Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Review: Is Extra Cushion Worth It?
30-second verdict
A thick foam mat that cushions knees for floor work, with trade-offs in balance, odor and durability.
Buying Guide Notes · First published:
Compiled from public sourcesWritten using published specs and user feedback.
Sources and verification status
Verification status: compiled from public sources; not hands-on tested
Data updated:
A thin yoga mat on a hardwood floor can make kneeling poses and core work uncomfortable. The Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat in Purple (ASIN B07H9PDL2Y, model 05-63318) measures 72 x 24 inches and has 10mm (2/5 inch) NBR foam and a black easy-cinch carry strap.
The solid purple mat has a finely ribbed surface and rolls up with the black strap.
When a 10mm Mat Makes More Sense Than a Thin One
This mat is best suited to floor-based routines such as stretching, Pilates, gentle yoga, core work and physical therapy exercises on hard floors. An r/yoga thread on a new Gaiam mat offers one user's perspective on breaking in the surface.
It may appeal to people with sensitive knees, beginners and those working out on wood or tile. It is less ideal for standing balance poses, very sweaty sessions or anyone who wants a dense, grippy studio mat.
Practical Take: Is $24.99 Fair for a Thick Foam Mat?
Shoppers usually ask about cushioning, grip, smell and durability. When we checked Amazon.com (Nov. 6, 2026), the Purple mat was $24.99, shipped from and sold by Amazon.com, with a 4.6-star average from 46,893 ratings. Prices change often.
Amazon describes 10mm high-density NBR foam, a textured surface intended to reduce slipping during dry workouts, an adjustable carrying strap and wipe-clean care.
Gaiam positions the soft foam for comfort over firmness. Amazon notes that an initial foam odor may fade after 24 to 48 hours of airing out.
Alternatives include Amazon Basics extra-thick mats, 6mm Gaiam printed mats and denser PVC or rubber studio mats. The Gaiam Essentials is a cushion-first option.
Amazon's review summary highlights comfort and thickness as strengths, while feedback on durability, stability and odor is mixed.
Thick foam can compress under hands and feet, so tree pose and other one-leg balances may feel wobblier than on a 4mm to 6mm mat.
If the smell bothers you, unroll the mat and let it air out before the first session.
Wipe it with a damp cloth after workouts and let it dry before rolling it up; Amazon's description says hand wash only.
Several buyers mention strap indents on arrival, so it may help to unroll the mat flat when it arrives. Bare feet or grippy socks may also help protect the foam from rough shoes.
The page offers about 11 colors, and prices can differ by color.
What Users Say
On r/yoga, a longtime Gaiam owner says the material "is indeed slippery when brand new" and that cleaning and regular use reduce the slipperiness. On Amazon, one short review reads "Thick and comfortable but tears easily," reflecting the mixed durability feedback. These are individual comments, not lab results.
Similar Alternatives
- Amazon Basics extra-thick exercise mat: another thick foam option
- Gaiam 6mm printed mats: a thinner option for those who prefer less cushioning
- Dense PVC or rubber studio mats: alternatives for those seeking a firmer surface
Bottom line: the Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat (B07H9PDL2Y) is a best-selling, cushion-first option for floor work and sensitive knees. Balance stability, initial odor and foam durability are the trade-offs. Check the color on Amazon before ordering.
Specs
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product | Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat (05-63318 / B07H9PDL2Y) |
| Look | Solid purple ribbed foam; black carry strap |
| Size | 72 x 24 in |
| Thickness | 10mm (2/5 in) |
| Material | NBR foam |
| Included | Mat and easy-cinch carrying strap |
| Care | Wipe clean; hand wash only (Amazon) |
| Price note | About $24.99 on Amazon at check time; prices change |
| Ratings | Amazon about 4.6★ from 46,893 ratings at check time |
Pros
- 10mm foam cushions knees, hips and spine on hard floors
- Easy-cinch carrying strap included
- Low price with a large number of ratings
Cons
- Soft foam may feel unstable in standing balance poses
- Some buyers report an initial odor
- Foam can tear or dent
FAQ
How thick is it? 10mm, or 2/5 inch.
Is it good for hot yoga? Amazon describes the textured surface for dry workouts; it may not be the best choice for very sweaty sessions.
Does it smell? Some buyers report an initial foam odor. Amazon says it may fade after 24 to 48 hours of airing out.
How do I clean it? Wipe it with a damp cloth and let it dry before rolling it up. Amazon says hand wash only.
Does it come with a strap? Yes. An adjustable easy-cinch carrying strap is included.
Sources
Where to buy
$24.99 | See price on Amazon →
Check the details on the seller's page before you buy.
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