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kristenhorb2's pick · Updated October 2026

Gaiam Thick Yoga Mat

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Gaiam Thick Yoga Mat, Exercise & Fitness Mat with Easy-Cinch Carrying Strap
The pick

I bought these yoga mats for my clients to use during our breathwork sessions, and I'm really happy with them. That use case matters, because a mat for guided breathing work is not the same as a mat for hard floor workouts. Comfort, easy setup, and easy cleanup tend to matter more than fancy extras, and this mat looks aimed at that kind of setting.

The thickness is the main reason to consider it. A thicker mat can make long breathing sessions feel less harsh on knees, hips, and elbows, and that can help people settle in instead of shifting around to get comfortable. The lightweight feel and the carrying strap are also useful if the mat gets moved from one room to another, or if you are packing several mats for a class. That mix of comfort and portability is what makes it stand out as a practical choice for both personal use and group sessions.

One thing to verify is whether the thickness feels stable enough for the kind of movement you plan to do on it. A softer mat is usually a better match for breathwork, stretching, and slower floor work than for routines that need a very firm surface. If you want a mat for balance-heavy standing poses or intense training, it is worth checking whether this level of cushioning feels right for you.

My evidence here is simple and direct: these were bought for clients, used in breathwork sessions, and the comfort and portability were the qualities that stood out. I am not trying to stretch that into a bigger claim than it is. The notes support a mat that is easy to carry, easy to roll up, and easy to live with in a class setting, which is enough to make it worth a look.

If you need a mat that leans toward comfort and convenience rather than a minimalist feel, this seems like a sensible fit. It may be especially useful for someone setting up a small studio, running group sessions, or just wanting a thicker mat that is not a hassle to move around. For that kind of buyer, it makes good practical sense.

Again, the strongest case for it is not that it tries to do everything. It is that it gives you a comfortable surface, keeps transport simple, and fits the rhythm of sessions where people need to relax on the floor for a while. That is a clear enough purpose, and in the right setting it should do that job well.

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