The 5 Best Anti-Fatigue Mats of 2021

What to Look for in an Anti-Fatigue Mat

By Marshall Bright

Material

Anti-fatigue mats help reduce the impact of standing by absorbing shock and relieving stress. To do this, most are constructed with various soft materials like foam or gel, or even both. Dr. Lees recommends polyurethane, which is a foam found in many commercial mats designed to stand up to continual usage. The top surface is typically protected with some kind of cover, often waterproof vinyl or polyurethane. This also helps with cleaning up and protects the mat from spills.

Size and Thickness

Whatever material is used, Lees also recommends paying attention to the size of the mat. Most mats are designed to allow one person to stand in place fairly comfortably but not move around. If you want the ability to move back and forth at a kitchen counter, for example, without leaving the mat, consider looking for longer, runner-style mats.

“Thickness is important for body support and the length of time you are using the mat,” Lees explains. Look for mats that are at least ⅝ inches thick, with ¾ inches being better. Get too thin a mat, and you won’t get any of the pain-relief benefits. But also don’t go overboard: Mats that are too soft and squishy can have a compressing effect, “leaving you feeling as if you are back standing on the hard floor,” he says.

Safety

Many mats feature an anti-slip design on the base. Acting like a built-in rug pad, this will keep you from slipping. Lees refers to this as "travel control" and notes that anti-slip features are especially important in areas where a mat could get wet (like a kitchen) or on slick floors, like hardwood or tile.

Durability

“Mats made from cheaper materials are not always cheaper,” says Lees. Look for signs the mat will last, like using durable materials. A sealed bottom and top will also protect it from breaking down and help it stand up to everyday spills. Also consider what kind of wear and tear your mat will be subjected to: If you want a mat to stand on while folding laundry barefoot, you’ll need considerably less tough materials than someone who may need to stand in heels at work for hours without puncturing the mat. 

Usage

Consider how the placement of your mat will affect its everyday usage. A mat designed for the kitchen, says Lees, are typically squishier and designed with bare feet in mind. While they feel great, they might not be ideal for standing on for more than a few hours. For standing in shoes, a firmer mat that won’t lead to sinking may be better. 

Design

While few anti-fatigue mats are winning any beauty awards, it’s possible to find more options in an array of colors and even patterns. You can match your mat to colors in your kitchen, or simply find one that closely matches the floor, helping it blend in.

Types of Anti-Fatigue Mats

Commercial

Commercial mats, often made of polyurethane, typically feature protection on the top and bottom to stand up to wear and tear from shoes, office furniture, and high-traffic areas. They may not be as soft as mats designed for home use but can be the best option for standing for long shifts. 

Ergonomic

To further increase motion, some anti-fatigue mats aren’t flat to encourage more movement and stretching. A sloped area may allow you to stretch your calves as you work, for example, or grooves help your feet stay aligned. These are often intended for standing desks and work best for people in more stationary positions, not those moving around washing dishes or folding laundry.

Kitchen

For home use, kitchens are one of the most popular places to place anti-fatigue mats. Cooking can often require a lot of standing. Tile floors are also great for cleaning up spills and splashes but don’t do our feet any favors. Anti-fatigue mats designed for kitchens are often no-slip as well as thick and comfortable and great for bare feet and socks.

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

Camryn Rabideau is a lifestyle writer specializing in all things home products. She's reviewed everything from the latest and greatest kitchen gifts to the must-have cookware essentials for your kitchen. She's also taken several interior design courses, which has given her an additional angle when it comes to products.