Gaiam Essentials Yoga Mat 6mm
Foundation for all poses, providing grip and cushioning in your studio space.
This 6mm thick PVC mat from Gaiam offers reliable non-slip surface for various yoga styles. At under $30, it fits budget setups perfectly with alignment lines for pose guidance.
Compared to $80+ Manduka mats, it lacks natural rubber grip in extreme sweat but excels for home use. Exceptional value: durable for 1-2 years of daily practice.
Pros
- +Excellent grip on both sides
- +6mm cushion for joints
- +Alignment markers aid beginners
- +Lightweight and easy to roll
- +Affordable entry to quality matting
Cons
- -PVC not eco-friendly
- -May wear faster than rubber
- -Slight odor initially
- -Not extra-wide
Upgrade Option: Manduka PROlite ($100) - superior natural rubber grip and 5+ year lifespan
Budget Alternative: Amazon Basics 1/2" Mat ($15) - thinner padding, less grip in sweat