Overview and First Impressions
The Amazon Basics 1/2 Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap has become a household name for anyone looking to kickstart or upgrade their home fitness setup. Prominently featured across Amazon and consistently ranked as the #1 best-selling yoga mat in Sports & Outdoors, its popularity is matched by an impressive review count exceeding 100,000 with a stellar 4.6 out of 5-star average. Aimed at users of all fitness backgrounds—from yoga beginners and Pilates enthusiasts to those needing extra cushioning for stretching or core workouts—this mat promises comfort, convenience, and unbeatable value.
Right out of the box, the mat’s branding echoes what Amazon Basics does best: offering functional, no-nonsense products at accessible prices. The mat feels substantial and plush, with a clean and simple aesthetic that will appeal to those who want reliability without flashy branding. For under $20 (at the time of review), its value positioning is clear: you get a generously sized, thick mat ready for a wide array of uses, bundled with a sturdy elastic carrying strap for portability. For both newcomers and home fitness regulars, the first impression is that this product covers all the bases for comfort, support, and ease of use, making it immediately attractive whether you’re outfitting a small apartment, home gym, or planning to tote it to the studio.
Design and Build Quality
This product measures approximately 74 inches long by 24 inches wide and boasts a 1/2 inch (about 12mm) thickness—noticeably thicker than standard yoga mats, which typically range from 1/8 to 1/4 inch. The mat is constructed from 100% NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber) foam, a material known for its cushy, flexible texture and resilience. On first touch, it feels soft yet supportive, with a surface that is both textured and slightly grippy to the palm.
The edges are neatly finished, with no visible fraying or unevenness, and the mat unfurls flat without stubborn curling at the ends—a common annoyance with many rolled mats. There are three classic color options: Black for a sleek, low-profile look; Blue for a calming, neutral pop; and Pink for those who prefer a more vibrant touch. The included elastic strap is thoughtfully designed for easy rolling, securing, and shouldering the mat for transport. Overall, the build quality matches or exceeds many pricier competitors, positioning it as a durable staple for daily use.
Cushioning and Comfort
The hallmark feature of this product is its extra-thick, 1/2-inch padding. The moment you kneel or lie down, you’ll notice the difference—your joints are gently cradled and insulated from hard or cold flooring. This added cushioning is a game-changer, especially for people with sensitive knees, wrists, hips, or backs. For example, users recovering from injuries or dealing with arthritis have praised the mat for providing all-day comfort during physical therapy stretches, yoga poses, or meditation.
During exercises like cat-cow stretches, bridges, or Pilates ab routines, the plushness ensures you don’t feel the floor digging into your bones. At the same time, the foam is dense enough to offer reliable support and avoid that “sinking” feeling typical of cheaper, overly squishy mats. Parents even mention using the mat for tummy time with infants or as a play area, thanks to its forgiving cushioning. While extremely soft, it finds a good balance that allows for both active movement and restful static positions.
Grip and Traction
Grip is crucial for any exercise mat, and this product holds its own thanks to a subtly textured surface designed to enhance traction. For most yoga flows—especially gentle, restorative, and Hatha styles—the mat provides sufficient grip for both hands and feet, helping you maintain stability in downward dog, lunges, or seated stretches. Pilates practitioners and those doing core exercises appreciate that the mat doesn’t slip out from under them or bunch up during transitions.
That said, a few users have noted that very sweaty sessions or high-intensity, rapid movements (such as burpees or hot yoga) may cause the mat to shift on ultra-smooth floors. Likewise, if you’re practicing advanced balancing poses requiring extra-firm footing (like tree pose or one-legged squats), the plushness can reduce stability slightly, requiring extra focus to maintain balance. For most casual and intermediate practices, the grip is more than adequate, but those needing maximal stickiness for power or hot yoga might want to consider a specialty mat.
Durability and Wear
Despite its cushy feel, this product surprises many with its robust durability. The high-density NBR foam is stretchable and springs back into shape even after repeated rolling, kneeling, or lying down. Customer stories abound of mats lasting for years—even after being commandeered by pets or used outdoors. One creative reviewer even cut the mat in half to use as a portable dog bed and reported only minor surface marks from dog claws, with no major tearing or loss of comfort.
The mat resists flaking, tears, and compression even with daily use, though like all foam-based mats, extremely sharp objects or heavy-duty shoes can leave an impression over time. It holds up remarkably well on concrete patios, grassy parks, or gym floors, and the color does not fade quickly. The edges remain intact and the mat retains its shape, even after many cycles of rolling and unrolling—a testament to its thoughtful construction for budget-conscious buyers.
Portability and Storage
One of this product’s standout conveniences is its portability. Despite being extra thick, the mat is surprisingly lightweight, weighing under 2 pounds, which makes carrying it to yoga class or outdoor sessions a breeze. The elastic carrying strap is simple but effective—just roll up the mat, slide the strap on, and sling it over your shoulder.
It rolls up compactly, tucks into a corner of your closet, or fits easily in the trunk of your car. Several users have mentioned taking it on road trips, using it at hotels, or storing it under a bed after home workouts. The combination of thickness and low weight means even kids or seniors can handle transport without a struggle. Whether you’re heading to a local gym or setting up on your porch, this mat won’t weigh you down or hog storage space.
Ease of Cleaning
Ease of maintenance is another area where this product shines. The moisture-resistant NBR foam surface prevents sweat and spills from soaking in, so odors and stains don’t build up over time. After a sweaty session, I found a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild soap left the mat looking and smelling fresh. It air-dries quickly, meaning you can roll it up and put it away soon after use.
Parents and pet owners in particular appreciate how forgiving the mat is—several reviews describe cleaning up pet accidents or spilled drinks with no lingering smell or visible residue. Users even mention hosing the mat down in the shower or outdoors, and it bounces back to its original texture once dry. If you value low-maintenance fitness gear, this mat’s cleaning process couldn’t be more straightforward.
Size and Suitability
This product offers generous dimensions at 74 inches long and 24 inches wide, easily accommodating most adults—including many who are taller than average. If you’re under 6 feet tall, you’ll have plenty of space to stretch out fully in savasana or lengthen through a warrior series. Even at 6’4”, users report fitting comfortably, though those wanting extra-wide or extra-long mats (for example, 80 inches by 30 inches) might wish for more room.
The width is standard for the industry, so you won’t feel crowded but you also won’t take up too much space in a group setting. For those practicing at home, with children, or for multipurpose activities (like using the mat as a play area or for pet training), the ample size is a huge plus. Only the tallest users or those wanting extra width for broad poses may need to shop for specialty oversized mats.
Versatility and Use Cases
Versatility is at the core of this product’s appeal. While it is marketed primarily for yoga and fitness, customer stories show it being used for Pilates, strength training, stretching, meditation, and even unconventional applications. Dog owners rave about its suitability as a crate pad or training mat, while parents use it for baby playtime or as a padded barrier for crawling infants.
For fitness enthusiasts, the mat transitions easily between gentle yoga flows, ab work, foam rolling, seated strength exercises, or simple floor stretching. One reviewer even mentioned tossing it in the car for on-the-go workouts or picnics at the park. If you’re outfitting a multipurpose room or want gear that adapts to changing routines, this mat’s flexibility is hard to beat.
Color and Style Options
This product comes in three appealing colors: Black (classic and understated), Blue (cool and calming), and Pink (cheerful and vibrant). While the palette is simple, it covers most preferences—whether you want something minimal for your studio or a pop of color for motivation. The color stays true even after repeated cleaning and sun exposure, enhancing the mat’s visual longevity.
Choosing a mat that matches your personality—or makes you excited to unroll it every day—can be motivating. Buyers often mention picking a color that fits their home or gym decor, or gifting the mat to friends in their favorite shade. The minimalist branding and subtle textures make it appropriate for men, women, and kids alike.
Value for Money
At around $19.78, this product delivers serious bang for your buck. The combination of extra cushioning, a reputable brand, and a generous size is rare at this price point. Compared to boutique brands offering similar features for double or triple the cost, it’s easy to see why the mat is an “Amazon’s Choice” product and a bestseller year after year.
Users repeatedly mention the mat’s affordability as a deciding factor—especially for beginners, gift-givers, or those who want a spare mat for guests. Any occasional coupons or discounts make it an even better deal. In terms of features per dollar, this mat is frequently described as “worth every penny” and “the best value in its class.”
Customer Reviews and Ratings
With more than 100,000 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this product is clearly well-loved. 78% of customers rate it 5 stars, applauding its comfort, durability, and practicality. Common praise includes how well it cushions joints, how easy it is to clean, and its versatility for both exercise and daily life. Many users mention coming back to order more for family members or as gifts.
On the flip side, a small minority (under 2% at 1-star and 1% at 2-star) mention wanting an even larger size or more grip for advanced or hot yoga. Some also note that the plushness, while comfortable, can make it less stable for single-leg or balance-heavy poses. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores its status as a smart, reliable choice for most users.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Extra-thick cushioning protects joints during all types of workouts
- Durable, resilient NBR foam stands up to daily use
- Generous length accommodates taller users and a range of exercises
- Lightweight and comes with a practical carrying strap for portability
- Moisture-resistant and easy to wipe clean—no lingering odors or stains
- Great value for money, especially compared to premium brands
- Multipurpose design suitable for yoga, Pilates, stretching, kids, and pets
- Simple color choices to match any environment
Cons:
- May be too soft for advanced balance poses or intense, sweaty workouts
- Could shift slightly on ultra-smooth floors during rigorous movement
- Some users over 6’4” or wanting extra width may prefer a larger mat
- Grip is good but not optimized for hot yoga or maximal traction needs
Who Should Buy This Mat?
This product is ideal for beginners, casual yogis, Pilates practitioners, and anyone seeking joint-friendly comfort at a great price. It’s especially well-suited for:
- People with sensitive knees, backs, or wrists
- Those using hard or cold floors
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking high quality
- Travelers and students who value portability
- Parents or pet owners needing a forgiving, easy-to-clean surface
If you’re a serious hot yoga enthusiast, require extra-firm support for advanced balance work, or need an oversized mat, you may want to explore more specialized options. But for general use, this mat is tough to beat for comfort, convenience, and affordability.
Alternatives to Consider
If you prefer a thinner, firmer mat for hot yoga or fast-flow styles, options like the Gaiam Essentials Premium Mat (5mm thick) or Manduka ProLite (professional grade, firmer support) might be a better fit, though at a higher price point. For those over 6’4” or wanting extra width, specialty brands offer mats up to 80 inches long and 30 inches wide, but be prepared to pay more and forgo the extra cushioning.
If sustainability is a priority, eco-friendly alternatives made from natural rubber or cork are available, but often at double or triple the cost. For most users, however, this product’s blend of comfort, durability, and price remains unmatched.
Final Verdict
The Amazon Basics 1/2 Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap is a standout in the crowded world of fitness mats. It excels in all the fundamentals: cushioned comfort, durable build, easy care, and a price that makes wellness accessible to everyone. While it may not be the best choice for the most advanced or specialized workouts, it shines as a multipurpose, everyday mat perfect for home practice, studio sessions, or even creative uses with kids and pets.
Its extra thickness offers remarkable comfort for sensitive joints, while the size, portability, and color choices make it a versatile fit for nearly any user. Supported by an army of happy reviewers, this mat is a clear winner for those looking to start or enhance their fitness journey without breaking the bank. Highly recommended for comfort, reliability, and value.
