We Tested the Best Anti-Fatigue Mats—These 7 Feel Like Standing on a Cloud

How We Tested

Based on extensive online research, we chose 16 top anti-fatigue mats to purchase and test in our Lab. (In order to make the comparison as fair as possible, we chose a 36-by-20-inch size when available—or as close to it as possible.) We spent hours pitting them head-to-head in structured tests, then continued to use them in day-to-day kitchen operations over the next 6 months. We arrived at our final picks after considering the results of both short- and long-term testing.

We Observed

• Short-Term Performance: We tested the mats intensively while doing all the Lab work for our nonstick cookware testing. We worked standing on each mat for 1 hour, then recorded notes about pain or comfort in our feet, ankles, knees, hips, back, and shoulders. We repeated the tests two more times, so each mat was tested for three separate 1-hour sessions on three separate days.
• Cleaning: We dirtied the mats in an identical way by drizzling 3 tablespoons of molasses and sprinkling a 1/4 cup of flour over each one. After letting them sit for 12 hours, we cleaned the mats following the manufacturer’s directions, noting how easy or difficult cleaning was and whether any stains were left behind.
• Long-Term Performance: After completing the initial round of tests, we continued to use the mats in our everyday Lab operations. We examined them after 2 months and again after 6 months, noting whether there’d been any deterioration, damage, or other changes in quality.

We Rated

• Design: We looked at characteristics including size, shape, texture, material, weight, and thickness to evaluate each mat’s overall design. We considered how easy it would be to set up the mat in different types of kitchens, as well as if it would be easy to trip over or skid around on a kitchen floor.
• Comfort: Anti-fatigue mats are made to not just be comfortable on the feet but also to reduce stress on the entire body, and to do so over a long period of time. We looked at whether the mats made all of our joints feel less impact from the stress of moving around the kitchen, but also whether we felt less fatigue across the hours we used them.
• Value: After our short-term tests were complete, we revealed the retail prices of each mat and compared them to each other and to the average. We also kept size options in mind, comparing prices for multiple available sizes in addition to the single size we tested.

Other Options We Tested

• KMAT Cushioned Anti-Fatigue Mat: This KMAT anti-fatigue mat received low marks on comfort and ease of cleaning from our testers. It has a cool design and comes at a fair price, but our testers were disappointed by its lack of support and comfort. They remarked that it was hard and thin and made one feel flat-footed.
• Ninja Brand Premium Floor Comfort Mat: Although this Ninja Brand mat looks attractive with its textured surface and color options, it failed to deliver impressive results during testing. The cushioning did not provide even support, and our tester reported that the heels of her feet could feel the floor through the mat.
• Sky Solutions Oasis Anti Fatigue Mat: We featured another mat from Sky Solutions in this roundup that performed great overall, but this specific Oasis model fell short of expectations during testing. Although it claims to be nonslip, testers found that it was prone to slipping around and needed more traction on the bottom. It also was not as soft or cushiony as expected. The textured surface gives your feet a better grip on the mat but makes it harder to clean.

What to Look for in an Anti-Fatigue Mat

Material

Most are constructed with various soft materials like foam, gel, or even both. Dr. Kevin Leesrecommends 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 the length of time you are using the mat,” Lees explains. Look for mats that are at least 0.625 inches thick, with 0.75 inches being better. But 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.

Anti-Slip

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 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 made for the kitchen, says Lees, is 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 most anti-fatigue mats aren’t 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.

“Mats made for kitchens in your house tend to be softer and made for wearing socks or bare feet. They also are not made for standing for more than an hour or so. Mats that have ‘travel control’ are made to not slide on the floor. This may be important for people using them on tile or wood floors. And, beware of mats that can curl on the edges, as this can lead to a tripping hazard.” adds Dr. Kevin Lees, DC, manager of auditing and quality for The Joint Chiropractic

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 made 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 use anti-fatigue mats. Cooking can often require a lot of standing (which is also why a pair of kitchen shoes or chef shoes can be a huge help for tired feet, too). 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 nonslip as well as thick and comfortable, and great for bare feet and socks.

FAQs

Can you put a chair on an anti-fatigue mat? 

Most anti-fatigue mats are designed for standing and would be difficult to wheel an office chair on. Regular chair legs may also puncture or damage the cover on a mat. If you want a mat for an office desk or other area where you may sit and stand, look for a small mat that can go in front of your chair.

How long do anti-fatigue mats last? 

A high-quality anti-fatigue mat can last several years. Heavy use may limit the mat’s lifespan to two to three years if placed in a high-traffic area. Dropped items, wearing shoes that may puncture a mat—like heels—and even wearing regular shoes on a mat may lead to premature wear and tear.

Are anti-fatigue mats waterproof? 

Most anti-fatigue mats are designed for use in dirty areas of the house, like kitchens and workshops. Splashes and spills won’t hurt a mat, but that doesn’t mean they are always completely waterproof. If a mat was somehow submerged in water or a bigger, messier spill occurred, you should dry it out. If all else fails, you may need to replace it.

How do you clean an anti-fatigue mat? 

Most mats have a water-resistant covering made of a material like PVC or vinyl. You can simply wipe it clean as needed. Most anti-fatigue mats cannot be fully submerged in water or washed in a washing machine.

Can anti-fatigue mats be trimmed? 

Anti-fatigue mats typically have three parts: a nonslip base, a foam or gel interior, and a water-resistant cover. Trimming the mat would expose the foam core, allowing it to get dirty and absorb spills. Your best bet is to buy the correct size mat to fit your needs.