Prioritize footing and hand grip. The mat should stay flat while you move, without stretching noticeably under your hands or gathering beneath your feet. Consider the underside, too: secure hand contact helps little if the whole mat slides across the floor.
Extra softness can become a compromise here. When comparing mats, notice how settled your feet feel in a familiar standing position and whether you can move between positions without the surface shifting. Start slowly, near a stable support, rather than using a difficult balance to test a new mat.
Mostly seated, kneeling or lying exercises
Pay more attention to contact comfort. Your back, elbows, or knees may stay on the same spot for much of the session. Compare mats during those movements, rather than deciding from a quick squeeze of the foam.
Size matters alongside cushioning. A mat that is long enough when you lie still may be too narrow for side-lying work or rolling. Check where your hands and elbows land and how much room the routine needs around the mat.
