Five Below Yoga Mat: A Comprehensive Review and Practical Guide
A Five Below yoga mat is an exceptionally affordable entry-point into the practice of yoga and fitness, offering basic functionality for beginners, children, or those on an extremely tight budget. However, it is crucial to understand its significant limitations in terms of durability, cushioning, and grip compared to mats from specialized sporting goods brands. This in-depth analysis will provide a definitive conclusion upfront: while a Five Below yoga mat can serve as a temporary or ultra-low-cost solution, it is not a suitable long-term investment for regular practitioners. Its primary value lies in its accessibility and price, making it a viable option for specific, limited-use cases. For anyone practicing more than once or twice a week, or for styles of yoga requiring substantial joint protection or stability, investing in a higher-quality mat is strongly recommended for both safety and enjoyment.
The decision to purchase a yoga mat, especially from a retailer like Five Below known for its five-dollar price point, requires a clear-eyed evaluation of what you are getting for your money. This guide will dissect every aspect of the Five Below yoga mat experience. We will examine the materials and construction, performance during various types of exercise, durability over time, and compare it directly to other options on the market. Furthermore, we will provide practical advice on how to get the most out of a Five Below mat if you choose to purchase one, including cleaning tips and usage recommendations. The goal is to equip you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision that aligns with your fitness goals, budget, and personal needs. This review is based on hands-on testing and a thorough analysis of consumer feedback to ensure a balanced and accurate representation of the product's capabilities.
What is a Five Below Yoga Mat?
Five Below is a American chain of specialty discount stores that sells a wide array of products, all priced at five dollars or less. Their inventory includes toys, games, clothing, electronics accessories, and a rotating selection of sporting goods. The yoga mat is a seasonal or recurring item found in their sports and fitness section. It is important to note that Five Below does not manufacture its own mats; instead, it sources them from various suppliers. This means the exact specifications, colors, and packaging can change from one shipment to the next. However, the fundamental characteristics remain consistent due to the constraints of the five-dollar price point.
The typical Five Below yoga mat is a standard-size PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) mat. It is exceptionally thin, usually measuring around 2-3 millimeters in thickness. This is considerably thinner than the industry standard for basic yoga mats, which often start at 4-5 millimeters. The mat is lightweight and can be rolled up, though it may not feature a carrying strap. It is available in a variety of solid, bright colors, but it lacks the textured surface patterns common on more expensive mats designed for enhanced grip. The material is non-absorbent and has a smooth, slightly plasticky feel. Understanding this basic construction is key to anticipating its performance.
Primary Advantages of a Five Below Yoga Mat
The benefits of this mat are straightforward and directly tied to its price and availability.
Extreme Affordability. The single most significant advantage is the cost. At approximately five dollars, it is one of the cheapest yoga mats available anywhere. This low financial barrier to entry is its primary selling feature. For an individual who is curious about yoga but hesitant to spend thirty, fifty, or one hundred dollars on a mat, the Five Below option removes that obstacle entirely. It allows for experimentation without financial commitment.
Widespread Accessibility. With hundreds of stores across the United States, Five Below is a readily accessible retailer for many people. Unlike online purchases that require waiting for shipping, you can walk into a store and buy a mat immediately. This convenience is valuable for someone who needs a mat for a last-minute activity, such as a school project, a single fitness class, or a spontaneous decision to start exercising.
Ideal for Infrequent or Light Use. The mat is perfectly adequate for very gentle, infrequent stretching or exercises performed on a carpeted floor where a little extra cushioning is needed. It provides a hygienic barrier between the user and the floor. For activities like simple floor stretches, post-run cool-downs, or guided meditation where you are seated or lying down with minimal movement, the mat serves its basic purpose.
Suitable for Children. Children do not require the same level of cushioning and support as adults. A Five Below yoga mat is an excellent, low-cost option for a child's yoga practice, playroom activities, or as a clean surface for arts and crafts. If the mat gets damaged or dirty, the low cost makes replacement effortless and stress-free for parents.
Low Commitment for Travel or Temporary Needs. If you need a mat for a single weekend trip, a hotel workout, or a vacation and do not want to risk damaging or losing a more expensive mat, the Five Below mat is a practical disposable or temporary solution. You can use it for the duration of your trip and then donate it or discard it without a second thought.
Significant Limitations and Drawbacks
The low price comes with substantial compromises in quality and performance that become apparent with regular use.
Insufficient Cushioning and Joint Protection. The thinness of the mat is its greatest flaw for any serious practice. During yoga poses that place pressure on the knees, elbows, wrists, or spine, the lack of padding is immediately noticeable and can lead to discomfort or pain. Poses like Cat-Cow, Low Lunge, or any kneeling position become challenging. For individuals with sensitive joints, this inadequate cushioning can be a deterrent to practice and potentially exacerbate existing issues.
Poor Grip and Traction. The smooth PVC surface offers minimal grip, especially when hands or feet begin to sweat. This is a critical safety issue. In poses like Downward-Facing Dog or Plank, where stability is paramount, sweaty palms can cause slipping. This not only disrupts the flow of the practice but also increases the risk of injury from losing balance and falling out of a pose. The mat's inability to absorb moisture means sweat pools on the surface, creating a slippery environment.
Limited Durability and Prone to Tearing. The materials used are not designed for long-term wear and tear. With regular unrolling, rolling, and use, the mat is susceptible to creasing, cracking, and tearing. The surface can develop permanent creases that are uncomfortable to kneel on, and the edges can start to fray after just a few months of consistent use. It is not a product built to last.
Strong Plastic Odor. New Five Below yoga mats often have a pronounced chemical smell from the PVC and manufacturing process. This odor can be unpleasant and distracting during a practice that emphasizes deep breathing. While the smell typically dissipates after being unrolled and aired out for a day or two, it is an initial drawback that higher-quality mats, often made with odorless materials, do not have.
Environmental Considerations. PVC is not an environmentally friendly material. Its production and disposal pose environmental concerns. For practitioners who prioritize sustainability, a PVC mat from Five Below is not an ideal choice. Many brands now offer mats made from natural rubber, TPE, or recycled materials, which are more eco-conscious options, though they come at a higher price.
Performance Analysis in Different Scenarios
How does the Five Below yoga mat hold up under specific conditions?
For a Beginner's Hatha or Gentle Yoga Class. For a complete beginner attending a gentle, slow-paced class, the mat might be sufficient for the first one or two sessions. It provides a defined personal space. However, as the beginner progresses and starts to sweat or attempts more weight-bearing poses, the lack of grip and cushioning will quickly become a limitation and may frustrate their efforts to build a consistent practice.
For Vinyasa or Power Yoga. These dynamic, flowing styles of yoga involve constant movement and generate significant body heat and sweat. A Five Below yoga mat is entirely unsuitable for Vinyasa or Power Yoga. The slippery surface becomes a hazard, and the thinness provides no support during vigorous sequences. Using this mat for such practices would be counterproductive and unsafe.
For Pilates or Floor Exercises. For Pilates, which often involves controlled movements on the back or side, the mat can work if placed on a soft carpet. However, for exercises that involve rolling, like rolling like a ball, the thin mat provides little support for the spine. For crunches or leg lifts, it is generally acceptable but not comfortable for extended periods.
For Meditation and Breathing Exercises. For seated meditation or pranayama breathing exercises, the mat is perfectly functional. It defines a space and provides a clean, slightly padded surface to sit on. Since there is minimal movement and no sweat, the primary drawbacks are irrelevant in this context.
Comparison with Other Budget Yoga Mats
It is useful to compare the Five Below mat to other low-cost options available at retailers like Target, Walmart, or Amazon.
Five Below Mat vs. Basic Gaiam Mat. A basic Gaiam mat, often priced around 25, is a significant step up in quality. While still a PVC mat, a Gaiam mat is typically thicker, around 4-5mm, offering better cushioning. It also features a textured surface for improved grip and comes with a carrying strap. The durability is notably higher. The extra 20 investment provides a dramatically better and safer experience for a beginner.
Five Below Mat vs. Amazon Basics Mat. The Amazon Basics yoga mat, priced around $20, is similar to the Gaiam mat in quality. It is thicker, has a non-slip textured surface, and is generally more durable. It represents a much better value for anyone planning to practice more than a handful of times.
The conclusion from this comparison is that while the Five Below mat is the cheapest upfront, spending slightly more on an entry-level mat from a sports brand yields a product that is more comfortable, safer, and durable enough to support a developing practice.
Practical Tips for Using a Five Below Yoga Mat
If you decide to purchase a Five Below yoga mat, these tips can help you maximize its utility and lifespan.
Use a Towel for Grip. The single most effective way to improve the performance of this mat is to place a yoga towel on top of it. A microfiber towel will absorb sweat and provide a non-slip surface for your hands and feet. This instantly mitigates the biggest safety concern and makes the mat usable for more active practices.
Pair with a Carpeted Surface. Always use the mat on a carpeted floor if possible. The carpet provides the cushioning that the mat itself lacks. This combination can make a significant difference in comfort for your joints.
Allow it to Air Out. Upon purchase, unroll the mat completely and leave it in a well-ventilated area, like a garage or balcony, for 24-48 hours. This will help dissipate the strong plastic smell much faster.
Clean it Gently. Clean the mat with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid harsh chemicals that can break down the fragile PVC material. Wipe it down with a soft cloth and allow it to air dry completely before rolling it up to prevent mildew.
Manage Your Expectations. Understand its limitations. Do not expect it to perform like a premium mat. Reserve it for light stretching, meditation, or as a temporary solution until you can upgrade.
When to Upgrade Your Yoga Mat
You should consider investing in a higher-quality mat if you experience any of the following:
- You find yourself slipping frequently during your practice.
- Your knees, wrists, or back feel sore during or after using the mat.
- You have committed to practicing yoga more than once a week.
- You are progressing to more challenging styles of yoga.
- The mat shows signs of significant wear, such as deep creases or tears.
Upgrading to a mat with better cushioning and grip will profoundly enhance your practice, making it more enjoyable, stable, and safe.
Final Verdict
The Five Below yoga mat is a product defined by its context. It is not a high-performance piece of fitness equipment, nor is it marketed as one. It is a consumable, ultra-low-cost item that serves a very specific niche. For the price of a few cups of coffee, it provides a basic, functional surface for certain activities. Its value is undeniable for a parent buying a mat for a child, a curious beginner taking a first step without financial pressure, or someone needing a single-use item.
However, for any individual serious about developing a consistent yoga practice, the limitations of the Five Below mat in cushioning, grip, and durability are too significant to ignore. These shortcomings can actively hinder progress and create safety risks. In such cases, the wiser financial decision is to invest a modest additional amount in a basic mat from a recognized sports brand, which offers a substantially better foundation for a healthy and sustainable practice. The Five Below yoga mat is a starting point, but for most, it should be a very temporary one.