Extra long yoga mats are good for taller yogis who need more space in a mat and want to avoid having to cross over to the floor. It is also useful for those who simply want more space so they can stretch wider and longer during their yoga practice.
Typical yoga mats measure 24 inches wide and 68 inches long which is often not enough whether you’re of average or above average build.
These eco friendly yoga mats, however, all come with extra lengths with some added features you may find beneficial in a yoga mat.
Extra long yoga mats
Here’s a quick look comparing these eco mats’ features:
| Dimension (Width / Length) | Thickness | Weight | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 30 x 78 inches | 4 mm | 8.8 lbs | $90 |
 | 26 x 74 inches | 4.86 mm | 4.5 lbs | $40 - $85 |
 | 26 x 71 inches | 5 mm | 6 lbs | $63 - $100 |
1. Prana Yoga Mat
Among the list of extra long yoga mats above, Prana Yoga Mat is the widest and longest mat measuring at 30 x 78 inches. It’s also a premium yoga mat made of three layers of natural rubber, designed with maximum durability plus high level of stickiness. Thickness is an average 4mm, ideal for those who need less cushion and more connection to the ground. Prana is also the priciest at $90.
Click here to read a full review of the Prana Yoga Mat >>
2. Jade Yoga Mat
Coming in at the second spot is the Jade Yoga Mat which has the standard 24 – inch width but with an extra length at 74 inches. Structured with an absorbent open cell surface, this mat is also ideal for those who sweat a lot during their yoga practice. Among the three extra long mats above, the Jade Yoga Mat is also the most portable with a weight of 4.5 pounds. If you’re on a budget, this mat is also the most economical choice with prices ranging from $40 – 85 if you buy it from Amazon.com.
Click here to read the full review of the Jade Yoga Mat >>
3. Manduka eKO
Relatively shortest among the mats is the Manduka eKO which also comes with the standard width of 24 inches but with an added length of 71 inches. However, Manduka takes away the prize for the cushion category being the thickest mat packing a 5 mm density, ideal for those who need extra support for their body. The seagrass texture of the Manduka’s surface also ensures more grip and a slip – free practice.
Click here to read the full review of the Manduka eKo >>
Extra long yoga mats: Pros and Cons
When you use an extra long yoga mat, be aware of these benefits as well as slight disadvantages. Below are some things to consider before you purchase an extra long mat:
Pros
- Added space. No more crossing over to the slippery floor or practicing outside the mat. With an extra wide and extra long mat, you can be sure that you’ll have all the space you need to stretch and reach as wide or as far as you want.
- Extra benefits. Eco friendly yoga mats are built in with other extra benefits such as more cushion, more grip and more stickiness. You can also be sure that each mat is free of cancer-causing PVC and made only of natural rubber which means the mat is safe for your health. It is also completely biodegradable which means it’s kind to the environment.
Cons
- Added weight. Of course, the added length and added width makes these mats heavier than their conventional counterparts. If you travel a lot and you’ve got limited storage, it may be more ideal to look for a lighter and smaller mat. Otherwise, carrying these mats can be considered extra weight training for your arms.
- Extra cleaning. Having more space to practice means having more space to clean. A yoga mat cleaner or a good soap can do the job for you. Yoga mat wipes may also come in handy so you can clean your mat right after your practice and avoid having sweat deposits. Aside from promoting good hygiene, remember that maintaining the cleanliness of your yoga mat is also one of the best ways to maximize its durability.
Extra long yoga mats can help to meet your needs whether it’s for more space or more support for your yoga practice. Remember to choose one that’s suited to your needs as well as your budget.