Whether you’re stretching into downward dog or powering through a sweaty Vinyasa flow, the right yoga mat can elevate your practice. The Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip Yoga Mat has become a favorite among yoga enthusiasts for its winning combination of traction, design, and portability. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore its features, specs, design, performance, pros and cons, and who it’s best suited for.
1. First Impressions & Design
Out of the box, the Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip mat is a blend of style and function. Lightweight and easy to roll, it weighs around 2.9 pounds (1.3 kg) in the 5mm version, making it travel-friendly yet substantial enough for studio and home use.
Visuals & Materials
- Patterns & Colors: Comes in a variety of eye-catching prints and modern tones, suited to different tastes.
- Dry-Grip Surface: The signature dry-grip top layer offers excellent traction—especially helpful during hot yoga or sweaty sessions.
- Backing: Smooth Undertone offers comfort and holds the mat steady on the floor without slipping.
This mat strikes a balance between visually appealing and practically designed, fitting into both your aesthetic and functional needs.
2. Material & Thickness Options
Gaiam offers the Dry-Grip mat in three thickness options:
- 3 mm (Light Travel): Ideal for portability and space-saving use.
- 5 mm (Standard): Adds a bit more cushion while still remaining compact.
- 6 mm (Extra Cushion): The plushest option, suitable for joint support and softer surfaces.
All three versions use PVC with a Dry-Grip top layer in stylish matte tones. The 5 mm variant remains the most popular choice for daily vinyasa, hot yoga, and core work, thanks to its blend of comfort and portability.
3. Grip & Traction Performance
The standout feature of this yoga mat is traction—especially when wet. Here’s how it performs in different conditions:
- Dry Use: Provides reliable grip, allowing stable flows and transitions without requiring a towel.
- Sweat & Heat: The Dry-Grip surface becomes grippier as it gets slightly damp, helping you maintain posture even during vigorous sessions.
- Long-Term Grip: Over time, minimal residue builds up; a light wipe with warm soapy water restores traction easily.
This dynamic grip behavior makes the mat suitable for both restorative yoga and high-energy practices.
4. Cushioning & Comfort
With its 5 mm thickness, the mat offers a comfortable middle ground—not too firm, not too soft.
- Floor Workouts: Enough padding for knees, elbows, and spine without feeling unstable.
- Weight & Mobility: Around 5 pounds with its carrying strap, it’s portable for gym sessions or outdoor use.
- Back Yoga & Mobility Routines: The extra padding supports practitioners who transition between standing and seated poses frequently.
For those with sensitive joints, the 6 mm option may be a better fit; the 3 mm works if you prioritize portability.
5. Durability & Build Quality
This mat is built to last:
- Material Durability: PVC is robust and designed to withstand regular use—from yoga studios to home spaces.
- Seamless Edges: No peeling or fraying after months of rolling and unrolling.
- Wear Resistance: Does not flake or crumble under frequent use or temperature changes.
With proper care (wipe and let air dry), many users report the mat staying intact and functional well beyond a year of consistent use.
6. Cleaning & Maintenance
Keeping the Dry-Grip mat fresh is simple:
- After Practice: Wipe with a damp cloth or mild soapy water.
- Deep Clean: Mix warm water with a small amount of gentle soap, wipe thoroughly, rinse, and air-dry.
- Odor Control: While PVC may emit a faint odor initially, airing it out eliminates any residual smell quickly.
Efficient cleaning translates to better grip over time and a mat that’s always ready for action.
7. Performance Breakdown
Here’s how the mat stacks up in different practice styles:
- Hot & Power Yoga: Performs exceptionally well even in sweat-heavy sessions—grip increases slightly with moisture.
- Gentle & Restorative Yoga: Adequate cushioning supports long holds and floor-based poses.
- Pilates & Core Work: Stable cushion ensures you stay centered during precise movements.
- Travel & Outdoor Use: Lightweight enough for throwing in a bag, yet sturdy enough for grass or concrete surfaces.
Overall, its versatility makes it suitable for a broad range of yoga practices and fitness routines.
8. Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Exceptional grip—dries faster and grips better with slight moisture
- Multiple thickness options for custom comfort
- Durable and easy to maintain
- Visually appealing with diverse designs
- Portable and travel-friendly, with included strap
❌ Cons:
- PVC construction isn’t eco-friendly compared to natural rubber or TPE options
- Heavier than ultra-thin travel mats
- Slight initial PVC odor (common in non-natural mats)
- Can be slippery when fully soaked—best for short drying during practice, not post-session dunking
9. Who Is This Mat Best For?
The Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip stands out for:
- Hot yoga enthusiasts who need increased grip with sweat
- Daily practitioners seeking balance between portability and comfort
- Stylish yogis who appreciate a tasteful visual design
- Travelers and beginners who value simplicity and accessibility
- Home and studio users wanting a dependable PVC mat that lasts
It may not be the top choice for those seeking eco-certified materials or featherweight travel solutions.
Final Verdict
The Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip Yoga Mat shines as a mid-range yoga essential—especially for those engaged in regular, heated, or mobile practice. Its standout traction, stylish design, and sturdy build make it a go-to for both beginners and seasoned yogis.
While natural material options exist, the Dry-Grip idea of getting grippier with moisture delivers real-world benefit in sweaty sessions. Just keep it clean, air-dry after use, and enjoy a mat that supports flow with stability and flair.
Quick Specs Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | PVC with Dry-Grip surface |
| Thickness Options | 3 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm |
| Weight (5 mm) | ~2.9 lbs (1.3 kg) |
| Dimensions | 68 × 24 inches (standard) |
| Patterns | Matte, floral, and tonal designs |
| Best For | Hot yoga, vinyasa, daily practice |
| Main Benefits | Enhanced traction, portability, visual appeal |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean—wipe or hand-wash |