Our researched pick for a first yoga mat. The Gaiam Be Free brings 6mm of cushioning, a printed reversible design, and a price that makes it easy to start your practice.
Check Price on AmazonLast updated: October 2026 · 7 min read
If you are new to yoga, the mat aisle can be overwhelming. Based on our research of hundreds of yoga mat reviews, here is what matters most:
PVC is the cheapest and most common. It is grippy and durable but heavier and has a manufacturing smell. TPE is lighter and eco-friendlier but costs more. Natural rubber has the best grip but is expensive and heavy. For a first mat, PVC is perfectly fine.
Most mats are grippy when dry. If you do hot yoga or sweat a lot, look for a "dry grip" mat that works even when wet. The Gaiam Be Free is a standard dry-grip mat — fine for gentle and hatha yoga at home.
| Feature | Gaiam Be Free Mat |
|---|---|
| Price | ~$30–$35 |
| Thickness | 6mm |
| Length | 68 inches (standard) |
| Width | 24 inches |
| Material | PVC |
| Design | Printed, reversible |
| Carrying strap | Not included (sold separately) |
Gaiam is one of the biggest names in home yoga equipment — they have been making affordable mats and props for decades. The Be Free is part of their printed premium line: one side has a colorful pattern, the other side is a solid color, so you get two looks in one mat.
What most beginner reviewers say is that it feels like a real yoga mat, not a cheap gym mat. The 6mm thickness gives enough cushioning for knee poses like low lunge, and the surface has a slight texture that keeps your hands from slipping in downward dog. It is not the fanciest mat on the market, but for someone who is just starting out and not ready to drop $100 on a Manduka, it is the right level of investment.
From a mind-body perspective, having a dedicated mat that you only use for yoga creates a "space" in your home — when you unroll it, your brain learns that this is the time to slow down and move. That ritual matters more than the mat itself. Pair your mat with a meditation eye pillow for savasana, and you have a complete home yoga corner.
If you get serious about yoga and want a mat that will last a decade, step up to the Manduka PROlite. It costs about $80–$100 — three times the Gaiam — but it has a lifetime guarantee and a density that gets grippier the more you use it. Our guide to the best yoga mats covers the full range from budget to premium.
If you just want to try yoga and are not sure you will stick with it, look for a basic 4mm mat in the $15–$20 range. These are thinner and less durable, but they are fine for 10-minute beginner videos on YouTube. You can always upgrade once you know you enjoy the practice.
Best for: Beginner to intermediate yogis practicing at home, anyone who wants a good-looking mat that does not break the bank, people doing gentle, hatha, or yin yoga.
Not for: Hot yoga practitioners (the grip is not wet-rated), people who want a nearly indestructible professional mat, anyone sensitive to PVC smells — go for a natural rubber mat instead.
Yes. 6mm is the standard thickness for most yoga mats. It gives enough cushioning for knees and joints without being so thick that you feel unstable in standing poses. Beginners often prefer 6mm; advanced practitioners sometimes go thinner (4–5mm) for better grip.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is the most common yoga mat material. It is durable, grippy, and cheap. Some people prefer eco-friendly TPE or natural rubber, but PVC is safe for normal home use. Air it out for a few days after unboxing to let the manufacturing smell fade.
Most standard yoga mats are 68 inches long. If you are over 6 feet tall, look for a 72 or 74-inch "long" version. The Gaiam Be Free comes in the standard 68-inch length.
Wipe it down after each use with a damp cloth and a little gentle soap. For a deeper clean, mix vinegar and water 1:4 in a spray bottle and spritz the mat. Hang it to dry — do not put it in the dryer.
The Gaiam Be Free is the mat we recommend to anyone buying their first yoga mat. It hits the sweet spot of price, thickness, and quality — not too cheap that it feels flimsy, not so expensive that you feel guilty if yoga turns out not to be your thing. Pair it with a YouTube beginner series and you have everything you need to start.
Check Price on AmazonFTC Disclosure: Sona Manifest is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission when you buy through our links. This does not affect our recommendations. We research products based on user reviews, product specifications, and real-world feedback to make honest recommendations. Prices as of October 2026; check Amazon for current pricing. Last updated: October 2026.
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