If you want to elevate your practice of Urdhva Mukha Svanasana, also known as Upward-Facing Dog, your yoga mat can make all the difference. Choosing the right mat not only improves your stability and comfort but also protects your joints as you deepen your backbend. By understanding what qualities to look for in a mat, you can enjoy a safer, more effective practice that supports your goals and helps you stay motivated.
In this article, you’ll discover the secrets behind selecting yoga mats and accessories that enhance this iconic pose and your overall yoga experience.
Top Picks
Category | Product | Score |
|---|---|---|
🏆 Best Overall | 92/100 | |
💰 Best Value | 88/100 |
How We Chose These Yoga Mats and Accessories
When selecting the best options to help you master Urdhva Mukha Svanasana, we focused on factors that directly impact your comfort, stability, and safety. These include mat thickness for joint cushioning, non-slip texture for steady hand and foot placement, durability for long-term use, and portability if you like to practice on the go. We also took into account user feedback to ensure mats and towels perform well in real-world settings and support a sweat-free, stable practice.
Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat
This mat feels like the perfect balance between cushiony and supportive. It’s extra thick at 2/5 inch, which really helps if you’re holding poses like Urdhva Mukha Svanasana and want to protect your joints. Made from soft NBR foam, it’s comfortable enough to stretch out on but also sturdy so you won’t sink into it.
Whether you’re rolling it out for daily yoga sessions, Pilates, or just a quick floor workout, it’s got you covered. Also, the included strap makes it easy to carry around, so you can take your practice anywhere.
It’s a solid pick if you want something reliable without fuss or fancy extras.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✅ Thicker than average for extra comfort | ❌ Can sometimes tear or get gouges with nail damage |
✅ Good grip on various floor types | ❌ May feel slippery if you don’t sweat much or on certain surfaces |
✅ Carrying strap makes it portable | ❌ Carrier strap can be a bit fiddly to put on |
✅ Soft but supportive foam | |
✅ Long enough for most users |
What People Say
People really like how cushy and comfortable this mat is, especially for stretching and joint support. Many appreciate that it’s long enough for taller yogis and comes with a strap to carry it easily as they head to class or practice anywhere.
🗣️ Mia King
This mat is exactly what I needed for stretching! It’s thick and has good grip, though a little narrower than expected. Great for the price!
🗣️ Hair Queen
I love this yoga mat. Very soft and comfortable with awesome thickness. It’s long enough to support your whole body and not thin like others. I brought two already because it feels it will last a long time.
Situational Benefits
Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
Yoga and Pilates practice | The thick cushion protects your knees and wrists, letting you hold poses longer without discomfort. |
Floor exercises or stretching | Soft foam provides a comfortable surface while supporting your body during core workouts or stretching. |
On-the-go sessions | Comes with a carry strap so you can easily take it to class, the park, or on trips. |
Beginners needing extra support | Extra padding helps protect your joints as you build strength and flexibility. |
Practicing on hard floors | The mat’s thickness absorbs impact and gives better traction compared to thinner mats. |
About Gaiam
Gaiam is a well-known name in the yoga and fitness community, trusted for producing durable and beginner-friendly mats that balance quality and affordability. Their mats have been around for years, and you can feel confident in their products being consistent and dependable.
Eco Friendliness
This mat is made from NBR foam, which isn’t the most eco-friendly material out there compared to natural rubber mats. If environmental impact is a top priority for you, it’s worth considering other options, but this mat focuses more on comfort and affordability.
Key Benefits
- Extra thick cushioning to protect your joints during poses
- Soft NBR foam offers comfortable stretch and support
- Includes a convenient carrying strap for on-the-go use
- Generous length fits taller practitioners comfortably
- Lightweight and easy to roll up for storage or transport
Rating: 4.6 (total: 42,152+)
Get DetailsFAQ
What Should I Look For In A Yoga Mat To Help Me Master Urdhva Mukha Svanasana?
When you’re practicing Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward-Facing Dog), having the right yoga mat can make all the difference. You want a mat with excellent grip to prevent your hands and feet from slipping as you open your chest and lengthen your spine.
Cushioning is key too, especially under your wrists and knees, so a thicker mat like the Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat with 2/5 inch padding offers just the right joint support without feeling squishy. Also, consider the mat’s durability, especially if you’re practicing regularly.
Look for quality materials such as NBR foam, which combines comfort and long-lasting performance. Lastly, portability may matter if you take your practice on the go—mats that come with an easy-cinch strap make carrying hassle-free.
Can I Use A Yoga Mat For Hot Yoga Or Sweaty Practices When Working On This Pose?
If you’re doing intense sessions or hot yoga while mastering this pose, sweat can affect your stability. You might find that even a good mat like the Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat tends to get slippery as you sweat, so it’s smart to invest in a non-slip yoga towel designed for hot yoga.
This added layer keeps you comfortable and in control, so you can focus on refining your Urdhva Mukha Svanasana without worrying about sliding. Just remember to regularly wash your mat and towel to keep them fresh and odor-free.
How Do I Care For My Yoga Mat To Keep It Supporting My Practice For Longer?
Taking care of your yoga mat properly ensures you get the best performance and longevity. Most mats, like the Gaiam Essentials, should be hand washed with mild soap and water—avoid machine washing to maintain their structure. Always let your mat air dry flat, away from direct sunlight, which can cause the material to become brittle or fade.
If you’ve got a printed PVC mat, airing it out for a few days when new helps reduce factory odors. Using a mat bag protects it during transport and storage. If you sweat a lot, wiping down your mat after each session prevents grime buildup and helps maintain grip.
These small habits will keep your mat supportive and comfortable as you build strength in your Urdhva Mukha Svanasana and beyond.
Wrapping Up
Mastering Urdhva Mukha Svanasana is more achievable when you have the right yoga mat and gear supporting your practice. With proper cushioning, grip, and stability, you reduce the risk of injury and enhance your focus on alignment and breath. Whether you choose the thick cushioning of the Gaiam Essentials mat or the stylish and stable Gaiam Print mat, these tools will help you progress confidently.
Investing in quality yoga accessories is an investment in your body’s well-being and your personal growth on the mat.
| Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat | Gaiam Print Yoga Mat | |
|---|---|---|
|  | |
| Rating | 4.6/5 (42,152 reviews) | 4.5/5 (11,155 reviews) |
| Material | Made from NBR Foam | PVC |
| Dimensions | 72″L x 24″W x 0.39″Th | 68″L x 24″W x 0.16″Th |
| Weight | 3.11 lbs | 1.9 lbs |
| Get Details | Get Details |
