3mm yoga mat serve as protective barriers when exercising on the floor. Since one usually practices with bare feet, having good insulation from the cold ground is essential. Mats also provide a cleaner surface on which to lie down if you need to for stretches, poses, and exercises. They come in a range of thickness with each being suitable for different applications and comfort levels. Make sure that you pay attention to this when buying a mat because it will have a big effect on portability and ease of use. Some might think that thicker is always better but thinner mats also have their place. A 3mm yoga mat offers the sweet spot for cushioning.
1/16 inch
This is the thinnest type of mat that you will see. Because they are so thin, mats of this type can be folded instead of rolled. This may be ideal if you want to put them in a pouch inside your bag instead of carrying a cylinder with straps on your shoulders. It is common to see these made from rubber with some having a suede top. If you like to travel, then these compact and lightweight mats could be perfect for you.
1/8 inch
Although 1/16 mats win in terms of portability, they suffer from the lack of cushioning. Experienced yogis may not need much of a cushion since their bodies have already adapted to the stresses but beginners may find extra thin mats to be uncomfortable to use. Doubling the thickness to 1/8 inch or 3mm is a good way to go. Users will still get that connection with the ground for excellent stability and their joints won’t have to suffer during practice.
1/4 inch
The 1/4 inch mats are also popular for those who need even more cushioning such as absolute beginners, seniors, and people who have joint issues. You can sit on this kind of mat for longer without feeling pain. However, this can start to feel a bit bulky for travel. It’s fine if you are just at home or going to a nearby yoga studio but actual anything longer might not be so convenient.
1/2 inch
For those who need maximal cushioning, a half-inch of thickness should do the trick. This should be good for heavier individuals who mostly exercise at home. It’s also a smart option for those who perform a lot of restorative yoga styles that have them lying on the ground most of the time. They will be able to relax throughout their sessions.