Choosing a Yoga Mat: How to Choose the Right Mat for Beginners
Your most important companion on your yoga journey is your mat. Just as a dancer chooses her stage carefully, a yogi must choose her mat meticulously. Every asana, every breath, and every movement is in deep dialogue with the mat beneath you.
Every yogi is unique, and their mat selection should reflect that uniqueness. Some yogis prefer a non-slip surface, even when wet with sweat, while others look for extra cushioning for joint sensitivities. Your mat should be like your second skin - it should breathe, support you, and inspire confidence throughout your practice. Let's discover the perfect mat for you on this important journey.
What to Consider When Choosing a Yoga Mat?
Choosing the right mat is very important to get the most out of your yoga practice! No matter what type of yoga you do, your mat should adapt to your body and needs. Everyone's body structure and preferences are different; therefore, choosing the wrong mat can negatively affect your comfort and safety. So which mat is best for you? Let's discover it together!
Things to Consider When Choosing a Yoga Mat:
-
The Material It Is Made Of 🌿✨
The material of the yoga mat plays a determining role in factors such as durability, environmentally friendly features and non-slip properties. PVC offers a long-lasting and non-slip surface. TPE is an environmentally friendly and recyclable alternative. Natural rubber stands out with its durable and biodegradable structure. -
Thickness of the Mat 🪵✨
The thickness of a yoga mat is important for both comfort and support. Thin mats (1-3 mm) are ideal for portability and balancing poses. Medium-thick mats (4-5 mm) are great for beginners and those looking for balance and cushioning. Thicker mats (6 mm and up) provide excellent support for those with sensitive joints or those who want a soft surface. Your choice of thickness directly affects the comfort of your practice. -
Non-slip ✋🛑
A non-slip surface is critical to the safety of your yoga practice. Especially in dynamic yoga types or sessions that involve intense sweating, keeping your mat stable reduces the risk of injury. With the right non-slip surface, you can make your practice more fluid and safe by providing stability during poses. -
Mat Size 🧍♀️📏
The dimensions of the mat depend on your physical measurements and the type of yoga you do. Standard yoga mats are 173-183 cm long and 61 cm wide. Extra long mats can be preferred for taller yogis, and wider mats can be preferred for those who want a wide surface. When choosing the size of your mat, keep your freedom of movement in the foreground! -
Portability 🧳✨
If you often carry your yoga mat with you, lightweight and portable options are ideal. Foldable mats or models with a carrying strap provide great convenience for mobile yogis. If you want to continue your practice anywhere, a portable mat is your best companion. -
Suitability for Yoga Type 🧘♀️💫
Choosing a mat that suits the type of yoga you practice can make your experience much more enjoyable. Durable, non-slip mats are recommended for dynamic yoga types, while softness and comfort are at the forefront for calmer yoga types.
Yoga Mat Selection Tips
|
Feature |
Material |
Thickness |
Dimension |
Purpose of Use |
Model Suggestion |
|
Hygienic, sweat and moisture proof |
PVC |
4.7mm |
180cm x 61cm |
General yoga practices |
|
|
Extra cushioning, hygienic |
PVC |
6mm |
215cm x 66cm |
Those who want extra comfort, tall users |
|
|
Non-slip, sustainable |
Natural Rubber and Eco-Polyurethane |
4.2mm |
213cm x 68cm |
Those who want large surface and sustainable options |
|
|
Non-slip, stable |
Natural Rubber |
4mm |
180cm x 61cm |
Those who want standard yoga practices, balance and non-slip |
|
|
Lightweight, portable |
PVC |
2.5mm |
180cm x 61cm |
Traveling yogis |
Choices Based on Yoga Mat Materials
When choosing your yoga mat, make sure it’s one that you feel comfortable with. A non-slip rubber mat might be a great choice for a powerful flow that will make you sweat on a hot summer day. Maybe a soft and comfortable TPE mat would be more appealing to you for a calm, restorative yoga practice. Every mat has its own texture, smell, and feel – just like us! By experimenting, touching, and feeling, you can find the mat that works best for you. 🧘♀️
Materials
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC yoga mats are known for their durability and superior non-slip properties. They are ideal for dynamic yoga types that are frequently used due to their longevity. Thanks to the closed cell structure, sweat and moisture do not penetrate into the mat, which is a great advantage in terms of hygiene.
💡Recommendation : Manduka PROlite® Black 4.7mm Yoga Mat - 180cm
Natural Rubber
Natural rubber is a sustainable option with its eco-friendly and biodegradable structure. Its open-cell structure provides excellent grip, which prevents slipping even when sweating. It also increases the feeling of grounding in yoga practice because it offers a natural feel.
💡 Recommendation : Manduka eKO® Superlite Acai Travel Mat
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer):
TPE mats are an eco-friendly alternative made from recyclable materials. They are lightweight and have a soft surface, making them ideal for beginner yogis. They are easy to carry and versatile.
💡 Recommendation: Manduka Begin Yoga Mat Yes Please 5mm Yoga Mat
Eco Polyurethane Mats
Eco Polyurethane mats are a great alternative for yogis looking to make an environmentally conscious choice. These mats are PVC-free and biodegradable, making them harmless to nature. They also provide a unique grip, making your practice safe and fluid. Their non-slip properties make them ideal for all types of practices, whether you’re doing dynamic yoga or restorative yoga.
💡 Recommendation: Liforme Yoga Mat Series
Which Material is Right for You?
When choosing a yoga mat, it is important to consider the intensity of your practice and your environmental sensitivity. If durability is your priority, PVC mats may be a suitable option. If you are looking for an eco-friendly alternative, natural rubber, eco polyurethane or TPE mats are a great choice. You can choose the one that is best for you by evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of each material. 🌿🧘♀️
Selections Based on Thickness and Support
The thickness of your yoga mat directly affects both your comfort and joint health during your practice. The right thickness helps you balance poses while ensuring your joints are protected and comfortable. When choosing a thickness, it is important to consider your type of yoga, the hardness of the floor, and the sensitivity of your joints. Thin mats offer portability, while thick mats provide more support; medium-thick mats strike a balance between the two.
Thickness and Support Options
Thin Mats (1-3 mm)
Thin yoga mats are ideal for traveling yogis because they are lightweight and portable. They provide a suitable surface for poses that require balance and take up less space. However, they may not provide enough cushioning on hard surfaces. For this reason, they are usually preferred for outdoor yoga or dynamic yoga.
💡 Recommendation:Manduka PRO™ Travel Yoga Mat Black Sage Travel Mat - 200cm
Medium Thick Mats (4-5 mm)
It is ideal for yogis looking for both support and balance. It is suitable for beginners and offers a wide range of use in dynamic and calm yoga types. It provides support for your joints without losing your connection to the ground.
💡 Recommendation: Manduka eKO® Yes Please 5mm Yoga Mat
Thick Mats (6 mm and above)
Perfect for yogis with sensitive joints or those who want to practice yoga on a soft surface. The cushioning provides comfort for long periods of meditation and restorative yoga. However, too much cushioning can make balancing poses difficult.
💡 Recommendation: Manduka PRO™ Mat Earth 6mm Yoga Mat
The Importance of Non-Slip for Yoga Mats
A non-slip yoga mat will be your savior so that you can safely do your poses and maintain your balance during your yoga practice. In dynamic yoga types where sweating increases, a mat that provides a strong grip will allow you to continue your practice without breaking the tempo.
Advantages of Non-Slip Mats
- More Safety and Stability: It increases your balance by preventing slipping in poses and reduces the risk of injury.
- Resistance to Sweaty Conditions: No matter how intensely you sweat, you can get support from your mat thanks to its strong grip.
- Fluent Movements: The grip of the surface allows you to easily transition between poses.
- Correct Alignment: It helps you practice poses correctly by ensuring that your hands and feet remain steady.
- Hygienic and Durable: It will be with you for years with its easy-to-clean surface and long-lasting structure.
💡 Recommendation:
Offering superior performance in non-slip, Manduka GRP® Adapt Jet Black 5mm Yoga Mat - 180cm and Lifeforme yoga mats provide a hygienic and durable surface thanks to their special coating against sweating. It is an ideal choice for dynamic yoga types and intense sessions.
Choosing a Yoga Mat According to Your Type
Yoga has a wide range of practices, with different types and techniques that cater to every body type and need. From dynamic yoga types to calm yoga sessions, each practice has its own unique requirements. The right yoga mat will not only help you enjoy your practice more, but will also increase your safety and comfort. Choosing the right mat for your type of yoga will significantly affect the performance and comfort of your practice.
No matter what type of yoga you prefer, mat selection will be your biggest supporter on this journey. Let's explore mat selections according to yoga types and evaluate the options that suit your needs. 🧘♀️✨
Yoga Mat Selection Table by Type
|
Type of Yoga |
Characteristics of Yoga Type |
Recommended Mat Features |
Recommended Models |
|
Dynamic Yoga |
Types of yoga such as Vinyasa, Ashtanga or Power Yoga involve fast movement and intense sweating. |
Durable material, strong non-slip surface, stability during movement. |
Manduka PRO Series: Made of long-lasting PVC material, ideal for intensive use. Lifeforme mat series: Made of eco polyurethane, ideal for dynamic yoga sessions. |
|
Calm Yoga |
Types of yoga such as Yin Yoga and Restorative Yoga aim for long-term poses and deep relaxation. |
Soft and thick surface, cushioning that supports joints. |
Manduka PRO™ Mat Diamond Colorfields 6mm Yoga Mat: Offers high cushioning and comfort. |
|
Travel Yoga |
Suitable for those who want to practice yoga outdoors or while traveling. |
Light, thin, foldable and portable structure. |
Manduka and Liforme Travel Series: Provides easy use with its portable and lightweight structure. |
|
Meditative Yoga |
It requires calmness and concentration in sitting positions for long periods of time. |
Thick and soft surface, knee and hip support. |
Manduka eKO Series: Softness and environmentally friendly structure with natural rubber material. |
|
Heat Yoga (Bikram) |
It is a type of yoga performed in hot environments, and due to intense sweating, the non-slip nature of the mat is of critical importance. |
High non-slip, sweat-absorbent coating, easy-to-clean surface. |
Manduka GRP Series: Perfect for hot yoga with its special sweat-absorbent coating. |
| Pregnant Yoga |
The type of yoga designed for expectant mothers requires a safe and supportive surface. |
Soft surface, non-slip, cushioning that supports joints. |
Manduka PRO™ Mat 6mm: Provides extra support and safety for pregnancy yoga. |
|
Fast Flow Yoga |
It is applied in genres that involve faster pose transitions and require endurance. |
Dense non-slip surface, durable material, high stability. |
MandukaPRO™ Mat Balance Solstice 6mm: Yoga Mat Suitable for active yoga types with its light and durable structure. |
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats
Your yoga practice has the power to transform not only your body and mind, but also your connection with your environment. If you want to experience yoga in harmony with nature, eco-friendly yoga mats are for you! Made from biodegradable and recyclable materials, these mats provide both sustainability advantages and do not compromise on performance.
Your yoga mat will be your best friend on your yoga journey. Why not choose one that is both friendly to you and the planet? With the right eco-friendly mat, your yoga practice can become more meaningful in every way. 🧘♀️💚
Natural Rubber Mats
Natural rubber mats are an indispensable option for yogis looking for an eco-friendly alternative. Thanks to their biodegradable structure, they do not harm nature and at the same time offer a strong grip. Their non-slip surface, even when sweating, ensures that your practice is safe and fluid. They are ideal for all types of practices, from dynamic yoga to calm meditations. They are the perfect choice for those who want to be in harmony with nature and use a sturdy mat.
💡 Recommendation: Manduka eKO Lite Yoga Mat Wasabi 4mm Yoga Mat is one of our favorites with its strong grip and eco-friendly structure! If you are looking for a durable, performance-oriented and sustainable mat, the Manduka eKO Series is for you.
TPE Mats
TPE mats are a great alternative that combines environmental friendliness with lightness and portability. Made from recyclable materials, these mats are ideal especially for those who are new to yoga practice. While providing a comfortable experience thanks to their soft and flexible surface, you can easily carry them wherever you want with their lightweight structure. In addition, they provide an environmentally friendly use thanks to their chemical-free odors.
💡 Recommendation: Manduka Begin Yoga Mat series stands out among TPE mats with its environmentally friendly structure and lightness. It is a comfortable and nature-friendly option for beginners.
Eco Polyurethane Mats
I have a great suggestion for you in the magical world of yoga: Eco polyurethane mats! These nature-friendly mats have been carefully designed for environmentally conscious yogis like you. Each mat is a reflection of our respect for our planet, with its biodegradable structure. 🌿 Let me tell you about my favorite feature - the surface of the mat literally dances with you! Even if you sweat or the mat gets wet, it never lets you down. With this confidence, you can abandon yourself to the rhythm of the flow and comfortably deepen in each pose. Are you ready to take your yoga to the next level?
💡 Recommendation: Liforme Happiness Yoga Mat is not just a mat, but also a tool that guides you in your yoga practice. Thanks to the patented AlignForMe alignment system, you can do your poses more accurately and safely, and get full support in all conditions with its non-slip surface.
Yoga Mat Selection Tips for Beginners
If you are new to yoga practice, your mat will be your greatest supporter! Choosing a safe, comfortable and relaxed mat will help you start this journey with pleasure. Here are some suggestions for beginners:
- Non-Slip Surface: It can be difficult to balance poses when you first try them. A non-slip mat will help keep your hands and feet steady, keeping you safe.
- Medium Thickness: Not too thin, not too thick - a medium thickness mat is a great option for both comfort and stability. Your knees and joints will thank you!
- Lightweight: Don't you want to be able to carry your mat anywhere? A lightweight mat allows you to practice yoga wherever you want.
- Easy to Clean: Especially after intensive practice, an easy-to-clean mat always makes your job easier and ensures hygiene.
- Durability: You don't want to change mats often just because you're starting out, right? A durable mat will support you for a long time.
💡 Suggestion:
Manduka Begin Yoga Mat Yes Please 5mm Yoga Mat is a lifesaver for beginners! Thanks to its lightweight structure, you can easily carry it anywhere and progress safely in your poses with its non-slip surface.
Yoga Mat Prices and Performance Relationship
It is very important to strike a balance between your budget and your needs when choosing a yoga mat. While more affordable mats offer basic features, you can invest a little more and choose a durable, non-slip and long-lasting mat. Remember, a quality mat will be with you for years, even if it seems expensive at first. The most suitable mat for you is the one that best suits both your needs and your practice. Choosing the mat that best meets your needs, not the price, will make your journey more enjoyable!
Choosing According to Yoga Mat Care and Cleaning
When choosing your yoga mat, be sure to consider its cleanability. An easy-to-clean mat allows you to practice on a hygienic surface and extends the life of your mat. Bacteria and bad odors that accumulate due to sweat can be easily prevented with regular cleaning. You can choose the right mat by considering this factor for both ease of use and longevity! 🧼✨
|
Material Type |
Cleaning Method |
Things to Consider |
|
PVC and TPE |
Wiping with mild soapy water, natural cleaners |
Dry with a damp cloth, do not leave in the sun for a long time. |
|
Natural Rubber |
Water and vinegar mixture or special rubber cleaners |
Avoid direct sunlight, dry naturally. |
|
Eco Polyurethane |
Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soapy water |
Avoid abrasive cleaning products, dry on a flat surface. |
Did You Find the Mat You Were Looking For?
When choosing your mat, which will be your closest companion on your yoga journey, think about yourself first. A quality mat will provide you with a safe practice area with its non-slip surface and structure that protects your joints, while its lightness and durability will be with you for a long time. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi - choosing the right mat will both increase your physical comfort and make your yoga practice more enjoyable.
Remember, your yoga mat is not just a piece of equipment, it is a special space where you can breathe and discover yourself every day. 🧘♀️