Overview and First Impressions
The Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat with Easy-Cinch Yoga Mat Carrier Strap is a standout choice for anyone seeking a comfortable, supportive, and user-friendly mat for all sorts of floor exercises. With its thick cushioning and vibrant color options, this product is quickly cementing itself as a favorite among yoga enthusiasts, beginners, home workout fans, and even those needing extra padding for physical therapy or everyday comfort. Its popularity is reflected in its impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars rating, backed by over 43,000 enthusiastic reviews on Amazon and thousands of monthly sales. My first impression was just how welcoming and plush it feels right out of the box, suggesting it’s built for both comfort and versatility. Whether you’re easing into a yoga practice, want extra support for Pilates, or simply desire a go-to mat for daily stretching, this product is designed to meet a variety of needs with style.
The included carrier strap hints at its portability and convenience, while Gaiam’s reputation for accessible, quality fitness gear sets the tone for a user-friendly experience. This mat appears to be ideal for people who value extra cushioning, those rehabbing from injury, or anyone who spends plenty of time on their knees and joints during exercise. Let’s dive deeper into the features and real-world performance of this popular yoga mat.
Design and Build Quality
This product measures a generous 72 inches long by 24 inches wide and boasts a substantial 2/5-inch (10mm) thickness, providing more coverage and cushioning than most standard yoga mats. Made from high-density NBR foam, it strikes a balance between plush comfort and lightweight construction, weighing in at just 3.11 lbs (930 grams). Right out of the box, the mat feels soft yet resilient, with a slightly textured, low-odor surface that exudes quality and durability.
One of the mat’s biggest appeals is its color selection. With options ranging from classic Black and Navy to vibrant Teal, Orange, Pink, Green, Red, Purple, and Grey, there’s a style to complement any personality or workout space. The overall look is simple but inviting, with clean lines and a consistent surface finish that looks attractive in any fitness setup.
The included easy-cinch yoga mat carrier strap is a thoughtful addition. It’s made from sturdy material, adjusts quickly, and doubles as a handy way to keep the mat rolled tight for storage. Design-wise, this product feels approachable for all ages and fitness levels—no intimidating features or unnecessary frills, just what you need to get moving comfortably and confidently.
Comfort and Cushioning
If you’re seeking a mat that prioritizes joint protection and plushness, this product delivers in spades. The 10mm thickness is notably more substantial than the typical 4mm–6mm yoga mats, making it especially kind to knees, elbows, wrists, and backs. This extra padding is a game changer for anyone with sensitive joints, those doing long-held stretches, or people recovering from injury.
During yoga, Pilates, or general stretching, the high-density NBR foam gently compresses and rebounds, absorbing shock and preventing that dreaded “hard floor” feel. For example, I found Savasana (corpse pose) much more enjoyable—my back stayed comfortable and there was no pressure on my tailbone even on hardwood floors. Customers with arthritis or joint pain often mention this mat enables them to do routines they’d otherwise avoid on thinner mats.
However, the extra thickness does slightly affect stability for advanced balance poses, such as tree pose or intricate inversions. For gentle yoga, restorative practices, physical therapy, or moderate floor workouts, this mat is a revelation. But for experienced yogis who regularly perform complex balancing asanas, you might want to pair it with a firmer, thinner mat for those specific routines. For everyday users and those craving more support, it’s an absolute winner.
Grip and Non-Slip Performance
This product features a textured, non-slip surface engineered to help keep you steady throughout your practice. On hard floors, tile, and even slightly uneven outdoor surfaces, the mat’s underside generally stays put thanks to its grippy material. The top layer’s slight ridges help prevent hands and feet from sliding, allowing for more confident transitions between poses or exercises.
During dynamic yoga sessions or HIIT routines—the kind that leave you sweaty—it does a good job maintaining traction. Multiple reviewers mention using this mat during vigorous flows or Pilates, with only minor shifting if the floor is particularly smooth or if a lot of moisture is present. For most users, a quick towel-off or wearing socks with grip soles mitigates any occasional slipperiness.
It’s worth noting that the mat’s softness can compress a bit where body parts press down, which may slightly reduce traction in those areas during longer holds. For hot yoga or those who sweat profusely, a yoga towel can be used atop the mat for added security. For the general user, grip is above average for a thick foam mat, making this product suitable for everything from gentle Hatha yoga to more active stretching and floor calisthenics.
Durability and Longevity
Durability is a key consideration for any fitness mat, and overall, this product stands up well to frequent use. The high-density NBR foam resists tears, dents, and permanent compression better than many budget mats. It’s designed to bounce back after workouts, maintaining its thickness and support for months or even years with moderate care.
That said, some users who practice daily or put the mat through intense calisthenics report seeing wear and impressions after several months. For example, one customer who uses the mat for daily Pilates and yoga notes that while it’s “the most comfortable mat I’ve ever had,” it shows signs of wearing down faster than a firmer, thinner mat they own. If you treat the mat gently and avoid using shoes with tread, it often lasts much longer.
Many reviewers, including those using the mat for physical therapy or as a play area for children, praise its resilience and note that their mats have held up beautifully after years of regular use. However, if you need ultra-long-lasting durability for heavy-duty, high-impact workouts, be prepared for periodic replacement—though at this price point, that’s a reasonable tradeoff for such comfort.
Portability and Storage
This product earns high marks for portability. The lightweight 3.11 lb design makes it easy to tote around, and the adjustable carrying strap is both practical and comfortable to sling over your shoulder. Rolling the mat up takes just a few seconds, and thanks to the strap, it stays securely rolled for compact storage in a closet, backseat, or gym locker.
For those who journey to yoga classes, gyms, or parks, the mat’s combination of plushness and easy transport is especially convenient. Several reviewers mention taking the mat to the beach, on vacation, or even using it as a standing desk pad at the office—all without hassle. When rolled, the mat only occupies a modest footprint (about 6–7 inches in diameter and 24 inches wide), fitting neatly into most storage spaces and making clutter a non-issue.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning your mat shouldn’t be a chore, and this product makes it simple. The NBR foam is naturally odor-resistant, so you won’t notice that off-putting chemical smell common in cheaper mats. In my own experience, after a few weeks of daily use, the mat retained only the faintest, pleasant “new product” scent, which faded quickly.
Maintenance is as easy as wiping down the surface with a damp cloth and mild soap—no need for specialized sprays or cleaners. The mat’s closed-cell construction makes it resistant to absorbing sweat or dirt, so it remains fresh and hygienic after repeated use. For those who practice outside or have pets or kids using the mat, this low-maintenance cleanup is a notable advantage.
Versatility and Use Cases
One of the best features of this product is its sheer versatility. While it shines as a yoga and Pilates mat, its thick, supportive surface makes it suitable for a range of activities. For example, physical therapists recommend it to clients recovering from injuries, as the cushioning eases pressure on sore joints. Parents use it as a safe, comfy play area for toddlers, and pet owners find it works well for dog training or giving pets a non-slip place to rest.
Working from home? Place the mat under a standing desk for fatigue-free standing or as a quick stretching zone. Some customers even use it as a sleep mat for camping or guest overflow. Whether you’re stretching, meditating, practicing yoga, or just looking for extra padding on a hard floor for everyday tasks, this product adapts to your life with ease. Its popularity isn’t limited to one demographic—it’s a go-to for students, seniors, athletes, and families alike.
User Reviews and Ratings
With more than 43,000 reviews and a stellar 4.6-star average rating, this product has clearly won the trust of Amazon shoppers. The vast majority of feedback is positive, with 77% of reviews awarding a full five stars. Users repeatedly praise the mat’s comfort, saying it “transforms hard floors” and “makes workouts enjoyable again.” Tall users celebrate its generous length, and those with joint pain are thrilled by the difference in support compared to standard mats.
Some common themes emerge in the reviews—while comfort and transportability win universal acclaim, a few users note that the mat can show wear over months of daily, vigorous use, particularly under heavier bodies or intense activities. A handful of reviews mention mild slippage on very smooth floors, especially when wet, but most agree the mat remains stable for typical home or studio conditions. Overall, reviewers agree that for the price, this product offers impressive value, comfort, and versatility.
Comparisons to Similar Mats
Compared to standard yoga mats in the $20–$40 range, this product stands out for its extra thickness and plush feel. Most budget mats are 4mm–6mm thick, providing less cushioning for joints and less comfort during floor-based exercises. Premium, ultra-thick mats can cost much more, but often sacrifice portability or ease of cleaning.
In head-to-head comparisons, the Gaiam Essentials mat rivals much more expensive models in terms of comfort and size, but at a far more accessible price point. While some competitors may offer slightly better durability or firmer support for advanced yoga, few offer the all-around value, color options, and user-friendliness of this product. If you prioritize thick cushioning and a supportive surface, it’s tough to find better for the money.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extra-thick 10mm cushioning is exceptionally joint-friendly
- Lightweight and easy to carry with the included strap
- Wide range of stylish color options
- Generous size fits taller users and broad movement styles
- Non-slip surface provides good traction for most activities
- Odor-resistant and simple to keep clean
- Versatile for yoga, Pilates, stretching, physical therapy, kids, and more
- Great value for the price
Cons:
- Thicker cushion can reduce stability for advanced balance poses
- May show dents or wear after prolonged, intense daily use
- Potential mild slippage on very smooth or wet surfaces
Who Should Buy This Mat?
This product is an excellent fit for a wide range of users. If you’re a beginner to yoga or fitness and need extra joint support, this mat will make your routines more enjoyable and accessible. It’s particularly suitable for seniors, those with arthritis, or anyone rehabbing an injury who needs extra padding. Parents looking for a play mat, pet owners needing a washable pad, or remote workers needing anti-fatigue comfort at a standing desk will also love this mat’s adaptability.
Seasoned yogis who want a plush mat for gentle or restorative routines will find it a perfect complement to their practice. However, if you’re heavily focused on advanced balance work or hot yoga, consider using this mat alongside a thinner, firmer option for those specific needs. For most home exercisers, stretching enthusiasts, and multi-purpose households, this versatile mat is a smart, budget-friendly investment.
Final Verdict
After testing and analyzing thousands of reviews, it’s clear that this product is a top contender for anyone prioritizing comfort, support, and versatility in a yoga or exercise mat. Its extra-thick cushioning, attractive color choices, and easy portability make it a favorite across all user types. While it may not outlast every competitor in high-wear scenarios or suit every advanced yogi’s needs, its strengths far outweigh its minor drawbacks. For the price, this mat delivers exceptional value and can transform your fitness routine or living space into a more comfortable, inviting environment. If you’re tired of thin, unforgiving mats or just want a do-it-all surface for your daily movement, this product is highly recommended.
