Looking for the best jiu jitsu, grappling, and BJJ mats for home use?
Maybe you want to be able to train and drill jiu jitsu when not at the gym or maybe your wife finally agreed to let you turn the garage into your own home bjj gym (we can all dream right?)
Either way this is the post for you…
While most commercial gyms may splurge on high end or custom mats for their establishment, if you’re not Ashton Kutcher or some other celebrity bjj grappler, you may be in the market for:
- afforadable, padded mats
- that are also durable and easy to clean
The correct mats for martial arts are essential for safety and comfort during training.
It is essential to consider factors, such as protection and withstanding long and great extent of use, while selecting the ideal ones for your home.
This post will go through these considerations and provide recommendations for high-quality grappling, BJJ, and Jiu-Jitsu mats appropriate for home use.
Best Grappling Mats – At a Glance
Best Overall: BalanceFrom Puzzle Mats
Best Foldable: Z Athletic Folding Mats
How to Find the Best Jiu Jitsu Mats for Home
Jiu-Jitsu can also be practiced in the comfort of your home, and finding the best mat—one that protects you from injuries you could get when grappling—is a crucial first step.
The material, thickness, durability, smoothness, and size of mats are the primary features to look for when making a purchase.
You may also ask your coach or trainer for recommendations or talk to someone you know who already owns one at home for advice.
Why You Can Trust These Recommendations
If you’ve been training for some time, I’m sure you’ve experienced your gym being closed for one reason or another. For me, personally, once COVID hit the US, my brothers and I immediately were looking for mats that we can use at home to drill and spar.
During this time we actually purchased several different types of mats for our basement including folding mats, puzzle mats, and even wall mats.
What we quickly found was that we preferred puzzle mats due to their affordability, durability, and since they are easy to resize and shape to any square footage.
In addition, to my own reasearch for my own purchase, I’ve accumulated over 5 hours of reasearch in trying to find a mat that met all of our needs – affordability, durability, and ability to fit any space
During these five hours of research:
- I reviewed dozens of grappling mats found on amazon ranging from custom grappling mats, commercail grade martial arts mats, and mats for gymnasics and aerobices
- I also scoured Reddit for recommendations and reviews
- Finally, I reached out to training partners at my gym for their own personal recommendations
What Are Grappling Mats Made of?
Most often, mats for grappling are made from rubber or dense foam.
Foam mats for grappling mats are constructed from a thick, closed-cell foam material that is enough to give a decent cushioning effect while offering enough support. They are lightweight and easy to set up.
Rubber mats are much thicker and more durable than foam and are more costly. They are also usually long-lasting and more resilient than foam mats, although they might be harder to set up.
Foam and rubber mats may vary in thickness and density, so it’s vital to think about the characteristics of the mat you’re interested in to make sure it meets your requirements.
Jiu Jitsu Mat Types
Puzzle Mats
These mats are composed of pieces that interlock with one another, and that may be readily assembled and dismantled.
Puzzle mats may not be as popular as other training mats, but we strongly recommend them for home use since they are very durable, easily sizable, and easy to move.
Folding Mats
Folding mats include panels that can fold for more convenient storage. For this reason, it is frequently used in homes and training centers.
Foam is often used for folding mats, and some types include vinyl or other coverings for increased durability and ease of maintenance.
Rollout Mats
Rollout mats are a single sheet of foam or another material designed to be rolled out and placed wherever on the floor.
It is similar to the first two mats in that they give excellent surface grappling but are not as durable as other mats.
Tatami Mats
Tatami mats are comprised of foam pieces assembled in an interlocking pattern and covered with a tatami-feel surface. They are very durable, making them a common sight at training centers dedicated to traditional martial arts.
This type of mat may be a worthy investment in providing a suitable floor for training jiu-jitsu. However, they could be more costly than other mat options.
Smooth Mats
Smooth mats are created from one piece or kind of material that is seamless and soft all the way through, such as rubber or foam.
It is more expensive than other types but is also recognized for its durability.
What Features to Look For When Buying Home Grappling Mats?
Material
As was previously mentioned, grappling mats are often crafted from high-density foam or rubber.
Grappling mats with a vinyl surface are a good option since the material is smooth, non-slip, and simple to clean.
If you want a more durable one, a tatami surface is excellent because it is long-lasting and resistant to tears.
Thickness
You should look for mats that have a thickness of at least one inch in order to offer your joints with the necessary amount of support and protection.
Durability
If you want durability, consider those designed and built from high-density foam or rubber since these are more unsusceptible to wearing and tearing than others.
Smoothness
When searching for grappling mats for home use, it’s crucial to prioritize their smoothness as a safety aspect.
One may avoid falls and injuries, and stability can be maintained when practicing on a smooth, non-slip surface like vinyl or tatami.
How Thick Should BJJ Mats Be?
A thickness of at least one inch is recommended for BJJ mats to give enough support and cushioning while you are training.
Mats with a thickness of 1.4-1.5 inches may provide even more, but these can also be more costly and hassle to set up.
A thicker variant will give extra padding and support if you train on hard surfaces. However, you can use a thinner mat if you are grappling on a carpet or cushioned floor.
Are Puzzle Mats Good for Jiu Jitsu?
Yes, puzzle mats are suitable for Jiu-Jitsu since they are versatile and simple to set up.
These mats are customizable, with interlocking tiles that can be shaped and sized to suit your needs by rearranging the pieces or cutting them.
However, given they are puzzled and detachable, it is also important to remember that they may be more prone to moving or sliding in training.
What Kind of Mats Are Used in BJJ?
As mentioned above, BJJ mats are usually made of high-density foam or rubber. Smooth and tatami-surfaces that are well-cushioned are typically used in BJJ to help prevent falls and injuries.
Mats for BJJ and Wrestling are similar since both include ground combat and grappling techniques.
But mats used for wrestling, on the other hand, are often constructed from a thicker, more durable material like PVC rubber nitrile and cross-linked polyethylene foam or rubber.
Considerations When Buying Home BJJ Mats
The following are questions you should oneself and answer by your preferences before purchasing a home BJJ mat:
- What is your home mat budget?
- How much mat space do you need?
- What kind of training will you be doing?
- Will you need to move the mats frequently, or will they be permanent?
- Will you need to pad the walls around the mat area?
- Do you have a dog or cat that may run on the mat and make holes in them?
If you will doing a lot of throws, a more padded mat is recommended. If you are going to be mainly doing drilling and Jiu-Jitsu with fewer takedowns, then you can go with a less padded mat.
What Are the Best Mats for Jiu Jitsu? – Our Top 5 Recommendations
1. Our Top Recommendation for Home Grappling Mats:
BalanceFrom Puzzle Exercise Mat
COLORS: Black, Blue, Gray
When it comes to home workouts and training performed on the floor, a popular and our top choice would be the BalanceFrom Puzzle Exercise Mat.
| FEATURES: |
| Double-sided high-density EVA foam |
| Interlocking pieces |
| 1-inch extra thick |
| Moisture-resistant technology |
It is constructed out of high-density EVA foam, making it sturdy and comfortable ground for BJJ. It cushions your spine, hips, knees, and elbows when you practice on hard surfaces.
Because the tiles are designed to interlock, it is convenient and easy putting together the mat and personalize it.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to washed with soap and water
- Non-slip surfaces
Cons
- Some reviews complain about unaligned pattern
When practicing grappling at home, we advise using thick puzzle mats for the following reasons:
- They are easy to move
- Easy piece together to fit any location
- Are More Resistant to Holes and damage
In addition, we also recommend going with the 1” thick mats.
2. Z Atletic Folding Mats
COLORS: Black, Blue, Pink, Pink and Black
If you’re looking for a foldable mat, here is the one that comes highly recommended by us.
| FEATURES: |
| High-density cross-linked polyethylene foam |
| Covered in high-quality 18oz vinyl |
| Hook and Loop connections on all four sides |
The Z-Athletic Folding Mats may be used for various purposes and are simple to put up. These may very well be one of the most comfortable Jiu-Jitsu mats you can find. Yet, they provide an incredibly secure surface and are resistant to slipping.
Closed-cell, high-density polyethylene foam is used in the construction of these mats. When compared to open-cell foam, closed-cell foam has a far longer lifespan.
Pros
- Allows for side-to-side and end-to-end connection to other mats
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not that sturdy
- Hard at first but dissipates over time
3. Prosource Fit Tri-Fold Folding Mat
COLORS: Black, Blue, Gray
Another excellent folding mat for home BJJ training is this Prosource Fit Tri-Fold Folding Mat.
| FEATURES: |
| Comes with carrying handles |
| Tri-fold design |
| 4-sided velcro |
| Vinyl surface |
They are equipped with a convenient carry handle for easy transport when folded. If you want firm, thick, and fine surface mats, they are an excellent option for your home.
It provides superior joint support, protecting your knees, wrists, elbows, and back thanks to the resilient foam inside that retain its form over time. The substantial cushioning is great for absorbing shock, making it ideal for grappling.
Pros
- Easy to store and carry
- Lightweight
- Easy to clean/wipe vinyl
Cons
- Might be hard for other users
- Not good for people who sweat a lot
4. We Sell Mats
COLORS: Black, Blue, Pink, Purple, Black/Blue, Lime Green/Blue, Purple/Pink, Multicolor
| FEATURES: |
| Comes with carrying handles |
| Cross-linked foam |
| Vinyl surface |
This Folding exercise mat from We Sell Mats has excellent padded protection. Made with ultra-durable and sturdy, cross-linked foam, it can withstand heavy and intense grappling sessions at your home.
It has a 2″ foam thickness for a cushioned, supportive surface that protects knees, wrists, elbows & backs.
This mat is easy to carry and move around with its carrying straps and easy-to-wash vinyl surface.
Pros
- Easy to store and carry
- Lightweight
- Easy to clean/wipe vinyl
Cons
- Might be hard for other users
- Not good for people who sweat a lot (could be slippery)
5. Team Sports Landing Mats
COLORS: Blue
| FEATURES: |
| Higher 1.8 Density Poly-Foam |
| 18 oz. Premium Vinyl Covered Polyester Fiber Fabric |
| Mesh breather cloth on the top surface |
The New Sports Throw Mats from your favorite brands are available at the lowest prices. They are excellent supplementary training mats for use in gyms and even in your homes.
Low to moderate impacts may be absorbed by the Poly-Foam filler, allowing for smooth and safe landings, according to their proven testing.
This mat is ideal if you need a mat to practice takedowns and throws on a more padded surface.
Team Sports employs 1.8-density Poly-Foam, which is higher quality and more durable than the 1.4 and 1.5-density foam used by other brands.
Pros
- Great for light to moderate impact
- Great for practicing throws and takedowns
- Well-cushioned
Cons
- Bulky
- Hard to store
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do Certain Kinds of Mat Cause More Mat Burn?
Mat burn in BJJ is a common injury in training or competition. It is caused by direct contact with the floor or mat and forceful friction of your skin that causes it to damage the top layer of your skin and irritate it.
The risk of mat burn varies based on the outer texture and material of a particular BJJ mat. The risk of mat burn may increase, for instance, if the mat’s surface is rough or rough as opposed to smooth and non-slip.
How to Clean Your Home Grappling Mats?
Here are some tips for maintaining your grappling mats at home:
- Remove the visible dirt and dust with a sweep or vacuum
- Mop or sponge the mats off with a light disinfectant and water. Certain ones may be hand-washed with soap and water.
- Clean the mats by rinsing them in running water and letting them air dry.
- After the mats have been cleaned and dried, they should be stored in a way that keeps them free from dust and moisture. Store the mats somewhere cool, dry, and out of the direct sun.
Note: If the manufacturer has included a care guide with the product, please refer to it.
How Long to Grappling Mats Last?
A grappling mat’s longevity is affected by several factors, such as the materials, the mat’s density and thickness, the amount of usage, and how they are cleaned and maintained.
It is mainly constructed of high-density foam or rubber and may survive for years with the proper care. Those denser and thicker may last longer since they can better handle the repeated stress and tear out of training.
How Much Space Do You Need for Home Grappling Training?
Your individual preferences and the requirements of your training environment will determine how much space in the room you need for home grappling training.
It will depend on factors such as the available space, the layout of the room, and the specific exercises you want to undertake.
Best Jiu Jitsu, Grappling, and BJJ Mats for Home – 2023 – Conclusion
Training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) at home is a fantastic way to stay in shape, relieve stress, and learn self-defense.
However, before you can start training, you need to purchase a quality BJJ mat. In this blog post, we reviewed the best mats for BJJ available on the market in 2021.
We also provided information on what grappling mats are made of, different types of Jiu Jitsu mats, and factors to consider when making your purchase.
If you’re interested in learning more about which BJJ mat is right for your home gym, schedule a discovery call with one of our experts today.
Thanks for reading!
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