What to Know Before You Buy a Yoga Mat

You will find yoga mats, also known as sticky mats, in almost all yoga classes. These mats are used to offer cushioning and traction while you practice yoga poses. Although you can rent a mat from a yoga studio, it is a smart idea to purchase your own mat. You can quickly get the mat for a reasonable price, so you don't need to wait to see if your practice of yoga "sticks." Before purchasing a mat.

While your commitment to yoga does not need to affect your decision, your feelings about the sweat and bodily fluids of others should. 1

Even if you are going to do Yoga at home, there are many other advantages to owning your own equipment. Before you purchase yoga mats, here are some things you should know.

Yoga Mat Basics

Standard size yoga mats are 24"x68". If you're tall, you can get a longer mat. A basic mat costs $25. However, a deluxe mat can cost upwards of $140.

The most expensive mats are often priced fairly. These mats are of higher quality and last for longer than budget mats. They are also made with eco-friendly production methods and materials.

Although it may seem like there are many types of Extra Thick Yoga Mat Non Slip Workout Mat Double-Sided, most differences are only superficial. While you might like a mat with a cute design or tote bag on it, what do you really need to know about the mat's material?

Yoga Mat Materials

The market for yoga mats is dominated by PVC, rubber and TPE.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride).

PVC is a man-made product that is not biodegradable. PVC is the preferred material for low-end mats, such as those found at the local yoga studio.

However, PVC doesn't always mean a cheap mat. PVC is used to make the popular MandukaPRO series mats, which are thicker than average mats and virtually indestructible.

Although PVC mats take some time to get used to, they offer good traction once they are.

Rubber

Rubber is an easy material to make yoga mats from. It's renewable, natural, and biodegradable. Rubber is a good choice for mats with a hard, but grippy surface.

The mats made from natural rubber are heavier and more noticeable than those made with polyurethane. These concerns can be mitigated by the rubber/polyurethane mats manufactured by Liforme or Lululemon. They offer superior practice surfaces and are highly absorbent.

Jade Yoga has been making the most popular rubber mats for many years. Natural alternatives include cork and jute mats, but they are less well-known.

TPE (Thermoplastic Elasticomer)

TPE mats solve many of the problems associated with other mat materials. TPE mats are biodegradable and odorless. They are also very lightweight and easy to use. The downside to TPE mats is their inability to withstand extreme abuse.

Slip sliding away

New mats can become slippery depending on what material they are made of. PVC is the most common. The problem usually disappears after you have used the mat for a few classes.

To speed up the process wash your mat gently with soap. Then hang it up to dry.

A product such as the YogitoesSkidlessTowel might be helpful if your palms get sweaty. Mat towels are common in hot yoga classes, where mats can become slippery from sweat.

Where to shop

You can purchase mats from most yoga studios. Apart from supporting your local studio and buying mats in person, you can also feel the different types of mats and get opinions.

Yoga products can also be found in sporting goods and department stores such as Target. Online shopping is a great way to save money if you already have your mat.