How to Choose the Best Yoga Mat for You?
Yoga mats are produced in different thicknesses and lengths. In addition, the material and texture of the products also vary. Each feature affects the weight. The first thing you should consider when choosing is your needs. Once you decide on the product that meets your needs, you can move on to design details.
Choosing a Yoga Mat
If you have decided to make yoga a part of your life, you should choose the right mat for your practice. It plays an important role in choosing which level you are at. In addition, the type of yoga you practice also helps you determine the qualities of the product you will buy.
After level and type, the physical properties of the mat come into play. Details such as product thickness, cushioning feature and weight affect the selection.
What Level Are You?
Some models produced for beginners have alignment lines. These lines act as guides and help you do the poses correctly. In addition, models produced for the entry level are lighter. Some options can be used double-sided.
If you're an intermediate or advanced yogi, you have more options. You can choose according to the type of ground you practice on and your habits.
Yin, Vinyasa, Hatha; Which one is your choice?
Although yoga basically has the same goal, the practices have different characters. Choosing a model based on the type you frequently prefer will make you more comfortable in your yoga sessions. For example, if you mainly practice Yin yoga, a bold option will be useful. The asanas in a Yin session are longer than in other types of yoga. Therefore, a model with high cushioning features increases comfort.
If you do Bikram, or Hot Yoga as it is commonly known, you should choose a product that stands out with its grip feature. So much so that in a session where sweating is at its maximum, slipperiness increases at the same rate. Therefore, a model that prevents you from slipping and maintains your balance is ideal for you. There are models whose grip increases as the moisture content on the surface increases. You can review these .
General features
Millions of different people around the world practice yoga every day. Various mats are designed for these people, whose physical characteristics and desires are different from each other. This is why there are so many options for these products, which are indispensable for yoga practices.
Thickness and Cushioning
Thickness and density give mats cushioning properties. If you want to practice without feeling the presence of the ground, you can choose the thickest ones.
Thin series are ideal for better grip and feeling of contact with the ground.
Length
Mats are approximately 180 cm long. If you are taller than normal, you can look at special designs. Manduka has extra long models measuring 215 cm.
Weight
Features such as thickness, length and density affect the weight of the model you want to buy. The weight of a thick, long and durable product may increase in parallel with its features. You can use such a model for a long time without wearing out. The only catch with these models is that they are not very practical for travel.
If you are a frequent traveler and do yoga wherever you go, you may be interested in a lightweight product. You can take a look at the series designed specifically for travel. These models are easier to transport.
Surface Texture and Grip
You don't want to be on a slippery surface when transitioning between poses. For this reason, different textures are added to the surface of the products to increase their grip. This rough texture prevents hands and feet from slipping. The material of some products has natural grip properties.
Material Types and Durability
Yoga mats are made from different materials. The material of a product gives it different qualities. The material it is made of determines the durability, naturalness, non-slip and weight of the mat.
Natural Rubber
Thanks to their natural content, mats in this category are ideal for environmentally friendly yogis. The unique structure of rubber provides these models with high grip. These natural products can wear out before they should during intense sessions like Hot Yoga. Therefore, it is ideal for quieter practices.
Highly Durable PVC
PVC is a widely used material in mat production. Easy access and durability make PVC a popular material. However, not all PVC has the same qualities. For example, Manduka's PRO series uses high quality PVC. This PVC is produced in an environmentally friendly manner. Additionally, it does not contain chemicals harmful to human health and nature. Thanks to this feature, Manduka PRO mats have an environmentally friendly Oeko-Tex certificate. In addition, this series is so durable that it has a lifetime use warranty.
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) Surfaces
TPE surfaces, which do not contain PVC and latex, are biodegradable. Models produced with this material are easy to clean thanks to their closed cell structure.
PU Surfaces
Designed to absorb moisture, these models provide high grip. You need to pay attention to the cleaning recommendations. Thanks to the surface's ability to absorb moisture, wrong detergents can shorten the life of the product.
Cork Yoga Mats
Models produced from the outer bark of cork oak are among the most environmentally friendly options with their organic structure. Cork yoga mats have anti-bacterial properties. Additionally, it offers high resistance to heat and moisture.
In conclusion
Now that you have examined the features of the popular products of the yoga world, you can make your choice. Yoga mats have different design details in addition to their technical features. After choosing the dimensions and material that suits you best, you can look at the design. Choose the one that will make your practice most enjoyable among the colorful products and start your practice!