There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to yoga mats. The best mat for you depends on how you move, where you practice, and what kind of support you need. 

If you're looking for a mat that can keep up with a wide variety of classes (heated or not) the GRP® Adapt is a versatile go-to. Designed with an open-cell, moisture-absorbing surface, it pulls in sweat and delivers serious grip whether you're flowing through a power vinyasa or settling into a restorative hold. It performs well in both dry and sweaty conditions, so you don’t have to think twice about which class you're headed to.  

For those who prefer a natural rubber grip and mostly practice in non-heated environments, the eKO® Series offers a firm, supportive foundation with a textured, closed-cell surface. In warmer or sweatier sessions, pairing it with a Yogitoes® or eQua® hot yoga towel can help maintain grip. 

Doing a more restorative or meditative practice? The Begin Mat offers a cushioned, supportive feel in a lightweight, 5mm design. 

For those who use yoga as part of their fitness training and want a mat that can do both, consider the Manduka X mat, which is designed for cross training. 

Need more guidance? Check out these helpful articles: 

• A Few Things To Consider Before Buying A Mat
• New To Yoga: First Essentials 

Closed-cell mats (like the eKO® and PRO®) have a non-porous surface that doesn’t absorb sweat or moisture. This keeps bacteria out and makes cleaning easier. However, in sweaty practices, sweat may sit on the surface, so a hot yoga towel is recommended. 

Open-cell mats (like the GRP® Adapt) are absorbent. They pull moisture into the mat, which helps maintain grip during hot or sweaty sessions. 

Absolutely—blocks and straps help support proper alignment, increase stability, and make certain poses more accessible. 

Manduka’s cork and foam blocks offer support (foam is softer and lighter, cork is firmer and weighted). 

Straps like the AligN and UnfoLD help you extend your reach and hold poses comfortably, especially if you’re working on flexibility. 

If you sweat during practice or take heated or high-intensity classes, a hot yoga towel can make a big difference. It helps absorb moisture, adds grip, and keeps your mat clean and dry. Without one, sweat can sit on the surface of your mat and cause slipping, especially on mats with closed-cell surfaces. 

Manduka offers two types of moisture-activated hot yoga mat & hand towels: 

•  Yogitoes®: Ultra-absorbent with silicone nubs that grip your mat and stay in place. 
•  eQua®: Soft, comfortable microfiber that grips at the first hint of sweat. 

Both are great options for layering over your mat when you need extra traction. 

Want help deciding which one is right for you? Read our guide to yoga towels → 

Regular cleaning helps extend the life of your mat and keeps it feeling fresh. After each practice, lightly spray your mat with Manduka Yoga Mat Wash & Refresh, then wipe it down with a clean cloth.  

If you use a natural rubber mat like the eKO® Series, we recommend a deeper clean once a month. Apply Manduka Natural Rubber Yoga Mat Restore across the surface, let it sit for five minutes, then wipe it dry with a clean cloth.  

Read our full guide to cleaning your yoga mat → 

From wearing the right clothing to getting the right yoga mat and everything in between, we have put together a guide with everything you might need to know when starting yoga.