1. BalanceFrom GoYoga All-Purpose Yoga Mat
2. Manduka eQua Yoga Towel
3. TOPLUS Yoga Mat
4. Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
5. Crown Sporting Goods Yoga Cloud Ultra-Thick 1
6. Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat
7. YOGO Ultralight Travel Yoga Mat
8. Liforme Original Yoga Mat
9. Gaiam Yoga Mat
10. Gxmmat Large Yoga Mat
11. Gurus Natural Cork Yoga Mat with TPE Latex-Free Bottom
Yoga Mat Buying Guide And FAQ
Features To Look For In A Yoga Mat
Materials – Some yoga poses can be quite uncomfortable on hard surfaces which is why a yoga mat is a must. However, you still need to choose a mat that offers you adequate cushioning. Look for natural rubber, cork, or memory foam but stay away from mats made of latex and make sure they are free of Phthalates and heavy metals.
Thickness – If you invest in a good quality yoga mat, the thickness isn’t all that important. However, some people have issues with their spine and joints making it difficult for some of the floor exercises. In these cases, the thickness can offer that extra bit of comfort and cushioning that makes getting into any exercise routines on the floor more bearable. Look for the thickest yoga mat you can find, but be aware of the bulkiness. Quite often you can find yoga mats that are made from lightweight and cushiony materials so you won’t need a super thick mat.
Size -If you only plan on doing standing yoga poses, then the size of your yoga mat may not be an issue for you unless, of course, you have really long legs. However, once you delve into floor routines, size is of the utmost importance. Bikram yoga, in particular, requires the yogi to move rapidly from one pose to another and this can be a problem if your yoga mat is too narrow and too short. Give yourself plenty of room to move with a yoga mat of appropriate dimensions. This way you won’t have to get out of routine just to ensure your whole body is on the mat. The larger yoga mats also give you greater options with a variety of different workouts so you can do Pilates, CrossFit, and a variety of other exercises on the bigger mat.
Grip – To successfully pull of a yoga pose, stability is crucial and that means you must be able to keep your feet firmly planted to the floor. This is why working out on a yoga mat is so much better than trying to remain stable on a bare floor. Look for the grip or stickiness of a yoga mat to ensure it offers you good traction. Of course, your feet won’t actually stick to the mat, but you should be able to stay in position for as long as you need to. The underside of the yoga mat is equally important and this too, must remain in constant contact with the floor and not slip around every time you move. The grip is essential to successfully complete each pose but, more importantly, to prevent injury.
Eco-Friendly – While the eco-friendliness of a yoga mat generally refers to the materials and processes used in producing them, the eco ethos also refers to the overall impact of the yoga mat on the planet. That is why most seasoned yogis will only choose a yoga mat made from sustainably sourced materials such as cork, natural rubber, and even some recycled materials. The manufacturing process is also important and should not use harmful chemicals or processes. Finally, look for eco-friendly manufacturers who will give back to their communities and the planet but planting a tree for each of their products sold and also engage in ethical workplace practices for their workers.
Yoga Mat FAQ
Q: How do I keep my yoga mat clean?
A: Yoga can be quite a strenuous activity and if you do your workout correctly, you can expect to sweat. This means your yoga mat will also become sweaty and you may even get some dirt on your mat from your feet. Good hygiene is important for your mat so strive to clean it after each use. For most yoga mats all you need is a container of warm water with a mild detergent and a sponge. Wipe down your mat and follow with clean water and a soft cloth. Ensure your mat dries completely before rolling it up again.
Q: My yoga mat is a little worn out. Should I throw it away?
A: If your yoga mat is worn out to the point of falling apart, then yes, it’s time to throw it out. However, if overuse has merely resulted in your yoga mat losing its cushiony feeling, you can repurpose your mat. You can cut out rectangles and use them for kneeling while you do gardening or you can use your old yoga mat in your car when you need to drive your pets around. Instead of your pets digging their claws into your car upholstery, an old yoga mat is a better solution.
Don’t let a hard floor take away from the harmonious benefits you can get from a good yoga workout. With a great yoga mat, like the ones in this selection, you can ensure every yoga session is beneficial without any discomfort to your back or other joints.
