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Home » Exercise Mats » What To Look For In Yoga Mat – Are you tired of slipping and sliding all over your yoga mat during class? Do you find yourself constantly readjusting your position because your mat just won’t stay put? Fear not, my fellow yogis, because I have the ultimate guide to finding the perfect yoga mat. From thickness to texture, I’ve got you covered. And let’s not forget about the most important factor – cuteness. Because let’s face it, if you’re going to be staring at your mat for an hour, it might as well be aesthetically pleasing. So grab your water bottle and get ready to downward dog like a pro on your new, non-slip, and stylish yoga mat.
What to Look For In The Perfect Yoga Mat?
Here is a detailed buyer’s guide on how to choose a good yoga mat:
1. The Mat Size Should Be According To Your Body Type
You obviously do not want your body to properly rest on the mat and stick out. To avoid such a situation, be sure to make proper size measurements before you head to the Yoga Mats store.
I will suggest you properly examine the width and the length i.e., the size parameters of the mats before deciding to purchase them. This would save you from later trouble!
In case you cannot find a suitable size for the yoga mat you selected, look out for other available options. The design and cushioning properties come second to this size factor.
You must not overlook it!
2. The Mat Cushioning Depends Upon Your Yoga Type
Some people claim that such a mat might not be much cushioned and may get you sore joints. But being a beginner, you would not be doing high-level yoga activities, so why even get a professional mat?
If you are someone who is going to adopt the pro techniques for your yoga, then definitely go for a more cushioned and elastic mat. But remember, do not end up buying a yoga mat that makes you fall asleep upon it.
Such mats are totally useless for yoga purposes. A mat should be soft enough that it did not let your joints get sore and stiff and also does not let your body get sink inside it can be called the most suitable yoga mat in terms of cushioning.
3. The Mat’s Stickiness Is Important
PVC yoga mats have got the highest sticky factor. They can help you stay in one pose for several seconds and assist you in maintaining a good balance. That’s the most important thing while you are doing a yoga activity.
For beginners, who cannot maintain a good balance for long and may also not be able to keep a single posture for a couple of seconds, sticky yoga mats can greatly help you do the deed.
4. A Lightweight Yoga Mat Would Work Good
Do you travel a lot? If so, you must get a lightweight mat for yourself that you can easily transport from one place to the other.
However, if you do your yoga activity at home in one place, then you do not really need a lightweight yoga mat. Experts claim that lighter yoga mats make you feel lighter, so it is good if you get a lighter-weight one’ both ways!
However, do not regret if you end up getting a slightly heavier mat while you had no other options available. This point number 4 is not a MUST but an option for all those searching for the perfect yoga mat.
5. The Mat’s Durability Is Important Too
Make sure; the yoga mat you have your eyes upon has a good design life and can serve you well for at least 2 years.
Also, it should be easy to clean so that you do not have to go through the misery of washing it every time it gets slightly dirty. There are yoga mats that can be cleaned by wiping them off using a wet cloth only. Rubber mats are relatively easier to clean than PVC mats, and their texture does not get spoiled too if you dry clean them once in 6 months.
6. The Mat’s Style and Patterns May Depict Your Personality
This would cause all your attention to be diverted again and again, and you would end up having poor yoga exercise. You obviously do not want that, right?
FAQs
What type of yoga mat is most suitable for beginners?
For starters, I would suggest never getting a padded mat. Get your hands on the perfect rubber yoga mat. I will support my statement with the following two reasons.
- The first one is, rubber mats are inexpensive.
- Secondly, they have got a good grip.
They can support you when you want your body to maintain a specific portion for several seconds. Also if you are a beginner who is going to start yoga therapy you will definitely be needing a soft yoga mat for that purpose, so a cotton mat would be great in such a case.
What is the standard yoga mat size in mm?
A standard yoga mat is around 1800mm in length. Width varies between 600mm to 650mm. The thickness is highly variable depending on the weight and the type of material used inside the mat. Generally, lightweight mats are 3mm thick whereas high cushioning mats can be as thick as 6mm.
Is a 6mm yoga mat good?
Totally depends upon the yoga technique you are going to adopt. I would say if you are going to have yoga therapy go for the 6mm soft yoga mats.
However, if you are going to do the yoga activity with certain turning and flexible postures, do not choose the 6mm mats. They might not provide you with enough grip and support and might even let your body sink into them hence disturbing your yoga activity.
Does yoga mat thickness matter?
Yes. Yoga mat thickness matters a lot. The mat’s thickness is an important factor that helps you decide and choose between different mat options. I would say, look over this factor carefully.
You surely do not want to end up getting a mat with a thickness that does not support the type of yoga activity you would be performing.
What are some of the amazing yoga mats?
The three most amazing yoga mats, according to material, thickness, durability, and design parameters are as follows!
- Heathyoga Eco-Friendly Non-Slip Yoga Mat
- Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
- Gaiam Yoga Mat
Closing Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right yoga mat can be a daunting task. But fear not, fellow yogis! Remember to consider the thickness, material, texture, and stickiness of the mat. And if all else fails, just go with the one that matches your favorite yoga pants. But be warned, if you choose a mat solely based on its color or design, you may end up slipping and sliding all over the place during your downward dog. So, take your time, do your research, and invest in a mat that will support you through all your yoga adventures. Namaste and happy mat hunting!
