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Best Kids Gymnastics Mats of 2023

Updated
Tumbles, backflips, and cartwheels — here are the best gymnastics mats for kids.

Living an active lifestyle has become a widespread habit in the last few years. From Instagram to Pinterest, fitness is all around us. When it comes to children, it’s always important to stay safe when pursuing fitness, whether they’re aspiring cheerleaders or into martial arts.

One essential piece of safety equipment is a gymnastics mat. It will protect during falls while also preventing gliding or slipping, helping the user to feel secure.

We’ve gathered a comprehensive list of the best gymnastics mats for kids to help make your search go a little smoother.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the BestMassage Gymnastics Mat
Best Paneled Mat
BestMassage Gymnastics Mat
  • Comfortable
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to fold
Product Image of the Dollamur Flexi-Roll Mat
Best Flexi-Roll Mat
Dollamur Flexi-Roll Mat
  • Shock-absorbent
  • Competition-grade material
  • Non-slip carpet
Product Image of the We Sell Mats Gymnastics
Best Octagon-Shaped Mat
We Sell Mats Gymnastics
  • Skill-building assistant
  • Sturdy and solid
  • Easy to clean
Product Image of the Matladin Cheese Wedge Incline
Best Incline Gymnastics Mat
Matladin Cheese Wedge Incline
  • Non-toxic material
  • Great density
  • Easy to pack
Product Image of the BestMassage Exercise Mat
Best for Child & Parent
BestMassage Exercise Mat
  • High-quality material
  • Water-resistant
  • Effortless fold
Product Image of the IncStores Home Cheer Mats
Best for Cheerleading
IncStores Home Cheer Mats
  • Great for cheerleading
  • Easy to fold
  • Cushioned non-slip foam
Product Image of the BalanceFrom 1
Best Puzzle Mat
BalanceFrom 1
  • Lightweight & easy assembly
  • Large area coverage
  • Moisture-resistant surface
Product Image of the FBSPORT Inflatable
Best Inflatable Gymnastics Mat
FBSPORT Inflatable
  • Thick & durable material
  • Easy storage & transport
  • Includes pump
Product Image of the Easy Gymnastics Cartwheel Mat
Best Cartwheel Mat
Easy Gymnastics Cartwheel Mat
  • Anti-slip foam
  • Available in four colors
  • Easy to read writing
Product Image of the Giantex Incline Gymnastics Mat
Honorable Mention
Giantex Incline Gymnastics Mat
  • Versatile
  • Sturdy material
  • Easy to clean

Review Methodology: At Mom Loves Best, we pride ourselves on detailed, hands-on analysis and assessment of kid’s gymnastics mats. Our team of experts meticulously test and compare each product, using a set of criteria and benchmarks to ensure we provide you with the most reliable data and facts. We evaluate from a user’s perspective, identify key factors such as safety, durability, and comfort, and rank the products based on these standards. Our findings are backed by professional experience and real-world performance results, helping you understand what sets a product apart from its competitors. We also examine design choices, like material and thickness, and their effects on the user experience. Rely on our research and reviews to guide your choice for the best gymnastics mats for your little athlete.



The Best Gymnastics Mats for Kids of 2023

Here are the top ten gymnastics mats for kids.

BestMassage Gymnastics Mat

Best Paneled Gymnastics Mat for Kids

This panel mat from BestMassage has received outstanding reviews from parents and users for its quality and size. For the mat material, the manufacturer used high-density EPE, which provides a comfortable feel and proper protection during impact.

Covering the EPE is a layer of PU leather, which is effortless to wipe clean and acts as a non-slip surface. The mat measures 2 inches in thickness, which is ample for gymnastics.

Despite the material and thickness, the mat is relatively lightweight. It checks in at 16.6 pounds.

Pros

  • Fantastic EPE material and PU leather covering.
  • Good 2-inch thickness.
  • Suitable for various activities.
  • Easy to fold and carry.

Cons

  • It has a distinct smell.

Product Specs

Best for Any sport
Size 4 feet by 10 feet
Thickness 2 inches
Type Paneled mat
Padding material High-density EPE

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Thickness
4 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Storage
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

Excellent quality and size make this panel mat a favorite among parents and users. The high-density EPE material combined with the PU leather covering provides a comfortable and non-slip surface, perfect for various activities like gymnastics. Despite its 2-inch thickness, this mat is lightweight at 16 pounds, and it's easy to fold and carry, but be aware that it may have a distinct smell.

Dollamur Flexi-Roll Carpeted Cheer/Gymnastics Mat

Best Flexi-Roll Gymnastics Mat

If your child is serious about gymnastics, a Flexi-roll mat is a good choice for you. The Dollamur carpeted cheer and gymnastics mat measures 5 feet by 10 feet, giving the user plenty of wiggle room.

When producing the mat, Dollamur utilized a sports-grade polyethylene foam. This prevents it from shrinking or hardening over time. They covered it with a non-slip carpet surface made from polyolefin fibers and specialized latex, ensuring a snug fit.

The materials offer superb shock-absorption and resilience, suited for high-performance sports.

Pros

  • Excellent for serious gymnastics and cheerleaders.
  • Competition-grade material.
  • Soft top carpet that’s non-slip.
  • Suitable for other uses, too.

Cons

  • It’s not an overly soft mat — children may need time to get accustomed.

Product Specs

Best for Gymnastics, cheerleading, yoga
Size 5 feet by 10 feet
Thickness 1 inch
Type Flexi-roll mat
Padding material Athletic-grade crosslinked polyethylene foam

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Thickness
3.5 / 5
Size
5 / 5
Ease of Storage
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

This Flexi-roll mat is perfect for kids who are serious about gymnastics and cheerleading. It's large, measuring 5 feet by 10 feet, and made from sports-grade polyethylene foam with a non-slip carpet surface. The materials provide great shock-absorption and resilience, making it suitable for high-performance sports. However, the mat is not overly soft, so children may need some time to get used to it.

We Sell Mats Gymnastics Octagon Skill Shape

Best Octagon-Shaped Mat for Kids

If your little one needs assistance practicing tumbles and flips, an octagonal mat is a valuable tool. This mat is suitable for young children and up.

It will help the user learn new skills by acting as a safe and secure assistant. It’s available in four sizes, but the small and medium are best suited for children.

It’s sturdy and solid, filled with a cross-link polyethylene foam core. Covering that is an anti-tear vinyl, non-slip surface. On the sides are carrying handles to pull it out of storage easily.

Pros

  • Fantastic skill-building assistant.
  • Suitable for children down to 3 years of age.
  • Sturdy and solid.
  • Covered in anti-tear vinyl, which is also easy to keep clean.

Cons

  • Sizes are large, so for inexperienced or unsure users, choose a smaller size.

Product Specs

Best for Gymnastics, cheerleading
Size Depends on the chosen size
Thickness Depends on the chosen size
Type Octagonal mat
Padding material Cross-linked polyethylene foam

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Thickness
4 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Storage
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

Definitely impressed with the quality of this octagon, which has proven to be a great addition to our at-home gymnastics setup. My 7-year-old daughter and her friends, aged 8 to 10, all love using it to practice their skills, like back handsprings and tumbling. The medium size seems to be a good fit for their age range, though I'm slightly concerned about how quickly they might outgrow it. Regardless, the octagon is durable and well-made, able to withstand their energetic play.

Matladin Cheese Wedge Incline Gymnastics Mat

Best Incline Gymnastics Mat for Kids

Incline mats are amazing for practicing tumbles, and this one from Matladin has stellar reviews backing it.

This superb incline mat includes eco-friendly EPE foam that’s both durable and lightweight. For the surface, Matladin used anti-tear vinyl, which is non-toxic and non-slip.

Around the mat, you have reinforced stitching to minimize the chances of tearing and cracks further. The mat is easy to fold for storage and sports various bright colors for a child-friendly look.

Pros

  • Superb, non-toxic material.
  • Great density, not too hard for small users.
  • Easy to pack together for storage.
  • Fun colors.

Cons

  • It has a strong smell, but users state that it dissipates after a week or so.

Product Specs

Best for Gymnastics, cheerleading, general fitness
Size 58 inches by 29 inches
Thickness 14 inches
Type Incline mat
Padding material EPE foam

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Thickness
4.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Storage
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

I'm thrilled with this mat, which I initially purchased for my granddaughter who adores it. The sturdy, large design is perfect for my young gymnasts, allowing them to practice their back rolls with ease. The only slight drawback was the strong chemical odor upon unboxing, but it dissipated after a few days. The mat is made of high-quality material, lightweight, and easy to fold up for storage.

BestMassage Gymnastics Mats Exercise Mat

Best Gymnastics Mat for Child and Parent Use

If you’re searching for a mat you can borrow for yoga or pilates, check out this one. This pick from BestMassage is a versatile panel mat, suitable for any activity. It measures 6 feet by 4 feet and is 2 inches thick — other sizes and colors are available.

The mat includes a high-quality PU leather surface that’s water-resistant and effortless to clean. It’s easy to store and folds in four places. Once folded, you can carry it using the handle.

Pros

  • Color and size options are available.
  • The mat is useable for children and adults.
  • High-quality material both for interior and exterior.
  • Effortless to fold and transport.

Cons

  • The outer fabric doesn’t sit as snug as hoped.

Product Specs

Best for Gymnastics, yoga, pilates, general fitness
Size 6 feet by 4 feet
Thickness 2 inches
Type Paneled mat
Padding material EPE foam

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Thickness
4 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Ease of Storage
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

Excellent quality and size make this panel mat a favorite among parents and users. The high-density EPE material combined with the PU leather covering provides a comfortable and non-slip surface, perfect for various activities like gymnastics. Despite its 2-inch thickness, this mat is lightweight at 16 pounds, and it's easy to fold and carry, but be aware that it may have a distinct smell.

IncStores Home Cheer Carpet Top Mats

Best Roll-Out Gymnastics Mat for Cheerleading

For those with a tumbling cheerleader, we recommend this cheer carpet from IncStores. It’s an at-home, foldable gymnastics mat, suitable for backflip and tumbles training.

The mat is a large segmented foam cushion, covered with carpet material to create a safe training area. It uses shock-absorbing polyethylene foam, which provides a soft landing for the user.

On the sides are hook and loop fasteners so you can connect with other mats for more floor coverage.

Pros

  • Great for cheerleading practice.
  • Easy to fold.
  • Cushioned foam and non-slip surface.
  • Hook and loop fasteners on the sides to connect with other mats.

Cons

  • Quality control issues — some mats arrive without hook and loop fasteners, but the seller is quick to respond, according to reviews.

Product Specs

Best for Gymnastics, cheerleading
Size 5 feet by 10 feet
Thickness 1.375 inches
Type Roll-out mat
Padding material Polyethylene foam

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Thickness
3.5 / 5
Size
5 / 5
Ease of Storage
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

I recently purchased this exercise mat and it has been a fantastic addition to my workout routine. It's extremely durable and comfortable, making it much more enjoyable to exercise on compared to my hard floors. My kids also love playing on the mat because of its soft, yet pliable foam. Although there was a slight inconsistency with the color and length of the mat, the overall quality and thickness more than make up for it. The only downside was that it did not come with a velcro strap to connect multiple mats, but it's still a great product that has enhanced my workouts.

BalanceFrom 1

Best Puzzle Mat for Kids

The BalanceFrom puzzle mat is superb — it’s flexible, and when fully laid out, it measures 72 square feet. The package includes 18 tiles with a total of 36 end borders. Each tile is 24 inches by 24 inches in size.

The foam tiles have a thickness of 1 inch and offer excellent cushioning from falls. To provide protection for the user, BalanceFrom used EVA material with a non-slip surface, which is moisture-resistant for easy cleaning.

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to assemble.
  • Large area coverage.
  • Moisture-resistant surface that’s easy to clean.
  • Two-year warranty included.

Cons

  • Not suitable for placing heavy fitness equipment on top of — this may create dents.

Product Specs

Best for Gymnastics, cheerleading, general fitness, play area
Size Total 72 square feet
Thickness 1 inch
Type Puzzle mat
Padding material EPA foam

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Thickness
4 / 5
Size
5 / 5
Ease of Storage
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

These interlocking foam tiles have transformed my home gym experience. They provide a soft and smooth base that feels great underfoot, whether I'm in the pool or working out in the garage. Over the years, the tiles have proven to be durable, even with constant weight and exposure to water and chlorine. Installation was incredibly easy, and I've even ordered more to expand my workout area. The colors may vary slightly depending on the shipment, but this hasn't been an issue for me.

FBSPORT Inflatable Air Gymnastics Training Mats

Best Inflatable Gymnastics Mat

This inflatable gymnastics mat is a good pick for those with less storage space or who travel often. It utilizes first-class technology with double-wall drop stitch PVC laminated material, suitable for tumbles, martial arts, and even good old kiddie fun.

The mat is easy to handle — once it’s deflated, it folds into a compact size, ready for the included travel bag. Also in the bundle is an electric pump for quick one-minute inflation.

Pros

  • Thick and durable PVC material.
  • A thickness of either 4 or 8 inches that’s good for tumbling.
  • Easy to store and transport.
  • Pump and travel bag included.

Cons

  • Others received a set with incomplete accessories.

Product Specs

Best for Gymnastics, cheerleading, general fitness, play
Size 9.83 feet by 3.25 feet
Thickness 4 inches
Type Inflatable mat
Padding material Air

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Thickness
5 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Ease of Storage
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.75 / 5

Community Feedback

Got this air track for my daughter who does acrobatic gymnastics, and she absolutely loves it. The mat is durable, inflates quickly, and holds air well, making it perfect for her practice sessions. Although I was initially concerned about the quality due to its lower price, it has exceeded my expectations and has been holding up well for the past few months. The only minor drawback is that deflating it can be a bit of a hassle, but we keep it inflated and store it against the garage wall when not in use.

Easy Gymnastics Cartwheel Practice Mat

Best Cartwheel Mat for Kids

As someone who’s never been able to do a cartwheel, this would’ve been good in kindergarten. Easy Gymnastics has created a wonderful mat, stenciled with hand designs indicating how to do cartwheels. One side is for right or left-handed cartwheels and the flip side is for balancing.

Besides the good-to-have prints, the mat isn’t half bad. The material inside is soft with non-slip features. Moreover, it can easily be stored and can be used in multifarious ways.

Pros

  • Two sides with prints for cartwheels.
  • Gentle foam for a soft fall.
  • Comes in four bright hues.
  • Easy to read writing.

Cons

  • It doesn’t fold.

Product Specs

Best for Gymnastics, cheerleading
Size Not specified
Thickness Not specified
Type Cartwheel mat
Padding material Foam

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Thickness
3 / 5
Size
3.5 / 5
Ease of Storage
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

This gymnastics mat is excellent for helping with hand placement during cartwheels and handstands, especially for younger kids. Although the color may vary, it still serves its purpose and is made from a yoga mat-like material. However, it may not be wide enough for adults with larger shoulder widths and might slip on certain floor types.

Giantex Incline Gymnastics Mat

Honorable Mention

For our honorable mention, we have the incline mat from Giantex. This ergonomically designed mat allows for a variety of uses. It’s excellent for exercising and gymnastics, but will also work wonderfully in the playroom.

The wedges come with high-density, eco-friendly EPE foam that gives firm support during tumbles. The exterior is anti-tear PVC with a close-stitch design and sturdy zippers.

It’s effortless to clean — you can even remove the cover or change the foam inside if needed.

Pros

  • Versatile incline mat.
  • Sturdy material for inside and out.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Several color options.

Cons

  • Sizes are smaller than expected.

Product Specs

Best for Gymnastics, cheerleading, play area
Size 47 inches by 23.5 inches
Thickness 14 inches
Type Incline mat
Padding material EPE foam

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Thickness
4 / 5
Size
3.5 / 5
Ease of Storage
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

In my experience with this gymnastics mat, it's important to note that the size is more suitable for young children or toddlers. My one-year-old has enjoyed crawling all over it, while my older children found it too small for their gymnastics practice. The quality of the stitching could be better, but the mat itself is quite versatile, as it can be used for various activities, such as climbing and tumbling. Additionally, the durability of the fabric is impressive, as it has held up well to intense use. If the mat had handles for easier transportation and a wider width, it would be even more convenient for users.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Size Thickness Type Material
BestMassage Gymnastics Mat Paneled Mat 4 ft x 10 ft 2″ Paneled High-density EPE
Dollamur Flexi-Roll Mat Flexi-Roll 5 ft x 10 ft 1″ Flexi-roll Athletic-grade polyethylene foam
We Sell Mats Gymnastics Octagon-Shaped Mat N/A N/A Octagonal Cross-linked polyethylene foam
Matladin Cheese Wedge Incline Mat 58″ x 29″ 14″ Incline EPE foam
BestMassage Exercise Mat Child & Parent Use 6 ft x 4 ft 2″ Paneled EPE foam
IncStores Home Cheer Mats Cheerleading 5 ft x 10 ft 1.375″ Roll-out Polyethylene foam
BalanceFrom 1 Puzzle Mat 72 sq ft 1″ Puzzle EPA foam
FBSPORT Inflatable Inflatable Mat 9.83 ft x 3.25 ft 4″ Inflatable Air
Easy Gymnastics Cartwheel Mat N/A N/A Cartwheel Foam
Giantex Incline Mat Honorable Mention 47″ x 23.5″ 14″ Incline EPE foam

Types of Gymnastics Mats

Paneled Mats

Panel mats, sometimes called folded mats, are a standard piece of equipment. They’re versatile, useful for an array of activities besides gymnastics.

Paneled mats come in all sizes, and many include hook and loop fasteners to connect several together. They’re also excellent for storing due to the ease with which they fold.

Pros

  • Versatile.
  • A broad range of sizes available.
  • Many include hook and loop for connecting with others.
  • Easy to fold and store.

Cons

  • Not ideal for serious gymnasts since they can slip.

Cartwheel Mats

As the name suggests, the purpose of these mats is for practicing cartwheels. Many of them also have a beamline on the flip side for balance training. The mats are usually either paneled or one-piece, with hand and footprints on each side.

They come in different colors, but the sizes are generally the same. They normally don’t run as large as other mats.

Pros

  • Fantastic for cartwheels and balancing.
  • They can be used for other activities, too.
  • Lots of colors available.

Cons

  • Many are one-piece mats that are difficult to store.
  • Not a large variety in sizes.

Flexi Roll Mats

Flexi roll mats are for serious gymnasts or cheerleaders in training. They provide a high-quality foam base with non-slip surfaces. These don’t have panels, and instead, roll up for transport or storage.

Flexi roll mats are generally large — giving the user an extended surface to land flips, tumbles, and jumps.

Pros

  • High-quality mats for serious users.
  • Non-slip surfaces.
  • Roll-up design.
  • They’re large, providing ample room.

Cons

  • Pricey.

Incline Mats

Incline mats are also called cheese wedges, and despite the name, they’re fantastic for practicing tumbling. These mats are child-friendly, especially the brightly colored ones — they could easily work as a climber for toddlers or preschoolers.

Wedges are available in various sizes, and it’s an important aspect to consider before purchasing. The ideal length depends on your child’s age.

Pros

  • Perfect for practicing tumbles.
  • Fun for playtime.
  • Child-friendly colors are available.
  • Can be used for other activities.

Cons

  • It can be challenging to find the right size.

Puzzle Mats

Puzzle mats shouldn’t be your first choice if you want a thick mat for cushioning. However, if you need to make a surface more forgiving to falls and slips, then they’re great.

Puzzle mats come in bundles of several tiles that you click together. They’re a good pick as the flooring underneath fitness equipment, in playrooms, or outdoor spaces.

Pros

  • Good for making the floor softer.
  • Usually available in big bundles with several tiles.
  • The overall size is adjustable by taking out or adding tiles.

Cons

  • They’re not thick — typically less than an inch.
  • Not ideal for tumbling or backflips.

How to Choose the Best Gymnastics Mat

When choosing the best gymnastics mats for kids, there are four main points to consider. These are:

  • Type: Each type of mat suits different levels and activities. Consider what your child will do — if they’re serious about gymnastics or just want to have fun.
  • Mat thickness: The thickness is essential — aim for around 1 to 2 inches. You don’t want a mat that’s too thick as it will become challenging to tumble. Also, a thin yoga mat won’t provide any protection.
  • Size of the mat: Mats come in all sizes and shapes. Look at the space you have available and choose accordingly. For children who want to do cartwheels and tumbles, go bigger to ensure there’s room.
  • The price: Gymnastics mats aren’t the cheapest investment. The price highly depends on the size and quality. Evaluate your needs and budget before making a decision — perhaps pick one you can use too.
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FAQs

Why Are Gymnastics Mats so Expensive?

The price of a good gymnastics mat can shock many parents. Such mats are so pricey, however, because of the materials.

Both the foam and covers are expensive because of their durability. They need to withstand high-impacts and protect the people using them. Shipping is generally a pricey matter, too, though sometimes you’re lucky to find a good deal.

And while you may pay more than you’d like, your child can get a lot of health benefits from gymnastics, such as flexibility and strength (1).

What Is a Gymnastics Mat Made Of?

Materials differ depending on the manufacturers. These are the common materials to see:

  • Vinyl covers.
  • TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) for covers.
  • EVA foam.
  • Polyethylene foam.
  • EPE closed-cell or open-cell foam.

How Long Is a Tumbling Mat?

Tumbling mats come in different sizes — they’re long, but some are quite narrow. A standard size is 2 feet by 4 feet. However, some are much longer and can reach up to 7 feet wide, by 39 feet long.


The Takeaway

Finding the best gymnastics mats for kids can be a tiring task — and some can cost a fortune. Still, they’re a fantastic investment if your little ones are active, aspiring gymnasts or cheerleaders. Adults can use them, too.

When you’re searching, consider what type will suit your needs best and what will fit your available space. For serious tumblers, we recommend Flexi roll or incline mats. Look for a thickness of around 1-2 inches.

Make sure to encourage and support your child as they try to learn new skills. Maybe you can even impress them by busting out a cartwheel of your own.

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Headshot of Shannon Serpette

Edited by

Shannon Serpette

Shannon Serpette is an award-winning writer and editor, who regularly contributes to various newspapers, magazines, and websites. Shannon has been featured on Insider, Fatherly, SheKnows, and other high profile publications. As a mother of two, she loves to write about parenting issues and is dedicated to educating other parents at every stage of their child's development.