What size yoga mat do I need for weight and height? What’s the best length, width and thickness?

You may even consider “sizing” a yoga mat first – to figure out the measurements before you start a yoga class. This is a common question new yogis are asking. You’ve come to the right place for your answers!

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• How to find the ideal yoga mat sizing for you and your practice
• Length, width and thickness recommendations
• The importance of checking yoga mat materials first

Let’s get started – so you can begin your yoga practice!

Are Yoga Mats Different Sizes?

Yes, yoga mats do come in different sizes. As there is no strict rule on ideal size for yoga mats, they can come in collections of different lengths and widths.

Scouring the internet, you’ll find that each yoga mat manufacturer produces its own mat size. They can range from slightly smaller or slightly larger than the average mat size which runs at around 64×25 inches. 

For anyone that finds themselves shorter than six feet tall, the average size yoga mat will be just the right size. Anyone taller will need a larger sized yoga mat. 

Why Proper Yoga Mat Sizing Is So Important

As we discussed above, the average sized yoga mat may not run in the right size for anyone taller than six feet. Finding the proper sized yoga mat to fit you is important in order to reap the benefits of solid yoga foundation. Rather than sizing a yoga mat, we’re going to explain to you what to search for in a yoga mat that is ideal for you specifically. 

When dealing with an improperly sized yoga mat, you may find yourself struggling to settle into your daily yoga flows and asanas. An illustration of a poorly sized yoga mat—for you—would be your head digging into the hard floor during a pose or your feet hanging off the end of your mat length-wise.

To build a solid yoga foundation, you’ll need a yoga mat that is properly sized to fit you and your needs so that you can apply it to your yoga practice. 

So… What Size Yoga Mat Do I Need For My Weight & Height?

After reading through this section, you’ll no longer be asking the question, “What size yoga mat do I need for weight and height?” or consider sizing a yoga mat to figure out if it’ll fit you just right. 

A few key factors can affect what may be considered the “ideal” yoga mat for personal needs. Weight, size, height, and yoga style are all major aspects to consider when shopping for your ideal sized yoga mat. 

Standard Size Yoga Mat

A standard size yoga mat measures out to be about 24 inches wide and 68 inches long. Though, in theory, this size should work well for anyone running near 5’8, sometimes other factors come into play.

Many may find that the standard size may not suit them. Though it might technically fit their height, the yoga mat may not be able to accommodate their yoga practice. This can refer to particular floor sequences or poses that an individual may pursue for their yoga practice, and what they may need size-wise in a yoga mat. 

If you stand at 5’5 or shorter, we recommend choosing the standard 68 inch yoga mat. 

Extra Long Yoga Mat

Extra long yoga mats can run in different ranges of length. This can start at only a few extra inches, moving up to 71 inches, to extra long mats that run up to 84 inches, or 7 feet. 

These extra long yoga mats are perfect for yogis that are a bit taller. As no one desires to have their feet hanging off the mat during their daily yoga practice, investing in an extra long yoga mat can be the perfect step into building up a productive and solid yoga foundation. 

For yogis that run between 5’6” and 6’ we recommend a 72” yoga mat. For yogis that are over 6’ we recommend investing in a yoga mat that runs from 84”-85” for the best size. 

Extra Wide Yoga Mat

For any yogi that has wider shoulders or a wider body type, an extra wide yoga mat is an ideal selection. Extra wide yoga mats offer extra room for a yogi to be comfortable during their yoga practice. 

Currently, the widest yoga mat on the market runs at 36” or three feet wide. To ascertain whether an extra wide yoga mat might work best for you, you will need to measure yourself. To do this, lay down flat with your hands and feet comfortably out to the side. Now, add 2”-3” to conclude the ideal mat width you need to search for. 

Slim Carry Yoga Mats

A slim carry yoga mat is perfect for yogis that may run more petite. Running lighter in weight, a slim carry yoga mat is shorter and smaller, making it easier to roll up and carry. 

If you’re curious to learn how to properly roll your yoga mat, check out our post, “How To Roll Up Yoga Mats Correctly: Step By Step Guide”. 

Thick Yoga Mat

A thick yoga mat ranges at about 5 mm to 6 mm in thickness. When checking out thicker yoga mats, there is some information to keep in mind while perusing the selection. Thick yoga mats are denser due to their thickness, meaning they can be a bit heavier having to carry around. These thicker yoga mats can function magnificently if you are desiring more cushion during your practice. If you find yourself often practicing on hard surfaces, a thicker yoga mat will provide the extra cushion you need for a comfortable yoga flow. 

Thin Yoga Mat

A thin yoga mat ranges from about 1 mm to 3 mm in thickness. A yoga mat that is thinner will be easier to roll up and lighter to carry.

It functions perfectly for taking your yoga practice to the beach or for practicing on carpeted floors. These are normally collapsible styles you’d want to travel with.

Check out our post, “How To Travel With A Yoga Mat: The Complete Guide”, to learn the best tips for traveling with your yoga mat, whether it be to the studio or the beach! 

Other Tips To Help You Find The Perfect Yoga Mat

Knowing what your yoga mat is made of is more important than you might initially consider. Progressively society is learning more and more about the magnanimous effects small things—like the materials used to make your yoga mat—can have on a person’s overall health. 

Before you buy your yoga mat, check out these tips on what to avoid when shopping for your perfect yoga mat! 

Avoid Yoga Mats Made With Vinyl 

Polyvinyl chloride or vinyl for short contains loads of toxic chemicals that are used to keep yoga mats durable, sticky, and easy to maintain. The primely used plastic is also super damaging to the planet, often referred to as the “poison plastic” due to its inability to even be recycled. 

Avoid Yoga Mats Made With Chlorine

A human carcinogen, chlorine is a big no-no you should look out for when shopping for a yoga mat. Yoga mats made from vinyl exude these chlorine-based chemicals that end up spreading into the atmosphere, into our water supply, and down the food chain. This human carcinogen is already absorbed in measurable amounts every day!

Avoid Yoga Mats Made With Heavy Metals

Though lead hasn’t officially been labeled as a human carcinogen, it has been likened to one by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. That should be enough reason to avoid it in your yoga mat!

As discussed in our post, “Are yoga mats toxic?”The two main heavy metals found in PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, yoga mats are lead and cadmium. Both have a negative impact on health. Cadmium has been linked to kidney disease, mineral density in bones, and preterm labors—it has been classified as a human carcinogen. Lead, on the other hand, has been known to cause negative cardiovascular, neurologica, gastrointestinal, renl, and reproductive effects on the human body. 

Shockingly enough, cadmium and lead can enter the body in two specific ways—ingesting them or inhaling them. As breathing is a major part of any yoga practice, knowing that your yoga mat could contain these dangerous chemicals is a complete game changer. 

Avoid Yoga Mats Made With Butadiene

Found in NBR yoga mats, butadiene is a chemical that is frequently used to create synthetic rubber. Unlike natural rubber, this synthetic rubber is not recyclable or biodegradable. Yoga mats made with butadiene also exude a strong chemical odor that many may find displeasing. 

Avoid Yoga Mats Made With Phthalates

Most PVC yoga mats are made using harmful chemicals called phthalates. These chemicals are hormone disruptors that are often associated with fertility problems, cancer, asthma, obesity, and birth defects. Phthalates can enter your body with mere skin contact or through inhalation. 

In our post, “Are Yoga Mats Bad For The Environment?”, we dive deeper into the effects yoga mats and what they’re made of, can have for the environment that we live in!

Looking To Upgrade Your Yoga Mat?

Here are the #1 choices online for best yoga mats of 2023 – with reviews, ratings, scores and buying guides to help you choose the best one for you.

These include mats that are non-slip, grippy, cushioned, and comfortable to use – all while being durable enough to last more than 6-12 months.

Final Thoughts On What Size Yoga Mat You Need – Length, Width & Thickness

There are a few key factors for ideal yoga mat sizing – weight, height, and your own unique practice being the major practice.

• Beyond sizing, you should also consider the materials used to make the yoga mat. 
• Investing in your health for the long run is essentially for a happy and healthy life.
• Many materials in yoga mats can be toxic, harming you as you strive for inner healing and a physical challenge.
• It’s important that you invest in a non-toxic yoga mat that is safe for your overall health and practice. 

Today is the day to invest in a top-quality yoga necessities at Pureful Yoga!