Extra Long Yoga Mat: Who Needs It and Why
By Shop Gaiam for yoga, fitness, meditation, active sitting, and | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Buying Guides
If you're tall, prefer extra space, or want more cushioning, an extra long yoga mat may be the upgrade your practice needs. Learn who benefits most and what to look for.
Quick answer
An extra long yoga mat is best for anyone over 5'8", those who want more room for wide-legged poses, and practitioners who prefer extra cushioning during floor work or inversions.
Not just for tall people
While height is the most common reason to choose an extra long mat, it's not the only one. If you often feel cramped in Downward Dog or find your hands slipping off the edge during wide-legged poses, a longer and wider mat gives you the freedom to move without constantly readjusting.
The cushioning trade-off
A 6mm extra long mat provides noticeably more padding than a standard 3mm or 4mm mat. That extra cushioning feels great on knees and wrists during floor poses, but it can make balance poses slightly less stable. If you primarily do standing or balancing poses, you may prefer a thinner mat.
FAQ: Extra Long Yoga Mat
- Who needs an extra long yoga mat?
- Anyone over 5'8" tall, people who practice wide-legged poses, and those who want extra cushioning for joint comfort. Also useful for taller men and women who find standard mats too short for lying down.
- How much longer and wider are extra long mats?
- Most extra long mats are 10" longer and 2" wider than a standard 68" x 24" mat. That extra space means your head and feet stay on the mat during Savasana, and your hands don't hang off the edge in wide-legged stances. Measure your height and typical pose width to decide if 10" extra is enough.
- Is 6mm too thick for balance poses?
- For most people, 6mm is fine for balance poses, but if you primarily practice standing balances or arm balances, a 4mm or 5mm mat may feel more stable. The extra cushioning is a trade-off: better for joints, slightly less ground feel. Try both thicknesses if possible. If you do a mix of floor work and standing poses, 6mm is a good middle ground.
- Can I use an extra long mat for travel?
- Extra long mats are heavier and bulkier than standard mats, so they are not ideal for travel. If you need a mat for both home and occasional trips, consider a thinner travel mat for the road and keep the extra long mat at home.
Product facts
- Premium Longer/Wider 2-Color Yoga Mats (6mm): 10" longer and 2" wider than standard yoga mats, with reversible 2-color design and 6mm thickness. The extra length and width give taller practitioners full-body coverage, while the 6mm cushioning supports joints during floor work and inversions.
Premium Longer/Wider 2-Color Yoga Mats (6mm)
