Canadians who work out, whether at home or in a gym, need a good yoga mat to help with joint impact, stretching, and a non-slip surface. Yoga mats come in many different styles, sizes and colours, and with so many different options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one to buy. Whether you are seeking an extra thick yoga mat for ultimate cushioning or are looking for one that has unique anti-slip and moisture-resistant qualities, there is sure to be a yoga mat in this list that will be perfect for you.
Our expert team of researchers compiled this review after spending hours analyzing all of the top yoga mats in Canada, making sure we stand by each recommendation. We looked at materials, grip properties, colour and portability in order to narrow down the best of the best. Let’s look at our picks for the best yoga mats in Canada for 2024.
6 Best Yoga Mats for Canadians in 2024
- Best Overall: BalanceFrom GoYoga Yoga Mat
- Best for Beginner Use: Amazon Basics Exercise Mat
- Best Non-Slip: Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat
- Best Thickness: CAMBIVO Extra Thick Yoga Mat
- Best for Innovation: Glymnis Yoga Mat
- Best Colour Options: Maximo Yoga Mat
Why Did We Choose These Yoga Mats in Canada?
Each of the yoga mats that made it onto our list has distinct design features and benefits that we believe Canadians value the most. We chose our list based on these features, which means you get only the best options when you choose one of the mats on our list. Here’s how we chose each of the best yoga mats in Canada for 2024.
The BalanceFrom GoYoga Yoga Mat is our favourite yoga mat in Canada and has a ton of great features. With extra texture and a moisture-resistant coating, you can trust that this mat stays in place and your hands won’t slip during use. Available in multiple colours, there is sure to be one that suits you best.
The Amazon Basics Exercise Mat is the best choice for first-time yoga mat shoppers. It can be overwhelming to choose a yoga mat if you haven’t tried one before. This is a high-quality mat with several basic features. This makes it suitable for many types of fitness activities and customers with a wide range of abilities.
Those concerned about their yoga mat sliding on hardwood floors or their hands slipping directly on the mat will benefit from the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat. This yoga mat is padded and great for joints, while its strong grip ensures safety and comfort.
The CAMBIVO Extra Thick Yoga Mat is our pick for the best extra-thick yoga mat you can get in Canada. This mat is ultra comfortable, and those with joint issues or pressure points will find the padding to be gently cushioning throughout your workout.
The Glymnis Yoga Mat is the best yoga mat for innovation. It is perfect for the Canadian customer who has used a yoga mat before but wants a new experience.
While most yoga mats come in multiple colour options, the Maximo Yoga Mat features a range of five beautiful, saturated colours that can lift your spirits and set your yoga mat apart.
Best Overall
BalanceFrom GoYoga Yoga Mat
Canadians seeking a great overall yoga mat will love the BalanceFrom GoYoga Yoga Mat, which is our favourite yoga mat in Canada. This mat has lots of great safety features, like extra texture and a non-slip grip. Those who worry about slipping will appreciate the moisture-resistant coating, which helps keep sweaty hands from sliding. This yoga mat is available in lots of colours and will appeal to most users.
It will prevent slipping because of the textured grip on the top and bottom of the yoga mat. This prevents the yoga mat from slipping on the floor beneath the user. It also protects the user from slipping on top of the mat and potentially facing an injury. The high density of the texture of this yoga mat keeps it in place. It’s also moisture-resistant, so you don’t need to worry about slipping around in your sweat as you work out. It’s thick enough to protect your joints and spine from jarring or the hard floor.
This yoga mat comes with a free carry strap so that you can easily carry it with you to the gym, the park, or anywhere you want to get in a good workout. The material makes it easy to clean. Just wash with soap and water, and you’re good to go!
Key Features
- High-Density Material. Made of high-density material that is highly textured, this mat will keep its place on hardwood floors with its high grip.
- Moisture Resistant. To help keep sweat at bay, this mat has a moisture-resistant coating, ensuring users who tend to sweat won’t risk falling or slipping during use.
- Multiple Colour Options. Unlike some other mats that come in just one or two colours, the BalanceFrom GoYoga Mat has multiple colour options.
- Easy to Clean. Easily wash this yoga mat with soap and water as often as needed to keep it clean and germ free. While some mats are a pain to clean, those who prefer a clean mat will love this option.
Our Expert’s Take
“This dense and textured yoga mat is moisture resistant, comes in multiple colours and is great for beginners as well as advanced users.”
Best for Beginner Use
Amazon Basics Exercise Mat
It can be daunting to shop for your first yoga mat. With so many options of yoga mats for Canadians to purchase, it can be difficult to decide what features are right for you–especially if you don’t have much experience yet. It is hard to make a purchase when you don’t have previous experience to base it on.
The Amazon Basics Exercise Mat is a great option if this is your first time shopping for a yoga mat in Canada. It comes in a variety of colour options, so you can trust that you will find one that you like. Options include black and steel gray. There are vibrant colours available as well, including light green, pink, purple, blue and red. You can choose the colour that helps you stand out (or blend in).
This yoga mat is padded for comfort and will not roll up or slip around while you are using it. The textured surface provides extra grip. This means even people using a yoga mat for the first time can feel comfortable experimenting on it. It’s affordable enough for most beginners, too – so why not get started?
Key Features
- Budget-Friendly. Those worried about spending a lot of money on a yoga mat will feel comfortable with the lower price point that this one offers, perfect for first-time buyers unsure about their preferences.
- Included Carry Strap. On-the-go users will benefit from the included carry strap, which makes taking your yoga mat with you a breeze. Whether you take the bus or train or want to take the mat with you to work, this strap will make it easy to carry and keep it off dirty floors.
- Non-Slip Design. The thick and padded texture of the Amazon Basics Exercise Mat keeps it from slipping on the floors during workouts and ensures maximum safety.
- Multiple Colours. Whether you prefer dark or vibrant shades, this yoga mat comes in a rainbow of colours to choose from.
Our Expert’s Take
“This no-frills yoga mat is a great choice for beginners and comes in a large range of colours, perfect for standing out in yoga class”
Best Non-Slip
Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat
- Colour: Black, Blue Lagoon. Blue Mist, Blue Ridge, Boysenberry, Eggplant, Fossil Grey, Graphite, Rose, Violet Haze, Wild Spruce
- Material: Nitrile Butadiene Rubber Foam
- Weight: 1.07 kg
- Dimensions: 182.9cm x 61cm x 1.27cm
It's Great For:
- Comfort and extra padding
- Sweaty users who often slip on mats
- Extra colour options
- On-the-go portability
The Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat is our top pick for the best non-slip yoga mat you can buy in Canada. While some yoga mats slip around on hardwood floors, this mat will stay put no matter how much you are moving around while working out. Those who tend to have sweaty hands while exercising will find the super grip of this yoga mat to be effective in helping maintain proper form and safety.
This .5” thick yoga mat is made from BPA-free Nitrile Butadiene Rubber Foam and is incredibly lightweight. Weighing just 1.07 kg, it’s easy to carry this mat to and from classes or on buses and public transport. It comes with an easy-to-use strap that allows for convenient over-the-shoulder carrying.
While many yoga mats on the market come in just a few simple colours, the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat comes in 11 colours. Whether you want a dark hue or a vibrant shade, there is sure to be a colour that suits you best.
Whether you are an advanced yoga practitioner or someone simply needing a thick exercise mat for home workout use, this comfortable yoga mat is a great option for nearly all Canadians.
Key Features
- Non-Slip Feature. With a unique non-slip texture, this mat will stay put on hardwood floors, and your hands won’t slide if they are sweaty.
- Multiple Colours. With 11 different colour options, there is an option for everyone. If you want to stand out in your yoga class or bring a splash of colour to your routine, these colour options are great.
- Lightweight Design. Weighing just 1.07 kg, the Retrospec Solana Mat is portable and easy to carry with its included strap.
- Extra Thick Padding. While some yoga mats are very thin, this .5” thick model is perfect for anyone needing extra joint cushioning.
Our Expert’s Take
“This yoga mat is great for any Canadian who needs a super strong grip for their floors, hands and feet. The mat won’t slip or slide under you, even when executing more complex workout moves.”
Best Thickness
CAMBIVO Extra Thick Yoga Mat
Canadians on the hunt for a yoga mat with an extra thickness to it should consider the CAMBIVO Extra Thick Yoga Mat. With two options of thickness available for this mat, those seeking a deeper and more plush cushioning will love the thicker option, which is perfect for those with joint issues or needing to sink into their mat a bit more.
Made of durable TPE, this mat is tough and meant to stand the test of time. It is tear and rip-resistant and is waterproof. Those sensitive to chemicals will appreciate that this mat is BPA and latex-free. The top of the yoga mat is constructed with extra traction for hands and feet, while the bottom firmly grips the floor to avoid slipping and potential injuries.
Available in four great colours, those seeking an option other than black will find that the CAMBRIVO Extra Thick Yoga Mat offers some lovely shades. Those who like to take their yoga mat on the go to the gym, work, or classes will find that the strap is comfortable and easy to carry. The mat is lightweight and incredibly essay to roll up before and after use. It can be wiped down as often as needed without becoming damaged.
Overall, this yoga mat is a perfect choice for anyone seeking a thick yoga mat. Those wanting a thinner version can also choose that at checkout if they prefer, as well, ensuring everyone can use this mat despite cushioning preference.
Key Features
- Extra Thickness. This yoga mat is perfect for those who want thicker cushioning for their workouts. If you need a little extra support, this is the perfect mat for you.
- Multiple Colours. Available in four colours, these yoga mats are bright and cheerful, making a statement in any gym.
- Convenient Carrying. The CAMBRIVO Extra Thick Yoga Mat rolls up easily after use and can be carried with a carrying strap for workouts on the go.
- Easy to Clean. Made with no BPA or Latex, this TPE yoga mat can be easily cleaned and wiped down as often as desired.
Our Expert’s Take
“Canadians seeking a thick and cushioning yoga mat that they can sink into will love this option, which is easy to clean and comes in fun colours.”
Best for Innovation
Glymnis Yoga Mat
The Glymnis Yoga Mat is the most innovative yoga mat on our list. It includes several features that make it unique from other yoga mats customers available for purchase.
This yoga mat uses TPE and Rubber. These materials can be much more durable than other materials used for yoga mats. This makes it a great option for someone wanting to use their yoga mat daily, or for many years to come. These materials also help reduce impact during stretches and other exercises, so you can use them beyond your yoga routine.
It has a unique, two-layered structure. These two layers pad the mat for a comfortable experience during use. It also combines different textures to make sure that the yoga mat does not slip or slide around while using it. This yoga mat features multiple colours, making it stand out from the other yoga mats we looked at. The dual-coloured designs are stylish and unique among solid-coloured yoga mats.
This is a great option for Canadian shoppers who have purchased yoga mats before but are looking to try something different and new. This yoga mat comes with a convenient carry strap for toting your new mat to the park, the gym, or the local yoga center.
Key Features
- Unique Material Makeup. Combining TPE and Rubber, this mat is durable and built to last. Those wanting to use the mat for more than yoga will find that the materials help reduce joint impact during cardio exercises.
- Carry Strap. For on-the-go users, the included carry strap keeps your yoga mat rolled nicely and compact.
- Dual Texture Design. For extra grip, the dual textures of the Glymnis Yoga Mat help prevent slipping, while the extra padding is more comfortable for regular users.
- Multiple Colour Options. Instead of boring and plain colours, this mat comes in stylish and unique designs, guaranteed to make you stand out in yoga class.
Our Expert’s Take
“Those looking for a stylish yoga mat that is extra thick and works great for all different exercises will love this uniquely designed yoga mat.”
Best Colour Options
Maximo Yoga Mat
Most of the yoga mats on the Canadian market come in a range of colours, but none are as beautiful as the Maximo Yoga Mat. These five options include a stunning green, vibrant red, deep blue, and beautiful pink to get you through your workout. If you prefer not to choose a vibrant mat, you can always go with the standard black. With multiple other features, including water resistance and a non-slip surface, this mat will quickly become your favourite go-to yoga accessory.
You can choose your favourite colour for this yoga mat, but you can also choose how thick it is. At its slimmest, you can expect it to be 0.5 inches, or 1.27cm, thick. This is plush and comfortable even for hard gym floors. Whether you exercise outdoors or like to attend an indoor class, you won’t feel uncomfortable while using this mat.
It’s a non-slip mat made with rubber foam, which is completely water-resistant. You’ll be able to execute your favourite positions with ease. After particularly sweaty sessions, you can simply wipe the mat down with soap and water to have it clean for your next workout. It won’t harbour any odours or bacteria if you keep it clean this way.
This yoga mat also comes with a carrying strap, which is easy to attach when you are done for the day. Whether you are taking the mat to class or for an outdoor exercise session, you can take it with you without any hassle at all.
Key Features
- Plush Thickness. At 1.27 cm thick, this yoga mat is well-cushioned, perfect for long sessions on hard gym floors.
- Water-Resistant Foam. The rubber foam used to create this mat is completely water-resistant. You can wipe them clean after a particularly sweaty session, and they will be ready to go for your next workout.
- Carrying Straps. You can easily roll this yoga mat up when it’s time to go to your yoga class. Attach the carrying straps for lightweight, easy portability.
- Multiple Colour Options. While other yoga mats restrict the number of colours available, you can choose from five beautiful, saturated colours for your Maximo yoga mat.
Our Expert’s Take
“The Maximo Yoga Mat offers a range of five beautiful colour options. All options provide a thick, well-cushioned experience that will work well no matter where you work out.”
Comparing the Best Yoga Mats for Canadians
Category | Yoga Mat | Colour | Material | Weight | Dimensions |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall | BalanceFrom GoYoga Yoga Mat | Gray, Black, Green, Blue, Pink, Red, Purple | Foam | 0.68 kg | 68cm x 24cm x 0.3cm |
Best for Beginner Use | Amazon Basics Exercise Mat | Steel, Black, Blue, Green, Pink, Red, Purple | Foam | 0.99 kg | 188cm x 61cm x 1.3cm |
Best Non-Slip | Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat | Black, Blue Lagoon. Blue Mist, Blue Ridge, Boysenberry, Eggplant, Fossil Grey, Graphite, Rose, Violet Haze, Wild Spruce | Nitrile Butadiene Rubber Foam | 1.07 kg | 182.9cm x 61cm x 1.27cm |
Best Thickness | CAMBIVO Extra Thick Yoga Mat | Black, Blue, Green, Pink | Thermoplastic Elastomers | 0.8 kg | 183 cm x 61 cm x 0.8 cm |
Best for Innovation | Glymnis Yoga Mat | Purple, Black, Blue, Green, Jade, and Pink | Thermoplastic Elastomers | 0.9 kg | 183cm x 161cm x 0.6cm |
Best Colour Options | Maximo Yoga Mat | Black, Green, Blue, Pink, Red | Nitrile Butadiene Rubber Foam | 0.91 kg | 60cm x 17.6cm x 1.27cm |
How We Selected These Yoga Mats in Canada
We are committed to helping Canadian Customers find the best products available for purchase. It can be hard to find the right product for you available to purchase in Canada, and we seek to make it easy. We analyze everything from household appliances to new tech innovations.
Our experts look for features that meet many different needs and preferences. This ensures that we are only bringing our Canadian Shoppers the very best products. When compiling our list of the best Yoga mats in Canada, we based our choices around the features that we felt would be most important to Canadians like you, such as:
- Size. The size of the yoga mat you choose will determine what types of exercises you can perform comfortably in the space provided. It also will affect how easy it is to carry your yoga mat with you on the go. We chose a variety of yoga mats in many different sizes, from the traditional single-sized mat to the extra-wide fitness mat that can even fit two people.
- Material. Yoga mats are made from cushioned material that is designed to protect your body and your joints during a workout. Certain exercises can put stress on your joints and working out on a hard floor can be exceptionally tough on the body. The point of a yoga mat is to provide a safe, comfortable place to perform the typical yoga poses, which often require you to come in contact with the floor. For our list, we chose yoga mats that are made from a variety of high-quality, super-cushioned materials.
- Non-Slip Design. The last thing you want to happen in the middle of your workout is an unexpected slip and fall. A yoga mat that continuously moves around while you’re exercising is uncomfortable and unsafe. Non-slip designs are critical for yoga mats because they protect you from injuries that might occur if you slip on the mat or the mat slips on the floor. We only chose yoga mats that are designed with your safety in mind.
- Portability. Sometimes you just need to take your yoga mat with you. While many Canadians choose to exercise in the comfort and privacy of their own homes, many others like to participate in group yoga classes led by an instructor. This means you will need a yoga mat that easily rolls up and includes a comfortable carry strap for easy transporting. For our list, we chose yoga mats that are suitable for both home use and travel.
The Benefits of a Yoga Mat in Canada
Yoga originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It is an ancient practice that centers on breathing patterns, increasing strength and flexibility, and calming the mind. While most Western people think of Yoga as a series of stretches and poses (a part of the practice referred to as Yoga Asana), it is much more than that.
Yoga practice has several benefits, including increased balance, flexibility, and strength. And it can be adapted easily for a variety of functions, like gentle yoga for older people with mobility issues or aerobic yoga, which can burn calories and help you lose weight.
A yoga mat is useful, and almost necessary, for performing yoga poses and exercises safely. That’s because many yoga poses happen while parts of your body are in contact with the floor. If you’re working out on a hard surface, it can cause damage to your joints and body. Not to mention that you risk slipping and falling while performing some of the more difficult yoga poses. A yoga mat removes the risk of falling and protects your body from damage or harm while you’re getting your yoga on.
How to Choose a Yoga Mat for Canadians
It can be difficult to choose the right yoga mat for you. The Canadian market boasts a huge range of colours, materials, sizes, and features to keep shopping for a new yoga mat interesting. How do you know what’s really important? Here are some tips and trips to help you determine which yoga mat you should purchase.
Portability
Some customers may want to move their yoga mat each time they use it. Lots of yoga mat users take it to multiple exercise and fitness classes, meaning they spend a lot of time moving it around. It is important to find a yoga mat that is lightweight and easy to move if you plan to travel with your yoga mat often. You may want to look for a yoga mat that comes with a carrier strap for easy transport.
Exercise Type
Customers can have very diverse needs they want their yoga mat to meet. If you want a yoga mat that is suitable for only exercise, this should help to influence your decision. However, if you want to use your yoga mat for other functions, like camping or picnics, this is important to know while shopping for a yoga mat. You want to be sure the yoga mat that you buy will meet all of your needs. Otherwise, you may end up with a product that you are not satisfied with.
Frequency of Use
Customers have very different needs and expectations of their yoga mats. It is important to consider how often you will use your yoga mat. If you plan to use your yoga mat very frequently or even daily, you will need to look for a very durable mat. You should consider what materials last you for a long time. Some materials have better longevity than others. Your mat must be durable enough to hold up to strenuous exercise and use, so you don’t have to replace it every other week.
Materials
Most yoga mats are made from vinyl. These plastic mats are great for beginners and give you a good starting point. They can still be comfortable and well-textured regardless. If you want a more eco-conscious experience, consider a yoga mat made of jute, rubber, or cotton. These materials can add a nice touch to your mat and add additional comfort.
PVC or vinyl mats are still going to give you the most give and responsiveness. Canadians with allergies should be safest on these mats, too, as natural materials may contain allergens that make your yoga sessions massively uncomfortable.
Thickness
While some believe that the thickness of your yoga mat has more to do with quality than comfort, it’s the opposite. The thickness of your yoga mat can determine how comfortable it is, especially in positions and stretches where your knees are pressing into the mat. A standard mat is about 1/8” thick, which can be a great middle-ground for most.
A thicker yoga mat (up to about a ¼” thick) can be more comfortable, giving you more cushion during your session. However, they can also make it more difficult to ‘feel’ your connection to the floor, which can mess up your balance during more difficult routines.
A thinner mat (down to about 1/16”) can be less comfortable, but they are more portable. These are better for trips to the gym or your yoga class. Consider where you’ll be using your mat, how comfortable you want to be, and how important it is for you to feel the floor for balance. Choose your mat based on these factors.
Non-Slip Features
The last thing you want in the middle of your yoga session is a slipping yoga mat. Yoga can put you in some precarious positions. Balancing becomes difficult (and dangerous) when your yoga mat refuses to stay put. For your safety and peace of mind, it’s best to choose a yoga mat that will grip any surface you put it on. Some mats are better at gripping hard surfaces, while others still work well on carpets.
Regardless of which type of surface you’re going to be using your yoga mat on, it’s important to choose one that won’t slide around on you. Check the material used in the mat for a better understanding of how much it may slip. You can also look for textured surfaces or durable backing materials for the best results.
Colours and Styles
Whether you’re taking your yoga mat with you to the gym or practicing in front of your TV at home, you want to feel comfortable with your yoga mat. Whether your goal is to improve your mood or stand out in your classes, a beautiful yoga mat can elevate your experience. For this reason, it’s important to choose a colour and style option that you’ll love to use.
Durability
Your yoga mat goes through a lot, especially if you travel to yoga classes or other events. You want a mat that will stand up to a lot of abuse. Even if you only plan on using it at home, make sure to look for a thicker yoga mat with better materials. These options tend to last longer under the normal wear and tear that most yoga mats will go through.
Consider Your Needs
It’s important to consider your needs first and foremost when choosing a yoga mat. Consider the type of yoga you prefer, as well as the places where you usually do it. It’s not enough to simply choose a yoga mat because it is convenient. If you really want to get the most out of your mat, you’ll work on choosing a mat that suits your needs completely, including cushioning, durability, non-slip features, and portability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone doing workouts that require stretching, balance and impact will benefit from using a yoga mat. Yoga mats help prevent slipping and injury and promote good balance so you can focus on your workout. Whether you are a beginner or more advanced, anyone exercising in Canada can use a yoga mat to their benefit.
Yoga mats can be breeding grounds for bacteria due to sweat and dirt being up against the material on a frequent basis. Each yoga mat will have different cleaning instructions based on the main material it is made from, so it’s important to check the instructions that came with it at the time of purchase. Some use soap and water, and some can tolerate harsh cleaning chemicals, but this varies depending on the mat.
Yoga mats can be easily stored upright in smaller spaces, as they don’t take up a lot of room. Those with under-bed storage may find that this is also an excellent place to keep it. Your yoga mat should stay rolled when not in use, and many come with a strap to keep them in proper shape. Keep your yoga mat in a temperature-neutral condition, without extreme heat or cold that could damage the material.
Some brands of yoga mats come in solid, simple colours, whereas other brands may offer a larger range and even prints and patterns. For those wanting a more unique-looking yoga mat, the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat is a great option. This yoga mat will have any user standing out in yoga class or help differentiate between your family’s mats in your home.
While many Canadians use yoga mats, especially for their yoga practice, there are many different purposes for owning and using a yoga mat. Those who have hardwood floors in their home will find that a yoga mat helps keep users from slipping while doing all exercises, stretching and strength training. Canadians who are often standing for long periods of time at a standing home office desk or in the kitchen may find that a yoga mat can help reduce aching feet and joint impact when used as a regular mat.