Exercise Mat vs Yoga Mat: Which Gorilla Mat is Right for You?
You may be wondering, what's the difference between Gorilla Mats Premium Large Exercise Mats and the Premium Large Yoga Mats.
Gorilla Mats come in two styles: Exercise Mats and Yoga Mats. Both are premium, non-slip, and built to last a lifetime — but they're designed for different workouts. This guide will help you choose the right one in under 2 minutes.
Key takeaways
- Shoes on? Get the Exercise Mat: high-density, built for HIIT, cardio, and weights.
- Barefoot? Get the Yoga Mat: softer, sticky grip for yoga, pilates, and stretching.
- Both are non-slip on both sides, roll up for storage, and carry a lifetime warranty.
- Most popular size for both: 6' x 4'. Step up to 7' x 5' if you have the room.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Exercise Mat | Yoga Mat |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 1/4" (6mm); 7' x 4' is 8mm | 8mm |
| Top Surface | High-density, textured (for shoes) | Soft, sticky grip (for barefoot) |
| Bottom Surface | Circle-pattern non-slip grip | Circle-pattern non-slip grip |
| Shoe-Friendly | ✅ Yes | ❌ Barefoot only |
| Sizes Available | 8 sizes (6'x4' to 15'x6') | 5 sizes (6'x4' to 15'x6') |
| Colors | Black, Blue, Gray (select sizes) | Black, Blue (select sizes) |
| Best For | HIIT, P90X, weights, cardio | Yoga, pilates, stretching, meditation |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime |
Choose the Exercise Mat If...
You work out in shoes. You do high-impact training — P90X, Insanity, HIIT, plyometrics, kettlebells, jump rope, or any workout where you're on your feet and moving fast. The exercise mat's high-density surface handles the abuse and provides stable footing.
Popular workouts: P90X, Insanity, T25, HIIT, CrossFit-style training, kickboxing, Zumba, weightlifting, plyometrics, dance workouts, and any DVD/app workout with shoes.
“I use it for my beachbody workouts, and the mat has made those workouts 100% better. I love I can use it with shoes or barefoot.”
Verified buyer · 5 stars · Large Exercise Mat
Choose the Yoga Mat If...
You practice barefoot. You need grip for your hands and feet during poses, and enough cushion to protect your knees during floor work. The yoga mat's sticky surface keeps you grounded through every flow and hold.
Popular uses: Yoga (all types), pilates, stretching, foam rolling, PiYo, barre, meditation, tai chi, barefoot bodyweight exercises, and as a baby playmat.
“The thickness is nice for yoga, planks, and barefoot workouts.”
Verified buyer · 5 stars · Large Yoga Mat
What They Have in Common
- Non-slip on both sides — The circle-pattern bottom grips your floor on hardwood, tile, concrete, and carpet
- Easy storage — Both roll up tight with included carrying straps
- Lifetime warranty — We stand behind every mat we make
- Free shipping — On all US orders
- 60-day returns — Don't love it? Send it back within 60 days of delivery with our prepaid label; we refund the full price minus the return shipping cost
Can I Use an Exercise Mat for Yoga?
You can, but we don't recommend it. The exercise mat's surface is designed for durability with shoes, not for barefoot grip. You'll slide during poses. If you do both shoe workouts and yoga, many customers buy one of each — or choose the exercise mat and lay a towel down for yoga sessions.
What Size Should I Get?
Both mats come in multiple sizes. Our best-selling size for both is 6' x 4'. Step up to 7' x 5' if you have the room: it fits most living rooms and gives you space for lateral movements and wide poses.
For a dedicated home gym or studio, consider the 9' x 6' or larger — you'll never run out of space.
See every size drawn to scale in the Size Guide, or read What Size Exercise Mat Do You Need?
Still Not Sure?
Ask yourself one question: Will you wear shoes during your workout?
- Yes → Exercise Mat
- No → Yoga Mat
And remember — every Gorilla Mat comes with free shipping, a lifetime warranty, and 60-day returns. You can't go wrong.
Shoes or barefoot, there's a Gorilla Mat for you
Free shipping, 60-day returns, and a lifetime warranty on every mat.
Shop Exercise MatsSee the Size GuideRelated guides: Exercise Mats You Can Wear Shoes On: What to Look For · Mat Pilates at Home: How Much Space and Which Mat · What Size Yoga Mat If You're Tall? A Height Chart · Is a Thick Yoga Mat Better? What an 8mm Mat Is Good For
FAQ
What's the difference between the Exercise Mat and the Yoga Mat?
The Exercise Mat has a high-density, textured top built for shoes and high-impact training. The Yoga Mat is softer with a sticky top for barefoot grip. Both have the same circle-pattern non-slip bottom.
Can I wear shoes on the Yoga Mat?
No. The Yoga Mat is for barefoot use only.
Can I go barefoot on the Exercise Mat?
Yes, for barefoot workouts. For yoga poses, the Yoga Mat grips better; or lay a towel down on the Exercise Mat.
How thick are they?
The Exercise Mat is 1/4" (6mm), except the 7' x 4', which is 8mm. The Yoga Mat is 8mm in every size.
More guides.
See all guides-
What Size Exercise Mat Do You Need? A Simple Sizing Guide
Pick a mat at least 1 foot longer than you are tall and as wide as your arms reach side to side. Here is how to size a mat for your room, your body, and your workout.
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How to Clean and Care for a Large Exercise Mat
A one-minute wipe after workouts, a simple soap-and-water deep clean, what never to use, and how to store your mat so it lasts.
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Home Gym Gift Guide: The Best Gift for Someone Who Works Out at Home
Which mat to give, which size to pick when you don't know their room, gift ideas by person, and when to order for Christmas delivery.
