Lululemon 3mm vs. 5mm: Which size is right for you?

Choosing between the Lululemon 3mm and 5mm yoga mats comes down to a simple trade-off: stability versus cushioning. The 3mm mat is thinner and lighter, offering a more grounded and stable feel for balance-focused poses, while the 5mm provides significant extra padding, prioritizing joint comfort and support, especially on hard surfaces.

Here is everything you need to know to choose the right Lululemon mat for your practice.

Lululemon 3mm Yoga Mat

The Lululemon 3mm mat is the brand's lighter, more portable option, designed for yogis who prioritize a direct connection to the ground and maximum stability. Its streamlined design makes it easy to roll up and carry to class, while its firm surface provides excellent feedback for challenging balance poses.

• What it is: A thin, high-performance yoga mat designed for stability, portability, and excellent grip.
• Key features: 3mm thickness, grippy texture, lightweight construction, approximately 2.5 pounds, and a firm surface feel.
• Price: $78 - $88
• Materials/Construction: Made from high-quality, durable natural rubber or synthetic blends with a textured surface for superior traction during practice.
• Sizing/Dimensions: Approximately 68 inches long and 24 inches wide, making it a standard size with an emphasis on low profile.
• Pros: Highly portable and easy to travel with, offers a stable foundation for standing and balance poses, provides excellent ground-feel, and maintains a strong grip.
• Cons: Offers minimal cushioning which can be uncomfortable for sensitive knees or wrists, may not be ideal for practice on hard concrete or tile floors.

This mat is an excellent choice for experienced practitioners, frequent studio-goers, or anyone who values a lightweight, stable, and travel-friendly surface over plush comfort.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/c/accessories/yoga-mats

Lululemon 5mm Yoga Mat

The Lululemon 5mm Yoga Mat is engineered for comfort, offering substantial cushioning to support your joints through every pose. This mat is ideal for those who practice on hard floors or need extra padding for their knees, spine, and wrists during floor-based postures and longer sessions.

• What it is: A thicker, more cushioned yoga mat created for superior comfort and joint protection.
• Key features: 5mm thickness for extra padding, high-traction finish, weighs approximately 3.5 pounds, provides a soft and supportive surface.
• Price: $98 - $108
• Materials/Construction: Built with the same durable, high-quality rubber material as the 3mm, but with additional layers to create its signature plush feel.
• Sizing/Dimensions: Measures a standard 68 inches long by 24 inches wide, but its added thickness makes it feel more substantial.
• Pros: Excellent cushioning protects joints, remarkably comfortable during restorative or yin yoga, absorbs impact on hard surfaces, still offers great grip.
• Cons: Heavier and bulkier to carry than the 3mm version, the extra cushioning can make some balance poses feel slightly less stable, higher price point.

It's the perfect option for beginners, individuals with joint sensitivity, or anyone whose practice focuses on floor work, yin, or restorative styles.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/c/accessories/yoga-mats

Lululemon 3mm vs. 5mm Mat Comparison

Cushioning & Joint Support

The most significant difference lies here. The 5mm mat provides substantial padding that feels luxurious on hardwood, tile, or concrete floors. Poses on your knees, like Cat-Cow, or pressure on your wrists are much more comfortable. It absorbs impact and makes longer holds significantly more pleasant for those with sensitivities.

The 3mm mat is much firmer. While it provides enough of a barrier from the floor, it offers minimal cushioning. You will feel the ground beneath you, which some practitioners prefer, but it doesn't offer the same level of protection for sensitive joints.

Stability & Balance

Here, the thinner mat shines. The firm surface of the 3mm mat creates a stable foundation, making it easier to root down through your feet for standing postures like Tree Pose or Warrior III. There is no "squish" to throw you off balance, allowing for precise foot placement and feedback.

In contrast, the 5mm mat’s plushness can introduce a subtle wobble during balance poses. While not a massive hindrance for most, those focused on perfecting their stability might find the extra cushion creates a minor challenge. It requires a bit more muscle engagement to maintain steady balance.

Portability & Weight

Weight and packability are key considerations if you commute to the studio. The 3mm mat weighs around 2.5 pounds, rolls up tightly, and is easy to carry over your shoulder or in a bag. It's the clear winner for travel and daily transport.

At approximately 3.5 pounds, the 5mm mat is noticeably heavier and bulkier. While still manageable for taking to a local class, it is less ideal for frequent travel or long commutes on foot. It’s better suited for practitioners who either practice at home or drive to their classes.

Price & Value

The 3mm mat is typically about $20 less expensive than the 5mm version. For those who don't require extra cushioning, the 3mm offers excellent value with all the core performance features - grip and durability - that Lululemon mats are known for.

The higher price of the 5mm mat is a direct reflection of the added material and comfort. For people with joint issues or those who find yoga uncomfortable on hard surfaces, the extra $20 is a small price to pay for a pain-free practice and is a worthwhile investment in comfort.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both are premium mats that serve different needs, so the best choice is entirely dependent on your priorities.

Choose the 3mm Mat if:

• You prioritize stability and a strong connection to the floor for balance poses.
• You frequently carry your mat to a studio, gym, or when traveling.
• You do not have sensitive knees, wrists, or other joints.
• You want a lightweight, no-fuss mat for a dynamic Vinyasa or Ashtanga practice.

Choose the 5mm Mat if:

• You need extra cushioning to protect sensitive joints from hard surfaces.
• You primarily practice at home and portability is not a top concern.
• Your practice includes plenty of floor work, like in Yin, Hatha, or restorative yoga.
• You are new to yoga and want a more comfortable surface as you build strength.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Lululemon 3mm and 5mm mats?

The primary difference is the thickness, which directly impacts cushioning and stability. The 3mm mat is thinner, lighter, and more stable for balance, while the 5mm mat is thicker, more cushioned for joint comfort, and slightly heavier.

Which Lululemon mat thickness is better for beginners?

The 5mm mat is generally recommended for beginners. Its extra cushioning makes holding poses more comfortable, especially for longer durations, which helps new practitioners focus on alignment and breath without being distracted by discomfort.

Is the 5mm mat too heavy to carry to class?

At around 3.5 pounds, the 5mm Lululemon mat is heavier than the 3mm version but is still manageable for most people to carry to a local studio. It may feel a bit cumbersome for long walks or public transit commutes.

Will the 3mm mat hurt my knees?

If you have sensitive knees, the 3mm mat may not offer enough padding on its own. While it’s not inherently painful, it's very firm. Practitioners often place a folded towel or blanket under their knees for extra support during certain poses on a thinner mat.

Which mat is better for hot yoga?

Both mats have excellent grip, a key requirement for hot yoga. The choice in thickness is a matter of personal preference. Some prefer the stability of the 3mm, while others may want the comfort of the 5mm during a sweaty session.

How wide are the Lululemon yoga mats?

Lululemon mats generally follow a standard size, measuring approximately 24 inches wide and 68 inches long. They sometimes offer wider or longer versions for specific mat styles.

How long do Lululemon mats last?

Lululemon mats are known for their durability. With proper care - wiping them down after sweaty practices and avoiding prolonged sun exposure - they can last for years of regular use.

Is a Lululemon yoga mat worth the price?

While priced at a premium, many yogis find Lululemon mats to be a worthy investment due to their exceptional grip, high-quality materials, and long-term durability. If you practice regularly, the performance can justify the cost.