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 Manduka PRO Yoga Mat is designed for serious yogis and is highly recommended by fitness instructors around the globe. One of its standout strengths is its ultra-dense 6mm thickness, providing excellent support and cushioning, which can protect your joints during intense workouts, including hot yoga. The mat's textured surface enhances grip, allowing for smooth transitions between poses without sticking.

Made from durable, latex-free PVC in a responsible manufacturing environment, this mat is built to last, making it a worthwhile investment for those practicing regularly. However, its heavier weight—3.36 kg—may not be ideal for those seeking a portable option, especially if you need to carry it to a studio or class frequently. The size, at 71 inches long and 26 inches wide, is generous, accommodating various body types.

In terms of maintenance, the closed-cell material helps keep moisture out, but it’s essential to clean it properly with specific products as other cleaning solutions are not recommended. While it performs well in a hot yoga environment, the requirement for hand washing might be inconvenient for some users. It's also important to note that the price point is on the higher end, which might deter beginners or occasional practitioners.

The Shandali Stickyfiber Hot Yoga Towel is a popular choice for those who practice hot yoga, Bikram, or similar workouts. Made from microfiber, this towel offers excellent absorbency and a non-slip surface due to its Eco-Silicone Web Grip Bottom. This feature significantly reduces the risk of slipping, which can help prevent injuries and make your practice safer and more confident. At 72 inches in length and 24 inches in width, it fits most standard yoga mats, making it a convenient option for adding an extra layer of cleanliness and grip to your routine.

The towel's thickness is minimal at just 0.04 inches, so it won’t add much cushion but will provide a stable base for your poses. While the towel's lightweight nature (0.99 pounds) enhances portability, it may not be as durable as thicker mats over long-term use, particularly if subjected to heavy wear and tear. Cleaning is straightforward, as the towel can be machine washed, although the product care instructions recommend hand washing. This may require a bit of extra effort compared to more easily maintained mats.

Available in a pleasing 'ForgetMeNot' blue color, it is aesthetically appealing. The main drawback is the lack of cushioning due to its thin design, which might not be suitable for those seeking extra support for their joints. In summary, the Shandali Stickyfiber Hot Yoga Towel is best for individuals seeking a highly portable, absorbent, and non-slip option to place over their existing yoga mats, especially in hot and sweaty practices.