What to Look For in Yoga Blocks and Straps: A Complete Buyer’s Guide

Our complete buyer's guide covers everything you need to know about choosing the right yoga blocks and straps for your practice, from materials to sizing.

Updated 7 Sep 2026 5 min read 7 sections

Whether you are new to props or looking to upgrade, choosing the right yoga blocks and straps can transform your practice by improving alignment, deepening stretches, and making poses more accessible. This guide walks you through exactly what to look for so you can buy with confidence.

Why a yoga blocks and straps set beats buying separately

Heathyoga yoga blocks and straps set for assisted stretching — Yoga blocks and straps$29.90Image from the merchant

Buying a coordinated yoga blocks and straps set saves you the headache of mismatched sizes and materials. When you grab a dedicated set like the yoga blocks and straps from Heathyoga, you get blocks and a strap that are designed to work together, the strap width fits the block grooves, and the foam density matches your body type.

Separate purchases often lead to a strap that is too short for a block-assisted bind or blocks that are too slick to hold under the strap. A set removes that guesswork. Plus, you usually save money compared to buying each piece individually.

What to look for in yoga blocks and straps materials

The material of your blocks matters more than most people realize. Here is how the common options stack up:

Material	Best For	Grip	Weight	Feel
EVA foam	General practice, restorative	Medium	Light	Soft, slightly squishy
Cork	Hot yoga, sweaty hands	Excellent	Heavy	Firm, dense
Bamboo	Eco-conscious practitioners	Good	Medium	Firm, smooth

Cork yoga blocks are a popular choice for hot yoga because they absorb moisture and stay grippy even when wet. If you compare them to alo yoga blocks or gaiam yoga blocks set of 2 products, cork tends to be denser and longer lasting. For a strap, look for a cotton or polyester blend with a metal D ring buckle that holds tension without slipping.

The yga block from Heathyoga uses high density EVA foam that strikes a good balance between firm support and comfortable cushioning. It is a solid choice for most practices.

How to choose the right size and density for your practice

Yoga blocks come in two standard sizes: 4x6x9 inches and 3x6x9 inches. The larger size is standard and works for most people. The smaller size is better for practitioners with shorter arms or smaller hands, or for those who want a lower lift in standing poses.

Density falls into three categories:

Soft density (low density): Good for restorative yoga, pregnancy, or anyone with sensitive joints. The block compresses noticeably under weight.
Medium density: The most versatile option. Supports body weight without collapsing, but still has some give. This is what we recommend for most people buying a yoga block and strap set.
High density: Very firm. Used for advanced balancing poses and for practitioners who want minimal compression. Cork and bamboo blocks are naturally high density.

If you are buying a gaiam yoga block and strap set, note that Gaiam typically uses medium density foam. Heathyoga’s blocks fall into the medium to high density range, which gives you the stability you need for standing poses like Triangle and Half Moon.

Yoga blocks and straps for beginners vs. advanced practitioners

If you are a beginner, a yoga block and strap set is one of the best investments you can make. Blocks bring the floor closer to you in standing forward folds, and straps bridge the gap when your hands cannot reach each other in a bind. Here is how the needs differ:

For beginners:

Choose medium density foam blocks, they are forgiving and less intimidating
A 6 foot strap is usually enough length
Look for a strap with a double D ring buckle for easy adjustment
A full set like the yoga blocks and straps gives you everything at once

For advanced practitioners:

Cork or high density blocks for stability in arm balances and inversions
An 8 foot or 10 foot strap for deeper binds and shoulder openers
Metal hardware on the strap instead of plastic for durability

Heathyoga black leggings, a pair of form-fitting athletic leggings in solid black — Black leggings$29.90Image from the merchant

We also suggest pairing your props with comfortable gear. Our black leggings and workout capris are designed to stay in place during poses, and the bootcut yoga pants work well for cooler studio sessions. For hot yoga, grab a yoga mat towel to keep your grip steady.

Essential accessories that pair well with yoga blocks and straps

Your props setup is not complete without a few supporting pieces. Here are the accessories we use alongside our blocks and straps:

Heathyoga TPE yoga mat with non-slip surface for eco-conscious practice — Tpe yoga mat$64.90Image from the merchant

Yoga mat: A tpe yoga mat offers excellent grip and is eco friendly. The gofit alignmat yoga mat is another great option with alignment lines that help you place your blocks and feet correctly.
Knee cushioning: If you spend time in kneeling poses, yoga knee pads or a yoga knee cushion add the extra padding that blocks alone cannot provide.
Active clothing: For warm weather or vinyasa flow, dress with shorts underneath or dresses with shorts underneath keep you cool and covered.

Caring for your yoga blocks and straps

Proper care extends the life of your props significantly. Here are our tips:

Foam blocks: Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Do not submerge them in water. Let them air dry completely before storing.
Cork blocks: Lightly sand the surface if they become smooth over time. Wipe with a damp cloth and air dry. Cork is antimicrobial, so it resists odors naturally.
Straps: Machine wash on gentle cycle in a laundry bag, or hand wash. Hang to dry. Do not put them in the dryer, as heat can warp the buckle or shrink the fabric.
Storage: Keep blocks and straps out of direct sunlight. A mesh bag or open shelf in a cool, dry room works best.

For more detailed guidance on how to use props effectively, check out REI’s expert advice on how to use yoga props, bolsters, straps and blocks. It covers specific pose modifications that will help you get the most out of your set.

Final thoughts on buying yoga blocks and straps

The right yoga blocks and straps set should feel like an extension of your body, supportive, comfortable, and reliable. Whether you are shopping for a gaiam yoga blocks set of 2 or exploring cork yoga blocks for the first time, focus on the material, density, and length that match your specific practice style.

Remember to grab the 25 percent off code before you buy. It applies to all accessories, including blocks, straps, mats, and apparel. Happy practicing.

Questions

Are yoga blocks and straps worth it for beginners?

Yes. Blocks and straps help beginners access poses safely by bringing the floor closer and bridging flexibility gaps. A starter set with medium density foam blocks and a 6 foot strap is ideal.

What size yoga blocks and straps should I get?

Standard blocks are 4x6x9 inches and work for most people. Choose the smaller 3x6x9 size if you have shorter arms or smaller hands. Straps are usually 6 feet for beginners and 8 to 10 feet for advanced practitioners.

Can you use cork yoga blocks for hot yoga?

Yes, cork is excellent for hot yoga because it absorbs moisture and stays grippy even when wet. It is also denser than foam, which provides more stability in standing poses.

How do yoga blocks and straps differ from gaiam yoga blocks set of 2?

Gaiam blocks are typically medium density foam with rounded edges. Other brands like Heathyoga offer medium to high density foam that compresses less under weight. The main differences are density, grip texture, and price point.

What is the best way to clean a yoga strap?

Machine wash the strap on a gentle cycle inside a laundry bag, or hand wash with mild soap. Hang to dry and avoid the dryer to prevent damage to the buckle and fabric.

Can I use a yoga block and strap set for stretching at home?

Absolutely. Blocks and straps are excellent for at home stretching routines. They help you maintain proper alignment and safely deepen stretches without a partner.