Choosing a yoga mat seems fairly simple, but there are many factors to consider while buying one. Today, there is a yoga mat to suit every preference and priority.
When it comes to choosing the right mat for you, the need of a beginner differs from an advanced yoga person. Similarly, the types of asanas also should be factored in while choosing a yoga mat.
HOW TO PICK A YOGA MAT
Time for a new yoga mat? Let us help you choose the right one! Not all mats are created equal, so make sure you know what kind is right for you. This guide will help you narrow down what qualities you are looking for in a mat and offer some suggestions.
3 Things to Consider:
1.Thickness
A thin yoga mat is about 1/16-inch thick and ideal for practicing balance postures, giving you a strong connection to the floor. The downside to a thin mat is that it provides less cushioned support for you.
A 1/4-inch yoga mat is considered thick and may be more ideal for back support during core work, inversions, and other postures that cause your bones to dig into the ground.
If you would like a happy medium, go for the standard yoga mat labeled 3.3 mm or 1/8-inch thick.
2. Material
The material of a mat will determine the texture, stickiness, sponginess, and eco-friendliness. Most yoga mats are made of either vinyl or rubber.
Vinyl mats last a long time and can endure many yoga classes. Rubber mats typically have jute and cotton in them making them more eco-friendly but less spongy.
3. Texture
The mat’s texture will control the amount of traction it has. If you sweat a lot in yoga class, a grippy mat will keep you from slipping around.
If the bumpy texture bothers you, make sure the smooth mat has a moisture control mechanism.
Nowadays, mats are available in patterns and colors to suit every yoga practicing personality. We’ve listed some of the picks that we find fun and functional.
1.Owme 10 mm Thick Yoga and Exercise Mat
Looking for a mat that offers extra comfort and cushioning – then this 10 mm thick yoga mat is not to be missed! Available in a soothing grey hue with textured surface this mat is for those who eat, live and breathe yoga.
It’s non-slip bottom provides a good grip and stability during workouts. Simply roll and carry it with its integrated carry strap.
Clean with a damp cloth for longevity. Comfy and cushioned, this one is loved by ardent yogis. This mat is Anti Skid with Carrying Strap for Gym Workout and Flooring Exercise
2.Kobo NBR Athletica Yoga Mat- Multi-use Thick Exercise Mat, Non-Slip and Anti-Tear
Great for Hot Yoga and The Gym, Home Workout, Pilates, Physio and Camping. Includes Carrying Strap. And its a Non-slip and Anti tear.
This is a thick exercise mat suitable for a diverse range of uses. Ideal as a yoga mat, or for Pilates, gymnastics, calisthenics, core training, sit ups, push ups, stretching and strength training workouts.
Made from non-toxic, latex- free and phthalate-free NBR foam. The mat cushions and protects whilst helping to ensure balance during use.
Its non-slip textured surface adds traction. Not just that, it is durable and very easy to clean or wash. Easy to carry and store.
3.Fitness Mantra Yoga Mat
This eco-friendly mat has 4mm thickness and high slip-resistance that makes it excellent for beginners. Stable and amply cushioned, it maintains the balance and grip while stretching or doing basic asanas.
Made of biodegradable silicone and with moisture-resistant technology, this mat ensures that sweat and dirt do not accumulate on it.
Available in Large Size
- Colour-Black
- Brand-Fitness Mantra
- Material-Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
- Hand Wash Only
This anti-tear mat is long lasting and can be easily cleaned with soap and water. this mat preferable for Gym Workout and Yoga Exercise with 4 mm Thickness, Anti-Slip Yoga Mat for Men & Women Fitness
Sleek and easy to carry, its bright blue color is soothing for your workout. Perfect for beginners, this mat helps keep balance and grip.
4.VIFITKIT® Yoga Mat Anti Skid EVA Yoga mat with Bag
This mat used for Gym Workout and Flooring Exercise Long Size Yoga Mat for Men and Women (Make in India)
With high density foam material, this is a thick premium mat with comfort cushion for spine, hips, knees and elbows on hard floors. This makes it a perfect size for both men & women.
It is sweat resistant and can be washed easily. The EVA material is extremely durable and eco friendly. It lasts up to 5 times more than a regular plasticky mat.
The material is biodegradable and free from PVC, silicon, latex and other toxic materials. Odorless & waterproof.
5.ASE YOGA INDIA Cotton Yoga Mat
Hand-woven by the craftsmen of India, this organic and eco-friendly 100% cotton mat is the ideal choice of yoga asanas and basic floor workouts.
6mm width and HD rubberized reverse side ensure perfect grip and slip-resistance. Cotton makes it soft, sweat absorbent and easy to wash.
Available in traditional motifs and colors, this mat should be on every yogi’s Wishlist. If you prefer organic and natural, this cotton mat is for you.
6.Gaiam Performance Dry-Grip Yoga Mat
A rubber-free mat
The PVC-made Performance Dry-Grip offers comparable stickiness, support, and cushioning to our two top picks, but without the latex.
If you have an allergy to latex or dislike the smell of rubber, consider the 5-millimeter-thick Gaiam Performance Dry-Grip Yoga Mat.
It is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and has ample cushioning and firm support that pleased our joints and grounded our standing poses.
The smooth top layer, meant to wick away moisture, kept our hands and feet locked in place while allowing freedom for transitions during a flow. The mat is relatively light at 4¼ pounds, roughly a pound lighter.
Benefits and importance of using Yoga mats
- The “Yoga Mat” defines your space – With the ever-growing stress, either at work or at home, you tend to drift away and want to find a place for yourself. A place that grants you peace, a space you can call your own.
- When you practice yoga asanas and meditation, the yoga mat defines that space for you. It becomes “your” own space. A space that you can call your own where you can relax and release all your stress and emotions through yoga and realign your chakras.
- Provides stability – When you place a mat over the area you want to perform your asanas and/or meditate, it becomes a measure for stability. Using yoga mats provide a stable surface. It provides the stability with your body needs as you stretch. Whether you perform your asanas on your back or on your stomach, the yoga mat adds an additional layer of cushioning. It makes the process of practicing/performing yoga asanas easier.
- Helps with your grip and posture– Yoga mats always come with the guarantee of a better grip. A cork-base yoga mat does not lose grip even when wet. This is due to its waxy compound. While you perform an exercise that involves balancing your body, it becomes imperative that the surface is slip-proof, especially when it comes to performing yoga asanas. Over one’s months of practice, you tend to indulge in more intense yoga asanas/postures. In this case, if the surface is unstable, slippery, and even if you’re sweaty, chances are you might lose your stance and hurt/injure yourself.
- Connectivity – It is often said that performing and/or practicing yoga helps you to fly (of ‘course not literally!). This statement somewhat makes sense because you tend to release your tensions and stress while you perform yoga asanas and/or meditate. The yoga mats here help you feel grounded and connected to your realities. They are a symbol of your reality being in touch with the earthly boundaries.
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