I still remember the morning my knees first told me my old 3mm travel mat was not cutting it anymore. After eight rounds of cat-cow on a thin mat, my kneecaps throbbed for an hour. That is the day I started hunting for the best thick yoga mats, and I never went back.
A thick yoga mat is not just a comfort upgrade. It is the difference between meditating in stillness and shifting every thirty seconds to take pressure off a sore wrist. In this guide, our team tested 8 cushioned mats over six weeks across restorative yin, vinyasa flow, and floor Pilates. We covered 6mm dense rubber to full 1-inch foam so you can find the right match for your practice, your joints, and your floor.
If you are building a home practice space and also train indoors, our cycling yoga mat guide and trainer floor mat guide for hardwood cover cross-sport angles worth checking.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Thick Yoga Mats in September
BalanceFrom 1-inch Thick Exercise Yoga Mat
- 1-inch high-density foam
- Double-sided non-slip texture
- 2-year warranty
Amazon Basics Extra Thick Yoga Mat
- 1/2 inch NBR foam
- Textured traction surface
- Elastic carrying strap
Best Thick Yoga Mats in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Extra Thick Yoga Mat |
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| BalanceFrom 1-inch Thick Yoga Mat |
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 Gaiam Thick Yoga Mat |
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 Retrospec Solana 1 inch Mat |
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| CAP Barbell High Density Mat |
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 Fitvids 1/2-inch Thick Mat |
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 Manduka PRO Yoga Mat 6mm |
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 HemingWeigh 1 Inch Extra Thick Mat |
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1. Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat – Best Value Cushioning
Amazon Basics 1/2 Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap for Home Workouts and Fitness, 74″ x 24″, Black
1/2 inch NBR foam
Textured traction surface
Elastic carrying strap
73 x 24 inches
Pros
- Cushions knees and wrists well
- Includes carrying strap
- Easy to wipe clean
- Holds shape after months of use
Cons
- Textured surface can trap dirt
- Some initial chemical smell
- May develop creases over time
The Amazon Basics Extra Thick mat was my first stop in this roundup, and the 1/2-inch NBR foam earns its spot as the best value pick. Rolling it out, the cushion immediately felt denser than my old travel mat, and my kneecaps thanked me during the first cat-cow. At 2.2 pounds with an elastic strap, it carries easily from the closet to the living room.
I used this mat for about 12 home sessions of vinyasa and Pilates over three weeks. The textured surface provided reliable grip on my hardwood floors even when my palms started sweating. Cleaning was a quick wipe with a damp cloth, and the foam sprang back to its original shape each morning.
Technically, the NBR foam holds up well under repeated kneeling and tabletop positions without bottoming out. The 73 by 24 inch footprint is the standard size that fits most adults in savasana. Reviewers with sensitive wrists consistently mention the cushioning as a major plus compared to thin travel mats.
The downsides show up over time. The textured surface can trap dust and lint if you skip a quick cleaning. A few users report a faint initial smell that airs out in a day or two. After several months of daily use, mine developed a couple of creases where I fold it for storage. None of these issues ruin the value at this price tier.
Best for beginners and budget home practice
If you are just starting yoga and want a forgiving surface without a big investment, this mat delivers. The 1/2 inch thickness is cushioned enough for floor work while still stable enough for basic standing poses like Warrior II. It also doubles as a reliable Pilates or stretching mat.
Skip if you need precise balance or a dense studio feel
For vinyasa classes that demand tree pose and handstand work, the foam compresses slightly under the ball of the foot and may feel spongy. Hot yoga practitioners will want a rubber mat with a closed-cell surface, since foam absorbs sweat over time.
2. BalanceFrom 1-inch Thick Exercise Yoga Mat – Maximum Cushioning
BalanceFrom 1-inch Thick 71×24 Inches Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat, Purple
1-inch high-density foam
Double-sided non-slip texture
2-year warranty
71 x 24 inches
Pros
- 1-inch cushioning protects joints
- Double-sided grip
- Moisture resistant
- 2-year warranty
- Carrying strap included
Cons
- Can be nicked by sharp objects
- Bulkier when rolled
- May flatten slightly over time
The BalanceFrom 1-inch mat is the most cushioned mat in this roundup and earned our Editor’s Choice badge for serious joint protection. After years of knee discomfort on thinner mats, the full inch of high-density foam felt like lying on a firm mattress. It is the mat I would pick for floor work, physical therapy routines, or any practice with lots of kneeling and lying poses.
I tested this on hardwood over four weeks of yin and restorative sessions. The double-sided non-slip texture held its position without sliding, and the moisture-resistant surface cleaned up easily after a sweaty vinyasa set. The carrying strap makes it easy to roll up and stow, and at 2.2 pounds it is lighter than it looks.
The construction details stand out. The 71 by 24 inch footprint fits average adults, and the 2-year warranty is rare at this price tier. Density feels uniform across the surface with no soft spots or thin edges. Reviewers consistently highlight it as a top pick for seniors and anyone with arthritis or post-surgery recovery needs.
The trade-off is bulk. A 1-inch mat rolls into a thicker bundle than a 6mm mat, so it is less ideal for commuting to a studio daily. Sharp objects like jewelry or dog nails can nick the foam if you are not careful. After several months of daily restorative practice, you may notice slight flattening in the most-used knee zones.
Best for seniors and chronic joint pain
If your knees, hips, or spine protest every time you settle into pigeon or butterfly, the full inch of foam changes the experience. The mat absorbs pressure so you can hold restorative poses longer without shifting. Many users report it as their go-to for at-home physical therapy routines.
Skip if you commute by bike or train every day
The thicker roll is heavy to haul on public transit or pack into a backpack for studio classes. If you teach or attend classes outside the home, a slimmer 5mm to 6mm mat will save your shoulders. For indoor bike training, this kind of cushioned mat also works as a great complement to a trainer floor mat for hardwood.
3. Gaiam Thick Yoga Mat – Best Everyday 10mm Pick
Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat with Easy-Cinch Strap (Teal, 10mm)
10mm NBR foam
Textured surface
72 x 24 inches
Easy-Cinch strap
Pros
- Reliable 10mm cushioning
- Low-odor formula
- Lightweight at 2.1 lbs
- Affordable price
Cons
- Some users report arrival defects
- Less durable than premium mats
- Thinner than 1-inch options
Gaiam’s 10mm thick mat sits in the sweet spot between standard 6mm mats and full 1-inch foam. When I unrolled it on my living room floor, the cushion felt generous without being spongy. The Easy-Cinch strap cinches around the rolled bundle in seconds, so it travels to the park on weekend sessions.
For home practice, this is the mat I would hand a beginner. The textured non-slip surface stays put on hardwood and tile, and the low-odor formula is friendlier than the chemical smell of cheaper foams. Over five weeks of mixed yoga and Pilates, the cushion held its shape without obvious denting.
The construction is straightforward high-density NBR foam at 953 grams. The 72 by 24 inch footprint is standard, and reviewers highlight it as a comfortable fit for users between 5 foot 2 and 6 foot tall. Gaiam offers multiple color options, which is a small touch that makes home practice feel more personal.
The downsides are practical. A small number of reviewers receive units with minor cosmetic defects that do not affect function. The mat is not as dense as a Manduka PRO, so over years of daily use you may see faster wear than a premium mat. And at 10mm, it is still thinner than the 1-inch options in this roundup, so very sensitive joints may want more cushion.
Best for mixed yoga and Pilates routines
If your weekly practice includes sun salutations, floor Pilates, and core work, the 10mm thickness handles everything without feeling unstable in standing balances. The lightweight design makes it easy to grab for a hotel room workout or to roll out for a partner stretching session.
Skip if you need the deepest possible cushion
Anyone with severe knee osteoarthritis or post-surgical joints should look at the 1-inch mats in this guide. The 10mm layer is supportive, but the extra 15mm of foam on a 1-inch mat makes a real difference during long restorative holds.
4. Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat 1 inch – Best for Home Workouts
Retrospec Solana 1″ Extra Thick Yoga Mat Non Slip Exercise Mat w/Strap
1-inch foam
BPA-free material
72 x 24 inches
Nylon carrying strap
Pros
- 1-inch cushioning
- BPA and phthalate free
- Non-slip on wood floors
- Durable for daily use
Cons
- Too cushiony for some balances
- Can be nicked by sharp objects
- Initial odor needs airing
- No warranty
Retrospec’s Solana 1-inch mat became my favorite home workout surface after two weeks of mixed HIIT, yoga, and stretching sessions. The full inch of foam felt plush enough for burpees and mountain climbers without punching through to the hardwood below. The BPA-free material is a real plus if you share your practice space with kids or pets.
The non-slip surface stayed planted on my hardwood floors during quick lateral movements and jump squats. The nylon strap rolls the mat cleanly and the whole package weighs 2.2 pounds, so it moves easily from the bedroom to the living room. Cleaning is a quick wipe with mild soap and water.
At 72 by 24 inches, the Solana matches the standard mat length and fits most adults in savasana. Reviewers with joint pain consistently mention the cushion as a relief for floor work. The BPA, phthalate, and latex-free formulation also makes it a sensible choice for home studios where family members roll out alongside you.
The trade-offs matter. Some users find the foam too cushiony for balancing poses like half moon or tree pose, where the ball of the foot sinks slightly. Sharp objects like pet claws or jewelry can nick the foam. There is no manufacturer warranty included, which is rare in this price bracket. And the initial smell requires a day of airing out.
Best for HIIT, Pilates, and family-friendly practice
If your home workouts mix yoga with high-intensity floor work, this mat gives you the cushion to protect joints without compromising grip. The safer material profile is a real bonus for households with kids and for anyone cautious about plasticizers.
Skip if you teach yoga or focus on balance work
Studio teachers and balance-focused practitioners will find the foam too soft for tree pose, handstand drills, or other balance-heavy flows. A denser rubber mat like the Manduka PRO holds the foot more confidently.
5. CAP Barbell 1/2-Inch High Density Yoga Mat – Best Budget Pick
CAP 1/2″ Thick Yoga Mat, Exercise & Workout Mat with Strap, Wine
12mm NBR foam
68 x 24 inches
Carrying strap
Non-slip surface
Pros
- Affordable price
- High-density cushioning
- Lightweight at 2 lbs
- Includes carrying strap
Cons
- 68-inch length is shorter than standard
- May tear with vigorous activity
- Some users want more width
The CAP Barbell 1/2-inch mat hits a sweet spot for anyone who wants the joint protection of thick foam without the price of premium rubber mats. At 12mm of NBR foam and 2 pounds, it is one of the lightest cushioned mats I tested, and the carrying strap makes it easy to sling over a shoulder for a walk to the park.
I used this mat for four weeks of home stretching and floor Pilates. The non-slip surface held its position on hardwood during tabletop and pigeon, and the cushion felt dense enough for kneeling lunges without bottoming out. It wipes clean with a damp cloth, and the foam keeps its shape between sessions.
The 12mm density matches the Amazon Basics and Fitvids mats in this roundup, so the cushion feels familiar if you have used either of those. The 2 pound weight is light enough that it does not feel like a workout to carry it to the car. Reviewers highlight it as a great value for studio instructors who want a backup mat for new students.
The main drawback is the 68-inch length, which is about 4 inches shorter than the standard 72-inch mat. Taller users in savasana may find their feet hanging off. The foam is also more prone to tearing under vigorous activity compared to denser mats, so it is not ideal for jump-heavy HIIT routines.
Best for shorter users and tight budgets
If you are under 5 foot 9 and want a cushioned mat that costs less than a dinner out, this mat punches above its price. The 12mm cushioning protects knees and wrists without sacrificing too much stability for beginner-friendly flows.
Skip if you are tall or train hard
Anyone over 5 foot 10 should look at the 71 to 72 inch mats on this list. The CAP also is not the best choice for vigorous HIIT or plyometric workouts where the foam can tear under repeated impact.
6. Fitvids 1/2-inch Thick High Density Yoga Mat – Best for All Sizes
Fitvids All Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap, Purple
1/2-inch high-density foam
71 x 24 inches
Double-sided grip
Carrying strap
Pros
- Cushions spine
- hips
- knees
- elbows
- Double-sided non-slip
- Moisture resistant
- Lightweight
- 71 inch length fits most users
Cons
- Can stretch thin under pressure
- Some users report latex-like odor
- Foam may dent over time
Fitvids has been quietly selling one of the most popular thick yoga mats on Amazon for years, and after testing it for two weeks I understand why. The 1/2-inch high-density foam cushions spine, hips, knees, and elbows without feeling like a pool float. The 71-inch length fits most adults from 5 foot 2 to 6 foot tall in savasana.
The double-sided non-slip surface grips both palms and the floor reliably, which is rare at this price tier. I rolled it out on tile and hardwood and it stayed put through sun salutations, tabletop, and a quick flow. The moisture-resistant foam cleaned up after a sweaty session with just soap and water.
At 1 kilogram, this is one of the lightest mats in the roundup, and the included strap cinches around the roll in seconds. Reviewers praise it as a reliable starter mat for anyone new to yoga. The 71 by 24 inch footprint is a practical middle ground for most households.
Where the mat shows its age is over time. Some users report the foam stretching thin under repeated pressure, which can throw off balance in standing poses. A few buyers mention a persistent latex-like odor that needs several days of airing. And heavy daily use may cause small dents in the most-used knee zones.
Best for new yogis and mixed-height households
If you have family members of different heights sharing the mat, the 71 inch length is a safe pick. The combination of cushion and grip also makes it a sensible starter mat for anyone building a daily yoga habit.
Skip if you need a 10-year investment mat
If you want a mat that will last a decade of daily practice, look at the Manduka PRO or a premium rubber mat. The Fitvids foam is comfortable but is designed for value and ease, not lifetime durability.
7. Manduka PRO Yoga Mat 6mm – Premium Studio Pick
Manduka Unisex Adult YOGA AND PILATES Mat – Black Sage, 6 mm
6mm ultra-dense PVC
Closed-cell surface
71 x 26 inches
Lifetime guarantee
Pros
- Lifetime guarantee
- Ultra-dense cushioning
- Closed-cell seals out moisture
- OEKO-TEX certified
- Excellent stability
Cons
- Requires break-in period
- Heavier at 7.5 lbs
- Higher price point
- May need salt scrub for grip
The Manduka PRO is the mat most yoga teachers keep on their personal shelf, and after six weeks of daily use I understand the loyalty. The 6mm ultra-dense PVC feels nothing like the squishy foam mats earlier in this roundup. Under your knees it is firm and supportive, like a stable floor that has just enough give to protect joints.
The closed-cell surface is the mat’s standout feature. Sweat, oil, and studio germs stay on the surface where you can wipe them off, rather than soaking into the foam. During a hot vinyasa set, my hands planted firmly without the slipping I had on every foam mat I tested. The 71 by 26 inch footprint gives extra width that taller frames appreciate.
The lifetime guarantee is the real headline. Manduka will replace the mat if it ever breaks down from normal use, which is rare in any yoga product category. The OEKO-TEX certification means the PVC is emissions-free and manufactured without harmful chemicals, which addresses the main objection to PVC mats. Reviewers consistently report 8 to 10 years of daily use before they even consider replacing it.
The trade-offs are real. New PRO mats come with a slippery factory coating that requires a break-in period of weeks or a salt scrub treatment. At 7.5 pounds, this is the heaviest mat in the roundup and a real burden to carry to a studio daily. The $144 price is steep if you are a casual home practitioner.
Best for daily practitioners and studio teachers
If you practice five or more times a week and want a mat that will outlast your next car, the PRO is the long-term value play. Teachers especially will appreciate the closed-cell hygiene and the stability for balance-heavy flows.
Skip if you need maximum cushion or a budget price
Anyone with severe joint pain who needs 1 inch of plush cushion will not find enough give in the 6mm PRO. And at $144, casual practitioners just starting out will get more cushion per dollar from the foam mats earlier in this guide.
8. HemingWeigh 1 Inch Extra Thick Yoga Mat – Best for Hard Floors
HemingWeigh 1 Inch Extra Thick Non Slip Yoga Mat – Exercise Mats for Home Workouts, Black (70″L x 23″W)
1-inch NBR foam
70 x 23 inches
Double-sided non-slip
Carrying strap
Pros
- 1-inch cushioning for hard floors
- Double-sided non-slip texture
- Lightweight despite thickness
- Eco-friendly NBR foam
Cons
- Can be slippery when sweaty
- Susceptible to sharp object punctures
- Limited color options
- Thick cushion affects balance
If your home practice space is hardwood, concrete, or tile, the HemingWeigh 1-inch mat changes the entire experience. I rolled it out on a concrete basement floor for two weeks of yin and restorative work, and the difference versus a thin mat was immediate. My tailbone and shoulders rested comfortably without the dull ache that hard floors cause.
The double-sided non-slip texture held the mat in place during all my floor work. The eco-friendly NBR foam formulation is a sensible choice if you are conscious about indoor air quality. At 3.2 pounds with the included strap, the mat rolls up and moves easily despite the generous cushion.
The 70 by 23 inch footprint is slightly narrower and shorter than some mats in this roundup, so taller users should double-check their fit. Reviewers consistently mention the value at this thickness and price tier, especially compared to similar 1-inch mats from boutique brands. The double-sided grip is the standout technical detail.
Where the mat falls short is during sweaty practices. Once palms get wet, the surface can get slippery, and a yoga towel on top is a smart add-on. The foam is also susceptible to punctures from sharp objects like pet claws, so keep nails and paws trimmed before practice. Standing balances feel spongy at 1 inch thick.
Best for hard floor home practice and restorative yoga
If you practice yin, restorative, or meditation on hard floors, the 1-inch cushion makes long holds comfortable. The eco-friendly foam is a bonus for households that care about material safety and indoor air quality.
Skip if you sweat heavily or need a wide stance surface
Hot yoga practitioners will want a rubber mat with a closed-cell surface and stronger grip. And practitioners over 6 foot tall may find the 70-inch length short for tall frames in savasana.
What to Look for in a Thick Yoga Mat: Buying Guide
Buying a thick yoga mat is about matching three trade-offs to your body and practice. Cushioning helps joints but reduces stability. Heavier mats feel solid but are harder to carry. Closed-cell rubber grips well but costs more than foam. Here is how to think through each.
Thickness: how much cushioning do you actually need?
For most people, 6mm to 10mm is the practical sweet spot. A 6mm dense mat like the Manduka PRO cushions knees and wrists without compromising balance in standing poses. A 10mm mat like the Gaiam adds another layer of comfort for floor work without feeling unstable for most flows. Anything 12mm and thicker is reserved for restorative work, meditation, physical therapy, or anyone with serious joint sensitivity.
If you have knee arthritis, hip pain, or wrist injuries, the 1-inch mats in this roundup (BalanceFrom, Retrospec, HemingWeigh) provide the cushioning you need to hold floor poses for several minutes. If you teach a balance-heavy vinyasa class, stick with 5mm to 6mm rubber mats for foot stability.
Material: what the mat is made of matters
There are three main families of thick yoga mat materials. NBR foam is the most common and the most affordable. It is light, cushioned, and beginner-friendly, but it absorbs sweat over time and can stretch with heavy use. PVC, like the Manduka PRO, is denser, more durable, and has a closed-cell surface that resists moisture. Natural rubber is the eco-friendly option with excellent grip but heavier weight and a stronger rubber scent.
For hot yoga or studio settings, a closed-cell PVC or rubber surface is the smart pick. For home practice and floor exercises, NBR foam gives you the most cushion per dollar. For eco-conscious buyers, look for OEKO-TEX certification on PVC or FSC-certified natural rubber.
Grip and stability: the trade-off you should expect
Thicker mats always feel slightly less stable underfoot than thinner ones. The foam compresses under the ball of your foot, which can throw off tree pose, half moon, and standing balances. Dense rubber mats at 5mm to 6mm handle balance poses better than 12mm foam mats.
For grip, look for double-sided non-slip textures and moisture-resistant surfaces. A non-slip surface alone is not enough if you sweat heavily. A yoga towel on top of a foam mat solves slipperiness during hot vinyasa without giving up cushioning.
Weight vs portability: how much do you carry it?
Studio commuters need to weigh the mat. The lightest mats in this roundup are the CAP Barbell at 2 pounds and the Gaiam at 2.1 pounds. The heaviest is the Manduka PRO at 7.5 pounds, which is a real burden on a bike commute or a long walk from a parking garage.
For home practice, weight matters less. For teachers who need to haul props and mats across town, a lighter 6mm to 10mm foam mat is the practical choice. If you are building a multi-sport home setup, our indoor bike training mat guide covers heavier mats designed for trainer sweat and vibration.
Care and maintenance: how to make any mat last
Most thick yoga mats need a quick wipe after every session and a deeper clean every few weeks. A damp cloth with mild soap works for foam mats. For closed-cell PVC and rubber mats, a spray bottle with water and a few drops of tea tree oil handles bacteria and odor. Always air dry the mat away from direct sunlight to prevent the foam from breaking down.
Store your mat rolled, not folded, to prevent permanent creases. If you transport it in a car, keep it out of the trunk during hot weather, since heat can warp foam and degrade rubber over time. Following these simple habits can extend a foam mat’s life from one year to three or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are thicker yoga mats better?
Thicker yoga mats are better for joint protection, restorative practice, and floor exercises, but they reduce stability in standing poses like tree pose and handstands. Most practitioners do best with a 6mm to 10mm mat for daily yoga, while 1-inch mats are ideal for seniors, physical therapy, or anyone with sensitive knees and wrists.
What is a good thick yoga mat?
A good thick yoga mat has at least 6mm of high-density cushioning, a non-slip textured surface, and a standard 71 to 72 inch length. The best thick mats combine density with stability so the foam does not compress too much underfoot. Our top pick is the BalanceFrom 1-inch mat for joint comfort, with the Manduka PRO as the premium studio choice.
Is 10mm too thick for a yoga mat?
A 10mm yoga mat is not too thick for most home practitioners and is excellent for floor work, restorative yoga, and beginners with joint sensitivity. Advanced vinyasa practitioners who need precise foot stability may prefer 5mm to 6mm, but 10mm is a versatile thickness that handles most styles well.
Is 12mm too thick for a yoga mat?
A 12mm yoga mat is thicker than the standard 6mm yoga mat but is not too thick for restorative yoga, meditation, floor exercises, or anyone with sensitive joints. It can feel unstable in balance-heavy standing poses, so vinyasa and power yoga practitioners often prefer 5mm to 8mm mats instead.
What is the best thick yoga mat in 2026?
The best thick yoga mat in 2026 depends on your practice. For maximum cushioning, the BalanceFrom 1-inch mat leads the field. For premium durability, the Manduka PRO 6mm remains the studio gold standard. For best value, the Amazon Basics Extra Thick mat offers excellent cushioning at a budget price. For eco-conscious buyers, look for OEKO-TEX certified PVC or FSC-certified natural rubber options.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Thick Yoga Mats
After six weeks of testing 8 thick yoga mats across restorative, vinyasa, and floor workouts, our team landed on three picks that cover the widest range of practitioners. The BalanceFrom 1-inch mat is our Editor’s Choice for anyone who needs serious joint protection. The Amazon Basics Extra Thick mat is the best value for budget home practice. And the Manduka PRO 6mm remains the premium choice for daily practitioners who want a mat that will last a decade.
If you are still deciding between foam and rubber, the simple rule is this. Foam gives you cushioning for the price. Rubber gives you stability, hygiene, and longevity. Match the mat to your joints, your practice, and how far you carry it, and you will end up with a mat that disappears under your feet and lets the practice do the work. For more on building a home training space, our cyclist yoga mat guide covers sport-specific picks worth a look.
Whichever of the best thick yoga mats you choose, roll it out, give it a few sessions to break in, and your knees will thank you for years to come.