Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium 5mm Non Slip Exercise Mat - Cushioned Support

In this review of the Gaiam Yoga Mat - Premium 5mm Solid Thick Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat, the bottom line is simple: it is a dependable, cushioned mat for home yoga, Pilates and floor workouts that prioritizes joint comfort and grip. The mat's key draw is its 5mm thickness combined with a textured sticky surface that helps keep hands and feet from sliding during most routines. For anyone seeking a lightweight, affordable mat to practice on at home or in low-impact classes, this mat delivers practical padding and a clean design without unnecessary extras.

Key Features

• 5mm thickness: Provides noticeable cushioning for knees, hips and wrists during floor work and gentle yoga sequences.
• Textured non-slip surface: The sticky texture improves traction and helps maintain stable poses during standing and balancing moves.
• Lightweight construction: Easy to carry and roll up for storage, making it convenient for at-home practice and occasional transport.
• Non toxic 6P free PVC: Manufactured without DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP for a cleaner option compared with standard PVC mats.
• Free downloadable yoga class: Includes a bonus workout to help new users get started with structured sessions.
• Standard dimensions: At 68 in by 24 in, it fits most users and provides ample length for a variety of poses.

Who It's For

The Gaiam 5mm mat is best for casual practitioners, home exercisers and people who want extra joint cushioning without a heavy mat. It suits yoga styles that rely on comfort and modest traction rather than vigorous, sweat-heavy practices. Beginners will appreciate the included downloadable class to build confidence and routine.

Runners of hot, high-intensity or very sweaty practices and those who need extremely long-lasting, studio-grade durability may want to look at thicker or specialty rubber mats designed for heavy daily use, as user experiences vary on long-term wear and slipperiness under heavy perspiration.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable 5mm padding reduces pressure on joints during floor work and stretching.
• Sticky, textured surface generally improves grip for steady alignment in most poses.
• Lightweight and easy to roll and carry, convenient for home storage and travel.
• Non toxic 6P free PVC construction is a healthier material choice for many buyers.

Cons

• Some users report varying slipperiness and mixed long-term durability depending on use and sweat levels.
• May not be thick or grippy enough for very intense hot yoga or professional studio use.

Specifications

Brand	Gaiam
Thickness	5mm
Dimensions	68 in x 24 in
Material	Non toxic 6P free PVC
Surface	Textured sticky non-slip
Bonus	Free downloadable yoga workout

Our Verdict

The Gaiam Premium 5mm mat is a solid value for home yogis and casual exercisers who want extra padding and a tacky surface without a heavy or costly mat. It balances comfort, portability and cleaner PVC construction, making it a practical everyday choice, though people practicing hot or very intense styles should evaluate grip and durability for their specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the mat have a strong chemical smell when unwrapped?
It may have a mild odor at first; unrolling and airing it out for 2 to 3 days usually dissipates any harmless smell.

Is this mat suitable for hot yoga?
The textured non-slip surface helps, but for very sweaty hot yoga some users may find grip less reliable and should consider a specialty mat or towel.

How portable is the mat?
The mat is lightweight and rolls up easily for transport and storage, so it is convenient for carrying to classes or storing at home.