For most people practicing yoga, a standard yoga mat length of around 68 inches (173 cm) is a good starting point, but the ideal yoga mat length is really about how tall you are, aiming for a mat that is at least as long as your height, or preferably a few inches longer, so you have enough space to lie down comfortably without your head or feet going off the ends during poses like Savasana (Corpse Pose). Choosing yoga mat size correctly helps make your practice safe and comfortable.
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The Crucial Role of Mat Length in Your Yoga Practice
When you do yoga, your mat is your personal space. It is where you move, stretch, and find stillness. The size of your mat, especially its length, matters a lot. A mat that is too short can make simple poses awkward. Your hands might slip off the top during downward dog, or your feet might touch the cold floor in Warrior pose. When you lie down, like in Savasana, your head or feet might hang off the mat. This takes away from the calm feeling you want in yoga.
A mat that is the right length gives you room to fully extend your body. It provides padding and grip for your whole body. This helps you feel stable and supported in every pose. It makes flowing from one pose to the next easier and safer. You do not have to worry about running out of space. Having the right sized mat means you can focus on your breath and your body, not on adjusting yourself on a too-small surface. It is an important part of having a good and safe yoga practice.
Deciphering Standard Yoga Mat Length
What is the standard size? Most yoga mats you see in stores are about 68 inches long and 24 inches wide. This is the standard yoga mat length you will find from many brands. These dimensions work okay for a lot of people. The 24-inch width gives you enough side-to-side space for most poses. The 68-inch length is about 5 feet 8 inches. If you are shorter than this, a standard mat might feel fine. If you are taller, you might notice it is a bit short.
This standard size became common because it is easy to make and carry. It fits in most yoga mat bags. It works for average body sizes. However, people come in all sizes. So, a standard mat is not perfect for everyone. Knowing this standard is helpful. It gives you a base point. From there, you can decide if you need something different based on your height and how you practice.
Why 68 Inches Became Common
- Easy to mass produce.
- Fits average body sizes of many people.
- Simple to roll up and carry.
- Works with most standard yoga mat bags and straps.
- A familiar size for shoppers.
How to Find Yoga Mat Size for Height
Finding the right yoga mat size for height is pretty simple. A good rule is to pick a mat that is at least as long as you are tall. But for maximum comfort, especially when lying down, you really want a mat that is a few inches longer than your height.
Here is a quick way to check:
1. Stand up straight.
2. Measure your height in inches or centimeters.
3. Look for a mat that is at least this length.
4. Even better, look for one that is about 3 to 6 inches longer than you are.
For example, if you are 5 feet 10 inches tall (70 inches), a standard 68-inch mat will be too short. Your head or feet will hang off. You would want a mat that is at least 70 inches long. A 72-inch or 74-inch mat would be even better. This gives you that needed extra space.
Using your height as the main guide helps ensure your whole body fits on the mat during any pose, including relaxation poses. This is a basic rule for choosing yoga mat size.
Quick Check: Your Height vs. Mat Length
| Your Height (approx.) | Minimum Mat Length Needed | Recommended Mat Length |
|---|---|---|
| Under 5’8″ (173 cm) | 68 inches (173 cm) | 72 inches (183 cm) |
| 5’8″ – 6’0″ (173-183 cm) | 72 inches (183 cm) | 74-76 inches (188-193 cm) |
| Over 6’0″ (183 cm) | Your height + 3-6 inches | 76 inches or more |
This table is a general guide. Some people like even more space, especially if they move a lot in their practice.
Exploring Extra Long Yoga Mats
For people who are tall or just like more room, extra long yoga mats are a great choice. These mats go beyond the standard 68 inches. They usually start at 72 inches and can go much longer. Sizes like 74 inches, 76 inches, and even up to 85 inches are available.
An extra long mat is a must-have if you are 5’10” or taller. It stops you from having to adjust yourself constantly or having parts of your body off the mat. Think about lying flat on your back in Savasana. On a standard mat, your feet might be on the cold floor. On an extra long mat, your whole body stays on the warm, padded surface.
Extra long mats are also good if you have an active practice. If you jump between poses or take big steps, the extra length gives you more landing space. This can help prevent slips or falls. It makes you feel more secure on your mat. When looking for an extra long mat, check the exact length. Different brands might call different sizes “extra long.”
Who Needs an Extra Long Mat?
- People who are 5 feet 10 inches or taller.
- Practitioners who enjoy lying down poses like Savasana or restorative poses.
- People with an active or flowing practice that involves movement across the mat.
- Anyone who simply prefers more personal space during their practice.
Getting an extra long mat is an investment in comfort and safety. It makes your practice better because you do not have to worry about space.
Tall Yoga Mat Recommendations
If you are taller than average, finding the right mat is key. You need tall yoga mat recommendations. Brands now offer mats specifically for taller individuals. These are usually the extra long mats mentioned before.
When looking for tall yoga mat recommendations, consider these lengths:
* 72 inches (183 cm): This is often the first step up from standard. Good for people up to about 6 feet tall.
* 74-76 inches (188-193 cm): Great for people over 6 feet tall. Provides comfortable room for lying down.
* 80 inches (203 cm) or more: For very tall individuals or those who want maximum space.
Some brands known for offering longer mats include Manduka, Liforme, Gaiam, and Lululemon. Check their product details carefully. They often list the exact dimensions. Look for mats labeled “long,” “extra long,” or “tall.”
Besides length, remember to think about thickness, material, and grip. But length is the most important factor for tall practitioners. Do not settle for a standard mat if you are tall. Your practice will be much better on a mat that fits you.
Checking Specific Brands for Tall Options
- Manduka PRO Extra Long: Often comes in 85 inches.
- Liforme Yoga Mat: Available in a standard 72.8 inches, but often feels spacious due to its width and markers. Some brands offer even longer versions.
- Gaiam: Offers mats in 72-inch lengths.
- Lululemon: Their ‘The Mat’ often comes in 71-inch lengths, with some longer options available.
Always check the specific product page for the exact yoga mat dimensions standard and available variations.
A Comprehensive Yoga Mat Length Guide
Choosing the right mat length depends mostly on your height and how you practice. This yoga mat length guide helps you make the best choice.
- Measure Your Height: The most basic step. Know how tall you are.
- Consider Your Practice Style:
- Calm Practice (like Hatha, Yin, Restorative): You do not move around a lot. You hold poses. Comfort while lying down is key. You need a mat at least your height, but longer is better for relaxation poses.
- Active Practice (like Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Power Yoga): You flow between poses. You might jump or step across the mat. You need more space to move safely. An extra long mat gives you this room.
- Think About Lying Down Poses: Do you enjoy Savasana, or poses where you lie flat on your back or stomach? Your whole body should fit on the mat with a few inches to spare at the head and feet. This is why a mat longer than your height is often ideal.
- Check Mat Specifications: Do not just trust the picture. Look at the product details online or on the packaging. Find the exact length in inches or centimeters.
- Read Reviews: See what other people, especially those of similar height or practice style, say about the mat’s length and space.
Using this guide helps you choose a mat that truly supports your yoga journey. It is more than just picking a color or brand. It is about finding the right tool for your body and practice.
Length Guide Summary
- Under 5’8″: Standard 68-inch may work, but 72-inch offers more comfort.
- 5’8″ to 6’0″: 72-inch is a good minimum. 74-76 inches recommended.
- Over 6’0″: Need 76 inches or more. Look for extra long or tall mats.
- Active Practice: Consider longer than your height for safety and space.
- Relaxation Focus: Longer than your height for comfort in lying poses.
Grasping Yoga Mat Dimensions Standard
Let us look closer at yoga mat dimensions standard. As we said, the most common size is 68 inches long by 24 inches wide. This has been the default for a long time. These dimensions are often given in inches, but good companies will also list centimeters (173 cm x 61 cm).
While 68×24 inches is standard for length and width, mats also have a standard for thickness. Common thicknesses are 1/8 inch (3mm), 3/16 inch (4-5mm), or 1/4 inch (6mm). Thickness affects cushioning and portability. Length and width affect your space on the mat.
It is important to grasp that “standard” does not mean “right for everyone.” It is just the most common size made. When you see a mat listed without specific dimensions, you can often assume it is the 68×24 inch standard size. But it is always best to check the details.
Understanding these standard dimensions helps you compare different mats. You can see how an “extra long” mat (say, 72×24 inches) differs from the standard. You can also see if a mat labeled “wide” (say, 68×26 inches) changes the length or just the width.
Checking Dimensions Before You Buy
Always look for these numbers:
* Length (e.g., 68″, 72″, 76″, 85″)
* Width (e.g., 24″, 26″, 28″)
* Thickness (e.g., 1/8″, 3/16″, 1/4″)
These numbers tell you exactly what you are getting. They are key to choosing yoga mat size correctly.
Choosing Yoga Mat Size for Optimal Practice
Choosing yoga mat size is a big decision for your comfort and safety. Do not just grab the first mat you see. Think about your needs.
Here are the main things to consider when choosing yoga mat size:
- Your Height: This is the top factor for length. As discussed, aim for a mat at least your height, ideally 3-6 inches longer.
- Your Body Build: Are you wider across the shoulders or hips? While length is key for head-to-toe space, width (standard is 24 inches) can also matter. Some mats are 26 or 28 inches wide, offering more side-to-side room.
- Your Practice Style: Active practices benefit from extra length. Calm practices benefit from length for comfort in lying poses.
- Space Where You Practice: Do you practice in a small room at home? An extra long or wide mat might take up too much space. Do you go to a crowded studio? You might need a size that fits within marked spaces.
- Portability: Longer and wider mats can be heavier and bulkier to carry. If you travel or commute with your mat, think about the size and weight.
Balancing these factors helps you choose the best mat size for you. It is a personal choice. There is no single “right” size for everyone, only the right size for you.
Weighing Size Against Other Factors
- Size vs. Weight: Longer/wider = heavier. Important if you carry your mat often.
- Size vs. Price: Larger mats often cost more.
- Size vs. Storage: Will it fit rolled up in your closet or car?
Consider how size impacts these other areas before making your final choice.
Finding Your Ideal Yoga Mat Length
Finding your ideal yoga mat length is about matching the mat to your body and your practice needs. It is not just about fitting on the mat, but having enough space to move freely and relax fully.
Your ideal length is likely your height plus at least a few inches. This ensures that when you are doing poses where you are stretched out, like Downward Dog or Plank, your hands and feet are well within the mat’s edges. More importantly, for poses like Savasana, Child’s Pose, or lying stretches, your entire body can be on the padded surface.
An ideal mat length prevents:
* Feet or head hanging off the mat in lying poses.
* Hands slipping off the top in standing poses where hands are on the mat.
* Feeling cramped or restricted in your movements.
Think about your longest stretch or pose where you lie flat. Your ideal mat length should comfortably contain your body during that pose. If you are unsure, go for a slightly longer mat. It is better to have too much space than too little. A 72-inch mat is a common “long” size that works well for many people up to about 6 feet tall. If you are taller, look at 76 inches or more.
How to Test Your Ideal Length (If You Can)
If you can try mats in a store:
1. Lie down flat on the mat. See if your head and feet are comfortably on the mat. You should have at least 2-3 inches of mat at both ends.
2. Get into Downward Dog. See if your hands are near the top edge and your feet are near the bottom edge. You want some room at both ends.
3. Do a pose where you lie on your stomach. Check that your whole body fits.
This simple test can show you if a mat length feels right for your body.
A Yoga Mat Size Chart by Height
Here is a helpful yoga mat size chart by height. Use this as a guide to find a mat that fits your body. Remember, these are suggestions for length. Width is usually standard at 24 inches, but wider options exist.
| Your Height (approx.) | Suggested Mat Length Minimum | Suggested Mat Length for Best Comfort | Examples of Mat Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 5’4″ (163 cm) | 68 inches (173 cm) | 68-72 inches (173-183 cm) | Standard |
| 5’4″ – 5’8″ (163-173 cm) | 68 inches (173 cm) | 72 inches (183 cm) | Standard, Long |
| 5’8″ – 6’0″ (173-183 cm) | 72 inches (183 cm) | 72-76 inches (183-193 cm) | Long, Extra Long |
| 6’0″ – 6’3″ (183-191 cm) | 74 inches (188 cm) | 76-80 inches (193-203 cm) | Extra Long, Tall |
| Over 6’3″ (191 cm) | 76 inches (193 cm) | 80 inches or more (203+ cm) | Longest Yoga Mats Available |
This chart gives you a clear idea based on height. The “Best Comfort” column suggests a bit of extra length, which is usually preferred for a full range of poses and relaxation.
Keep in mind that this chart is a starting point. If you have very long limbs for your height, you might lean towards a longer mat. If you have a very active practice, more length is often better.
Finding the Longest Yoga Mats Available
For very tall people or those who want the most space possible, finding the longest yoga mats available is the goal. The standard 68 inches and even the common “long” 72 inches will not be enough.
You can find mats that are 76 inches, 80 inches, and even up to 85 inches long. These are specifically designed for taller practitioners. They are often labeled as “extra long,” “tall,” or sometimes “oversized.”
Brands that cater to serious practitioners or have a wider range of sizes are more likely to offer these very long mats. High-quality brands often have mats in different lengths, while budget brands might only offer the standard size.
Where to look for the longest mats:
* Specialty yoga retailers online.
* Websites of well-known yoga mat brands (like Manduka, Liforme, etc.).
* Sporting goods stores with a large yoga section.
When searching online, use terms like “extra long yoga mat,” “tall yoga mat,” or include the specific length you want, like “85 inch yoga mat.” Always double-check the dimensions listed before buying to make sure you are getting the length you need. These longer mats are an important part of ensuring everyone, regardless of height, can have a comfortable and effective yoga practice.
Examples of Longer Mat Lengths
- 76 inches (~193 cm)
- 80 inches (~203 cm)
- 85 inches (~216 cm)
These are common lengths you might find in the extra long category.
Beyond Height: Other Reasons for More Length
While height is the main reason to get a longer mat, other factors might make you want more space, even if you are not particularly tall.
- Active Practice: If you jump, step, or transition quickly between poses (like in Vinyasa or Ashtanga), extra length gives you more room to land safely and move freely without going off the edges.
- Preference for Space: Some people simply feel more comfortable and less confined with more room on their mat. It can help create a stronger feeling of a dedicated personal practice area.
- Larger Body Build: Even if average height, someone with a larger frame might feel more comfortable on a wider mat, but sometimes extra length also adds to overall comfort and usable space.
- Restorative or Yin Yoga: These styles involve holding poses for a long time, often lying down or seated. Comfort is key. Extra length ensures your entire body is supported and padded.
- Using Props: If you often use blocks or bolsters on your mat, extra length gives you room for the prop plus your body without feeling crowded.
So, do not just look at your height. Think about how you practice and what makes you feel most comfortable and safe on your mat. This helps in choosing yoga mat size beyond just the numbers on a chart.
Final Checks Before Buying Your Mat
You have thought about your height, your practice, and potential lengths. Before you buy, here are some final checks:
- Check the Exact Dimensions: Reconfirm the length and width in the product description. Make sure it is what you decided you need. Do not guess based on pictures or general terms like “long.”
- Read Reviews About Size: Look for reviews from other buyers. Do people mention the mat being true to size? Do taller people say it works for them?
- Consider Width Too: While length is the focus here, check the width (usually 24 inches standard). If you want more side-to-side room, look for wider mats (26 inches or more).
- Think About Thickness and Material: Remember that length is only one part of the mat choice. Thickness affects cushioning. Material affects grip, weight, and durability. Balance length needs with these other important factors.
- Return Policy: If buying online, check the return policy. Can you return the mat if the size does not feel right once you try it? This gives you peace of mind.
By doing these final checks, you increase your chances of getting a mat that you will be happy with for years to come. The right mat fits your body and supports your practice perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yoga Mat Length
Q: Is a 68-inch yoga mat long enough for everyone?
A: No, a standard 68-inch mat is generally long enough for people up to about 5 feet 8 inches tall. Taller individuals will likely find it too short, especially for lying down poses.
Q: How much longer than my height should my yoga mat be?
A: Ideally, your yoga mat should be at least 3 to 6 inches longer than your height. This provides comfortable space for lying down poses without your head or feet hanging off.
Q: What is considered an extra long yoga mat?
A: Extra long yoga mats are typically 72 inches or longer. Common extra long sizes include 72 inches, 74 inches, 76 inches, 80 inches, and up to 85 inches.
Q: Do longer yoga mats weigh more?
A: Yes, generally longer mats use more material, so they will weigh more than a standard 68-inch mat of the same material and thickness.
Q: Can I use a regular 68-inch mat if I am tall?
A: You can, but it is not recommended for comfort or full practice. You will likely find your body extends off the mat in many poses, which can be distracting and less supportive. A longer mat will greatly improve your experience.
Q: Where can I find a yoga mat size chart by height?
A: Many yoga mat retailers and brands provide size charts. We also included a chart in this guide to help you determine the right length based on your height.
Q: Is the width of the mat standard?
A: The standard yoga mat width is 24 inches. However, some mats are made wider, around 26 to 28 inches, for people who prefer more side-to-side space.
Q: Are the longest yoga mats available always the best quality?
A: Not necessarily. Length is just one feature. Quality depends on the material, thickness, grip, and overall construction of the mat, not just how long it is. However, many brands that offer a range of sizes, including the longest mats available, also tend to be higher quality brands.