7 Best Yoga Knee Pad Cushions of 2023 | Top Picks with Reviews
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7 Best Yoga Knee Pad Cushions of 2023 | Top Picks with Reviews

By PS Editors| Reviewed by Geert Meijer

 

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  • Struggling with poses that put weight on your wrists, elbows, and knees?

  • A high-quality yoga knee pad can provide support and ease discomfort

  • We compiled the top yoga knee pads, with consideration for all price points

  • Also, check out this buyer guide to the best yoga straps of 2023.

 

Whether you are a yoga beginner or a pro, it's perfectly normal to feel strain in your wrists and knees, and there are a few ways to deal with it. For one, you can buy a thick yoga mat or use a folded yoga towel to cushion tender joints. But the latter may not work for long periods of Vajrasana, elbow-aggravating planks, and the wrist-challenging Rooster Pose. So, if you want a specialized solution, it's worth investing in the top yoga knee pad cushions.


"Yoga knee mats differ from strap-on knee pads used in combat sports. Yoga knee pads are mat-wide foam pads placed over a yoga mat and under the wrists, elbows, or knees," says Geert Meijer, an Iyenger yoga expert. "These inexpensive yoga props provide extra padding and support, reducing stress and discomfort while posing," he adds.


But there are dozens of knee mats sold online, and they are not all made equal. So, after diligent research and testing, we compiled the top yoga knee pads on the market. Our selection is based on cushioning, durability, cost, and reliable reviews. Use this guide to find the perfect yoga knee mat for your practice.


Best Yoga Knee Pads: Our Top Picks


The Sukhamat Yoga Knee Pad ticks all the boxes to win our top spot and a chorus of 3k+ positive customer reviews echoes our admiration. They are lightweight, thick (but not overly), and built to last. We think these knee pads will suit your right, regardless of style or skill level.


The Gaiam Yoga Knee Pads is a set of two round pads as opposed to a rectangular mat. With these, you can even place one under the knee and another under the wrist, which isn't possible with a rectangular knee pad. Plus, round pads are definitely more portable and easier to store.


Lastly, the Body by Yoga Reversible Knee Pad Cushion boasts a layer of Portuguese cork over high-density TPE foam. It costs way more than as our "budget" pick, but the high-quality materials and versatile uses will definitely excuse the price difference.


Here are the TL;DR on the best yoga knee pads on the market.

 

Best Yoga Knee Pad Cushions: Product Guide

 

1. Best Overall: SukhaMat Yoga Knee Pad Cushion


"These best-selling yoga knee pad cushions tick all the boxes to earn the top spot."

Best Yoga Knee Pad Cushion

Material: NBR | Dimensions: 24” x 10” x 0.62” | Colors: 4 | Weight: 0.75 lbs


This thick yoga knee pad is constructed with high-density NBR foam that is anti-microbial, biodegradable, and certified Phthalates/Latex-free. It is as wide as a standard yoga mat with a moisture-resistant non-slip surface that grips the mat/floor. The pad is available in four colors (black, gray, blue, and purple) and as a 2-pack. A 2-pack is stackable, ideal for extra cushioning or to provide support for the elbows and knees at the same time.


What we think:


The Sukhamat Yoga Knee Pad is a high-quality accessory designed for everyday use. It is dense, cushiony, and retains its shape well. However, it ships rolled up and takes a while to flatten out. Performance-wise, this knee pad can handle everything from Child Pose to kneeling lunges. It takes away a lot of pain, making it possible to workout during recovery. Plus, it's easy to clean and rolls up with your yoga mat for easy transport/storage. We are convinced it's the best of the bunch, but it also has 3k+ customer calling it a good yoga knee pad for the money.

REASONS TO BUY:

REASONS TO SKIP:

  • Free of phthalates or latex

  • Lightweight and travel-friendly

  • Stackable for extra cushion

  • Durable and easy to clean

  • 'NBR' smell needs to be aired out

  • Takes a few days to flatten

 

2. Best Value: Reehut Yoga Knee Pad Cushion


"A budget-friendly knee pad cushion for sore knees and shallow pockets."

Cheap Yoga Knee Pad

Material: Foam | Dimensions: 24” x 10” x .62” | Color: 4 | Weight: 0.43 lbs


This no-frills knee pad cushion is useful to cushion the elbows, wrists, and knees when extra padding is desirable. It has the width of a standard yoga mat and is available in three color options - black, purple, and blue. There is nothing extraordinary about it, understandably so. But if you factor in the two-year warranty and free carrying strap, the cost-value ratio seems a lot more tempting than other products on the market.


What we think:


This Reehut mat is a cost-effective aid to perform poses that would otherwise hurt. It's soft, cushiony, and lightweight, but there is a palpable different in quality. It won't long longer than a year with daily use and the edges stay curled for a while when you unroll it. That said, the knee mat is washable, portable and thick/grippy enough for rigorous workouts. All things considered, this economical yoga knee pad delivers good value for the asking price.

REASONS TO BUY:

REASONS TO SKIP:

  • Affordable and functional

  • Lightweight and travel-friendly

  • Great cushion and size

  • Easy to clean and carry

  • Doesn't flatten easily

  • Not as durable as other options

  • Not eco-friendly

 

3. Best Round: Gaiam Yoga Knee Pad Cushion


"These best selling yoga knee pads are pliable, portable, and packaged as a pair."

Gaiam Yoga Knee Pad Cushions

Material: Foam | Dimensions: 9” x 9” x 1” | Color: Purple | Weight: 0.43 lbs


Gaiam sets the benchmark for quality with these high-quality round yoga knee pads. For a hair under $20, you receive a pair of purple, flower-shaped pads with a 9-inch diameter and an inch of foam. Each pad is has a center recess to cradle your joints and a textured surface to grip the floor/mat. Unlike the standard mats, this pair can be split up, making it more versatile and resourceful. But it can also be paired with a rectangular pad to widen your options by streets!


What we think:


From Camel Pose Frog Pose, the Gaiam yoga knee pads sit well under the elbows or knees in prone, kneeling, and supine asanas. They are described as pliable, gel-like discs, but the knee pads are actually medium-firm, not squishy like jelly. They feel like an extra-thick yoga mat under your knees. As for the grip, they have excellent traction, though they may slide a little on smooth surfaces with nothing underneath them. On the whole, these knee pads are more versatile and travel-friendly, equally good for practice at home or on a beach.

REASONS TO BUY:

REASONS TO SKIP:

  • High-quality construction

  • Good thickness and grip

  • More versatile than rectangular mats

  • Easy to carry in a purse or mat bag

  • Slightly slippery under the wrists

  • May slides on smooth surfaces

 

4. Best Reversible: Body by Yoga Knee Pad Cushion


"This premium yoga knee pad is thicker and more versatile than it's cheaper-priced rivals."

Reversible yoga knee pad cushion

Material: TPE + Cork | Dimensions: 26” x 10” x 0.85” | Color: Black | Weight: 1.74 lbs.


The reversible yoga knee pad features a layer of Portuguese cork over a thick, high-density TPE mat. The cork surface is slightly firm and grippy, and the non-skid TPE foam is cushy with ample give. More importantly, cork has excellent wet and dry grip, making it the go-to material for sweaty and Hot Yoga flows. The reversible design lets you choose the level of softness for posing - a feature you won't find elsewhere. You can also buy this knee pad with alignment lines.


What we think:


We were thoroughly impressed after testing this yoga knee pad. It's a substantial mat that stays flat, feels cushy, and grips the floor confidently. Whether it's Cat-Cow or Camel Pose, the 0.85" thick foam can support the tenderest of joints, and the knee pad is lightweight enough to carry everywhere. It's definitely pricey compared to other options, but its reversible design and premium materials make it highly versatile and long-lasting - good value in the long run.

REASONS TO BUY:

REASONS TO SKIP:

  • Premium materials

  • Extra thick and resilient

  • Two different levels of support

  • Built to last

  • Great value, but pricey

Related: 7 Best Cork Yoga Mats of 2023 | Top Picks with Reviews (Coming Soon)

 

5. Best Multi-Use: Charguy Knee Pad for Yoga


"An all-purpose knee pad cushion for yoga and projects around the house."

Memory Foam Yoga Knee Pad

Material: Memory Foam, Neoprene |Dimensions: 18” x 11” x 2”|Colors: Blue |Weight: 0.35 lbs


This extra-thick knee pad features multiple layers of memory foam, a neoprene cover, and a built-in handle for easy transportation. It doesn't sport the conventional design, so you can't lay it over a yoga mat. But given it's elegant design and thick memory foam cushion, it's an excellent multi-use knee pad for yogis with sensitive joints. It's also worth considering for kneeling meditation, yoga in the park, and posing during recovery.


What we think:


The Charguy Knee Pad features 2 inches of shock-absorbing memory foam that contours to your joints. It provides superior support for strenuous yoga poses, with or without a yoga mat. The knee pad has a water-resistant surface and is washable, so you can use it outdoors without any concerns. It has an unconventional design, but effective nonetheless. Plus, this all-purpose knee cushion will come in handy for gardening, plumbing, or other projects around the house.

REASONS TO BUY:

REASONS TO SKIP:

  • High-quality construction

  • 2-inch thickness

  • Built-in carrying handle

  • Moisture-resistant & washable

  • Atypical design

  • Won't roll up inside a yoga mat

 

6. Best Reviews: ProsourceFit Yoga Knee Pad Cushion


"A top-rated yoga knee mat to cushion your knees, elbows, and sit bones."

ProsourceFit Yoga knee Pad Cushion, Black

Material: NBR Foam | Dimensions: 24” x 10” x 0.59” | Colors: 6 | Weight: 0.35 lbs


The ProcourceFit Yoga Knee Pad is biodegradable, non-toxic, and free of latex and phthalates. It has a ridged surface for grip and non-slip bottom for traction, making it a top choice for rigorous flows and fast-paced yoga. Plus, it’s available in six different colors and comes with a lifetime guarantee. Talk about backing up a product to inspire trust!


What we think:


This yoga knee mat is as eco-friendly as it gets in a category dominated by foam. It provides excellent support for the joints and keeps your knees anchored while posing. That said, it's slightly thinner than other knee pad cushions and 15 mm is not the best thickness for yogis recovering from injury or surgery. But on the plus side, it rolls up compact for easy storage.

REASON TO BUY:

REASON TO SKIP:

  • Ergonomic concave design

  • Economical

  • Grips the mat/floor well

  • Lifetime guarantee

  • None for the price

 

7. Best for Travel: Grazing Sun Yoga Knee Pads


"One of the best silicone yoga knee pads to ease discomfort while posing."

Round Silicone Yoga Knee Pads

Material: Silicone | Dimensions: 5.9” x 5.9” x 0.78” | Color: Pink | Weight: 1.13 lbs


Silicone is soft to the touch, odorless, and eco-friendly. Plus, it is easy to wash and dry because it does not absorb any water whatsoever. These round yoga knee pads use the silicone material to great effect in their non-slip ‘jelly’ design. They are discs are 6 inches in diameter, 3/4th inch thick, and have a concave recess in the center to cradle your joints. Moreover, they come with a free velvet storage pouch to carry them to them everywhere you go.


What we think:


These silicone knee pads provide cushion and comfort for the knees and elbows while posing and planking. They have top-notch grip, with or without a yoga mat, and they do not slip or slide on hardwood floors. Moreover, these knee pads ship with a velvet storage case, making it easy to carry them to class. The cost significantly more because of the material (silicone), but if you think these are pricey, the OG yoga jellies they are mimicking cost nearly twice as much.

REASONS TO BUY:

REASONS TO SKIP:

  • Ergonomic concave design

  • More versatile use

  • Easy to carry in a purse or mat bag

  • Good thickness and traction

  • Slightly awkward under the wrists

  • No color options


 

Buyer Guide: How to Pick the Best Yoga Knee Pad

 

New yoga props and accessories hit the market every month, making it hard to decide how to spend your money. Many yoga enthusiasts don't have the time, know-how, or inclination to research and test products. So, here are a few things to consider when you shop for knee pads -


Types of Yoga Knee Pads Cushions


There are mainly two types of yoga knee pads on the market: a) A rectangular mat-width strip placed under the knees and b) round knee pads sold in pairs, one to cushion each knee or elbow. Rectangular knee pads are generally “mat-width” because they fit seamlessly over a yoga mat. They are large enough to move between poses without making continual adjustments. The 2-pack or round yoga knee pad cushions need to be re-positioned as you change poses. They range from 6 to 9-inches in diameter and 0.5 to 1-inch in thickness. However, the round discs are more versatile as you can split them up i.e. place one under the elbow and another under the knee.


TL;DR: Discs and mats have different pros and cons. Pick what suits your style and skill level.


Materials


There are a limited amount of materials used to manufacture knee pads. That's because they take a beating with everyday use but must retain shape. Very few materials are up to the challenge, and most eco-friendly or sustainable materials just won't cut it. Among the available materials, NBR ad TPE are the most popular choices. We recommend the latter, but any closed-cell knee pad will do the trick.


TL;DR:: Pick high-density, closed-cell materials that are lightweight and easy to clean.


Thickness


Whether for challenging poses or prolonged kneeling, a knee pad should be thick enough to prevent discomfort. The thickness of a yoga knee pad ranges from 0.5-inch to 2-inches. 15mm (0.6") is sufficient to prevent soreness or injury. Try 0.75 to 1-inch thick yoga knee pads are ideal for tender or aging joints, and also for yogis recovering from surgery/injury.


Remember that a knee pad cushion is placed over a yoga mat, so the actual cushioning is mat thickness + knee pad thickness. Thicker is not always better as awfully thick mats are less stable. You may not feel the floor, which can throw off your balance and alignment. Secondly, thick knee pads are not portable, and you can't roll them up with your yoga mat.


TL;DR: 15 mm works well, but pick thicker mats for tender joints or yoga during recovery.


Grip and Traction


Grip and traction are essential for stability and balance while posing. Luckily, good yoga knee pads have non-skid bottoms and grippy surfaces, usually in the form of ridges. We have only included knee pads with good grip in our roundup, though the quality varies among products.


TL;DR: Read customer reviews to verify if the products are grippy and stable.


Surface Texture


The texture of a knee pad is a secondary pursuit. The best texture is an individual choice based on how great the yoga prop feels against the skin/body. Pick hypoallergenic products with sticky but not abrasive texture to avoid rashes and inflamed skin. Skin comfort is not as necessitated as other features, but the current catalog of products gives you enough options to indulge.


TL:DR: It's best to avoid knee pads with rough textures if you have sensitive skin.

 

FAQ: Related Questions

 

Can you do yoga with knee pads on?


You can do most yoga poses with strap-on knee pads on. However, yoga accessory manufactuers make specialized yoga knee pads to cushion the knees, which are better suited for the job. These knee mats are as wide at a yoga mat, ranging from 0.5 to 1.5-inches in thickness. You can also find round yoga knee pad cushions called yoga jellies.


Do knee pads actually work?


Your knee pads ease discomfort, provide protection, and cradle sore and sensitive joints. They also minimize the impact of hard surfaces on the patella and knees, more so if you have bony joints. Lastly, they provide good grip to prevent slipping and an extra layer of cushioning,


How thick should a yoga knee pad be?


The best thickness for a yoga knee pad varies with individual needs. One half or one inch thick knee mats provide ample comfort and cushioning. Choose a thickness of 1-inch or more, if you have joint pain, arthritis, or are using a knee pad while recovering from surgery or injury.


What can I use instead of a knee pad?


You can use folded or stacked yoga blankets, bath towels, hot yoga towels, or any fabric with good grip and give instead of yoga knee pad. However, they are not the best replacement as they are not designed for the task. If you do use them, ensure they do not slip while you perform yoga poses as it may lead to injury.


Our Review Process


For each 'best of' roundup, we create a list of top-rated yoga props over many hours of product research. After identifying the best yoga knee pads on the market, our gear-obsessed editors and writers go through numerous reviews and test the available products. We ensure the product is without imperfections and exactly as advertised. Lastly, we put the top knee pads through their paces and try them in poses ranging from Cat-Cow Pose to the Forearm Scorpion.


Note from Geert, the author: "I would often practice yoga outdoors during my time in the Himalayan Yoga Center. My travel yoga mat was too skinny to cushion the joints from pebbles and uneven surfaces. My knees and elbows could not handle it, so I would place a folded woolen shawl for support. But some of them ripped as they weren’t made for such applications. Yoga knee pads didn't exist back then. Now that they are available, I always keep one at hand."


Editor's Note: We hope this article leads you to the perfect fit for your fitness routine. Feel free to write to use if you have any recommendations. Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Instagram for more gear reviews and yoga content.

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