The Complete Yoga Mat Buying Guide

With a hundred options available in the market for yoga mat, which one should you choose? What are the factors that must be considered while buying a yoga mat? Is the price comparison enough or features matter? If they do matter, what are those?

This blog covers answers to all the questions that you must consider while choosing the yoga mat. It’s important to get a yoga mat right not just because of the benefits that it offers, but also to avoid the harm that a bad yoga mat can do. Read to find out.

Before we dive into the specifics of buying a yoga mat, let us talk about the necessity of a good yoga mat.

Yoga is a holistic practice that connects the mind, body, and soul. It helps in reducing stress, improving flexibility, increasing strength, and developing a positive attitude. It is a form of physical activity that can be practiced by people of all ages, shapes, and sizes. A good yoga mat is an essential component of a yoga practice as it,

• provides a comfortable, non-slip surface

• cushions the joints and,

• supports the body

A high-quality yoga mat can make all the difference in your yoga practice.

Factors to consider when buying a yoga mat

Choosing the right yoga mat can be overwhelming, especially if you are new to yoga. With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for you. 

Material

Yoga mats come in various materials such as PVC, rubber, TPE, jute, cork and cotton.

• PVC mats are the most common, but they are definitely not an option that we recommend. They release toxic chemicals and can cause reactions to those with allergies or sensitivities. It does not provide grip for yoga and is not eco-friendly

• Rubber mats provide excellent grip and are eco-friendly. Your Everyday Mat by CoreAsana is a great rubber yoga mat, which is also India’s first Hypo-Allergenic Mat.

• TPE mats are lightweight and offer good cushioning.

• Jute mats are durable, sustainable and absorb moisture, making it comfortable for your sweaty yoga pursuits.

• Cork mats are sustainable and provide an excellent natural grip. Cork mat maintains its non-slip character even during the sweatiest of Yoga workouts and it is completely safe for long-term contact to your skin. Another reason to consider cork yoga mat is that it is naturally antimicrobial, meaning it kills bacteria and fungus itself and provides high hygiene levels to yoga practitioners. You can check out the Ultimate Cork Mat by CoreAsana for your intense yoga practice sessions.

• Cotton mats are super light, making them easy to carry. CoreAsana has cotton mats in beautiful colors to complement your lifestyle. You should definitely check out the Cotton Yoga Mats for your travel needs.

Thickness

The thickness of a good yoga mat ranges from 3 mm to 5 mm. Thicker mats provide more cushioning, which is beneficial for those with joint pain. However, mats with more than 6 mm thickness may also be less stable and harder to balance on. 5 mm is a sweet spot when it comes to the thickness of yoga mats.

Texture

The texture of a yoga mat can impact the grip and comfort of the mat. Mats with a rough texture offer a better grip, while mats with a smooth texture may be more comfortable. Cork yoga mats come with a rough texture and provide an excellent grip even during the sweatiest yoga sessions.

Size

Yoga mats come in various sizes, and the right size depends on your height and the type of yoga practice. It’s always a good idea to choose a mat that’s at least 6 ft long and 2 ft wide to perform all poses easily. 

Price

Yoga mats come in different price ranges. The cost of a yoga mat can vary depending on the material, thickness, quality and durability of the mat. We recommend buying a mat that’s durable and provides you a comfortable, seamless yoga experience. Saving some rupees initially might cost more later if the mat fails to provide necessary grip and goes out of function too soon.

Portability

If you travel frequently or attend yoga classes outside of your home, a lightweight and easily portable yoga mat may be the best option for you. Cotton mats work best for this.

Hygiene

It is important to consider how easy it is to clean and keep your yoga mat hygienic. Mats made from natural materials may require more care than those made from synthetic materials. Cork mats are anti-microbial, making them super hygienic.

Conclusion

A good yoga mat is a vital tool for anyone who practices yoga. It provides a stable and comfortable surface for yoga practice and enhances the overall experience.  

Using the wrong yoga mat can lead to instability, poor grip and inadequate cushioning. All of these factors can impact your overall yoga practice, leading to discomfort in holding poses and movements, decreased performance, and an increased risk of joint pains and injury. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right yoga mat that suits your needs and preferences to enhance the overall yoga experience

With this complete yoga mat buying guide, we hope that you are able to find the perfect yoga mat that suits your needs and preferences.

Remember, investing in a good quality yoga mat is an investment in your overall health and wellbeing.

You can check out Everyday Yoga Mat and Ultimate Cork Mat for your yoga journey.

Why Do You Need A Good Yoga Mat?