Best Yoga Straps 2023: 7 Expert Picks + Buying Advice
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Best Yoga Straps 2023: 7 Pro Picks + Buying Advice

The Manduka Align Yoga Strap is our top choice for most practice styles and abilities.

By PRANA EDITORS | Updated: November 03, 2023

 

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  • Looking for the best yoga straps to work on your flexibility and alignment?

  • We round-up seven top-rated yoga straps that can enhance your practice!

  • Our top picks feature brands like Gaiam, Manduka, Hugger Mugger and more.

  • Also, check out Prana Sutra's guide to the best yoga blankets in 2023.

 
A woman using a yoga strap for stretching
Strap up and Yoga!

Starting a yoga practice can pose challenges in maintaining proper form and alignment, particularly for those with limited flexibility, strength, or balance. On the other hand, research points to overstretching and incorrect technique as the leading causes of yoga-related injuries. This leads to a critical question: How can you make stready progress in your practice without risking exertion and injury?

"Yoga props like straps, knee pad cushions, or blocks add a layer of support and safety to your practice," says Jenna Dowell, a Hatha yoga instructor. "A good yoga strap extends your reach, helps maintain alignment, and acts as a safety net as you transition into poses," she adds.


While makeshift alternatives like towels or neckties can double as stretching straps, they aren't reliable or versatile. Fortunately, even the best yoga straps cost $5 to $20, making it a modest but wise investment for a safer and more effective asana practice. Below, we round up the absolute finest straps for yoga, with considerations for different materials, abilities, and budgets. We'll also provide valuable buying advice on selecting the best yoga strap for your unique needs.


7 Best Yoga Straps: Quick List


The Manduka Align Yoga Strap is one of the finest yoga straps for most people. It's grippy, eco-friendly, and fitted with proprietary buckles. Plus, it's available in 6, 8, and 10-feet lengths, ensuring your can find the best size for your style, stature, and skill-level.


The fray-resistant Gaiam Yoga Strap and best-selling Tumaz Yoga Strap are our top picks for beginners or those on a budget. Both straps are well-crafted and offer excellent value for moeny, although their synthetic material may put off eviornmentally-conscious buyers.


For those who can spend more, the top-tier materials and gorgeous aesthetics of the Yoga Design Lab Mandala Yoga Strap may appear as a compelling choice. This 8-foot strap is made of organic cotton, with stainless steel D-rings and vibrant prints done up in no-fade, non-toxic inks.


Here are the best yoga straps to improve alignment, form, and flexibility in your practice:

 

Best Yoga Straps of 2023: Product Guide


Below, we’ll review our seven top choices highlighting their unique features and potential drawbacks.



"A top-rated yoga strap featuring premium materials and a BKS Iyengar design."

Manduka Align Yoga Strap

Material: Cotton | Size: 8, 10-foot | Width: 1.75 inches | Colors: 3


This enduring best-seller by Manduka boasts a BKS Iyengar-inspired design. ICYMI, Iyengar Yoga is a branch of Hatha Yoga that emphasizes the use of props to achieve proper form and make asana more accessible to everyone. Consequently, this strap is designed to be a quarter-inch wider than the standard size and features a proprietary locking mechanism. It’s made with non-toxic dyes and comes in color options of Gray, Purple, or Navy, with 8-foot and 10-foot variations.


Why we recommend it:


The Manduka yoga Strap is a sturdy cotton belt with a dense weave and a zinc alloy buckle for length adjustment. Its webbed cotton is natural, biodegradable, and hypoallergenic, providing a soft feel and top-notch grip even when moist with sweat. The 1.75-inch width results in ease of use with limited hand strength, and the interlocking buckle allows for a swift, hassle-free adjustments while effectively securing the desired length during your asana flows and restorative stretches.


In summary, the Manduka Align Yoga Strap strikes the best balance between top-tier materials and user-friendly features, making it our top pick for the best yoga strap you can buy today.

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO SKIP

  • Incredibly grippy and durable

  • Best locking mechanism we tested

  • Supports up to 500 lbs. weight

  • Great reviews & proven track record

  • Limited color options

  • Not available in a 6-foot length



 

2. Best for Beginners: Gaiam Yoga Strap


"This budget-friendly yoga strap is likely the best choice for prudent beginners."

Polyester Yoga Strap by Gaiam

Material: Polyester Blend | Size: 6, 8, 10-foot | Width: 1.5 inches | Colors: 3


Gaiam products have a stellar reputation in the yoga community, featured in many of our 'best of' roundups, including the best travel yoga mats. This time around, we're impressed with their fray-resistent polyester blend strap for yoga, featuring standard dimensions, sturdy stitching, and rust-proof D-rings. It's a proven Amazon bestseller for various fitness routines, available in multiple color options and size variations to ensuring you can find the best fit for your needs.


Why we recommend it:


This budget-friendly yoga strap is a cost-effective tool to work on your alignment, deepen stretches, and add support and safety to your daily practice. Its non-slip surface is easy to grip, and the cinch-style buckles allow you to adjust the strap's length on the fly. The polyester blend is cost-effective, easier to maintain, and less prone to long-term wear, although it lacks cotton's soft feel and eco-friendly appeal. Moreover, cotton straps have the best wet grip, making them the ideal choice for sweaty yoga styles.

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO SKIP

  • Best for beginners and advanced yogis

  • Top marks for build quality

  • Easy to loop on the fly

  • Excellent value for money

  • Slightly harsh tactile feel

  • Limited color choices

 

"On a tight budget? This is easily one of the best yoga straps for the money."

Organic Cotton Yoga Strap by Lotuscrafts

Material: Organic Cotton | Size: 8.2-foot | Width: 1.5 inches | Colors: 10


Lotuscrafts offers a wallet-friendly yoga stretch strap made with organic cotton and stainless steel D-rings. It's 1.5 inches wide (standard) and 8.2 feet long, the only size available. However, the length is suitable for anyone who isn't freakishly tall. Additionally, you can select from a wide range of vibrant and earthy colors to find an accessory to match other props in your collection.


Why we recommend it:


This budget-friendly strap has many admirers, evident in the 3.5k+ glowing reviews on Amazon alone. It's sturdy and smooth and has excellent grip to maintain balance while posing. Moreover, the high-quality cinch buckleallow you to u adjust the strap to a desirable length. We love that it's a sustainably sourced, fair-trade yoga prop, which means it's excellent for the people and planet. Even if you don't care for that sort of thing, it's a good yoga strap to hold poses longer, reach the limbs, and improve flexibility.


P.S. - Lotuscrafts yoga straps are currently out of stock. We'll continue monitoring it for a few days and replace it with the best alternative if it isn't available soon.

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO SKIP

  • Natural unbleached cotton

  • Top-tier materials

  • Best value for money

  • Lacks size options

 

"With 10k+ glowing reviews, this bestselling yoga strap is a safe bet for most people."

Tumaz Yoga Strap

Material: Synthetic Blend | Size: 6, 8, 10-foot | Width: 1.5 inches | Colors: 5


The Tumaz Yoga Strap, boasting the best reviews, is a budget-friendly choice practitioners of all ages and abilities. Made from a synthetic blend, it's offered in all three size options with standard length and width. What sets it apart from the competition is its affordability and extrensive range of earthy, vibrant, and pastel color choices. Moreover, the strap's tight knit design and 60% extra thickness result in an impressive weight capacity of 2379 lbs - equivalent to a literal ton!


Why we recommend it:


With it's top-notch construction, best-in-class weight handling capacity, extensive color choices, and a full refund option with a 60-day period, it’s evident why this best-selling yoga strap has garnered so much praise. Its impressive performance at a modest price leaves little to fault, other than reiterating that synthetic blends aren't as eco-friendly as cotton alternatives. However, Tumaz sweetens the deal further with a free holding band, positioning it as the best yoga strap for those seeking max bang!

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO SKIP

  • ​Top selling strap

  • Durable and affordable

  • Great return policy

  • Multiple size and colors

  • ​Not natural materials

  • Strap may feel too thick

 

"This 10-foot strap is the best choice for tall, plus-size, and inflexible yogis."

Hugger Mugger Cotton Yoga Strap, Navy Blue

Material: Cotton | Size: 10-foot | Width: 1.5 inches | Colors: 3


Hugger Mugger has an impressive line up of yoga straps, featuring various colors, size options, and locking mechanisms. We've picked this sturdy 10-foot cotton strap as the 'best for pros' due to its versatility, durability, ease of use, and exceptional tensile strength. It is currently available in three colors (Black, Gray, and Navy) and can support upto 500 pounds of weight.

Why we recommend it:


Made with natural cotton, the robust yoga strap is a compelling option for asana enthusiasts, particularly those of taller stature. While many straps require threading D-Rings for length adjustments, which can disrupt the flow of your practice. On the other hand, this strap features a quick-release buckle that's apt for on-the-fly adjustments and transtioning between poses swiftly. The generous length also makes it one of the best yoga straps for couples or partner yoga.

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO SKIP

  • Top-tier USA-made yoga strap

  • Robust material with a tight weave

  • Can handle up to 500 lbs of weight

  • Best for tall and plus-size yogis

  • Plastic buckles may break

  • 10-foot length only

 

6. Best for Stretching: Trideer Multi-Loop Yoga Strap


"One of the best yoga straps with lettered loops to monitor your progress."

Trideer nylon yoga strap with 12 loops

Material: Polyester Blend | Size: 8-foot | Width: 1.5 inches | Colors: 2


Multi-loop or lettered straps are well known in the Pilates and sports community for their usefulness in warm-ups or post-workout stretches. They have now established a strong foothold in yoga for unassisted stretches, greater control, and versatile uses. Among the many option ont he market, the Trideer stretching strap stands out due to its woven nylon construction and 12 different non-elastic loops for a wide variety of uses in home fitness routines.


Why we recommend it:


This lettered stretching strap is the best choice for those who want to work on gradually increasing the range of motion, balance, and flexibility. It features 12 loops to get into every imaginable tangle, with sturdy construction and high-quality stiching to withstand daily use. While nylon is easy to grip, it doesn't have the greatest skin feel and can get slighty slippery with sweat. However, you'll have to contend with it, as these type of stretching straps aren't available in any other material.

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO SKIP

  • 12-loop design is versatile

  • Top quality stitching

  • Durable and easy to clean

  • Multi-use belt

  • Not eco-friendly

  • Limited color options

  • Nylon can cause 'rope burn'

 

"The best yoga strap for hedonists and a splurge for yogis committed to their practice."

Organic cotton yoga strap by Yoga Design Lab

Material: Premium Cotton | Size: 8-foot | Width: 1.5-inches | Colors: 5 (Printed)


Yoga Design Lab strap strikes the best balance between aesthetics, features, and functionality. Made from super-soft organic cotton, this 8-foot yoga strap offers a slip-resistant surface, eye-catching prints, and wide stainless steel D-rings to alter the length as needed. While it comes at a premium price, it’s a well-regard, eco-conscious product print that’s built to last for many years.


Why we recommend it:


Beyond its luxurious materials and visual appeal, the YDL yoga strap is an excellent all-around prop for both home and gym workouts. It is sturdy, easy to grip, portable, and capable of withstanding a good amount of weight. The vibrant prints add a pop of color to your practice and come with a no-fade promise, ensuring the designs endure sweaty palms and repeated washing. The strap length is versatile and caters to beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO SKIP

  • Premium materials

  • Eco-friendly, non-toxic

  • Eye-catching prints

  • No-fade guarantee

  • Premium price point

  • Only 8-foot length available

 

Buying Advice: How to Pick the Best Yoga Straps

yoga strap bying advice annotated

Despite being versatile accessories, straps for yoga are an undervalued resource. From opening stiff shoulders after a day at the computer or deepening restorative holds to speed up recovery, a yoga strap provides much-needed assistance in enhancing flexibility, alignment and stability. Here are the key considerations when selecting the best yoga strap for your needs:


Yoga Strap Materials

The best yoga straps are generally made of either cotton, polyester blends, or nylon.

  • Cotton yoga straps are the soft, comfortable, and have exellent dry/wet grip. They are least likely to cause ‘rope burn’ and the best choice for an eco-conscious yogis.

  • Polyester blends are a budget-friendly cotton alternative with exception tensile strength and unique features like fray- and mositure-resistance. They are durable, easy to clean/maintain, and offer a good dry grip, although cotton straps have better grip when wet.

  • Nylon yoga straps are famed for their tensile strength, easy maintainance, long-lasting durability, and affordability. However, they are less breathable and eco-friendly than cotton, and can feel slippery when moist or wet.

Yoga Strap Length

Typically, a yoga strap is available in three size options: 6, 8, or 10 feet. For beginners, it's generally recommended to start with a 6- or 8-foot yoga strap, reserving longer straps for more advanced practice or partner poses.

  • A 6-foot yoga strap is suitable for smaller or average-sized yogis.

  • An 8-foot yoga strap is ideal for tall (5'10" and above) or inflexible practitioners who may need extra length to facilitate wide stretches.

  • A 10-foot strap has spare length that can be used for creating loops or attempting challenging stretches that utilize your full wingspan. It's also the best choice for taller yogis, plus-size individuals, and 'couples yoga' or partner poses.

Locking mechanism

Straps for yoga should be equipped with high-quality closure mechanisms, as they play a crucial role in the strap's overall performance and durability. Most yoga straps feature one of the following:

  • Quick Release Buckle

  • Metal D-Ring

  • No Buckle

  • Easy Release Cinch Buckle

Metal D-Rings are the most popular and quick-release buckles are the least common. It's best to choose a type that enables quick, easy adjustments and made from rust-proof materials to ensure longevity.


What's the Purpose of a Yoga Strap?


A stretching strap for yoga is one of the most versatile yoga props. It's used in Yin or Restorative Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Hatha Yoga, and physical therapy. This strap can benefit beginners who lack flexibility, range of motion, and suppleness. You can use it to stretch tight hamstrings, prevent the back from rounding, open the shoulders, and safely attempt poses like Boat Pose or Bow Pose.


To summarize, here are a few top reasons to invest in a top-rated yoga strap:

  • A yoga strap promotes proper form and healthy alignment.

  • It increases mobility and flexibility.

  • Yoga straps deepen stretches to address tight areas.

  • They prevent or reduce the chances of injury.

This video demonstratesthe the 10 best ways to use a yoga strap in your daily practice:


 

FAQ: Related Questions

What is a yoga strap used for?

Are yoga straps for beginners?

What length should a yoga strap be?

Are yoga straps useful?

Are yoga straps the same as resistance bands?

 

Our Review Process


The options selected for this round-up were evaluated on the following criteria:

  • Build: The straps in this list are built to a high standard, featuring grippy, skin-friendly materials, durable stitching, and industry-standard width and length measurements.

  • Durability: We’ve paid special attention to the durability and reliability of a strap, as they are intended for frequent use and often support your entire body weight.

  • Features: This selection includes straps with a variety of closures, include D-ring, cinch buckle, and loops, ensuring you can find the best fit for your practice style and stature.

  • Reputation: Our picks are from reputable yoga equipment brands, with each product boasting hundreds, if not thousands, of positive customer reviews.

  • Cost-Value Ratio: The straps in this list deliver outstanding value relative to their price.

We review our top picks periodically, ensuring that selection remains current and relevant.


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