The most comprehensive guide to choosing the perfect yoga mat
Unless you are a seasoned yogi or a fitness aficionado, there is a strong chance that you have in the past struggled to choose the right yoga mat, or it may be your first time buying a yoga mat, but you are unsure of which one to get. Well, you have come to the right place, as we take a comprehensive look at the elaborate world of yoga mats.
Materials: The Foundation of Your Yoga Mat
The material of your yoga mat will dictate many factors. To help you get an idea of the various materials, we’ve evaluated different materials based on several benchmarks:
Durability: How long the mat lasts under regular use.
Grip: The effectiveness of the mat in preventing slips.
Comfort: The cushioning and support the mat provides.
Eco-friendliness: How sustainable and environmentally friendly the mat is.
Weight: The mat’s portability and ease of transport.
Cleanliness: How easy it is to clean and maintain the mat.
Price: The cost relative to its features and quality.
Initial odour: The presence of any unpleasant smell when first used.
| PVC | TPE | Natural Rubber | Cork | EVA | NBR | |
| Durability | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
| Grip | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 7 |
| Comfort | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 |
| Eco-friendliness | 3 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 5 | 6 |
| Weight | 7 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 4 |
| Ease of cleaning | 8 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 7 |
| Price | 7 | 8 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
*All factors are on a scale of 0-10
Pricing: Balancing cost and quality
Yoga mats come in various price ranges, from budget-friendly options to premium models. Factors such as material, quality, and thickness determine the cost of a yoga mat. While cost is important, investing in a high-quality mat can enhance your practice, and comfort, and ensure longevity.
Budget Mats: Affordable, providing essential features. Ideal for beginners or occasional practitioners.
Mid-Range Mats: A balance of cost and performance. Suitable for regular practice with improved durability and comfort.
Premium Mats: High-quality materials and superior features. Ideal for dedicated practitioners or those with specific needs.
The Soulflex Premium Cork Yoga Mat
Thickness: Where comfort meets functionality
Thickness impacts both comfort and functionality. Typically, yoga mats will be anywhere between 4-6 mm in thickness. Keep reading to find out what thickness you should opt for.
✅Portability: Lightweight and easy to carry, ideal for traveling yogis.
✅Stability: Provides a strong connection to the floor, making balance poses easier.
✅Storage: Easy to roll up and store due to its compact size.
❌Cushioning: Less padding, which might not be comfortable for people with sensitive joints or those practicing on hard surfaces.
❌Insulation: Minimal insulation from cold or hard floors, which can be uncomfortable during longer practices.
✅Balanced cushioning: Provides a good mix of comfort and stability, suitable for most types of yoga.
✅Versatility: Works well for a variety of practices, from gentle yoga to more dynamic styles.
✅Durability: Often more durable than thinner mats, offering longevity with regular use.
❌Portability: Slightly bulkier than thin mats, making them less convenient to carry around.
❌Weight: Heavier than thinner mats, which might be a consideration if you travel frequently.
✅Superior comfort: Excellent cushioning, making it ideal for practices that involve prolonged kneeling or sitting postures.
✅Joint Support: Provides extra support for those with joint issues or for use on hard surfaces.
✅Versatility: Great for restorative yoga, Pilates, and other floor exercises that require additional padding.
❌Portability: Bulkier and heavier, which can make them cumbersome to carry.
❌Storage: Takes up more space when rolled up, which might be an issue if storage space is limited.
The Soulflex ultra-thick 10mm TPE Yoga Mat
Texture: Enhancing grip, comfort & Stability
The texture of your yoga mat plays a significant role in how much traction it provides, which is essential for maintaining stability during your poses. The texture can also affect the overall comfort and feel of the mat, making it a critical factor to consider.
Smooth Mats: Smooth mats offer a soft, even surface that is ideal for gentle yoga practices or for those who prefer a more minimalist feel. These mats typically have less grip compared to textured mats, which can be a disadvantage during more intense sessions or if you tend to sweat a lot. However, smooth mats are great for slow-paced practices like Yin or Restorative yoga, where slipping is less of a concern.
Textured Mats: Textured mats are designed to provide enhanced grip, preventing slips and helping you maintain stability during challenging poses. The texture can be created through the mat’s material, like natural rubber, or through added patterns. These mats are especially beneficial for styles of yoga that involve quick transitions or intense, sweat-inducing sessions, such as Vinyasa or Ashtanga yoga. The texture can also add a tactile element to your practice, helping you stay grounded and focused.
Natural Textures: Mats made from natural materials like cork or jute often have inherent textures that provide excellent grip without the need for added patterns. These textures tend to become more effective as they absorb moisture, making them ideal for hot yoga. Natural textures also add an organic feel to your practice, connecting you more closely to the earth.
Patterned Textures: Some mats feature raised patterns or designs that enhance grip. These patterns can range from simple lines to intricate designs and serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Patterned textures are great for yogis who need extra traction during their practice but also want a mat that reflects their personal style.
Design, color & pattern: Expressing your style
Your yoga mat is not just a functional too – it’s also an expression of your personality and style.
Design: The design of your yoga mat can inspire and motivate you during your practice. Whether you prefer minimalist designs, intricate mandalas, or nature-inspired themes, choosing a design that resonates with you can create a more personalized and enjoyable experience on the mat.
Color: Color can influence your mood and energy levels during practice. For example, calming blues and greens are great for relaxation, while vibrant reds and oranges can invigorate your practice. Neutral tones like grey and beige offer a more understated, serene backdrop.
Pattern: Patterns not only add visual interest but can also provide practical benefits. Textured patterns enhance grip, helping you maintain stability in poses. Additionally, alignment patterns can assist you in positioning your hands and feet correctly, ensuring proper form.