Practicing yoga is all about practicing mindfulness and without a comfortable yoga mat it’s impossible. It’s essential for providing cushion and stability while you practice, not to mention it helps prevent slipping.
However, there are a variety of brands and types of mats available, so don’t get overwhelmed while choosing the right one. To make your decision easier, here’s a guide on how to choose a yoga mat that suits your needs.
We’ll cover everything from the dimensions and materials of the mat to tips on finding a sustainable option. Read on and find the right mat for your practice today.
Different Types of Yoga Mats
Following are some of the basic types of yoga mats that need to be considered.
Eco-friendly Yoga Mats
Markets have yoga mats available that are made from materials that are eco-friendly. Some are made with natural rubber, jute, or cotton. Others are made with recycled polyester or PET. All of these materials are biodegradable and will not harm the environment.
When choosing an eco-friendly yoga mat, make sure to check the labels to see what materials were used in its construction. Look for a mat that has no chemicals or toxins. Usually, such mats are high-end and expensive but they are more beneficial. They are your investment in better health and the environment.
Yoga Mat for Traveling
If you plan on traveling with your mat, you will need to choose a mat that is easy to travel with. Usually, these mats are different from regular mats as they are thinner and lighter to easily carry. Therefore, it is significant to think about the material your mat is made from. If you plan on using your mat frequently while traveling, choose a mat that is made from a durable material such as nylon or PVC.
Cheap Yoga Mats
If you are new to yoga, or on a budget, you may be wondering if you can get away with using a cheaper yoga mat. So, yes, it is possible while keeping a few things into consideration.
First, cheaper yoga mats tend to be thinner and lighter in weight. This means they may not provide as much cushioning, which can be important for comfortable joints during extended periods of sitting or standing poses.
Second, the cheapest yoga mats seem to be lesser in durability than most of the expensive mats. They may start to show wear and tear after just a few uses, so if you plan on practicing regularly, you may want to invest in a more durable mat.
Third, and perhaps most importantly, the quality of your yoga practice should not be determined by the price of your mat. A good yoga mat is one that allows you to focus on your practice and feel comfortable and supported while doing so. If a cheap yoga mat helps you achieve that goal, then it is worth considering.
Yoga Mat for Carpet
If you’re looking for a yoga mat that can be used on both hard floors and carpets, then you’ll want to choose a mat that has a textured surface. The best yoga mats for carpets have a raised dot or line pattern on the top side, which helps to grip the carpet and prevent slipping. You’ll also want to choose a mat that is thin enough to be rolled up or folded for easy storage.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Yoga Mat
When it comes to choosing a yoga mat, there are a few things you need to take into consideration.
Color
Whenever we buy anything its physical appearance always attracts us. So is the color of the mat. Some people prefer brighter colors to lift their mood and spirit while others prefer darker ones to be subtler.
Thickness
The thickness of the mat makes all the difference. Some people like thicker mats while others prefer thinner mats.
Budget
Yoga mats can range in price from under $20 to over $200. It is important to consider how often you will be using your yoga mat and for what purpose before making a purchase. If you are a yoga beginner, or occasionally practice it, a cheaper yoga mat can be helpful. However, if you plan on practicing yoga regularly or using your mat for other purposes such as Pilates or stretching, it may be worth investing in a higher-quality mat.
Material
The yoga mat’s material should be considered an important factor. Traditional mats are made of PVC, which can be slippery and uncomfortable. Newer mats are made of materials such as natural rubber or microfiber, which provide more grip and support. If you have joint issues or are concerned about slipping during your practice, look for a mat with a textured surface or one that is slightly sticky.
Comfort Level
Your comfort level is also an important consideration when choosing a yoga mat. If you tend to get hot during practices, look for a mat that is breathable or has cooling properties. If you prefer a softer surface to practice on, look for a thicker mat or one that is padded.
Now that you know the three things to consider when choosing a yoga mat, it’s time to start shopping! There are a variety of places you can purchase yoga mats, such as sporting goods stores, department stores, and online retailers. When comparing prices, be sure to compare the cost of shipping and handling as well.
Most Popular Yoga Mat Materials
Yoga mats are typically made from one of four materials: latex, rubber, jute, or cotton. All have their own advantages and drawbacks, so choose wisely according to your needs.
Latex
Latex yoga mats are very durable and provide excellent traction, making them ideal for hot yoga or other forms of yoga that involve a lot of sweating. Additionally, when you dry them, they can be slippery, so they might be not suitable for everyone.
Rubber
Rubber yoga mats are also quite durable and provide good traction, but they’re not as grippy as latex mats when wet. They’re a good middle-ground option for those who want a mat that works well in both dry and wet conditions.
Jute
Jute yoga mats are made from natural fibers and are therefore biodegradable. They are very absorbent, so they help you in keeping cool and relax during you’re your yoga sessions. However, jute mats can be a bit slippery when wet and may require more frequent cleaning than other types of mats.
Cotton
Cotton yoga mats are the most absorbent type of mat, making them ideal for practices where you tend to sweat a lot. However, they’re not as durable as latex or rubber mats and may need to be replaced more frequently.
Benefits of Yoga Mats
- Yoga mats are a source of comfort and stability to practice yoga.
- They help to keep your body in alignment and prevent you from slipping or sliding during your practice.
- Mats absorb and protect your joints and impact from the hard floor.
Conclusion
Choosing the right yoga mat is an important part of creating a good practice. Many factors like material type, durability, thickness, and size contribute. Luckily, there is a wide selection of yoga mats available on the market today that can meet your needs so you can find one that suits your lifestyle and budget. Hopefully, you will find some insightful information on how to choose a yoga mat perfect for your practice.
FAQs
What kind of material should I look for in a yoga mat?
Yoga mats are available in all kinds of materials like rubber, cotton, or PVC. However, the most important thing to look for is a material that is comfortable for you and provides enough traction so you don’t slip during your practice.
How thick should my yoga mat be?
Your personal preference determines the thickness of your yoga mat. Some like a thinner mat for stability while others are more inclined to a thicker mat for cushioning. Therefore, everything depends on your comfort.
Should I be concerned about the size of my yoga mat?
No, thickness and material are most important as compared to size. However, if you are taller or have longer limbs, you may want to consider a larger size so that you have enough room to move around during your practice.