Yoga blocks can take your practice to the next level. Despite the common misconception that they’re only for beginners, a set of blocks can benefit yogis of all kinds . “Blocks will help you find more space in certain postures, more strength and length in a number of different poses, and they can be used in numerous ways to help deepen your exercise, ” says Lindsay Monal , yoga teacher at Yoga Renew Teacher Training in Hoboken, NJ. “Blocks can be used for countless postures and presents, and they last forever. ”
With Monal’s expertise combined with our own testing, we found the most durable, comfortable, and sustainable options on the market for everyone from advanced yogis to amateurs and even kids. JadeYoga Yoga Blocks top our list thanks to their firm, sweat-resistant cork material, which is also naturally antimicrobial.
JadeYoga
Why We Love It: These blocks are water-resistant and antimicrobial, so you can sweat it up without worry.
What to Consider: They’re heavier than foam alternatives.
The natural material these firm blocks are made out of isn’t only water-resistant (read: sweat-resistant! ), but it’s also naturally anti-bacterial, so they’ll be easier to keep fresh and germ-free no matter how difficult your practice is. At 4. 75 by 9 inches, Jadeyoga’s blocks come at the standard size Monal recommends for the best stability. Note that cork prevents are more durable than those made of foam and other alternatives but also firmer; if you plan to primarily use your blocks for laying on or tend to be sensitive, you may want to consider another option. Still, these versatile, long-lasting blocks are perfect to enhance the practice of many yogis. Plus, they come with an eco-friendly bonus that will make your practice feel even better: The company claims to help preserve 2, 000 square feet of rainforest for each block sold, so you’re not only doing good for your body, you’re helping the environment with this purchase, too.
Price at time of publish: $16
Material: Cork | Weight: Not listed | Dimensions: 3 x 4. 75 x 9 inches
Lululemon
Why We Love It: The particular curved edge allows for different grip options and is incredibly comfortable against areas of the body like the back and neck.
What to Consider: Stacking might be difficult because of the curved edge.
If you can’t ever seem to find a comfortable way to rest your neck on a traditional yoga exercise block for positions like fish pose, consider this block that has curved edges designed for comfort. The shape also makes it easier to grip the long lasting block, particularly if you have smaller hands. It’s made of a dense foam that comes in a beautiful marble-inspired design.
Cost at time of publish: $28
Material: Foam | Weight: Not really listed | Dimensions: 9. 8 x 5. nine x 3. 5 inches
Everyday Yoga
Why We Love It: The bamboo material makes this block an eco-friendly option, and it’s also lighter than many alternatives.
What to Consider: The wood material is harder than a foam block.
Since bamboo is so resilient and regrows quickly, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for gear that won’t have a detrimental impact on the environment. With a hollow center, this block is also lighter and easier to carry around than wood alternatives yet still very durable. The curved edges of this bamboo yoga exercises block also help it complement your hands for easy gripping.
Price at time of publish: $30
Material: Bamboo | Weight: Not listed | Dimensions: 4 x 6 by 9 inches
The reason why We Love It: This block comes in 20 different colors.
What to Consider: The foam can get nicks and marks in it over time.
Don’t worry about sweat causing your hands to slide around — or even off — this foam block thanks to the non-slip surface. The foam is soft against the palms, feet, back, neck, and every other part of the body, plus it’s easy to wipe clean, too. For beginners, starting with the less dense and firm block is a great way to get used to integrating the tool into your practice. We also love the gorgeous muted colors these blocks come in, including mint and lilac.
Price at time of publish: $15
Material: Foam | Weight: . 28 pounds | Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 4 inches
Baseblocks
Exactly why We Love It: The built-in handles make these blocks helpful for multiple exercises.
What to Consider: The side of the block where the handle is stored features a cut out, so it’s not flat. And the blocks aren’t your own typical yoga block dimensions.
These unique blocks have handles built in that can be removed from the side of the block they’re stored on and used as parallettes to assist with regard to positions like planks and handstands and doing pushups. When the handles are stored, the blocks act as a typical yoga block for stretching, flexibility, and mobility. However , do note that these blocks can only support up to 220 pounds.
Price at time of distribute: $49
Material: EVA foam plus PVC | Weight: 2 . 2 pounds | Dimensions: 8. 5 x six. 3 x 5. 5 inches
Walmart
Why We Like it: The high-quality cork material is company and can withstand years of workouts.
What to Consider: They’re heavier than foam choices.
These solid blocks can be stacked or used individually. While most cork blocks are made out of coarse grain, this block is made from a fine grain, which can feel more comfortable against your palms. Bonus: It weighs less than other cork prevents, too. You’ll also get the natural antimicrobial properties and durability that makes cork such a popular and expert-recommended choice.
Price at time of publish: $22
Material: Cork | Weight: 2 pounds | Dimensions: 4 x 6 x 9 ins
Alo
Why All of us Love It: The colors this yoga block comes in, from navy to light pink, olive green, highlighter yellow, quartz, and more, lets you put a personal touch into your practice.
What to Think about: The foam does get some wear and tear with time.
This lightweight block’s beveled edges make it easy to grip and comfortable against even the most sensitive of skin. Meanwhile, the gorgeous colors make the Alo Yoga Prevents particularly attractive, which will get you excited and wanting to exercise. Mix and match, or buy two of the same shade. We’re fans of the soft pink and olive green options in particular.
Price at time of post: $28
Material: EVA | Weight: Not listed | Dimensions: 4 x 6 by 9 inches
Dicks Sporting Goods
Precisely why We Love It: The size of these blocks make them easier for smaller hands to hold.
What to Consider: They’re smaller than a typical yoga block, so they may be less stable for adults.
It’s never too early to experience the benefits of yoga . Want to invite your mini me to practice with you? Weighing only. 45 pounds, these blocks are built with a more narrow silhouette, specifically designed with younger kids’ fingers in mind. The foam is also soft enough for beginners yet durable, so young ones can get all the posture-enhancing benefits of these types of versatile tools.
Price at moments of publish: $20
Materials: Not listed | Bodyweight: . 45 pounds | Sizes: 8. seventy five x 4. 15 x 3 inches
Athleta
Why We all Love It: The particular blocks have designs carved into the sides.
What to Consider: While the foam is durable, it can get dinked over months and years of use.
Made from a plant-based foam, these blocks are responsibly sourced and feel good practicing on. After each session, the blocks can easily be spot cleaned to keep things fresh. Choose from green, black, or tropical pink colours, all engraved with a gorgeous minimalist design.
Price at time of publish: $33
Material: Plant-based polyurethane foam | Weight :. 7 pounds | Dimensions: 9 x five. 9 x 3. 12 inches
Why We Love It: The bamboo material makes these blocks perfect for a hot yoga class, as they can be easily cleaned.
What to Consider: The blocks have less give than a foam alternative, and the hard exterior might take some getting used to.
Grab a set of these bamboo obstructs and feel confident that they will hold steady and sturdy for years of practice. The thin coat of lacquer can make the blocks slippery when wet, so be sure to use them on a non-slip surface like a mat. As a highly renewable material, bamboo also has the benefit of being more sustainable than many options.
Price at moments of publish: $33
Materials: Bamboo wooden | Bodyweight: Not listed | Measurements: 9 by 6 x 3 in .
Yoga exercise Direct
Why We Love It: The stripe along the edge helps with alignment during more demanding exercises.
Things to Consider: There are limited color options available.
Made from a scratch-resistant foam, this block won’t get as beat up as option foam options. The red stripe along the side is helpful to help line up your body during various postures and poses. Slide it under your bottom or neck in restorative positions and know the foam will be comfortable against your body.
Price in time of publish: $16
Material: Foam | Weight: Not outlined | Proportions: 4 x 6 x 9 inches
Tips for Buying Yoga Blocks
Buy identical blocks
If you’re purchasing more than one block (two is generally ideal — see why in the FAQ below), be sure that the particular blocks you’re purchasing are the same. This will ensure that you are balanced and the blocks can give you equal stability on both sides.
Pay attention to the materials the block is made out of
You might not think that the material matters so long as the block can do its job, but depending on your experience level and comfort preferences, the stability, durability, and grip provided by a block can make a huge difference. Cork blocks tend to be more durable and stable and are naturally antimicrobial, “but they’re also quite hard, so they might not feel so great if you’re installing over them or using them in certain postures, ” Monal said. Foam blocks are a good option if you’re looking for something with a little more give, a softer grip, and more comfortable support in restorative poses. Wood blocks are the most dense option and are extremely stable and easy to clean, but they can be heavier and much less comfortable to lay on.
Choose a standard-size block
Unless you’re buying yoga prevents for a specific reason, like you want a compact option for traveling light or you’re buying them for a young kid, it’s best to buy standard-size blocks: 9 inches simply by 6 inches by 4 inches. “It’s okay if your block dimensions are slightly off, but some places sell half-size yoga blocks, and I don’t really recommend that regarding students as they’re not very stable or thick enough for what you’ll need to use them for, ” said Monal.
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Amy Schlinger is a reporter, writer, and editor with over 12 years of experience covering gear, health, fitness, travel, wellness, nutrition, and lifestyle topics. She has run six half marathons, completed two triathlons, biked two century rides, finished two Tough Mudder races and four Spartan races, including the beast at the Spartan World Championships at Squaw Mountain in North Lake Tahoe.
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