Travel Products Activity + Adventure Sports + Leisure The 11 Best Yoga Blocks of 2023 We love the naturally antimicrobial JadeYoga Yoga Blocks. By Amy Schlinger Amy Schlinger Amy Schlinger is a writer with over 12 years of experience covering fitness, travel, and lifestyle topics. She often reviews products for sites like Travel + Leisure, Shape, and more. Amy has been writing for Travel + Leisure since August 2022. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Published on January 27, 2023 Share Tweet Pin Email In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews Tips for Buying FAQ Why Trust T+L We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington 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 practice,” says Lindsay Monal, yoga teacher at Yoga Renew Teacher Training in Hoboken, NJ. “Blocks can be used for countless postures and poses, 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. Our Top Picks Best Overall: JadeYoga Yoga Blocks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Curved: Lululemon Inner Flow Yoga Block Marble at Lululemon Jump to Review Best Sustainability: Hugger Mugger Bamboo Yoga Block at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Beginners: Gaiam Yoga Block + Yoga Strap Combo Set at Amazon Jump to Review Most Versatile: Baseblocks Strongblocks at Baseblocks.fit Jump to Review Best Cork: Manduka Cork Yoga Block at Amazon Jump to Review Best Set: Alo Uplifting Yoga Block at Aloyoga.com Jump to Review Best for Kids: Merrithew Youth Yoga Block at Amazon Jump to Review Best Foam: Athleta Flow Freely Yoga Block at Gap.com Jump to Review Best Bamboo: Wooden-Life Bamboo Yoga Block at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall JadeYoga Yoga Blocks JadeYoga View On Amazon View On Jadeyoga.com View On Target 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 cork material these firm blocks are made out of isn’t only water-resistant (read: sweat-resistant!), but it’s also naturally antimicrobial, 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 blocks 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 The Details: Cork | 3 x 4.75 x 9 inches Best Curved Lululemon Inner Flow Yoga Block Marble Lululemon View On Lululemon Why We Love It The 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 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 durable block, particularly if you have smaller hands. It’s made of a dense foam that comes in a beautiful marble-inspired design. Price at time of publish: $28 The Details: Foam | 9.8 x 5.9 x 3.5 inches Best Sustainability Hugger Mugger Bamboo Yoga Block Everyday Yoga View On Amazon View On Everydayyoga.com 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 option 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 block also help it complement your hands for easy gripping. Price at time of publish: $30 The Details: Bamboo | 4 x 6 x 9 inches The 9 Best Travel Yoga Mats of 2023 Best for Beginners Gaiam Yoga Block + Yoga Strap Combo Set Amazon View On Amazon View On Getactv.com 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, and it’s easy to wipe clean, too. For beginners, starting with a 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 The Details: Foam | .28 pounds | 9 x 6 x 4 inches Most Versatile Baseblocks Strongblocks Baseblocks View On Baseblocks.fit 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 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 positions like planks and handstands and doing pushups. When the handles are stored, it acts 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 publish: $49 The Details: EVA foam and PVC | 2.2 pounds | 8.5 x 6.3 x 5.5 inches Best Cork Manduka Cork Yoga Block Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart Why We Love It The high-quality cork material is firm and can withstand years of workouts. What to Consider They’re heavier than foam options. 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 blocks, too. You’ll also get the natural antimicrobial properties and durability that make cork such a popular and expert-recommended choice. Price at time of publish: $22 The Details: Cork | 2 pounds | 4 x 6 x 9 inches The 14 Best Yoga Pants for Travel of 2023 Best Set Alo Uplifting Yoga Block Alo View On Aloyoga.com Why We 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 Consider The foam does get some wear and tear over 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 Blocks particularly attractive, which will get you excited and wanting to practice. 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 publish: $28 The Details: EVA | 4 x 6 x 9 inches Best for Kids Merrithew Youth Yoga Block Dicks Sporting Goods View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Merrithew.com 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’ hands in mind. The foam is also soft enough for beginners yet durable, so young ones can get all the posture-enhancing benefits of these versatile tools. Price at time of publish: $20 The Details: Material: .45 pounds | 8.75 x 4.15 x 3 inches Best Foam Athleta Flow Freely Yoga Block Athleta View On Gap.com Why We Love It The blocks have designs carved into the sides. What to Consider While the foam is durable, it can get dinged over months and years of use. Made from a plant-based foam, these blocks are responsibly sourced and feel good to practice on. After each session, the blocks can easily be spot cleaned to keep things fresh. Choose from green, black, or tropical pink colors, all engraved with a gorgeously minimalist design. Price at time of publish: $33 The Details: Plant-based foam | .7 pounds | 9 x 5.9 x 3.12 inches Best Bamboo Wooden-Life Bamboo Yoga Block Amazon View On Amazon 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 blocks 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 time of publish: $33 The Details: Bamboo wood | 9 x 6 x 3 inches Best for Advanced Yogis Yogadirect Striped Foam Yoga Block Yoga Direct View On Yogadirect.com Why We Love It The stripe along the edge helps with alignment during more demanding exercises. What to Consider There are limited color options available. Made from scratch-resistant foam, this block won’t get as beat up as alternative foam options. The stripe along the side is helpful to help line up your body during different postures and poses. Slide it under your bottom or neck in restorative poses, and know the foam will be comfortable against your body. Price at time of publish: $16 The Details: Foam | 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 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 material 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 laying 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 less comfortable to lay on. Choose a standard-size block Unless you’re buying yoga blocks for a specific reason, like you want a compact option for traveling light or you’re purchasing them for a young kid, it’s best to buy standard-size blocks: 9 inches 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 for students as they’re not very stable or thick enough for what you’ll need to use them for,” said Monal. Frequently Asked Questions How do you use yoga blocks? Yoga blocks are an extremely versatile tool that are well worth a purchase. They can be used in countless ways throughout your practice. Some common ways that yoga blocks are used:Sitting up on a block: If sitting on the ground is uncomfortable for you, a block can help you feel more comfortable and allow your spine to have the space needed so you can sit tall, explained Monal.Under your hands: If you can’t touch the ground in a standing pose such as triangle or low lunge twist, placing the block under your hands will give you the stability to balance as you work on increasing mobility and flexibility, Monal said.To set up for restorative poses: Use a block or blocks and a bolster to create a ramp-like structure for you to lay on for poses like reclined butterfly pose. “It’s a great option if you’re pregnant and can’t lay comfortably on the ground either,” Monal added. How many yoga blocks do I need? The amount of yoga blocks you need is personal based on your abilities and practice. However, Monal recommends having at least two. “The main purpose of blocks is to bring the ground up to you,” she said. “For example, if you're in a forward fold and can't touch the ground, having blocks under your hands will make the pose more accessible to you. You’ve got two hands and two feet, so two blocks is a good option.” What can I use instead of a yoga block? While yoga blocks are the ideal tool to assist with your yoga practice, if you don’t have them yet, you can use some alternatives in the meantime. “A stack of books or a roll of paper towels are great options to provide stability and bring the floor closer to your hands,” shared Monal. Are yoga blocks only for beginners? There’s a common misconception that yoga blocks are a tool only for beginner yogis — that’s actually not the case at all. Anyone at any level can use yoga blocks in his or her practice. “I am a yoga teacher with an ‘advanced’ practice, and I use blocks in nearly every yoga class I teach and take,” said Monal. Why Trust Travel + Leisure 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 a beast at the Spartan World Championships at Squaw Mountain in North Lake Tahoe. In researching our list of best yoga blocks, we also spoke to Lindsay Monal, yoga teacher at Yoga Renew Teacher Training in Hoboken, NJ The 10 Best Breathable Leggings for Travel in 2023 Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit