Firm, long-lasting support that keeps you steady for bridges, planks, and control-focused Pilates.
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Pilates on the wrong yoga mat feels like sliding on ice or bruising your spine on the floor. These mats hit the sweet spot: stable support for control work with the grip you need for planks, bridges, and transitions.
In-depth Reviews
Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
- Very steady under load for core and plank work
- Easy to wipe down and keep hygienic
- Long-term durability for frequent practice
- Grip can take time to feel fully dialed in
- Not the lightest option to carry to class
B Yoga B MAT Strong
- Excellent traction for hands and feet
- Feels secure for quick transitions and holds
- Supportive cushioning without a “pillow” effect
- Shows dust and lint more easily
- Needs regular cleaning to maintain peak grip
Liforme Original Yoga Mat
- Alignment markers make setup faster and more consistent
- Strong grip that supports controlled transitions
- Encourages cleaner form for symmetrical work
- Less plush for sensitive knees or hips
- Requires thoughtful drying and storage to protect the surface
Lululemon The Mat (Reversible) 5mm
- Reliable grip for planks, bear holds, and transitions
- Reversible feel lets you choose more or less tack
- Comfortable for knees without feeling unstable
- Can show wear and marks over time
- Needs regular cleaning to prevent odor buildup
JadeYoga Harmony Mat
- High traction for hands and feet on smooth floors
- Grounded feel that supports precise control work
- Natural rubber surface many people prefer
- Not ideal for latex sensitivity
- Can degrade faster if left in heat or direct sun
Buying Guide
Quick Care Guide: Keep Your Mat Grippy (and Not Funky)
Grip usually fails for two reasons: residue and moisture. After Pilates, do a quick wipe with a lightly damp cloth and a small amount of gentle soap, then follow with plain water on the cloth so you are not leaving anything behind that can turn slick later. Let the mat dry flat or draped over a chair so both sides fully air-dry before you roll it up.
If your mat is the super-grippy, more absorbent type, avoid soaking it in a tub or spraying it until it is wet through, since trapped moisture is where odors start. A light, frequent clean is better than an occasional deep drench. Store it out of direct sun and away from heaters, especially for rubber mats, since heat can dry out the surface and shorten the mat’s life.
For extra comfort on days your knees or tailbone feel tender, use a small folded towel as a targeted “booster” instead of switching to a thick, squishy mat that can throw off balance work. This keeps your setup stable while still giving you relief exactly where you need it.
💡 Editor’s Final Thoughts
Final Verdict: For most people, the Manduka PRO Yoga Mat is the best yoga mat for Pilates because it stays put, feels steady under pressure, and holds up for years of floor work. If slipping is your main problem, move toward a higher-tack option like the B Yoga B MAT Strong for a more “locked in” feel.
See also
For a cleaner, more comfortable home practice space, start with air purifiers for home workouts and, if you practice in a basement or converted room, consider home mold test kits for peace-of-mind screening.
- Anti-chafe sticks that hold up during workouts
- Laundry routines that keep workout gear comfortable for sensitive skin
- Multitasking product picks for busy parents
Frequently Asked Questions ▾
Is a yoga mat or a Pilates mat better for mat Pilates?
It depends on what your sessions include. A Pilates mat is usually thicker and softer, which can feel great for lots of rolling, side-lying work, and longer floor sequences. A yoga mat is typically firmer, which helps you feel stable for planks, standing balance, and controlled transitions that can get wobbly on a plush surface.
If you want one mat to cover Pilates plus occasional yoga or strength work, a firm yoga mat in the medium-thick range is usually the most versatile choice.
What thickness is best for Pilates on a yoga mat?
Most people land happiest in the medium zone because it protects bony contact points without turning the mat into a mattress. If your wrists, knees, or tailbone get sore easily, choose a mat that feels supportive rather than spongy when you press into it. If you prioritize stability for single-leg work, teaser variations, and precise foot placement, a slightly thinner, firmer mat often feels more controlled.
If you do lots of spinal articulation and still want a yoga mat, consider pairing a firm mat with a small folded towel under your spine when needed.
How do I keep my yoga mat from sliding on hardwood or tile during Pilates?
Start with the basics: wipe dust off the floor and the underside of your mat before practice, since fine dust is a surprisingly common cause of sliding. If the mat still creeps during bridges or side planks, a thin non-slip underlay (or even a lightly damp towel under the top corners) can anchor it without changing the feel on top.
Also check your cleaning product. Residue from oily sprays can make the mat slick, especially on smooth studio floors.
Do grippier mats require more cleaning?
Often, yes. The mats that feel the most “locked in” can have a surface that grabs moisture and skin oils, which means they also tend to hold onto sweat, lint, and dust. Regular wipe-downs keep grip consistent and help with odor, but it is just as important to let the mat fully air-dry before you roll it up.
If you prefer the easiest cleanup, look for a less absorbent surface you can wipe quickly, especially if you practice in a shared studio or you are sensitive to smells.
Can I wear grippy socks on these mats for Pilates?
Yes, and for many people they are a practical upgrade for Pilates, especially during reformer-inspired standing work done on the mat, or if your feet get sweaty. On very tacky mats, though, grippy socks can feel almost too sticky and may “catch” during pivots or quick transitions, which some people find annoying.
If you are between sizes or you do a lot of foot articulation, test barefoot first, then add socks only when you need extra traction or warmth.
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