Why you'll love it: The
Manduka ProLite Yoga Mat provides just the right amount of padding without being too thick and clunky, and the price stays low even with its sustainable materials and no-slip grip.
When it’s time to trade in those bargain yoga steals for a yoga mat that’s built to last, the Manduka ProLite Yoga Mat is the way to go. Whether you’re practicing yoga daily or just stretching out once in a while, the 4.7mm thick padded mat will keep your hands, knees, and feet cushioned against any hard floor and will support your back as you relax into savasana.
In comparison with the Manduka Pro’s 6mm of padding, the ProLite mat sheds thickness without sacrificing comfort. It's much easier to roll up and take with you than the thicker Manduka Pro mat.
If this is your first investment in a well-made yoga mat, you might balk at the price tag's standing above the $20 mark. However, the Manduka ProLite mat comes with a lifetime guarantee, so you're safe from losing your mat to flaking, peeling, and fading. Whereas some mats deteriorate over time, Manduka promises that this one will only improve like a well-seasoned cast iron pan.
In my 13 years of practicing yoga, I much prefer a mat that wicks away moisture, sweat, and dirt instead of absorbing it into the material. The Manduka ProLite’s closed cell surface does just that, and the mat is easy to clean and treat. Vinegar and sea salt are recommended to help break in the mat’s texture and restore grippiness to the surface.
The more serious you get with your yoga practice, chances are a non-slip surface will rise to the top of your priority list. Contrary to what you might see on Instagram, even yogis sweat, and there’s nothing quite like sliding out of downward-facing dog into a flat pancake because you can’t keep your hands in place on your mat.
Reviewers give the Manduka ProLite high compliments when it comes to the mat’s non-slip texture. Manduka boasts that its “proprietary dot patterned bottom” prevents the mat from sliding across the floor, no matter how hot your yoga room gets.
Manduka makes the ProLite mat in two lengths — 71 and 79 inches — so that more height-gifted yogis can stretch out without fear. Considering that most color and length options stay below $80 on this mat, it feels like a cherry on the cake to see that the mat is completely non-toxic, 100 percent latex free, and even promises a clean manufacturing process.
When you’re ready to invest in a mat that will last a lifetime and treat your yoga body along with it, the Manduka ProLite is your best bet.
Pros: Just the right amount of padding to cushion knees and hands in tough poses, and the no-slip grip texture and eco-friendly materials are all covered under Manduka’s lifetime guarantee
Cons: Although it’s thin in comparison to the Manduka Pro version, the Manduka ProLite is still a pretty thick mat. And if treating your mat sounds like too much work, the ProLite does take some maintenance and attention
Buy the Manduka ProLite Yoga Mat on Amazon for $51 and up (price varies)