Yoga Mat Sizes

Many people seem puzzled by different sizes of yoga mats available. This guide will help you choose the ideal length, width and thickness of yoga new yoga mat.

What’s a good yoga mat size for me?

This is a question we get asked a lot. There are different widths, lengths and thicknesses of yoga mats. Surprisingly enough we have yet to see a manufacturer that recommends their products based on a person’s dimensions or weight. No yoga mat companies ever mention any height/size charts on their website. The reason for this neglect is probably due to the fact that most yoga mats are manufactured in standard sizes. Only premium mat producers bother making mats that are wider, longer and much thicker than standard size. Some even create unusual shapes, like squares or circles. The size of the mat you are about to purchase (if you have an option) depends on your physique. Let’s see some basic rules of thumb below:

Picking the right length

Long Yoga Mat The length of most yoga mats ranges between 62 and 75 inches. There are some exceptions, but most people fit within this length. If you are below 6ft then we recommend a mat below 72″, otherwise make sure you mat is roughly your height or a few inches longer. Consider the poses you will be undertaking, most require some sort of bending, so it’s okay if your mat is shorter than your height. However, once you relax in a savasana and your feet or head end up on the floor you’ll wish for a longer mat. Keep in mind the possible space restrictions in your studio, as your extra long mat may not be so welcome in tight spaces.

The width of your yoga mat

This is entirely optional, as extra width does not really play a role as major as length. Sure, it’s nice to have a slightly wider mat to be able to do those triangle poses without placing your hand on the floor, but as long as either your feet or palms are always on the mat, there’s no need for extra width. Most mats range between 20 and 30 inches, some go all the way up to 50. Pick a standard width, and you won’t go wrong, or don’t worry abou it at all.

Good thickness

This is a tricky one. Thickness depends not only on your weight but also on the type of yoga you practice. Some styles, like Maha Sadhana are designed for carpeted studios, where it is assumed students would use a regular mat on a thick carpet. If you are used to thicker surfaces, we suggest getting a mat that is at least 1/4″ thick or consider using two mats (in this case you may get a thinner mat). Also, extra thickness is recommended for those with weaker joints and knees when extra support would make the practice much easier. Keep in mind that extra thick mats are usually extra heavy, as material density stays the same extra thickness can almost double the weight. Generally we recommend the following: