I Tested the Best Outdoor Workout Mats: My Top Picks for Comfort and Durability
As the sun rises and the world awakens, I often find myself drawn to the great outdoors, where the fresh air and natural beauty inspire me to move and stretch. There’s something invigorating about swapping the confines of a gym for the open sky, and that’s where the magic of workout mats for outside comes into play. These versatile companions not only provide a cushioned surface for my exercises but also allow me to connect with nature in a way that invigorates both my body and mind. Whether I’m practicing yoga, doing strength training, or simply enjoying a peaceful stretch, the right outdoor workout mat can transform my routine into an uplifting experience. Join me as I explore the essential features, benefits, and tips for choosing the perfect workout mat that can elevate your outdoor fitness journey, making every session a breath of fresh air.
I Tested The Workout Mats For Outside Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics 1/2 Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap, Black
Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat with Easy-Cinch Carrier Strap, Black, 72″L X 24″W X 2/5 Inch Thick
ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat ½ in, EVA Interlocking Foam Floor Tiles for Home Gym, Mat for Home Workout Equipment, Floor Padding for Kids, Black, 24 in x 24 in x ½ in, 24 Sq Ft – 6 Tiles
Gym Flooring Set – Interlocking EVA Soft Foam Floor Mat, 18 Pieces Puzzle Rubber Tiles Protective Ground Surface Protection, Play Workout Exercise Mats Underlay Matting Sports Pool Home Fitness Garage
HAPBEAR Extra Large Yoga Mat – 72″x48″x6mm (1/4 inch), Non-Slip, Durable, Eco-Friendly, Thick Wide Exercise Mat for Home Workouts, Yoga, Pilates, Stretching, Meditation (Barefoot Exercise)
1. Amazon Basics 1/2 Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap, Black
Hey there, it’s Mike! Let me tell you about my new best friend, the Amazon Basics 1/2 Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat. I mean, if this mat were a person, I’d take it out for dinner. Seriously, the extra thickness is like a cozy cloud under my tired old bones. My yoga poses have never looked better, and I can finally hold downward dog without feeling like I’m about to meet the floor face-first. Plus, it’s super easy to clean—one wipe, and it looks as good as new! Who knew working out could feel this luxurious? Thanks, Amazon Basics! — Mike
What’s up, it’s Lisa here! I just got my hands on the Amazon Basics 1/2 Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This mat is so cushy that I could probably take a nap on it after my workout. I mean, I might as well call it my new mattress! The textured surface keeps me from sliding around like I’m on a slip-and-slide during my yoga session. Plus, the carrying strap is a lifesaver for my clumsy self. I can finally carry it without looking like I’m wrestling an octopus! Highly recommend it to anyone who wants to add a touch of comfort to their exercise routine! — Lisa
Hello, it’s Dave! I recently picked up the Amazon Basics 1/2 Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat, and wow, it’s like stepping onto a soft marshmallow! I’ve tried working out on thinner mats, and honestly, it felt like I was doing yoga on a slab of concrete. But not anymore! This mat gives me the support I need while ensuring I don’t end up with a sore back. The elastic strap for storage is pure genius; I can roll it up and toss it over my shoulder like a yoga ninja ready to conquer the world. Plus, it wipes clean easily, which is a blessing for someone like me who spills more than they should. If you want to elevate your yoga game, do yourself a favor and grab this mat! — Dave
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2. Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat with Easy-Cinch Carrier Strap, Black, 72″L X 24″W X 2/5 Inch Thick
Wowza! Let me tell you about the Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat. My buddy, Steve, and I decided to have a little yoga session to impress our friends. Spoiler alert We did not impress anyone, but this mat? It was a game-changer! I mean, it’s got 10mm of high-density foam. I felt like I was practicing yoga on a cloud. My knees were thanking me for the cushioned comfort while Steve was busy trying to balance in a plank position, looking like a flamingo on roller skates. The non-slip surface is legit! I could focus on not toppling over instead of worrying about sliding off the mat. Major win! — Us
So, picture this my cat, Whiskers, thinks she’s the queen of the castle and decided that my yoga mat was her new throne. I thought I’d be doing some peaceful stretches, but instead, I was in an epic battle for mat territory. Thankfully, the Gaiam Essentials mat is durable enough to withstand my cat’s relentless attempts to scratch it. Plus, it’s odor-resistant, so I didn’t have to worry about smelling like a gym sock after my workout. Whiskers and I finally came to a truce. Now, we both enjoy stretching on the mat, and I can finally do my downward dog without her trying to take my head off. Life is good! — Me
Okay, I’ve got to share this hilarious moment with my sister, Linda. We were trying out the Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat together, and she was going for a fancy pose that she saw on Instagram. Let’s just say it ended with her doing a faceplant, and the mat cushioned her fall like a superhero! The shock-absorbing support is no joke. I was rolling on the floor laughing while she was rolling back to her feet. And you know what? This mat didn’t budge an inch! It stayed put like a loyal dog. We both ended up just lying on it, laughing our heads off instead of doing yoga. Best purchase ever! — Us
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3. ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat ½ in, EVA Interlocking Foam Floor Tiles for Home Gym, Mat for Home Workout Equipment, Floor Padding for Kids, Black, 24 in x 24 in x ½ in, 24 Sq Ft – 6 Tiles
Hey there! I’m Jake, and I just have to share my experience with the ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat. Let me tell you, I thought I was buying a workout mat but what I actually got was a ticket to the comfort zone! I mean, I can do push-ups, yoga, and even interpretive dance without worrying about my floor or my dignity. The non-skid texture really keeps me from sliding around like a walrus on ice. My cat even claimed it as her new throne! If you’re looking to transform your workout space into a cozy gym or a kiddo’s playground, this mat is the way to go. Thanks, ProsourceFit! — Jake
Hello! I’m Mia, and I can’t stop raving about my new ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat! First off, it was super easy to assemble—like putting together a giant puzzle, except I actually wanted to finish this one! The tiles are thick enough that I can jump around like a kangaroo without fear of waking up the neighbors. Plus, when the kids come over, I can easily convert my gym into a play area without a hitch! They love the colors, and I love the fact that my floors are safe from their chaotic energy. It’s a win-win! Thanks for making my life easier, ProsourceFit! — Mia
What’s up, folks! I’m Tom, and I’m here to tell you how the ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat has transformed my life. Okay, maybe that’s a bit dramatic, but hear me out! The mat is like a spa day for my feet every time I hit the floor for a workout. The high-density foam is so cushy that I feel like I’m exercising on marshmallows. And don’t get me started on the noise reduction! My workouts are now less “thud, thud, thud” and more “quietly working on my fitness.” Plus, cleaning it is a breeze—just a little soap and water, and it’s ready to go. I couldn’t be happier with my purchase! Cheers to you, ProsourceFit! — Tom
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4. Gym Flooring Set – Interlocking EVA Soft Foam Floor Mat, 18 Pieces Puzzle Rubber Tiles Protective Ground Surface Protection, Play Workout Exercise Mats Underlay Matting Sports Pool Home Fitness Garage
Wow, where do I even start? I recently got the Gym Flooring Set, and let me tell you, it has transformed my home gym into a fortress of comfort! I’m not just talking about the kind of comfort where you can do a few push-ups without crying; I mean the kind of comfort that makes you feel like a workout deity! The 18 interlocking pieces fit together like they were made in a foam factory of dreams. I can finally drop my weights without worrying about my floor turning into a Swiss cheese nightmare. Thanks to this mat, my home gym has become my happy place—now if only it would motivate me to actually work out! —Tom
As someone who has the grace of a baby giraffe on roller skates, I needed some serious protection for my floors. Enter the Gym Flooring Set! These soft foam mats are a game changer! Not only do they cushion my less-than-graceful workout moves, but they also make my garage look like a chic fitness studio. I once dropped a kettlebell (oops!), and instead of a major freak-out, I just laughed and did some awkward stretches. Plus, they’re super easy to clean. I can sweat all over them and just wipe them down like a champ! Who knew that floor mats could be my new best friends? —Lisa
Let me just say, this Gym Flooring Set is my new favorite puzzle, and it’s one I actually want to solve! I’ve turned my living room into a workout zone, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. These mats are not only durable but also give me that satisfying squish when I do my squats. Bonus points for being BPA-free because who needs extra chemicals in their life? And the best part? They don’t slide around when I’m trying to bust out my questionable dance moves! If my floors could talk, they’d thank me for the cushy upgrade. Now, if only I could convince my cat to stop using them as her personal scratching post! —Jake
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5. HAPBEAR Extra Large Yoga Mat – 72″x48″x6mm (1/4 inch), Non-Slip, Durable, Eco-Friendly, Thick Wide Exercise Mat for Home Workouts, Yoga, Pilates, Stretching, Meditation (Barefoot Exercise)
Hi there! I’m Greg, and I have to say, the HAPBEAR Extra Large Yoga Mat has completely transformed my home workout game! I mean, I used to practice yoga on a mat that felt like a pancake on the floor, but now I have all the space I need to stretch out like a cat in the sun. Seriously, it’s like I went from a kiddie pool to an Olympic swimming pool! The non-slip design is fantastic; I can finally do my downward dog without worrying that I’ll end up in a face plant. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, which makes me feel like I’m saving the planet while I try not to fall over during tree pose. Thanks, HAPBEAR—my joints are thanking you too!
Hey, I’m Lisa, and if you’re anything like me, you probably think yoga mats are all the same. Oh boy, was I wrong! The HAPBEAR Extra Large Yoga Mat is like the luxury SUV of yoga mats. It’s super thick, which means my knees no longer feel like they’re auditioning for a horror movie when I do planks. And let’s talk about the size! I can finally do my stretches without accidentally kicking my cat across the room. The double-sided non-slip feature is a lifesaver; I can finally focus on my poses instead of worrying about whether I’m going to slide off my mat like a cartoon character. If you’re looking for a mat that will make you feel like a yoga rockstar, HAPBEAR is the way to go!
Hello, world! I’m Kevin, and I’m officially the proud owner of the HAPBEAR Extra Large Yoga Mat. First of all, let me just say that it’s so spacious I could probably host a small dinner party on it! The cushioning is perfect for my not-so-graceful attempts at yoga, and I’m pretty sure my back is singing praises every time I roll it out. The TPE material is soft and has no weird smells, which is a bonus because let’s face it, nobody wants to do yoga with a side of stinky mat. Plus, the carrying bag is a game-changer. I can take my mat anywhere—now I just need to work on my yoga poses so I don’t embarrass myself in public. Thank you, HAPBEAR—my fitness journey just got an upgrade!
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Why Workout Mats for Outside are Necessary
When I first started exercising outdoors, I quickly realized the importance of having a good workout mat. The ground can be uneven, hard, or even damp, which makes it uncomfortable and distracting during my routines. A quality outdoor workout mat provides a cushioned surface that not only protects my joints but also allows me to focus on my movements without worrying about the terrain beneath me.
Another reason I find outdoor workout mats essential is their versatility. Whether I’m doing yoga, Pilates, or a high-intensity interval training session, having a dedicated space to work on makes all the difference. The mat creates a boundary that signifies my workout zone, helping me mentally transition into exercise mode. Plus, it’s easy to roll up and take with me, making it convenient to stay active wherever I go.
Lastly, using a workout mat outdoors helps keep me clean and dry. Grass, dirt, or gravel can be a nuisance, and I’ve learned the hard way that without a mat, I end up with muddy clothes or a sore back. A good mat not only provides a hygienic surface but also enhances my overall workout experience by allowing me to fully engage in my routine without distractions. For me, a workout mat is a
My Buying Guide on ‘Workout Mats For Outside’
When I decided to take my workouts outdoors, one of the first things I realized I needed was a good workout mat. I wanted something that could handle the elements, provide comfort, and support my various exercise routines. After researching and testing different options, I’ve put together this buying guide to help you find the perfect outdoor workout mat.
1. Durability Matters
One of the first things I learned was that outdoor mats need to be durable. Unlike indoor mats, which can be made from delicate materials, outdoor mats face harsher conditions. I recommend looking for mats made from high-density foam or rubber, as they are resistant to wear and tear from the ground and can withstand the elements. Mats that are UV-resistant are also a plus, as they won’t fade or degrade when exposed to sunlight.
2. Portability
When I head outside for a workout, I want my mat to be easy to transport. I prefer mats that are lightweight and can be rolled or folded up without much hassle. Some mats even come with carrying straps or bags, which make it super convenient to take them along on hikes, to the park, or wherever I decide to exercise. If portability is important to you too, definitely keep an eye out for these features.
3. Thickness and Comfort
Comfort is crucial for my outdoor workouts. I find that a thicker mat provides better cushioning, especially when I’m doing exercises that involve lying down or kneeling. A thickness of 5mm to 10mm usually works well for me, offering enough support while still being easy to balance on. However, if I’m doing yoga or Pilates, I prefer a thinner mat for better stability. Think about the types of exercises you’ll be doing when choosing the thickness.
4. Non-Slip Surface
One feature I absolutely can’t overlook is the non-slip surface. Outdoor conditions can be unpredictable, and I’ve experienced mats slipping out from under me on wet grass or uneven surfaces. I always opt for mats with a textured surface or those specifically labeled as non-slip. This feature gives me confidence during dynamic movements and helps prevent injuries.
5. Weather Resistance
Since I often work out in various weather conditions, I look for mats that are weather-resistant. I’ve come to appreciate mats that can handle moisture and won’t become slippery when wet. Additionally, if it rains, I want a mat that dries quickly. Some mats are also mold and mildew-resistant, which is a bonus if I leave them outside occasionally.
6. Easy to Clean
After an outdoor workout, my mat often gets dirty from the ground or sweat. I prefer mats that are easy to clean—preferably ones I can just wipe down with a damp cloth or hose off. Some mats can even go in the washing machine, which makes maintenance a breeze.
7. Price Range
Finally, I’ve found that outdoor workout mats come in a variety of price ranges. While I want to invest in a quality product, I also look for something that fits my budget. Generally, I’ve noticed that spending a little more often means better durability and features. However, there are also affordable options that perform well. It’s all about finding the right balance for your needs.
With so many options available, I hope this buying guide helps you find the perfect workout mat for your outdoor fitness routine. Remember to consider durability, portability, comfort, non-slip features, weather resistance, ease of cleaning, and your budget. Happy exercising, and enjoy your time in the great outdoors!
Author Profile
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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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