If you have been practicing yoga for many years, you likely started with a basic mat, which was pretty much the only thing available. Now, however, there are numerous options for yoga mats suitable to everybody, age, and skill level. But how do you know which yoga mat is right for you?
Some things you want to consider are your skill level, style, where you will be practicing, and what your overall goals are. Of course, if you will be practicing with kids, you also want to consider their needs and size.
How to Choose the Right Yoga Mat
Looking for a new yoga mat? Below, we offer some important things to look for to help you choose just the right mat for you.
- What’s It Made Of?
Yoga mats are made from many different materials. The most basic mats are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is a common material found in plastic products. PVC is sticky, which makes a great workout surface. But buyers beware! The components that make up PVC are actually quite harmful to the environment, and can cause illness in humans and animals.
The good news is that now, you can forgo PVC for materials like jute, bamboo, and natural rubber. These materials are great alternatives to PVC that provide adequate support and grip for a yoga mat.
- Mat Thickness
The thickness of a yoga mat will factor greatly into how comfortable it is. If you have bad joints or need a little extra cushioning on your knees, then a thicker mat will suit you better. Thicker mats can make you feel more wobbly, so make sure you use a thick mat on a harder surface. Using a thick mat on carpet can cause you to lose your balance.
- Mat Texture
The texture of a yoga mat dictates how much traction it has. Of course, you don’t want to be slipping and sliding around when attempting a difficult pose. So it is important to find a texture that feels good, but has adequate support. A raised, tactile pattern is a great option for more grip and durability. If eco-friendliness is not super important, a PVC mat will have the most traction. If it is important, then choose a bamboo or jute mat with a highly textured surface.
- Style
Yoga is a deeply spiritual practice for many people, and yogis tend to make their practice all their own. So why not have a yoga mat that reflects your style? Nowadays, yoga mats are readily available in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and patterns. Many brands now also offer mats specially designed with kids in mind, with fun patterns and prints, and even yoga poses on the mat itself.
- Budget
With so many yoga mat options available, there are definitely options for pretty much every price range and budget. More basic mats will, naturally, be less expensive than those made from premium materials or featuring cool textures. The good news is that with so many brands and styles available, there is sure to be a great option that fits your budget.
Find Your Perfect Yoga Mat
Now that you know what to look for, choosing the right yoga mat should be a pretty straightforward task. By considering our tips above, you are on your way to finding the perfect yoga mat to accentuate your style and yoga goals.