Lower priced mats absolutely serve a purpose in the yoga world. For beginners who aren’t sure if they are ready to commit to regular practice, a cheap yoga mat is the perfect first step. Yoga is for everyone and is not restricted to those who can afford an expensive yoga mat. Even the most skilled yogis know that anything that offers reasonable support between you and the ground can act as a yoga mat.
If you fall in love with yoga, it is likely you will want to upgrade your yoga mat for better support as your abilities develop, and for the assurance that your mat will last you a long time.