A Guide to Yoga Blocks

With so many different types of yoga blocks out there, how do you know which one to choose and why?

Yoga blocks are one of the most versatile props you can use. Whether you're just starting out or have years of practice behind you, blocks are key to supporting your poses, improving alignment, easing tension, and even deepening your practice.

They truly are the foundation of every yogi’s toolkit. Blocks help you find proper anatomical alignment, which is essential for practicing safely and comfortably. For example, placing your hand on a block in a standing pose like Trikonasana (Triangle) can be the difference between straining through a pose and moving with ease and confidence.

Yoga is all about finding steadiness in the body, calming the mind, and breathing freely. Blocks help create that balance so it’s no surprise they’re considered essential at every stage of practice.

To support every yogi's needs, we offer a range of shapes and sizes in our Manduka Yoga Block Family. There’s something for everyone whether you’re looking for extra lift, stability, or just a little extra support where it counts.

As you may already know, yoga blocks are incredibly helpful tools designed to support your practice. They can create space in your body, help you deepen stretches, and make poses more accessible. Whether you’re using them to refine alignment, provide extra support, or simply make a posture more comfortable, blocks are incredibly versatile.

But with so many types out there different materials, sizes, and shapes you might be wondering: what’s the difference, and which one is right for me?

Cork Yoga Blocks

Cork blocks are a popular choice for good reason they're strong, stable, and built to last. Unlike foam, they don’t lose their shape or get easily nicked, so you can count on them for long-term use.

They feel solid and supportive in your hands, giving you that extra sense of trust during challenging poses. While they have a bit more give than wooden blocks, they’re firmer than foam, which helps protect your wrists when bearing weight.

Cork blocks are a bit heavier, which adds to their stability but may not be ideal if you’re looking for something super portable. Made from porous natural material, they also absorb sweat and moisture, helping maintain grip even during sweaty sessions.

Foam Yoga Blocks

Foam blocks are the softest, lightest, and most budget-friendly option—great for beginners or anyone looking for a gentle, supportive feel.

They have plenty of give, which makes them perfect for restorative poses, like heart openers or gentle backbends where you’re lying down. However, because they’re so soft, they’re not ideal for supporting body weight in standing poses or planks—especially if you’re placing pressure on your hands or wrists.

Made from EVA recycled foam, they’re a more eco-conscious option, but they do tend to wear out faster and can pick up dirt and marks more easily over time.

UNBLOK Foam Yoga Blocks

UNBLOK foam blocks take comfort to the next level with their unique curved design. The gentle arc offers extra support for your back, especially during reclined or restorative poses, and helps the block feel like a natural extension of your body—no hard edges poking you mid-practice.

This ergonomic shape also gives your wrists better support when leaning into poses, making it more versatile than traditional foam blocks.

Made from the same soft, lightweight EVA recycled foam as standard foam blocks, the UNBLOK is a great choice if you’re looking for comfort, ease, and a little extra thoughtful design.

Mini Foam Yoga Blocks

Mini foam blocks pack all the comfort, style, and support of the standard version into a smaller, more portable size. They're perfect for yogis on the go or anyone short on storage space.

Their compact design makes them easy to grip, and they’re especially helpful in poses like plank, where keeping your wrists straight and supported is key. Lightweight and versatile, these mini blocks are a great addition to any practice especially when space or travel is a consideration.

Why All the Shapes and Sizes?

Yoga practitioners come in all shapes and sizes so it only makes sense that yoga blocks do too. Having different block sizes ensures everyone can find the right support for their body and their practice.

In general, the wider the block, the more stability it provides. That’s great for anyone needing extra grounding, especially in standing poses.

If you have a smaller frame or just need a little boost in certain poses, a smaller block might suit you better. It offers support without getting in the way.

Fit matters. If you’re taller, have limited flexibility, or larger hands, go for a larger block it helps “raise the floor” and makes reaching the mat in standing poses easier. On the other hand, if you’re more flexible and have smaller hands, a smaller block will be easier to grip and offer support closer to the floor.

And if you’re someone who’s always on the move between studios, a pair of smaller blocks is ideal they fit easily into your bag and still make a big impact on your practice.

Regular Size – Recycled Foam Block, Cork Block

The regular-sized yoga block is the go-to choice for most practitioners and for good reason. It’s a versatile, studio-standard size that works well for a wide range of poses and practices.

These blocks offer three different height options, allowing you to adjust the level of support depending on your flexibility and the pose you’re working on. Whether you need a little lift or a solid foundation, regular blocks help you modify postures with ease and confidence.

They're also a favorite for seated poses and meditation, providing comfortable support and encouraging good posture while you sit.

Smaller Size – Mini Recycled Foam Block, Lean Cork Block

As the newest addition to our block family, smaller-sized blocks are perfect for practitioners with smaller frames or anyone who finds regular blocks a bit too bulky.

These compact blocks offer great maneuverability on the mat, making transitions feel seamless. They’re lighter, more portable, and an excellent space-saving option ideal for yogis on the go or those practicing at home with limited storage.

If your little ones are joining you on the mat, our Mini Foam Blocks are a fantastic fit. Their smaller dimensions, ultra-lightweight feel, and durable design make them perfect for kids discovering yoga.

Curved Shape – unBLOK

The unBLOK stands out with its unique curved design, offering ergonomic support that’s softer and more comfortable on the body. Its contoured shape is especially kind to the spine and wrists, making it a go-to choice for restorative poses or anyone looking for added comfort.

But it’s not just about support unBLOK can also add a challenge. Using the curved edge during balance poses creates a less stable surface, encouraging you to engage more deeply and build strength through subtle shifts.

It’s a smart blend of comfort and versatility, perfect for yogis who want a block that adapts to both gentle and dynamic practices.

Foam vs. Cork - Why Do We Offer Both?

We offer both foam and cork blocks because each material brings unique benefits to your practice. Both are versatile and reliable, but depending on your needs and preferences, one might suit you better than the other.

Manduka Recycled Foam Blocks are dense yet lightweight, providing a stable platform in three different height options. Their lightness makes moving between poses easier, especially for beginners. Made from 50% recycled materials, these blocks are an eco-friendly choice without compromising on durability.

Thanks to their high-density foam, they won’t compress or dent under pressure, giving you a solid, grounded feel during your practice. This durability has been proven time and again by top yoga studios around the world.

Manduka Cork Blocks are firmer, denser, and heavier than foam blocks, offering unmatched stability that helps keep you grounded and secure throughout your practice. Their extra weight even makes them handy for strength exercises.

Our Lean version is slimmer and weighs about half as much as the regular cork block, yet provides the same great support. Made from fine-grain, sustainably harvested natural cork, both versions deliver premium durability, a solid feel, and excellent stability under pressure.

When to Use a Cork Block

• Standing Forward Fold: Step onto a cork block before folding forward to create extra height and ease in the pose.

• Triangle & Revolving Triangle: Place the block under your hand to bridge the gap between your hand and the floor, helping with alignment and stability.

• Crow Pose: Stand on the block with your big toes touching and heels spaced apart. Then bring your palms to the ground and bend your knees toward the back of your arms.

• Practice Splits: Use one or two blocks under your pelvis for added support and balance.

• Half Moon: Position the block between your hand and the floor to help maintain balance and proper alignment.

• Building Strength: Transition from a lighter foam block to a cork block when you feel ready to challenge your muscles more.

When to Use a Foam Block

• Seated Forward Fold: Press the block against the soles of your feet to help you reach a little further with ease.

• Engaging Muscles: Place a block between your thighs during poses like Downward Facing Dog, Upward Facing Dog, Mountain, and Chair Pose to encourage muscle activation.

• Pigeon Pose: Use a block under your sitting bone for extra support and comfort.

• Restorative Sessions: Foam blocks are great for relaxing during Savasana or meditation.

• Waterfall Pose: Slide a block under your lower back for gentle support and a soothing stretch.

• Meditation: Make sitting on your sit bones more comfortable by sitting on a foam block.

What Makes Manduka Blocks Different?

It all comes down to quality, innovation, and durability.

• Sustainably Made: Every Manduka yoga block is crafted from eco-friendly, sustainable materials.

• Studio-Tested: Our blocks are tried and trusted by top yoga studios worldwide, ensuring they meet the highest standards.

• Premium Cork: We use super fine-grain cork that’s strong and chip-resistant. Unlike many cork blocks on the market made from larger, less durable grains, ours won’t easily break down or chip even if dropped.

• Ultra-Dense Foam: Our foam blocks are made from ultra-dense, compact foam that stays firm and flat. Many foam blocks lose shape, compress, or fade after just a few uses, but Manduka blocks maintain their integrity over time.

When it comes to yoga blocks, we recommend buying them in pairs—and make sure both blocks are the same. Having two matching blocks opens up a whole new world of possibilities in your practice, making poses more accessible and balanced. Like everything in yoga, balance is key, and the rest is yours to explore and experiment with.

There really are no limits to how Manduka Yoga Blocks can support your practice—except maybe the limits of your own imagination.