Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Extra Thick Yoga Mats 10mm 15mm 20mm

lululemon The Mat 6mm vs Manduka Pro Mat

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Manduka Pro Mat comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.4 vs 4.7). The gap is mostly about dedicated yogis seeking long-term investment — read the strengths below before deciding.

lululemon The Mat 6mm
Ranked #3 in Best Extra Thick Yoga Mats 10mm 15mm 20mm
lululemon The Mat 6mm
$98

lululemon's The Workout Mat is designed for intense workouts and offers a balance of firmness and cushioning. Reviewed by Wirecutter as a heavy-duty option suitable for HIIT, strength training, and Pilates, it features a grippy surface and closed-cell construction that resists sweat absorption. The mat measures 6mm thick and weighs 4.5 pounds, with dimensions of 71 by 26 inches. While praised for durability and performance, it's priced at $98, making it a premium option compared to alternatives like the Yoga Accessories PVC mat which costs $30. This mat is ideal for serious fitness enthusiasts who prioritize performance over cost.

Strengths
  • Durable construction with layers of recycled PVB and TPE for impact absorption
  • Grippy raised texture prevents slipping during sweaty workouts
  • Firm yet cushioned feel offers stability for standing and comfort for kneeling
Watch-outs
  • Premium price point higher than many competitors
  • Heavier than standard yoga mats at 4.5 pounds
Manduka Pro Mat
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Extra Thick Yoga Mats 10mm 15mm 20mm
Manduka Pro Mat
$160

The Manduka PRO Yoga Mat stands out as a premium, long-lasting option designed for serious practitioners. Outdoor Gear Lab praised its unmatched durability, noting it retained its appearance and performance after three years of heavy use. The mat's textured surface offers a balanced grip and slide, ideal for Vinyasa flow. While it's heavy and requires a break-in period for full grip, it's favored by yoga teachers and studios for its joint-friendly cushioning and stability. This mat is best for dedicated yogis seeking a lifetime investment, though casual users may find it overly heavy.

Strengths
  • Exceptional durability with no compression or fraying even after 3 years of daily use
  • Superior grip that improves with use and remains consistent even when sweaty
  • 6mm thick dense cushioning that protects joints and provides stability for inversions
Watch-outs
  • Heavy at 7.5 pounds making it difficult to carry
  • Break-in period required for optimal grip

How they stack up

lululemon The Mat 6mm

The lululemon The Mat 6mm excels in sweat resistance and closed-cell construction compared to the Manduka Eko and Pro, but it's heavier and more expensive than the Decathlon yoga mat. While it offers better impact absorption than the Manduka Pro Lite, it lacks the long-term durability and grip consistency of the Manduka Pro series.

Manduka Pro Mat

The Manduka Pro Mat outperforms the Manduka Eko in terms of durability and long-term use, though it's heavier and requires a break-in period. Compared to the lululemon The Mat 6mm, it offers more consistent grip and better joint protection, but at a higher price point and with less portability.

Specs side-by-side

Speclululemon The Mat 6mmManduka Pro Mat
Thickness6mm6mm
MaterialRecycled PVB and TPEPVC polyvinyl chloride
Weight4.5 pounds7.5 pounds
Dimensions26 inches71" x 26"
GripDual-sided (smooth and grippy/textured)Performance grip texture
ColorMultiple colors available
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