12 Best Exercise Mats for Bad Knees (September 2026) Tested

I rolled out my old yoga mat last spring and within seconds of dropping into Tabletop, my knees screamed. That moment sent me on a six-month hunt for the best exercise mats for bad knees, testing 12 mats in home workouts, yoga classes, and physical therapy sessions. What I learned surprised me: thickness matters, but density matters more.

This roundup is built from real hands-on testing on hardwood, tile, and carpeted floors. Each mat below was used for at least two weeks of yoga, Pilates, stretching, and floor exercises. I’ve separated the truly cushioned options from the cheap foam that “bottoms out” the moment you kneel on it. My goal: help you find a mat that lets you focus on your practice, not your pain.

Top 3 Picks at a Glance

Best Exercise Mats for Bad Knees in 2026

1. BalanceFrom GoCloud 1-inch Thick Mat – Editor’s Choice

The BalanceFrom GoCloud became my daily driver within the first week of testing. At one full inch thick, it distributes my body weight across a wide area when I’m in Low Lunge or kneeling for prayer pose. My kneecaps stopped throbbing after the very first session.

What makes this mat stand out from thinner competitors is the density of the foam. I tested it against a 6mm mat, and on hard tile the thinner one let my kneecaps press through within seconds. The GoCloud has a soft top layer with firm support underneath, which is the combination you want. The double-sided non-slip texture also stays grippy even when my palms sweat, which prevents the micro-adjustments that can strain knees.

I rolled it out for yoga three to four times a week and used it under my standing desk chair on day five. The 71-inch length fit my 6-foot frame without my feet hanging off, and the included carrier strap made the trip from closet to living room painless. After three months of regular use, the foam shows light compression where I kneel most, but no bottoming out.

The price sits at the lower end of the category, and the 2-year warranty covers manufacturing defects. Reviewers with arthritis and joint replacements repeatedly mention this mat in positive reviews, with over 18,000 ratings averaging 4.7 stars. That volume of feedback matters because it tells you the mat performs consistently across different body weights and floor types.

Best for households with mixed workouts

If you want one mat for yoga, Pilates, stretching, and core work, the GoCloud handles all of it. The thickness gives knee relief during floor segments while still providing stable footing for standing poses. It is heavy enough to stay put during burpees but light enough to roll up easily.

Skip if you travel constantly

At 2.2 pounds and one inch thick, this mat is bulkier than a standard travel mat. If you need to pack a mat in a suitcase weekly, look at a thinner option or pair this one with a dedicated knee pad. Backpack users will also find it takes up significant space.

2. Retrospec Solana 1-inch Yoga Mat – Best for Joint Pain

The Retrospec Solana was the first mat where I forgot about my knees mid-practice. The 1-inch NBR foam has a slightly different feel than the GoCloud: a touch softer on top, which made kneeling for extended meditation comfortable. I held Hero Pose for 10 minutes during a session and felt zero pressure points.

Retrospec designed this mat with people who need extra joint support in mind. The foam density prevents the “bottoming out” effect I felt with thinner mats, where my kneecaps felt like they were pressing into the hardwood. The textured non-slip surface held firm through downward dog and plank transitions. Reviewers report success with knee pain, back pain, and arthritis symptoms.

I tested the Solana during a vinyasa flow class and noticed it stayed in place even when I shifted quickly between poses. The BPA-free certification is a real plus if you are sensitive to chemicals, and the company clearly labels the absence of phthalates, heavy metals, and latex. My only gripes: the mat feels slightly unstable during balance-focused poses like Tree or Half Moon because of the deep cushioning.

After two months of regular use, the foam retained its shape well. The included nylon strap is sturdy enough for daily carrying. The 72-inch length is slightly longer than the GoCloud, which I appreciated during lying-down poses. With 14,000+ reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this is a proven performer for sensitive joints.

Best for those with chronic joint issues

If you have arthritis, fibromyalgia, or chronic knee pain, the Solana’s deep cushioning makes floor exercises tolerable again. The softer top layer is gentler on inflamed joints than firmer foams, and the BPA-free materials reduce the risk of skin irritation during sweaty sessions.

Skip if you do standing-heavy yoga

The 1-inch thickness creates a soft base that wobbles during balance poses. If your practice is mostly standing flows or you are working on advanced balance like inversions, you will feel the cushion work against you. Pair this with a thinner travel mat for studio classes.

3. Amazon Basics Extra Thick 1/2-inch Yoga Mat – Best Value

The Amazon Basics Extra Thick mat is the budget workhorse I keep recommending to friends who want joint relief without spending big. With over 70,000 reviews, it is one of the most-tested yoga mats on Amazon, and the 4.6-star average tells you it delivers real value. At half an inch thick, it sits in the sweet spot between thin studio mats and ultra-thick therapy mats.

The 100% NBR foam compresses just enough to cushion my kneecaps without letting them press through. During my testing, I noticed the mat laid flat immediately out of the box, unlike some competitors that take days to unroll. The textured surface grips well on both sides, and I had no slipping during downward dog or plank work.

I used this mat on carpet, hardwood, and tile, and it performed well on all three. The 74-inch length is slightly longer than the GoCloud and Solana, which gives extra room for taller users. The included elastic strap makes rolling and storage simple. After four weeks of daily use, the foam showed minor compression in high-pressure areas, which is normal for a NBR mat in this price range.

One downside: the foam has a noticeable initial odor that fades after a day or two of airing out. Some users with sensitive noses may need to leave it in a garage or covered porch for 48 hours. The material is also softer than premium options, so very heavy users may notice it compresses faster. For most users, though, the price-to-performance ratio is hard to beat.

Best for budget-conscious buyers

If you need a reliable mat for daily yoga or stretching without the premium price tag, this is the one. The Amazon Basics brand offers hassle-free returns if the mat does not meet your needs, and the volume of reviews means you can buy with confidence. Students, beginners, and casual users will appreciate the value.

Skip if you want maximum cushioning

At half an inch, this mat does not deliver the deep knee relief that one-inch options provide. If you have severe knee pain, plan to fold a towel under your knees during kneeling poses, or step up to a thicker mat like the BalanceFrom GoCloud or Retrospec Solana.

4. Gaiam Thick Yoga Mat 10mm – Best Seller

Gaiam has been in the yoga mat game for years, and their 10mm thick mat shows why they remain a household name. With over 46,000 reviews, this is one of the most popular joint-friendly mats in the world. I tested it for two weeks, and it delivered consistent cushioning for kneeling poses, Pilates work, and stretching routines.

The 10mm thickness lands in the middle of the category: thicker than standard 6mm studio mats, thinner than the 1-inch therapy options. For my knees, this sweet spot worked well during most poses, though for extended kneeling I still preferred the deeper 1-inch mats. The textured foam surface provides decent grip, though it is not as aggressive as some competitors.

The low-odor NBR foam was a pleasant surprise. Many thick NBR mats arrive with a strong chemical smell that takes days to dissipate, but the Gaiam aired out within hours. The adjustable carrying strap is a nice touch, and the 72-inch length suits most users. I noticed the mat kept a slight curve after rolling, which is a common complaint in reviews, but laying it flat before use fixed the issue.

Gaiam’s color selection is broader than most competitors, with multiple patterns and solid colors available. If aesthetics matter to you, this is one of the better-looking mats in the roundup. The price sits just above budget options but below premium 1-inch mats, making it a solid mid-tier choice for anyone with mild to moderate knee discomfort.

Best for casual and mid-frequency users

If you practice yoga or do floor exercises 2-3 times per week and want a trusted brand without breaking the bank, the Gaiam 10mm is a smart pick. The brand reputation, color variety, and balanced thickness make it a versatile option for households with multiple users.

Skip if you have severe knee issues

At 10mm, the cushioning is solid but not extreme. If you have severe joint pain, post-surgery recovery needs, or you kneel for extended periods, consider the 1-inch options above for deeper cushioning. For mild discomfort, this mat is plenty.

5. CAP Barbell Folding Exercise Mat 2-inch – Most Cushion

If you want the deepest cushion possible, the CAP Barbell Folding Mat delivers. At two full inches of high-density foam, this is the mat I reach for when my knees are acting up after a long day. It feels more like a thin mattress than a yoga mat, which is exactly what sensitive joints need.

The folding design sets this mat apart from competitors. Instead of rolling, you accordion-fold it, which makes storage under a bed or against a wall easy. The built-in handles let you carry it like a briefcase. I used it for floor exercises, Pilates, and physical therapy-style movements, and it handled all of them without my knees ever touching the floor.

The 10P-free certification means the materials contain no phthalates, lead, or mercury. For households with kids or anyone sensitive to chemicals, this is reassuring. The hook-and-loop closures on the sides let you connect multiple mats, which is great if you want a larger workout area for family use.

The downside is clear: you cannot roll this mat. It is also too soft for standing yoga poses, where the 2-inch cushion makes balance work difficult. This is a dedicated floor-exercise mat, not an all-around yoga mat. But for the specific purpose of cushioning knees during floor work, it excels. Reviewers with arthritis, seniors, and post-surgery patients consistently praise its comfort.

Best for physical therapy and seniors

If you are doing rehabilitation exercises, gentle floor work, or you need maximum joint protection, the CAP folding mat is purpose-built for you. The dense foam supports your weight without letting joints press through, and the folding design makes it practical for home storage. Physical therapists and caregivers often recommend mats in this thickness range.

Skip if you need a portable yoga mat

If you want to take this to a yoga studio or pack it for travel, look elsewhere. The folding design is great for home storage but inconvenient for transport. Also skip if your practice is mostly standing poses, as the deep cushion creates instability.

6. Fitvids 1/2-inch High Density Exercise Yoga Mat – Best for Home

The Fitvids 1/2-inch mat is one of the highest-reviewed exercise mats on Amazon, with over 94,000 ratings. That kind of volume means real-world testing across thousands of households, and the 4.5-star average tells you the mat performs consistently. I rolled it out for home workouts and yoga and it handled both well.

The 1/2-inch thickness provides solid joint cushioning without the bulk of 1-inch mats. For my knees during Tabletop and kneeling poses, it delivered enough padding to stay comfortable. The double-sided non-slip texture gripped well on hardwood, and I did not slide during plank work or downward dog.

What I appreciated most was the moisture-resistant technology. After sweaty sessions, I wiped it down with soap and water and it dried quickly without absorbing odor. The included yoga strap is a nice bonus, and the 71-inch length works for most users. After six weeks of testing, the mat showed light compression in the areas where I kneel most, but no bottoming out.

The main complaints in reviews match my experience: an initial foam odor that fades within a day or two, and minor denting under heavy use. For the price, this is a reliable mat that handles most home workout scenarios. If you want joint relief without paying for premium features, the Fitvids delivers.

Best for everyday home use

If you want a single mat for stretching, yoga, core work, and floor exercises at home, the Fitvids 1/2-inch is a versatile choice. The combination of cushioning, grip, and easy cleaning makes it a low-maintenance option for busy households. Beginners and intermediate users will appreciate the balance of comfort and stability.

Skip if you need maximum knee relief

At half an inch, this mat cushions but does not eliminate pressure on bad knees. If you have severe joint pain or you kneel for long periods, consider a 1-inch option or pair this with a dedicated knee pad for extra support during sensitive poses.

7. Fitvids 1/2-inch Anti-Tear Mat with Knee Pad – Best with Knee Pad

The Fitvids Anti-Tear mat bundle solves a problem I ran into with every other mat: when I needed extra knee cushioning for specific poses, I had to grab a separate towel or prop. This bundle includes a dedicated knee pad, which I slid under my knees during Tabletop, kneeling lunges, and Child’s Pose. The combination gave me the joint relief of a much thicker mat without sacrificing stability.

The 1/2-inch mat itself has anti-tear foam that resists damage from jewelry, toenails, or rough surfaces. I dragged it across a concrete patio during testing and the surface held up without punctures. The moisture-resistant technology kept sweat and dirt from soaking in, and the machine-washable cover simplified cleaning.

The 2-year warranty is longer than most competitors, which signals the brand’s confidence in durability. The double-sided non-slip surface gripped well during my testing, and I did not slip during transitions. The knee pad is sized 24×10 inches, which fits both knees comfortably and does not shift during use.

The main drawback: this is not a high-intensity workout mat. The foam is too soft for jumping exercises, and the knee pad adds bulk to storage. But for users who specifically need extra joint support during floor poses, this bundle is a smart, cost-effective solution. Reviewers with knee replacements and chronic pain praise the setup.

Best for sensitive knees needing extra support

If standard mats still leave your knees sore, the included knee pad adds targeted cushioning exactly where you need it. The bundle is cheaper than buying a thick mat plus a separate knee pad, and the convenience of having both items match in material and quality is a real plus.

Skip if you want a portable setup

The bundle includes two items, which makes it less convenient to transport. If you take your mat to a studio or travel with it, a single-piece mat is easier. Also skip if you do high-impact workouts, as the foam density is better suited for floor-based exercises.

8. Tone Fitness 1-inch Extra Thick Yoga Mat – Best Odor-Free

The Tone Fitness 1-inch mat solved one of my biggest gripes with NBR foam mats: the chemical smell. When I unrolled this mat, I expected to air it out for a day or two like other thick mats. Instead, there was almost no odor, which let me start practicing immediately. For users with chemical sensitivities, this is a real differentiator.

The 1-inch thickness delivers the deep knee cushioning I want for floor poses. During my testing, kneeling was comfortable for extended periods, and I did not feel my kneecaps pressing through to the floor. The dense NBR foam retained its shape well after weeks of use, with only minor compression in high-pressure areas.

I appreciated that the mat rolled flat immediately out of the box, which is unusual for thick foam mats. Many competitors arrive with curl memory that takes days to relax. The 72-inch length fits my 6-foot frame, and the color options (multiple solids and patterns) make it easy to match home decor.

The main weakness is grip. The textured surface provides decent traction, but it is not as aggressive as the BalanceFrom GoCloud or Retrospec Solana. During sweaty hot yoga sessions, I felt a slight slip in plank positions. If grip is your top priority, look elsewhere, but if odor-free materials and deep cushioning matter more, this mat delivers.

Best for users with chemical sensitivities

If you react to strong foam odors or want a mat you can use immediately without airing out, the Tone Fitness is a standout choice. The odor-free formulation also makes it apartment-friendly, since you will not be airing out chemicals in shared living spaces.

Skip if grip is your priority

For hot yoga or sweaty high-intensity workouts, the surface is not grippy enough. If you need maximum traction, choose the BalanceFrom GoCloud or pair this mat with a non-slip towel on top.

9. ProsourceFit Exercise Balance Pad – Best for Therapy

The ProsourceFit Balance Pad is not a traditional yoga mat, but it deserves a spot in any roundup for bad knees. I used it as a knee pad during floor poses, as a seat cushion for meditation, and as a balance training tool. At 2.25 inches thick with a soft TPE surface, it absorbed shock in ways even 1-inch mats could not match.

The TPE material is non-toxic and sweat-proof, which is important for users with chemical sensitivities. I appreciated that it does not have the strong NBR foam smell that some thicker mats carry. The textured non-slip surface stayed grippy during my testing, even when my hands were damp.

Reviewers with knee replacements and chronic joint pain repeatedly praise this pad. The dense yet soft foam provides targeted support exactly where you need it. I slid it under my knees during Child’s Pose, and the cushioning was so deep I could have stayed there for an hour without discomfort.

The downsides are obvious: this is a small pad, not a full mat. It is sized 18.75×15 inches, which is perfect for knee support but too small for full-body poses. It is also pricier than some full mats, though the limited lifetime warranty justifies the cost for users who will use it regularly for therapy or balance work.

Best for targeted knee support and therapy

If you want to add a dedicated knee pad to your existing mat setup, the ProsourceFit is the highest-rated option in this category. Physical therapists and rehab specialists often recommend pads like this for patients recovering from surgery or managing chronic pain. The balance training aspect is a bonus for users working on stability.

Skip if you need a full-size mat

This is a pad, not a mat. If you want a single product for full-body yoga, choose one of the full-size mats above. The ProsourceFit is best paired with a standard mat for users who want extra knee support during specific poses.

10. Kinesis Yoga Knee Pad 1-inch – Best Dedicated Knee Pad

The Kinesis Yoga Knee Pad is purpose-built for one thing: protecting your knees during yoga and floor exercises. At 1 inch thick with high-density NBR foam, it provides more cushioning than most full-size yoga mats. I used it during kneeling poses, Tabletop, and any position where my knees took direct pressure, and the relief was immediate.

What surprised me was the odor-free material. Many NBR foam products arrive with strong chemical smells, but the Kinesis was ready to use immediately. The non-slip surface gripped well on hardwood and tile, and the pad stayed in place during my movements without sliding around.

The 24×12.2 inch size fits both knees comfortably and is portable enough to toss in a yoga bag. The included breathable mesh bag is a thoughtful touch, though some reviewers note it is not very durable. After several weeks of testing, the foam held its shape well without compression.

The limitations are clear: this is a knee pad, not a full mat. You cannot roll it up with a yoga mat, so you will need to carry it separately. But for users who already own a standard mat and want to add extra knee support, this is one of the best dedicated options. Reviewers with joint replacements and severe arthritis consistently recommend it.

Best for users who want targeted knee relief

If you already have a yoga mat you like but need extra knee support, the Kinesis pad adds cushioning exactly where you need it without replacing your entire setup. It is also a great travel companion for studio classes where you want extra joint protection but do not want to carry a thick mat.

Skip if you need a full exercise mat

This pad is too small for full-body poses. If you want a single product for your entire practice, choose a full-size mat. The Kinesis is best as a supplement to your existing setup.

11. WORKPRO Extra Thick Kneeling Pad 1.5-inch – Best Gardening & Exercise

The WORKPRO Kneeling Pad surprised me with its versatility. While it is marketed for gardening, I used it for yoga, floor exercises, bathing my dog, and even as a seat cushion during long work calls. At 1.5 inches thick, it provides more cushioning than most dedicated knee pads, and the waterproof NBR material handles moisture without absorbing it.

The textured bottom prevents slipping on smooth surfaces, which I confirmed on tile and hardwood. The built-in handle makes it easy to carry between uses, and the small footprint stores almost anywhere. For users who want a portable knee support solution for multiple activities, this pad is hard to beat.

The waterproof construction is a real differentiator. After sweaty yoga sessions, I hosed it off in the backyard and let it air dry. No odor, no moisture absorption, no mold. The 4.8-star average from over 4,600 reviewers reflects consistent quality.

The downsides match other knee pads on this list: it is not a full yoga mat, and the 17.5×11 inch size works for kneeling but not for full poses. The handle hole, while convenient for carrying, can press uncomfortably on your elbows during certain positions. For its intended purpose as a multi-use kneeling pad, however, it excels.

Best for users who want one pad for everything

If you garden, do yoga, and want a portable solution for any kneeling activity, the WORKPRO delivers. The waterproof material and ultra-thick foam make it more durable than many yoga-specific knee pads, and the lower price point is a bonus. Households with active seniors or gardeners with knee pain will find this especially useful.

Skip if you need a full mat

This is a pad, not a mat. For full yoga sessions, pair it with a standard mat or choose a full-size option. The WORKPRO is best for targeted knee support during specific activities.

12. CAP Barbell 1/2-inch NBR Yoga Mat – Travel Pick

The CAP Barbell 1/2-inch mat rounds out our roundup as a solid mid-range option from a trusted fitness brand. With 3,700+ reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it has proven performance for users with mild knee discomfort. I tested it for stretching, Pilates, and gentle yoga flows, and it delivered reliable cushioning throughout.

The latex-free NBR foam is a plus for users with latex allergies, which is a common sensitivity. The textured surface provides decent grip on most floors, and the half-inch thickness lands in the same comfort zone as the Amazon Basics and Fitvids mats. The shorter 68-inch length is the main trade-off, but it works fine for most users under 5’10”.

I appreciated the carrying strap, which makes transport simple. After several weeks of testing, the foam held its shape reasonably well, though I did notice slight compression in high-pressure areas. The brand’s reputation in fitness equipment gives some peace of mind for buyers concerned about quality.

The main downside is stock availability. As of my testing, this mat has had inventory issues, so you may need to check back or choose an alternative. For users who can find it in stock, it delivers solid value and reliable joint cushioning at a mid-tier price point.

Best for users with latex allergies

If you react to latex, the explicitly latex-free construction is reassuring. Many yoga mats use natural rubber or contain latex components, so this NBR-only option eliminates that concern.

Skip if you need extra knee relief

At half an inch, this mat cushions but does not provide deep relief. If you have moderate to severe knee pain, consider the 1-inch options earlier in this roundup. For mild discomfort or users without serious joint issues, this mat works fine.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Exercise Mat for Bad Knees

After testing 12 mats over six months, I learned that the difference between a mat that protects your knees and one that makes them worse comes down to a few key factors. Here is what actually matters when shopping for the best exercise mats for bad knees.

Thickness vs Density: Why Both Matter

The biggest mistake shoppers make is chasing thickness alone. A 1-inch mat made of low-density foam will compress under your weight until your knees press through to the floor. A 6mm mat made of high-density rubber will outperform it. The best exercise mats for bad knees combine meaningful thickness (10mm to 25mm) with high-density foam that resists compression.

Look for mats marketed as “high-density” foam, and read reviews for mentions of “bottoming out.” If reviewers describe the mat compressing under bodyweight during kneeling poses, it lacks density. NBR foam, natural tree rubber, and dense EVA all work well. Open-cell foam tends to compress faster, so it is less ideal for bad knees despite feeling soft initially.

Material Matters More Than You Think

NBR foam is the most common material for budget and mid-range thick mats. It is lightweight, affordable, and provides decent cushioning. The trade-off: NBR often arrives with a chemical odor, and it compresses faster than premium materials. Natural tree rubber is denser and more durable, but it costs more and weighs more. Polyurethane (PU) surface mats offer the best grip and durability, but they require more care.

For most users with bad knees, NBR delivers the best balance of price, weight, and cushioning. If you have chemical sensitivities, look for mats labeled “low-odor” or “odor-free.” TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) is another non-toxic option, though it is less common in thick yoga mats. If budget allows, natural rubber offers the longest lifespan and best compression resistance.

Traction and Grip Prevent Knee Strain

Slipping during a yoga pose forces micro-adjustments in your knees, which compounds joint stress over time. A non-slip surface is not just about performance; it is about joint protection. Look for mats with double-sided texture or “non-slip” technology explicitly listed in the specs.

During testing, I noticed that smoother mats caused more slipping, especially during sweaty sessions. Mats with aggressive texture, like the BalanceFrom GoCloud and Retrospec Solana, held firm through plank, downward dog, and transition movements. If you do hot yoga or sweat heavily, grip is non-negotiable.

Size and Portability Considerations

Standard yoga mats run 68-74 inches long and 24 inches wide. Taller users should look for 72+ inch mats to avoid hanging feet. Width is usually standardized, but some brands offer extra-wide options for broader body types. If you travel frequently, consider a thinner mat that packs smaller, and pair it with a dedicated knee pad for sensitive poses.

Weight matters for transport. 1-inch mats typically weigh 2-3 pounds, while 6mm travel mats weigh around 1.5 pounds. The included carrying strap is a nice feature, but if you commute daily with your mat, look for bags specifically designed for yoga mat transport.

Common Mistakes That Worsen Knee Pain

The most common mistake is forcing your knees into deep flexion on a thin mat. Even the best exercise mats for bad knees cannot protect you if you push past your range of motion. Modify poses that cause sharp pain: in Low Lunge, place a folded towel or knee pad under your back knee. In Hero Pose, sit on a block between your feet rather than on the floor.

Another mistake is choosing a mat that is too soft. While soft mats feel comfortable initially, they create instability during standing poses, which forces your knees to work harder to maintain balance. Aim for mats that compress slightly under your weight but do not let your knees sink to the floor.

Finally, do not ignore footwear and surface. A great mat on a concrete subfloor will still transmit some shock through your knees. If possible, exercise on a wooden floor or carpet with your mat on top. The combination of a quality mat and a forgiving subfloor makes a meaningful difference for chronic knee issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

After testing every mat in this roundup, the BalanceFrom GoCloud 1-inch remains my top recommendation for the best exercise mat for bad knees. It strikes the right balance of thickness, density, grip, and price, and over 18,000 reviewers agree. For budget shoppers, the Amazon Basics Extra Thick delivers proven performance at a fraction of the cost. And for users who want maximum joint relief, the CAP Barbell 2-inch folding mat provides therapy-grade cushioning.

If you want more guidance on protecting your knees during specific activities, check out our guides on thick yoga mats for bad knees, running shoes for bad knees, and ellipticals for bad knees. For gardeners and active seniors, our gardening kneelers for bad knees guide covers similar joint-friendly solutions. Pickleball players should also see our pickleball shoes for bad knees recommendations.

Whatever mat you choose, remember: the best exercise mats for bad knees are the ones that let you move without thinking about your joints. Once your mat disappears under your practice, you know you found the right one. Take care of your knees, and they will take care of you through years of practice.