Yoga blocks are one of the best yoga accessories you can purchase whether you are an experienced yogi or someone just getting ready to try the Downward Dog for the first time. The best yoga blocks are essential for anyone who wants to improve their yoga form and finish their daily yoga routine feeling more satisfied and sufficiently stretched, ready for the day.
They are ideal for improving stability and balance while also offering excellent benefits for deep stretching to ensure you hit that pose just right. These blocks are lightweight and easily portable, but despite this simplicity, they are also massively effective, especially if you’re a yoga newbie.
Crafted using comfortable but durable materials with non-slip surfaces and comfortable grip (along with a few surprises thrown in here and there), anyone who wants to maximize their yoga potential should consider getting their hands, back, legs, and neck on one for their home yoga studio and revel in the benefits.
The Best Yoga Block
1Gaiam Essentials Yoga Block
Our top pick for the best yoga blocks is the Gaiam Essentials Yoga Block. This is available in a set of two and measures 9 x 6 x 4 inches, making it one of the standard yoga block sizes. It is made from foam, which is lightweight, easily portable, and also supportive. Because it’s made from foam, it comes in a variety of colors.
As you’d expect, this block provides stability and balance, and you can easily modify and align it to suit whatever pose you are attempting. You can also use it for extensions and deep stretches, which could be useful if you’re using yoga to rehab injuries. The block is also easy to clean with soapy water and a towel, so it won’t become induced with sweat. For more quality products for yoga fans, check out our guide to the best yoga pants.
Set of 2
4 colors
Durable supportive foam
Provides stability and balance
Modify and align
Extend and deepen stretches
Lightweight
Easy to clean
9 x 6 x 4”
- BrandGaiam
- Model05-62965
- Weight12.8 Ounces
2AmazonBasics Foam Yoga Blocks
The AmazonBasics Foam Yoga Blocks comes as a set of two and you can buy a pack of one or four, which effectively gives you 8 yoga blocks altogether. This is useful for anyone starting their own yoga studio, and the material is excellent quality, so you can trust them to last.
It uses durable high-density foam to provide comfort but also stability, and this also ensures long-lasting performance for your home studio or whenever you head to the gym. The slip-resistant surface provides safety when you’re using it, too, and the comfort grip edges will help you maintain your pose for a few seconds longer, enhancing your session. For when you need a break, it’s also large enough to sit on should you need it. Be sure to also check out our selection of the best yoga shorts for more great products like this.
2 pack sizes
2 colors
Durable high-density foam
Long-lasting performance
Slip-resistant surface
Lightweight and modular
Large enough to sit on
Comfort grip edges
4 x 9 x 6”
- BrandAmazonBasics
- ModelIR97416A-P
- Weight11.5 Ounces
3URBNFit Yoga Block
If you’re looking for great value, the URBNFit Yoga Block could be the one for you, and it’s our choice for the best value yoga block around. Available in a 1 or 2 piece set, it’s ideal for beginners and experts, while the 5 colors provide some variety if you live in a house full of yoga enthusiasts.
The edges are beveled to provide perfect comfort when gripping and this also reduces corners digging into your back when lying on it. Through this, you can achieve deep stretches and also strengthen them, bringing super results, even if you don’t think you’re doing it right. The block itself is easy to clean and moisture resistant, and it is also made from eco-friendly materials. Be sure to also check out our guide to the best yoga mats for more must-have products for yoga enthusiasts.
1 or 2 piece set available
5 colors
Comfortable beveled edge
Deepens and strengthens stretches
Stable
Moisture resistant
Easy to clean
Eco-friendly materials
3 x 6 x 9”
- BrandURBNFit
- Weight7.2 Ounces
4Arltb Yoga Brick
The Arltb Cork Yoga Brick is another great value option because it comes complete with a yoga strap to further maximize your yoga sessions. Made from eco-friendly EVA foam or cork, depending on which option your purchase, you’re guaranteed comfort and stability with every pose.
The beveled edges are present again, and this makes it comfortable to grip, while the odor-proof design is perfect for when you forget to give it a wipe down after an intense session. Just don’t make a habit of it. It’s durable, and the design provides both balance and support, so if you’re a yoga beginner, this could be an excellent prop to get started.
Yoga strap included
6 colors
Eco-friendly EVA foam
Beveled edges
Odor proof
Non-absorbent
Provides balance and support
Durable
9 x 6 x 4”
- BrandArltb
- Weight1 Pound
5JBM International Yoga Blocks
More experienced yogi may prefer the JBM International Yoga Blocks, though. This pack of two also comes with a useful yoga strap and also boasts excellently durable materials that will guarantee longevity and long-lasting satisfaction.
You can expect 100% eco-friendly construction, and the material is clean and safe to use, so you won’t encounter any nasty rashes when leaning on it. It’s large, but also lightweight, so you’ve got the convenience of portability while still maintaining excellent stability along the way. The soft grip is easy on the hands, while the cork construction builds friction against the ground to keep it in place. With anti-moisture treatment, it also resists sweat and spilled smoothies, too.
Pack of 2
Yoga strap included
Durable material
100% eco-friendly construction
Clean and safe
Large but lightweight
Soft grip
Anti-moisture treatment
9 x 6 x 4”
- BrandJBM international
- Weight4 Pounds
6Manduka Premium High Density Cork Yoga Block
The Manduka Premium High Density Cork Yoga Block is both firm and secure, with a reliable solid structure that can easily support your weight regardless of which yoga poses or other techniques you want to try out. The texture surface also provides traction against the floor and it’s easy to grip, also.
The comfortable contoured edges also offer another level of convenience, and this increases the gripping capabilities even further, offering generous support that you won’t find with every yoga block on the market. It’s lightweight, and that makes it easily portable, while the 9 x 6 x 4” size means you can fit it comfortably in your gym bag. If you’re a fan of cork yoga blocks but aren’t sure you want to pay the premium price, this is arguably the next best option.
Sustainable cork construction
Firm and secure
Resilient solid structure
Easy to grip
Textured surface
Comfortable contoured edges
Generous support
Lightweight
9 x 6 x 4”
- BrandManduka
- ModelCORK BLOCK
- Weight2.25 Pounds
7Node Fitness Cork Yoga Block
Another cork block that will continue to impress even after many, many sessions is the Node Fitness Cork Yoga Block which is made from eco-friendly cork (but isn’t all of it eco-friendly?) while also boasting a surface that’s hypoallergenic, antimicrobial and antifungal to ensure a healthy and happy session every time.
It’s lightweight but also superbly sturdy, and this gives you the confidence to take your yoga game to the next level. The comfortable edges are perfect for gripping, while any shoulder stretches or support are also covered well. It’s compact, and this size means you can store it easily between sessions. If you need something to help improve alignment while also ensuring safety to avoid yoga injuries, this is an excellent option to consider.
Eco-friendly cork
Hypoallergenic
Antimicrobial and antifungal
Lightweight
Sturdy
Compact
Comfortable edges
Stability and support
9 x 6 x 4”
- BrandNode Fitness
- Weight4.7 Pounds
8IUGA Yoga Block
The IUGA Yoga Block comes with a yoga strap to add further dimensions to your sessions and it’s also available in 4 colors to help you stand out from the yogi crowd the next time you head to your class.
It comes in a pack of two, making it a 3-piece set overall, while the non-slip design is perfect for all levels, as are the eco-friendly materials used to make it. This material is a closed-cell EVA foam, which also doesn’t absorb sweat and stays clean, meaning minimal maintenance unless you spill your morning coffee all over it, but we all know you’re smarter than that. Even if you do spill coffee, it’s easy to clean, and speaking of ease, it is easy to grip, too, and this also makes it a block that won’t slide, slide, or skid along the surface. It would make an amazing fitness gift for any yoga enthusiast.
Yoga strap included
4 colors
Pack of 2
Eco-friendly materials
Non-slip
Durable
Easy to clean
Easy gripping
9 x 6 x 3”
- BrandIUGA
- Weight1.3 Pounds
9Heathyoga Yoga Block
The Heathyoga Yoga Block comes in a pack of 2 with 6 colors to choose from and boasts an eco-friendly and odorless construction that makes it perfect for both home- and class-based yoga adventures. The durable high-density foam provides support and protection, while the yoga strap provides further options for your session. It is also supportive, with a steady grip that keeps you in place.
You’ll also find it suitable for daily use, and you could even use it several times in one day without witnessing any wearing away to ensure safety. While sturdy, the blocks are also lightweight, so you can transport them to and from class with ease.
Yoga strap included
2 pack
6 colors
Eco-friendly and odorless
Durable high density foam construction
Long-lasting performance
Supportive
Steady grip
9 x 6 x 3”
- BrandHeathyoga
- Weight1.52 Pounds
Yoga Block Buying Guide & FAQ
Features To Look For In Yoga Blocks
When choosing which of the best yoga blocks is right for you and your yoga needs, it’s important to understand which features are most vital for ensuring an excellent session. These features include the shape, size, and material, and all of them contribute to guaranteeing that you’re able to get your yoga routine completed easily and effectively.
Shape - Yoga blocks are rectangular. This provides the stability and support needed when using it to balance. The wide base also provides better grip on the floor, rather than a cube-shaped option or one that is more unusual.
These rectangular yoga blocks are the only type you need, as anything else could affect how well you’re able to grip it, and the difference in length edges provide better variety compared to cube options.
Some blocks have beveled edges, which makes it easier to grip rather than being a straight and solid shape. It also makes them easier to hold if doing bodyweight exercises for strength training or even just moving from class to class.
Size - The yoga blocks we have selected are no longer than 9 inches or no thicker than 4, as this helps to provide enough support for your yoga poses. However, not all yoga blocks are this large. You can find half blocks, which you can use to support your shoulders without putting too much strain on the rest of your back. For beginners, though, standard sized blocks are most appropriate as they still offer a range of applications.
Material - There are 3 types of material you’ll find with your yoga block, and we go into greater detail about them below. For now, though, foam and cork are the most lightweight, but they are not as durable as wooden options, which are sturdy, but also heavy and not as comfortable.
It comes down to what poses and exercises you want to achieve, but it might be useful to have a few blocks of each material for versatility and convenience.
Yoga Block FAQ
Q: What are yoga blocks?
A: Yoga blocks are just what the name suggests: blocks. They are not fancy or high-tech, but they can provide excellent benefits and versatility for both novice and experienced yoga enthusiasts alike.
Typically, they are no larger than 9 x 6 x 4 inches, although there are some which are smaller, and they are lightweight and comfortable to help maintain your grip. They are made from either foam, cork, or wood, and are popular among those who do yoga, whether casually or more seriously.
Some people consider them cheating and believe you can’t be a true yogi if you take advantage of certain props. However, it’s really the opposite that’s true, and if you want to maximize your yoga potential, a yoga block is one way to do so.
Yoga blocks help you maintain balance, target different muscle groups, and improve alignment so you actually get something out of your yoga session. As with any exercise or workout, form is vital, and yoga blocks can help you achieve the perfect form while also ensuring safety and prevent the risk of injuries.
Q: How do you use yoga blocks?
A: Yoga blocks are a versatile part of any yoga practice, and while they may seem simple (and to be fair, they are simple), there are plenty of different ways you can use them to maximize your yoga and exercise routines to guarantee that you get the most remarkable benefits from them.
You might think you don’t need props to achieve the poses you want, but just like yoga straps and other yoga accessories, they can provide a superb improvement to your daily exercise, and even experienced yogi will find that they can enhance their yoga session, taking their skills to the next level.
Here are some ways for you to use a yoga block.
- Supported Chest Opener
- Puppy Pose
- Yoga Bicycles
- Sun Salutation A
- Step-Through
- Stability Work
- Upper Body Strength
- Handstand Hops
- Psoas Release
- Neck Release
Use the blocks with each pose or activity to provide better support and apply the correct pressure on different parts of the body. Rather than use a flat surface for your yoga session, yoga blocks offer additional dimensions that will improve each session.
Types Of Yoga Blocks
You’ll encounter three primary types of yoga blocks. You may come across others, but these are not as common or even as reliable. If you want to get the most from your yoga session while using a yoga block, these types of yoga blocks will be the best place to start.
Cork - Cork blocks are the most eco-friendly option and come with a further range of benefits. They are stable, solid, impermeable, and recyclable, so you can do your bit for the environment should you ever need a new block.
Cork comes with natural friction on the surface, which makes these blocks easy to grip and stay in place on the ground, which ensures better safety and stability for you. Cork blocks are also cheap to produce, so if you’re a new yogi on a budget, these will be ideal.
However, they can be hard to clean and they are prone to crumbling after a while which can hurt how effective they are. They also absorb sweat, which isn’t the best thing. But if you’re looking for a quick yoga block solution, cork is definitely something to consider.
Wood - Wood is the material first used when yoga blocks first became popular in the 70s. They are more expensive than cork because greater care must be taken when they are constructed. The wood is thick and heavy, which is great for stability, but not so much for portability, which could be an issue if you have a yoga class. For a home studio, though, this shouldn’t be a problem.
Because these blocks are wood, they are the most durable option around, and it’s likely that you will buy one that will last your for years, and maybe even life if you take excellent care of it. The most popular wood used to make them is bamboo, which grows quickly and is, therefore, the most sustainable option.
They are excellent for balance and building strength, but because the wood is so solid and offers zero give, they are not as comfortable as foam or cork, so they are not as versatile as other options.
Foam - Foam blocks are one of the most popular types around as they are both easy to carry and lightweight. This makes putting them in your gym bag easy without straining your bag and ruining everything before you get to the session.
They are excellent for beginners, as they provide superb support during asana, and if you’re someone who likes bright colors, foam blocks come in a variety of them. We know that’s not important for everybody, but if everyone has the same color block, it’s easy to lose yours.
They are also affordable, which is another plus for beginners unsure if yoga is really for them. Foam blocks are also sturdy and provide decent friction to stick the ground to ensure stability. The slight give is also comfortable on the spine, making them highly versatile. Despite this, they can be a little flimsy, and while you get some support, it is not as sufficient as what you’ll find with wood or cork.
Sources:
- 10 Ways to Use Blocks to Advance Your Yoga Practice - Yoga Journal
- What is a Yoga Block? - Mad HQ
- Types of Yoga Blocks - Yoga Baron
