Hello to all you yoga mats out there, If you’ve been on the lookout for a reliable, budget-friendly mat for your home practice, you’ve likely come across the Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Mat. I’ve spent some time diving into user feedback and testing out this mat in my own sessions.
First Impressions
Thickness & Comfort
The most standout feature for me is its extra thickness—advertised at half an inch. This level of padding can be a blessing for anyone with sensitive joints or knees. I noticed a pleasant cushioning effect during seated postures and knee-down poses like Low Lunge. The softness provides a more forgiving surface, especially for yogis who are prone to elbow or wrist discomfort.
Affordability
A big draw for many reviewers is the mat’s accessible price point. As yoga gear can quickly get expensive, having a thicker option without breaking the bank is appealing. It’s a nice choice for those new to the practice who want to get started with something comfortable and cost-effective.
Performance in Practice
Grip & Stability
Some users highlight that the mat feels slightly slippery, especially if your hands and feet start to sweat. If your practice involves more vigorous styles like Vinyasa or hot yoga, you might notice the slickness in standing and balancing poses. Personally, I found I had to re-adjust my hands occasionally during Downward-Facing Dog, which can be a slight interruption in the flow.
Durability
Thicker foam mats, while cozy, sometimes show wear faster than thinner, denser mats. Several reviewers mention indentations or small tears forming over time, which is something to keep in mind if you’re planning on rigorous daily usage or more demanding yoga styles. That said, for moderate at-home sessions or restorative practice, it should hold up well.
Best Use Cases
- Beginner Yogis: If you’re just starting out and want something soft to cushion your joints, this mat offers ample support at a wallet-friendly price.
- Gentle or Restorative Yoga: For slower-paced sequences, stretching, or basic bodyweight workouts, the extra padding feels especially soothing.
- Spare/Backup Mat: Due to its affordability, it can be a practical choice as a secondary mat—for example, if you host yoga sessions for friends or need an additional mat for occasional use.
Tips & Considerations
- Mat Towel or Non-Slip Accessories: If sweaty palms are an issue, pairing this mat with a towel or investing in a non-slip towel layer can help enhance grip and confidence in poses.
- Regular Maintenance: Occasionally wipe down the surface with a mild cleaning solution to keep it fresh and preserve its integrity.
- Check Your Storage: Rolling the mat loosely rather than folding it can prevent permanent creases or compression marks.
The Bottom Line
Overall, the Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Mat excels in delivering cushioned comfort and a budget-friendly price tag. It shines in more gentle practices and for those needing extra joint support. However, if you’re an avid yogi engaging in intense, sweat-inducing sessions, you might find yourself wishing for a grippier surface and more durable construction.
In short, if comfort and cost-savings are top priorities, this mat is well worth considering. Just be mindful of the potential for slipperiness, and store and maintain it properly to extend its lifespan. Happy practicing!
WSYM 
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