Claire WhitakerBy Claire Whitaker

Updated November 2026

A ProSourceFit extra thick yoga and pilates mat can give you the extra cushioning that joints and tailbone often appreciate during floor work, but thickness alone does not make a mat a good fit. In this guide you will learn how to decide whether an extra thick ProSourceFit mat suits your practice, how to check the features that matter most, how to set it up at home, and how to care for it so it lasts.

Decide Whether an Extra Thick Mat Suits Your Practice

Extra thick mats are usually aimed at people who spend a lot of time kneeling, lying down or doing supported poses. They are less about balance and more about comfort. Before you buy, think about how you practice most often.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best Yoga Mats for Hot Pilates: Expert Picks for Sweaty Sessions.

Thick mats work well for

  • Restorative and gentle yoga sessions where you lie on the floor for long periods
  • Pilates floor work, especially roll-ups, the hundred and side-lying series
  • Practicing on hard floors such as concrete, tile or wood with no rug
  • Knee, wrist or lower-back sensitivity that makes firm surfaces uncomfortable

Thinner mats may be better for

  • Standing balance poses like tree or warrior III, where a soft surface wobbles underfoot
  • Vinyasa or power flow, where you move quickly between poses
  • Travel, since thicker mats are heavier and bulkier to pack

If you are unsure, our guide on Yoga Mat Thickness Guide explains how thickness trades off against stability in more detail.

Check the Key Features Before You Buy

Thickness is only one part of the picture. Work through these features in order of importance for your own practice.

  1. Thickness: Extra thick mats are commonly listed well above the standard 4 to 6 mm range. Confirm the stated thickness in the product listing rather than assuming.
  2. Length and width: Check that the mat is long enough for your height with room for hands and feet in savasana. Our breakdown of Regular Yoga Mat Size: How to Choose the Right Length, Width and Thickness can help you measure.
  3. Surface grip: A textured surface helps hands and feet stay put, especially when sweaty. Thick foam can feel slippery, so look for a surface described as non-slip.
  4. Material: Foam-based mats are light and cushioned. Rubber-based mats offer more grip and density. Read the material description carefully, since many thick mats use TPE or PVC blends.
  5. Weight: Thick mats are heavier. If you carry yours to class, weigh the option against how far you will walk.
  6. Cleaning: Check whether the manufacturer recommends wiping only or allows machine washing. This varies by material.

Step-by-Step Setup at Home

A thick mat needs a little more thought in setup than a standard one, because its height changes how your body sits in some poses.

Step 1: Clear and clean the floor

Remove debris and check for loose rugs. Place the mat on a flat surface. A rug underneath can cause it to shift.

Step 2: Unroll and let it relax

Many foam mats arrive rolled or compressed. Unroll it and leave it for 10 to 20 minutes, or longer if the manufacturer advises, so the material can expand fully.

Step 3: Test stability in standing poses

Stand in mountain pose, then shift your weight slowly side to side. If the mat feels unstable, practice standing balance on a firmer area and use the thick mat for floor work only.

Step 4: Adjust your props

Thick mats raise the floor, so blocks and bolsters may need to be placed differently. Check that your knees and hands still line up correctly in tabletop and lunge positions.

Practical Checklist for Buying and Using an Extra Thick Mat

  • Confirm the thickness and dimensions in the product listing
  • Choose a non-slip surface that suits your sweat level
  • Check the material and any care instructions
  • Measure your storage space, including where the mat will live
  • Allow time for the mat to expand after unrolling
  • Test balance poses before committing to the mat for flow classes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Buying thickness without considering balance. Very cushioned surfaces can make standing poses harder. Practice first, then decide how often you use the mat for standing work.
  • Ignoring grip. Thick foam with a smooth surface can slide during transitions. Look for texture.
  • Skipping the break-in period. Unrolling and testing on the first day often leads to false conclusions about cushioning and firmness.
  • Storing the mat in heat. Leaving a foam mat in a hot car or in direct sunlight can warp or degrade the surface over time.
  • Using harsh cleaners. Strong chemicals can break down the surface. Stick to mild soap and water unless the manufacturer says otherwise.

Tips for Getting the Most from a Thick Mat

  • Use a towel on top of the mat during hot or sweaty sessions to prevent slipping.
  • Rotate your practice spot so the same area of the mat does not wear faster.
  • If your joints need extra support, fold the mat in half for kneeling poses rather than adding more layers.
  • Keep a second, thinner mat for standing practice if you do both types of yoga regularly.

These items pair well with an extra thick mat. Choose based on how you practice rather than buying all of them.

  • Yoga blocks: Extra thick mats raise the floor, so blocks help bring the ground closer in standing and seated poses. View on Amazon
  • Yoga strap: A strap helps you reach your feet in seated forward folds without rounding the spine, which matters more when your base is softer. View on Amazon
  • Mat carrying bag: A bag protects the surface and makes carrying a heavier mat easier to manage. View on Amazon

For more options, see our overview of Yoga Blocks and Mat: Do You Need Both? Setup Tips and Picks and Best Yoga Mat Bags.

FAQ

Is an extra thick mat good for beginners?

It can be. The extra cushioning helps with kneeling and lying poses, which many beginners find uncomfortable on hard floors. Beginners who plan to practice a lot of standing balance may still want a firmer mat.

Does a thick mat make balance poses harder?

Often, yes. Soft or thick surfaces move slightly underfoot, which challenges the small stabilizing muscles in the feet and ankles. Many people find they need to practice balance poses on a firmer surface first.

Can I use a thick mat for hot yoga?

You can, but check the surface grip and whether the material is suited to heat and sweat. Many practitioners add a yoga towel for extra traction in heated rooms.

How do I clean an extra thick mat?

Most manufacturers recommend wiping with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution, then air drying fully. Avoid soaking the mat unless the instructions say it is safe to do so.

Will a thick mat fit in a standard bag?

Not always. Thick mats are often wider and bulkier when rolled. Check the mat’s dimensions against the bag’s specifications before buying.

Is an extra thick mat suitable for people with joint pain?

Extra cushioning can make kneeling and lying positions more comfortable. However, if you have an existing joint condition, consult a physical therapist or doctor before changing your practice, and listen to your body during any movement.

How long should a thick foam mat last?

Lifespan depends on use, cleaning and storage. Regular practitioners often replace mats when the surface starts to flatten, crack or lose grip. Check the manufacturer’s warranty or guidance for specifics.

Conclusion

An extra thick mat can add comfort to floor work and help with sensitive knees, wrists and hips. Before you buy, weigh thickness against stability, check grip and dimensions, and confirm how the mat should be cleaned. Used for the right kind of practice, a ProSourceFit extra thick yoga and pilates mat can make your sessions more comfortable and sustainable.

Ready to choose one?

Claire Whitaker

About Claire Whitaker

Claire Whitaker is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our yoga guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.