various surfaces too. Whether you intend to make your basement, living room, or bedroom a workout station, they would work well with flooring.
Specifications
- Dimension: 3 inches
- Material: High Dense Micro-foam
- Color: Black
Pros
- High density
- Shock-absorbing
- Waterproof
- Reduces noise
- Non-toxic
- Anti-tear
- Scratch-resistant
- Shoe-friendly
- Chemical smell-free
- Toxin-free
- Latex-free
- Phthalate-free
- Silicone-free
Cons
- None
9. Best For Travelling:Square36 Large Exercise Mat
The square36 exercise mat has some varied benefits of workout from home. Be it aerobics, kickboxing, strength training, or weights, one can perform any drill with or without shoes. The mat is free from harmful colorants, formaldehyde, and is made with the best quality material inside state-of-the-art, world-class manufacturing units. It is 7mm thick and made with a natural polymer that is easy to maintain and fit for flat surfaces like laminate, concrete, and even tiles. It comes in storage bags and storage straps which are easy to carry on the go.
Specifications
- Dimension: 28 inches
- Material: Foam With A Vinyl Top Coating
- Color: Black
Pros
- Durable
- Non-toxic
- Vinyl coating
- BPA-free
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Curls up on the edges
"This thick mat is sturdy and durable. I like that I can exercise with shoes on this mat. I can easily roll it back and store it when not in use. It protects my leg joints from harsh impacts. The best thing about this mat is that it never slides."
10. Best Flexibility:Polly House Extra Large TPE Exercise Mat
The extra-large 8mm thickness Exercise Mat by Polly House has brilliant cushioning for your next high-intensity cardio or Zumba workout. Be it home gym or at the studio, you will find them perfect for weightlifting, jump rope, or even those relaxing stretches in the end. Whether you choose to do your session with shoes or without, these eco-friendly mats are perfect for any surface.
The premium thick mat is made with non-polluting, totally recyclable material and has an excellent anti-slip function to prevent accidents. It has non-skid surfaces on both sides for enhanced grip and superior flexibility and support. It is easy to wipe clean and comes with a carry bag with a strap to store and carry easily…
Specifications
- Dimension:88 inches
- Material: TPE
- Color: Blue
Pros
- Non-slip
- Durable
- Odor-free
- Non-toxic
- Highly-elastic
- Latex-free
- Silicone-free
- Phthalate-free
- Easy-to-clean
Cons
- None
"I like how soft yet firm this mat is. It has adequate cushioning that protects my feet from solid impacts. The material is slip-resistant and does not emit foul odor. This heavy-duty mat offers good traction and provides a strong grip."
Infographic: How To Choose The Right Thick Exercise Mat
Thick exercise mats are an essential part of any workout routine. They provide adequate support and protect you in case you slip. They also help boost the momentum of your exercise. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best thick exercise mat for your needs? The infographic below lists some key factors to consider when buying one. Take a look.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
The Bottom Line
If you are a fitness enthusiast, look for a thick exercise mat that allows you to perform your workout sessions with comfort, and ease, and without any fear of injury. All the exercise mats listed above have been handpicked for their durability and ample cushioning. However, they also come with exclusive features. The ProsourceFit Tri-Fold Folding Thick Exercise Mat is great for those looking for an easy storage option, while the Gxmmat Large Exercise Mat is an excellent choice for those looking for extra durable material that can withstand streneous workouts. But if you want something that gives you ample space to practice different exercises, you can try the Cambivo Large Yoga Mat. These mats help you keep in a comfortable and supportive position. Also, they help you get the right grip and cushioning for different floor exercises and workouts. For personalized recommendations, you can consult a fitness instructor or a certified personal trainer to choose the right one from the wide variety of mats available.
Why Trust Stylecraze
Aditi Naskar is a health and wellness enthusiast holding a certification as well. The main focus of her writing is to highlight products that solve a problem for your skin and hair and make you feel your best. Here, she highlights the thickest and sturdiest exercise mats that will allow you to have a great workout from the comfort of your home. The options have been chosen based on several factors such as grip, thickness, weight, functionality, and user feedback across multiple forums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a thick exercise mat better?
Thick yoga mats offer better cushioning and are comfortable to use. This makes them better than their thinner counterparts. They are also more durable.
How much thickness is good for an exercise mat?
A thickness of 0.5 to 0.6 inches is ideal for exercise mats.
Is there a difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat?
A yoga mat has a more textured surface to allow a better grip for your asanas. It is also thinner to ensure better balance. An exercise mat is a thick pilates-appropriate mat and has a smoother surface, which is easy to clean.
Can you use a yoga mat as an exercise mat?
Yes, you may use it for exercises but the less thickness may not give enough cushioning for your knees, hands, and ankles.
Are gorilla mats worth it?
Gorilla mats are wider and thicker but comparatively lighter than other mats. They are also more durable and most brands offer a lifetime warranty on these mats. All things considered, they are worth your money.
How do you disinfect a gorilla mat?
Use bleach-free dish soap and a soft brush or cloth to wipe the surface of the gorilla mat. Dry the mat with a cloth or hang it in the sun. You can also use a mixture of white vinegar and tea tree oil to naturally disinfect the mat.
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