Head to head · Yoga & Pilates
Gaiam Cargo Yoga Mat Bag (Full-Zip) vs Gaiam Easy-Cinch Yoga Mat Sling
Our top pick and runner-up from Best Yoga Mat Bags, Carriers, and Yoga Towels, compared on rating and the trade-offs that decide it.
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Top pick
Gaiam Cargo Yoga Mat Bag (Full-Zip)
The best all-around mat bag for anyone who carries more than just a mat to class.
Pros
- +Full-length zipper means no wrestling a rolled mat through a narrow opening
- +Fits most 6mm mats up to 72 inches with a towel and strap inside
- +Front cargo pocket holds blocks, keys, and a water bottle
- +Adjustable shoulder strap with a padded section
Cons
- −Solid fabric has no ventilation, so a sweaty mat should not stay zipped in overnight
Runner-up
Gaiam Easy-Cinch Yoga Mat Sling
The cheapest, simplest way to carry a mat, and often all you actually need.
Pros
- +Weighs almost nothing and fits any mat thickness
- +Metal D-ring sliders cinch tight and stay put
- +Doubles as a stretching strap in a pinch
Cons
- −Mat is exposed to rain and dirt
- −No storage for anything else
Side by side
At a glance
| Gaiam Cargo Yoga Mat Bag (Full-Zip) | Gaiam Easy-Cinch Yoga Mat Sling | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 4.5/5 | 4.4/5 |
| Strongest point | Full-length zipper means no wrestling a rolled mat through a narrow opening | Weighs almost nothing and fits any mat thickness |
| Main drawback | Solid fabric has no ventilation, so a sweaty mat should not stay zipped in overnight | Mat is exposed to rain and dirt |
Choose the Gaiam Cargo Yoga Mat Bag (Full-Zip) if
- You want full-length zipper means no wrestling a rolled mat through a narrow opening.
- You want fits most 6mm mats up to 72 inches with a towel and strap inside.
- You want front cargo pocket holds blocks, keys, and a water bottle.
Choose the Gaiam Easy-Cinch Yoga Mat Sling if
- You want weighs almost nothing and fits any mat thickness.
- You want metal D-ring sliders cinch tight and stay put.
- You want doubles as a stretching strap in a pinch.
FAQ
Questions people ask
Which one did FlexWearLab rate higher?
We rated the Gaiam Cargo Yoga Mat Bag (Full-Zip) 4.5/5 and the Gaiam Easy-Cinch Yoga Mat Sling 4.4/5 in our Best Yoga Mat Bags, Carriers, and Yoga Towels. The best all-around mat bag for anyone who carries more than just a mat to class.
Where can I buy the Gaiam Cargo Yoga Mat Bag (Full-Zip) and the Gaiam Easy-Cinch Yoga Mat Sling?
Both are sold on Amazon; the links on this page go to the current listings. Add-to-cart links put the item straight in your basket.
Full testing notes
Best Yoga Mat Bags, Carriers, and Yoga Towels →Compare yoga mat carriers, towels and selected ASUTRA Lavender 4 fl oz cleaner. Check bag fit and material-care limits before choosing accessories.
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