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Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat vs CAP Barbell 1/2-Inch High Density Exercise Yoga Mat: Which Should You Buy? (UK 2026)

Published 28 September 2026 • 🧘 Yoga & Pilates • Contains affiliate links
Two mats, one rating: 4.6 stars each. Yet they differ by 6 inches of surface length, two foam types, and £4.92. The Amazon Basics measures 74 inches and uses NBR foam, which holds its shape through 12 to 18 months of regular home use. The CAP Barbell is 68 inches of EVA foam at £12.08.

🧘 Products Compared

Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat

£17.00
★ 4.6/5
Check Price ★

CAP Barbell 1/2-Inch High Density Exercise Yoga Mat

£12.08
★ 4.6/5
Check Price ★

📊 Specs Comparison

FeatureAmazon Basics Extra Thick Yoga MatCAP Barbell 1/2-Inch High Density Yoga Mat
Price£17.00£12.08
Rating4.6/54.6/5
Material100% NBR foamHigh-density EVA foam
Dimensions74 x 24 inches (188 x 61 cm)68 x 24 inches (173 x 61 cm)
Thickness1/2 inch (12.7 mm)1/2 inch (12 mm)
WeightApprox. 1 kg (2.2 lbs)Not stated
Colour OptionsBlack6 options: black, grey, blue, purple, teal, wine
WarrantyNot statedNot stated

✓ Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat

  • ✓ NBR foam maintains cushioning through extended use and resists flattening better than EVA
  • ✓ 74-inch length suits users up to around 6 ft 1 in comfortably
  • ✓ Grips hardwood, concrete, tile, and grass without shifting during static holds
  • ✓ Over 100,000 verified reviews indicate consistent quality across production batches
  • ❌ Surface becomes slippery during intense, sweaty sessions
  • ❌ NBR foam is petroleum-based and carries no eco or recyclability certification

✓ CAP Barbell 1/2-Inch High Density Exercise Yoga Mat

  • ✓ Costs £12.08, saving £4.92 over the Amazon Basics
  • ✓ Available in 6 colour options including blue, purple, teal, and wine
  • ✓ Lighter construction makes it easier to roll up and carry to a class
  • ✓ 12mm EVA foam delivers sufficient padding for low-impact pilates and stretching
  • ❌ 68-inch length is short for anyone taller than 5 ft 7 in
  • ❌ EVA foam offers less floor grip on bare feet, particularly over hardwood

📝 User Reviews

Amazon Basics buyers consistently highlight the thick cushioning and reliable multi-surface grip, with many noting it outperforms pricier options they have tried. CAP Barbell reviewers praise the price and colour range but flag that the shorter length and EVA surface suit casual stretching more than active yoga flows.

🏆 Verdict

At £17.00, the Amazon Basics mat is the stronger buy for most home users: 6 inches longer than the CAP Barbell and built with NBR foam that grips reliably and resists flattening over months of regular use. Pay the extra £4.92 over the CAP Barbell unless you are under 5 ft 7 in and practice only light pilates, or you specifically need a colour other than black.

Amazon Basics Extra Thick Mat best for regular home yoga or pilates sessions and users taller than 5 ft 7 in who need a full-length, long-lasting surface. CAP Barbell 1/2-Inch Mat best for occasional stretching and light floor work, particularly for budget-conscious buyers who want colour choice.

❓ FAQs

Which mat is better for pilates floor work?

The Amazon Basics mat's NBR foam provides more sustained cushioning for pilates, where knees, hips, and spine make prolonged contact with the surface. The CAP Barbell handles light pilates adequately, but its EVA foam compresses faster under repeated pressure.

Can either mat be used for hot yoga?

Neither is well suited to hot yoga. Both foam types become slippery when wet. A natural rubber mat with a microfibre top layer handles sweat significantly better than either option here.

Is the Amazon Basics mat long enough for tall users?

At 74 inches, it covers users up to around 6 ft 1 in. The CAP Barbell's 68-inch length is comfortable up to about 5 ft 7 in. Anyone taller than that should choose the Amazon Basics or a purpose-built long mat.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices accurate as of 28 September 2026.