The 11 Best Yoga Blocks of 2023
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The 11 Best Yoga Blocks of 2023

Nov 22, 2023

We love the naturally antimicrobial JadeYoga Yoga Blocks.

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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.

JadeYoga

These blocks are water-resistant and antimicrobial, so you can sweat it up without worry.

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

Lululemon

The curved edge allows for different grip options and is incredibly comfortable against areas of the body, like the back and neck.

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

Everyday Yoga

The bamboo material makes this block an eco-friendly option, and it's also lighter than many alternatives.

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

Amazon

This block comes in 20 different colors.

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

Baseblocks

The built-in handles make these blocks helpful for multiple exercises.

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

Amazon

The high-quality cork material is firm and can withstand years of workouts.

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

Alo

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.

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

Dicks Sporting Goods

The size of these blocks make them easier for smaller hands to hold.

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

Athleta

The blocks have designs carved into the sides.

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

Amazon

The bamboo material makes these blocks perfect for a hot yoga class, as they can be easily cleaned.

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

Yoga Direct

The stripe along the edge helps with alignment during more demanding exercises.

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

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.

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.

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.

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:

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."

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.

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.

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

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