Mats
4 products
Choosing from this range
A Pilates mat needs to be considerably thicker than a yoga mat — 8 to 15 mm, with 10 mm the practical sweet spot. The reason is rolling: exercises like rolling like a ball and open leg rocker put body weight through the vertebrae against the floor, which is genuinely uncomfortable on a 4 mm mat.
Closed-cell foam is the right material for anything shared or sweated on, because it does not absorb moisture and therefore cleans properly rather than holding odour.
What to check before choosing a mat
- Thickness of 8–15 mm — 10 mm suits most practices
- Closed-cell foam, so it cleans properly and does not hold odour
- Grip on both faces — to the floor and to you
- Stability under standing work; very thick mats feel unstable
- Length adequate for your height when lying fully extended
Mats — frequently asked questions
Can I use a yoga mat for Pilates?
You can, but at 4–6 mm it is thin for rolling exercises where body weight passes through the spine. Most people find 10 mm considerably more comfortable.How do I clean a Pilates mat?
Mild soap solution and a cloth, dried thoroughly and flat. Avoid alcohol sprays and essential oils, both of which degrade closed-cell foam.How should I store a Pilates mat?
Flat, or loosely rolled. A tightly rolled mat keeps a permanent curl, and a curling mat slides during exercise.