Choosing the Right Yoga Mat Size
Yoga mat sizes range from compact travel mats to extra long and wide options. The right size depends on your height, body type, and the style of yoga you practice. A mat that is too short forces your hands or feet off the mat during poses, while a mat that is too narrow feels cramped and limits movement. Understanding yoga mat dimensions ensures comfort and stability during practice.
Standard yoga mats are 68 inches long and 24 inches wide. This size fits most people under 6 feet tall and is the most common option in studios and retail stores. Extra long mats are 72 inches and suit people 6 feet and taller. Extra long plus mats are 84 inches for very tall practitioners. Wide mats are 30 inches across instead of 24, offering more space for broader body types or dynamic practices that require lateral movement.
History and Standards in Yoga Mat Sizing
Yoga mats became widely available in the 1980s when sticky mats replaced traditional cotton rugs. Early mats were often one size, around 68 by 24 inches, designed for average height practitioners. As yoga grew in popularity, manufacturers introduced longer and wider options to accommodate diverse body types. Today, most brands offer at least a standard and extra long size, with some providing custom lengths and widths.
Thickness standards also evolved. The first yoga mats were thin, around 2 to 3 mm, similar to exercise mats. As yoga styles diversified, thicker mats of 5 to 6 mm became popular for joint cushioning during kneeling and seated poses. Travel mats returned to thinner profiles of 1 to 2 mm for portability. There is no universal standard, but 3 to 5 mm is the most common range for general practice.
Common Yoga Mat Sizes Explained
A standard 68 by 24 inch mat works well for people 5 foot 6 and under. It provides enough length for full body stretches and fits easily in most yoga bags. Extra long 72 by 24 inch mats add 4 inches, which is important for taller practitioners who need space for arms overhead in poses like downward dog or supine stretches. Extra long plus mats at 84 by 24 inches are for people over 6 foot 3 or those who prefer maximum length.
Wide mats at 68 or 72 by 30 inches offer 6 inches more width than standard mats. This extra space helps during wide stance poses like warrior two or triangle, and provides comfort for people with broader shoulders or hips. Travel mats match standard dimensions at 68 by 24 but are only 1 to 2 mm thick, making them foldable and lightweight for packing in luggage. They are often used on top of studio mats for hygiene.
How to Choose the Right Yoga Mat Size
Measure your height and add at least 4 inches to find your minimum mat length. If you are 5 foot 10, a 72 inch mat is a better fit than a 68 inch mat. If you do a lot of jumping or wide stance poses, consider a wide mat. Lie down on a mat in the store if possible to test the fit. Your head and feet should both be on the mat with a few inches of clearance.
Think about your practice style. Gentle and restorative yoga benefit from thicker mats for comfort during long holds. Vinyasa and power yoga require thinner mats for better balance and connection to the floor. If you travel frequently or attend classes at a studio, a travel mat is a lightweight option. If you practice at home and store the mat rolled up, weight and portability are less important than comfort and durability.
Size Comparisons and Practical Differences
A 72 inch mat is about 6 percent longer than a 68 inch mat, which translates to 4 inches of extra space. This difference is small but significant for taller people who often find their hands or feet slipping off the edge of a standard mat. A wide mat at 30 inches is 25 percent wider than a standard 24 inch mat, which makes a noticeable difference in lateral poses and provides more room to move without leaving the mat.
Thickness comparisons matter for stability and cushioning. A 3 mm mat feels firm and provides good ground contact for balance poses. A 6 mm mat is twice as thick and offers more cushioning but can feel unstable during standing poses like tree or half moon. A 1 mm travel mat provides minimal padding but weighs only a few ounces, while a 6 mm mat may weigh several pounds and require a larger carrying bag.
Regional Variations and International Sizing
Yoga mat sizing is fairly consistent internationally, but some brands use metric measurements. A 173 cm mat is equivalent to 68 inches, and 183 cm is 72 inches. European and Australian brands may offer slightly different dimensions, such as 180 by 60 cm, which is 71 by 23.6 inches. Always check exact measurements rather than relying on labels like standard or extra long, as definitions vary by brand.
Travel mats are especially popular in regions where people commute to yoga studios by bike or public transit. In Asia, where space is limited, thinner and more compact mats are common. In the US and Europe, home practice is more prevalent, leading to higher demand for thicker, more durable mats. Consider local norms and your own needs when selecting a mat, especially if purchasing from an international retailer.
Practical Tips for Yoga Mat Selection
Test thickness by pressing your knee into the mat. You should feel cushioned but not unstable. If your knee hurts on a thin mat, choose a thicker option or use a folded towel for extra padding. For balance poses, a thinner mat provides better stability. Check mat weight if you plan to carry it to classes. Mats range from 1 pound for travel mats to 5 pounds or more for thick, durable options.
Finally, consider material and texture. Some mats are sticky and provide grip, while others are smoother and may require a towel. Material affects thickness availability and environmental impact. Natural rubber mats are durable and eco friendly but can be heavy. PVC mats are lightweight and affordable but less sustainable. A yoga mat size guide with clear dimensions and thickness options helps you choose a mat that supports your practice and fits your body comfortably.