Becoming a better gymnast is all about practice, practice, practice. That means investing in quality gymnastics mats for home and in the studio. For dedicated gymnasts, the next step is determining what the best gymnastics mats are for your needs and skill level.
If you want to work on your walkovers and handsprings, you’ll have different needs from someone trying to master even trickier moves and complex floor routines. And if you’re planning a home practice space, that could be completely different from someone kitting out a whole studio.
Finding that perfect mat in a sea of options can be a challenge, so what’s a gymnast to do? Why not let me be your spotter? I made this list of the top gymnastics mats for 2022 to help you discover the best of the best.
How to Choose the Best Gymnastics Mats
There are a number of factors to consider as you start your journey to buy the best mat for you.
Thickness
Thickness is one of the most important considerations for gymnastics mats. In general, thicker mats offer higher shock-absorption, and that’s a big deal when you’re getting into those advanced moves.
Dimensions
How much room do you need to practice? While a smaller mat is more likely to fit wherever you want it to go, it can’t cover the space needed for advanced gymnastics. Consider how much ground you cover during practice, and keep those needs in mind when you think about mat dimensions.
Durability
It’s no secret that gymnastics mats can be a bit pricey, so the last thing you want is to wear out a mat really quickly and have to purchase another one within a year. That’s why you should make sure you choose a mat that is durable and built to handle your activity.
Easy Maintenance
These gymnastics mats offer the ease and convenience we all seek in our lives. All of our mats (except the Cheer Mats – but they just require a little vacuuming now and then) have a smooth, nonporous surface that’s incredibly easy to clean. Just wipe them down with a damp cloth or a traditional sanitizing product.
Cost
No matter what your budget looks like, there’s a gymnastic mat out there that’s right for you. You can purchase quality products without breaking $150, and even the most high-end mats start at less than $800. A lot of factors go into the price, including the thickness, durability, and size.
Installation
Here are some things to consider:
Is this a permanent installation, or do you share the space?Will you need to store the mats often?Do you want the option to change the size of the practice area using multiple mats?
Honestly, no gymnastics mats are particularly difficult to install. Most of the time, you just roll them out or unfold them, and then you’re done. Still, it’s good to keep portability, storage, and versatility in mind.
Related Content > Advanced Gymnastics Mats Buyer’s Guide
2022’s Top Gymnastics Mats
Now that you know what to look for in a gymnastic mat, it’s time to use your knowledge. It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for:
The best gymnastics mats for 2022.
We’ve got a great selection, with a bit of something for everyone, complete with rave reviews from customers. Check them out!
SHOP ALL GYMNASTICS MATS
Related Content > Gymnastics Mats FAQ
4’x8’x2″ Folding Mats
Folding mats offer a portable foam matting solution. These mats are covered with a durable vinyl casing and have a Velcro tab system on all four sides so that multiple mats can be connected to cover large areas. You know what that means? As many cartwheels as you want!
Our 4’x8’x2″ folding panel mats are an excellent choice for gymnastics as well as martial arts. The cross-link polyethylene foam material absorbs impact to protect your joints and keep you safe.
These mats come in a range of fun colors. If bright color isn’t your thing, you also have a choice of black.
What People Are Saying
“Everyone who has come in contact with my mats, comments on their quality and how good they feel under their feet. My girls constantly use them to practice their tumbling skills, including handsprings, round-offs, and aerials. The mats offer firm support for aerial silk skills that don’t require a crash mat.” – Sandy from Frederick, MD
“This really met our needs. All three of my kids have been using this mat–my daughter for her tumbling, my son for his martial arts, and my toddler just for jumping around and setting up ″tea parties″. It’s extra thick and a little springy and while it’s a pretty good size to be useful, it folds up easily and fits in a closet, so it’s practical to keep in the house without having a dedicated gym area.” – Jennifer from Southeast Florida
How 4’x8’x2″ Folding Mats Measure Up
Cost: 1/5
1 – least expensive to 5 – most expensive
You can’t beat this value! Without even getting close to breaking the bank, you can treat yourself to a durable and versatile folding mat.
Portability: 3/5
1 – least portable to 5 – most portable
If you want to take this mat on the go, just fold it up and pack it into your car. It might be a little bit bulky, but it will get there!
Installation: 1/5
1 – least difficult to 5 – most difficult
When you want to use your folding mat, simply take it out of storage, unfold it, and lay it out wherever you want. It’s as simple as that!
Hygiene: 5/5
1 – low to 5 – high
The vinyl casing doesn’t absorb stains or bacteria, so you just have to wipe it down to keep it sanitary.
Pros of 4’x8’x2″ Folding Mats
Easy maintenanceDurabilityColor optionsPortable
Cons of 4’x8’x2″ Folding Mats
Smaller mat sizeNot for advanced usersSHOP ALL 4’x8’x2″‘ FOLDING MATS
6′ x 42′ Cheer Mats
These competition cheer mats feature a durable carpet top over a cross-link polyethylene foam. This advanced cheer mat is great for gymnastics and cheer in high schools, colleges, and much more.
Simply roll it out and roll it up anywhere multiple events are held, such as gymnasiums. These roll out cheer mats are easy to clean and maintain.
When you’ve got a lot of space to cover with floor routines, these are the perfect solution. They measure 6’ x 42’ and come with two thickness options. The 1-3/8” mats can handle the impact of advanced routines, but for even more security, you can go with the 2” thick option.
What People Are Saying
“The floor is exactly what we wanted it had great traction. It’s wonderful for handstands! As a surprise side effect, it helps with the noise level!” – Crystal from Kent, WA
“They came really nicely packaged and smelling like brand new carpet, which I love. They are so easy to roll out and put away that my kids (5 and 8) can do it.” – Annie from Seattle, Washington
How 6′ x 42′ Cheer Mats Measure Up
Cost: 5/5
1 – least expensive to 5 – most expensive
This is a premium product, developed for the highest levels of performance. For that reason, it comes with a premium price tag. But if you’re looking for the highest level of quality at the competition level, this is the way to go.
Portability: 1/5
1 – least portable to 5 – most portable
These mats are easy to roll up, but they’re still big and bulky. You’ll need a trailer or large vehicle to transport them.
Installation: 3/5
1 – least difficult to 5 – most difficult
Though these mats are large, it’s pretty easy to roll them out for an event or practice, and they roll up quickly when it’s time to store them away.
Hygiene: 3/5
1 – low to 5 – high
The carpet top is more likely to absorb moisture and stains, and it’s a bit more complicated to clean, but it’s still not too hard to keep it hygienic.
Pros of 6′ x 42′ Cheer Mats
For advanced gymnasticsPerfect for competitionsDurableEasy maintenance
Cons of 6′ x 42′ Cheer Mats
CostOccasional slight color variance between rollsSHOP ALL 6’x42′ CHEER MATS
4’x8’x2″ Eco Folding Mats
Featuring less dense foam than our standard Folding Mats, our Tumbling Mats provide a low cost, kid-safe gymnastics mat. Great for kids of all ages, these gym mats are covered in vinyl for maximum durability. The Velcro on all four sides allows you to interlock multiple mats together for a larger place to practice and play.
In addition to being easy to clean, these tumbling mats are mold- and mildew-resistant. Wipe them down with a cloth and a mild cleaning solution, and rest easy knowing your child is playing and practicing on a hygienic surface.
What People Are Saying
“My daughter was practicing gymnastics all throughout our house so I knew a mat was needed for her safety. After searching online, I found the quality product we were looking for through Rubber Flooring Inc. Now she can safely and easily do her tricks.” – Bryony K. from Manassas, VA
“Ordered this mat for my daughters who love to do gymnastics around the house when they are not training. They have used it everyday. It seems to be a quality product to this point and I look forward to ordering more. I was a bit concerned when the package came when it was very light and worried it would be too soft. Not so. It’s firm enough to support both of my daughters at 80lbs give or take without compressing too much.” – Anonymous from Wisconsin
How 4’x8’x2″ Eco Folding Mats Measure Up
Cost: 1/5
1 – least expensive to 5 – most expensive
These tumbling mats are super affordable, making them great for gymnasts just starting out who don’t want to invest too much money at first. This foam mat is less dense than a standard panel mat, so it offers users a softer landing.
Portability: 4/5
1 – least portable to 5 – most portable
These lightweight mats are easy to fold up and take on the go.
Installation: 1/5
1 – least difficult to 5 – most difficult
There’s nothing to this installation. Unfold it and lay it out to start practicing. For a larger space, you can connect multiple mats with Velcro.
Hygiene: 5/5
1 – low to 5 – high
The vinyl casing makes it easy to keep the mat hygienic. Just wipe down the surface with a cloth and a mild cleaning solution.
Pros of 4’x8’x2″ Eco Folding Mats
Affordable Perfect for kidsEasy to cleanCan combine mats with Velcro
Cons of 4’x8’x2″ Eco Folding Mats
Not as denseNot for advanced gymnastsSHOP ALL 4’x8’x2″ ECO FOLDING MATS
Home Cheer Mats
These portable Home Cheer mats create a safe yet durable practice space virtually anywhere. The durable carpet top over foam offers optimal traction and impact absorption for advanced moves and floor routines. Thanks to this heavy duty construction, these high performance cheer mats are durable and versatile enough to be used as tumbling mats and gymnastics mats.
Our roll out gymnastics mats are easy to install and use. Simply roll them out when you need them. The low maintenance requirements mean less hassle for you after practice. Available in several color options, these lightweight and easy to store roll out mats are the perfect floor for any cheer athlete.
What People Are Saying
“Works good for tumbling, walkovers, flips, and great for practicing cheer. My granddaughter wanted it for the slight bounce and is satisfied overall with the product.” – Anonymous from Fishkill, NY
“This mat is perfect for my daughter to practice her gymnastics. The best part is that it is so thick but can easily fold up and give us back our floor space in the playroom! She loved the purple color and has used it every day” – Suzanne R from Framingham, MA
How Home Cheer Mats Measure Up
Cost: 2/5
1 – least expensive to 5 – most expensive
When you’re moving up to a higher skill level and it’s time to start getting serious, this is the mat you buy. It’s not cheap, but it’s not budget-busting, either.
Portability: 5/5
1 – least portable to 5 – most portable
This mat is pretty easy to tote around. Roll it up and take it wherever you need a practice space.
Installation: 1/5
1 – least difficult to 5 – most difficult
All you have to do is roll out these mats, and they’re ready to go. They’re also incredibly easy to transport, so you can bring them on the go.
Hygiene: 3/5
1 – low to 5 – high
The carpet top won’t be quite as hygienic as vinyl since the fibers can absorb some moisture, but it’s nothing that a vacuum and your favorite household cleaner can’t handle.
Pros of Home Cheer Mats
Can join mats with VelcroDurableLow-maintenanceAffordable
Cons of Home Cheer Mats
Will need multiple to cover large areaOccasional slight color variance between rollsSHOP ALL HOME CHEER MATS
5’x10’x2″ Tumbling Mats
These folding Tumbling Mats are the perfect premium mats for gymnastics as well as martial arts. Velcro has been attached to all sides of the mat, so you can connect many folding mats together to create a larger surface. These versatile tumbling mats also work great as wall padding.
The 18 oz. vinyl casing surrounds a 2” thick foam core, ensuring maximum performance and durability. Personalize the look with your choice color.
What People Are Saying
“Our 4 yrs of age daughter started doing gymnastics and the whole family has benefited from this purchase. It’s a well-constructed mat that easily folds up for storage. Our daughter enjoys it daily, especially with the extreme weather. She’s always rolling around, stretching or something while watching T.V. in a comfortable place.” – Anonymous from Stanislaus County, CA
“Awesome mat! My three kids are on this daily doing gymnastics and it is a great mat!” – Anonymous from Orland Park, IL
How 5’x10’x2″ Tumbling Mats Measure Up
Cost: 3/5
1 – least expensive to 5 – most expensive
These premium tumbling mats are made with top-quality products, and that’s reflected in the price. While they might cost a little more, they’ll last longer than cheaper options.
Portability: 3/5
1 – least portable to 5 – most portable
If you want to take this tumbling mat with you, it’s easy to fold it up. It might be a bit bulky, but you can still load it into your car.
Installation: 1/5
1 – least difficult to 5 – most difficult
This is a portable and versatile mat system. You can easily unfold them, and attach multiple mats together with Velcro if needed.
Hygiene: 5/5
1 – low to 5 – high
Thanks to the vinyl casing, it’s easy to wipe down the mats using a cloth and your favorite household cleaning product. Hygiene won’t ever be a problem with regular upkeep.
Pros of 5’x10’x2″ Tumbling Mats
DurableFloor and wall applicationsEasy to cleanCan join mats with Velcro
Cons of 5’x10’x2″ Tumbling Mats
PriceMight not be as a firm as other matsSHOP ALL 5’x10’x2″ TUMBLING MATS
Incline Mats
Also known as wedge mats or cheese mats, gymnastics incline mats are a great tool for beginning gymnastics. These mats help to teach basic rolls, walkovers, and handsprings. Incline mats can also be used as tumbling aids, crash pads, or landing mats.
This cheese wedge mat is an essential part of your athlete’s learning journey as they learn proper form and how to perform more advanced moves safely. We provide cheese mats in a range of heights so you can choose the right size for your gymnast’s skill level.
Easy to clean and maintain, these mats are constructed of cross-link polyethylene foam encased in an 18oz. vinyl casing, providing you with a soft yet durable tumbling mat. Our gymnastic wedge mats are very convenient and can be easily moved and stored.
What People Are Saying
“Mat is great, and High quality. My error was purchasing the smaller ″cheese wedge″. My daughters are 8 and 9 and are not able to use the mat as the tumbling prop they’d hoped, but it still helps them use the mini-bar to sing over.” – Anonymous from Boston, MA
“I would recommend this incline mat. It is a bit slippery at home on carpet or wood regular floors but my child loves being able to practice at home with it.” – Anonymous from Grand Prairie TX
SHOP ALL 5’x10’x2″ TUMBLING MATS
How Incline Mats Measure Up
Cost: 1/5
1 – least expensive to 5 – most expensive
Talk about value! You can buy your aspiring gymnast a wedge mat without breaking the bank, especially since you can choose from a variety of options in an affordable price range.
Portability: 3/5
1 – least portable to 5 – most portable
These wedge mats feature sturdy handles to make transport easier, and the longer mats fold up to save space.
Installation: 1/5
1 – least difficult to 5 – most difficult
When it’s time to practice on the cheese mat, all you have to do is pull it out of storage, unfold it if needed, and place it. Easy as that!
Hygiene: 5/5
1 – low to 5 – high
The vinyl casing doesn’t absorb stains or bacteria, so you just have to wipe it down to keep it sanitary.
Pros of Incline Mats
Easy maintenanceSize optionsPortable
Cons of Incline Mats
Takes up space when storedNot for advanced usersSHOP ALL INCLINE MATS
Folding Landing Mats
Landing mats are some of the most popular mats for gymnastics and martial arts but are also some of the largest and cumbersome mats to deal with. Fortunately, we offer a more flexible landing mat that folds up for easier storage and transport.
These landing mats are built to last, made from Crosslink Polyethylene foam encased with 13 oz vinyl fabric. The casing is easy to clean and it resists punctures and tears. Available in several popular sizes, these mats now allow for anyone to have a landing mat in their space, no matter how large or small it is. These portable Folding Landing Mats are backed by a 1-year warranty.
What People Are Saying
“So far. So Good. We are using it inside the house for exercise since we have tile floors. It has only been a month or so but it seems to be holding up well. The dogs don’t seem to mind it either. I would give 5 stars but need to see how well it wears over time.” – Anonymous from Scottsdale, AZ
How Folding Landing Mats Measure Up
Cost: 2/5
1 – least expensive to 5 – most expensive
When you’re practicing more advanced moves, the safety of your mat is a big deal. You don’t want to cut corners just to save a few bucks. This is a moderately-priced mat that will keep you safe.
Portability: 3/5
1 – least portable to 5 – most portable
This landing mat folds up to save space, unlike most other bulky landing mats.
Installation: 1/5
1 – least difficult to 5 – most difficult
Quickly need a soft place to land while practicing advanced moves? You can easily take this landing mat out of storage and unfold it without a lot of hassle.
Hygiene: 5/5
1 – low to 5 – high
You can easily sanitize the vinyl casing by wiping it down, and it won’t absorb stains or bacteria.
Pros of Folding Landing Mats
Low-maintenanceDurablePortable and easy to store
Cons of Folding Landing Mats
Takes up space when storedWill need multiple to cover a large areaSHOP ALL FOLDING LANDING MATS
Conclusion
Whether you’re an intermediate tumbler, or an experienced pro, there’s something on this list to suit your situation. Actually, you don’t even have to be a gymnast to benefit from these quality mats! Cheerleaders, wrestlers, and dancers can also make good use of a gymnastics mat in the routine.
So what are you waiting for? Shouldn’t you be practicing? It’s time to hit the mats.
SHOP ALL GYMNASTICS MATS
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