How to choose a yoga mat
When we practice yoga, we practice connecting with ourselves. Through every swing and every inhale–exhale while trying to keep our body balanced, we visit and grow appreciation to our bodies more.
But wait!
Before knocking on the inner door and check-in in with ourselves, we also need to ensure attention and care are paid to our to great companion needed in every yoga session - a safe and suitable yoga mat.
But how do we know what is suitable? What criteria do we need to include in our checklist to find a mat that supports both the body and our self-care process? Well let us help you with the following 5 simple guides for you to find your mat companion.
Thickness
This is one of the vital prerequisites that affect our comfort level during exercise. Thin mat, thick mat, arghhh which one to go for? Okay, let’s go through some upsides: Thin mats create a solid feeling, and thick carpets offer higher security and help you avoid injury (especially suitable for those has bone and joint problems such as knee degeneration, shoulder pain, gout, or arthritis). But the carpet thickness should not be too inclined in one direction.
Too thin mats can numb your knees and make you more prone to pain when performing movements that require lying down on a flat surface. And too thick mats can detach you from contact with the ground, making you feel as if you’re floating on the surface. This will likely lead to losing the fulcrum and falling more easily, especially when you switch to balance movements.
Too thin, too thick, so how much is enough?
Some standard thicknesses of yoga mats you can refer to: 4mm, 6mm, 8mm and 10mm. For beginners, the popular choice for suitable mat thickness falls in the range of 6mm - 8mm. Did you know our mats provided at Yoga Pod are 8mm? :)
2. Material
Material is the most important factor when choosing a yoga mat. This factor directly affects the mat’s quality, durability, and the quality outcome of your practice.
PVC is a plastic-based material with high durability, is easy to clean, and provides excellent floor grip. PVC mats, on the other hand, are non-absorbent and can become slippery when we sweat. PVC is latex-free, which is perfect for those who are allergic to latex; however, it is not biodegradable or environmentally friendly as other options.
TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) is a man-made blend of plastic and rubber polymers. It may be more environmentally friendly than PVC, and some are fully recyclable. However, when comparing TPE mats versus PVC with the same thickness, TPE mats are less durable, but they still provide good traction.
Eco/natural mats, though lack decade-long durability compared to PVC, will be the best options for those who prioritize sustainability in their lists. They are made from a variety of sources, including natural rubber, organic cotton, and jute. Eco mats are slightly less grippy on the floor than other options, but their natural texture provides traction for your body.
3. Grip level
In yoga sessions, especially those with high-intensity exercises, we sweat easily. Therefore, an anti-slip mat is essential to protect us from injuries.
To check the slip resistance of the carpet, spread it with the mat on the floor, and use the force of your hand to push the mat forward. In the case that the hand slides on the carpet or the mat slides on the sieve easily, we should visit other options, because the easy slide shows the low slip resistance, easy to hurt you when practising.
4. Texture
The traction provided by your yoga mat is determined by its texture. Texture, similar to grip level, influences how much you slip and slide. It creates physical barriers against sliding (whereas stickiness relies on suction). Because texture affects how a yoga mat feels, it is also a factor in overall comfort.
If you want a non-slip yoga mat and avoid PVC mats at the same time, look for a raised, tactile pattern on a rubber, jute, or cotton yoga mat. The raised texture provides grids can help you stay put no matter how sweaty or vigorous your practice becomes.
If you prioritise smoothness, a PVC yoga mat is the way to go. And, if you enjoy stickiness but are curious about newer, more environmentally friendly options, ‘test drive’ a few before making a purchase. Even without the traditional "sticky" feel, some eco-friendly yoga mats may surprise you with how much traction they provide.
5. Style and design
Once you've narrowed down your options by thickness, material, stickiness, and texture, it’s time to turn to a more “funsies” aspect: style and design. While the aesthetic has no bearing on functionality, it is essential to select a mat that is pleasing to the eye. Delightful colours, patterns, or prints that are appealing to you will likely spark more motivation and happiness when you practice yoga. Practising yoga is supposed to be fun and lovely as it is.
Yoga is a form of exercise that reminds us to connect and love. Yoga Pod hopes that through this article, you will be able to find a ‘companion’ to inspire and support that love in you! In the mean time, see you on our green mats ;)
References:
How to Choose the Best Yoga Mat with Thickness, Texture, and Eco-Factors