THE BEST YOGA MAT
Choosing the right yoga mat is crucial for a pleasant and effective yoga practice, whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi. A good mat not only provides comfort and support but can also help prevent injuries and improve your alignment. In this article, you will learn what to look for when buying a yoga mat.
Why is the choice of the right yoga mat so important?
The yoga mat is the center of your yoga practice.
Comfort: It provides you protection by safeguarding your body and your joints.
Stability: A non-slip surface ensures secure grip in all asanas.
Hygiene: The mat serves as a base from the floor and ensures a clean and pleasant exercise experience.
Slip resistance: A slip-resistant surface gives you security, even during intense or dynamic yoga exercises.
What should you pay attention to when choosing your yoga mat?
Material of the mat
The material influences durability, comfort, and environmental friendliness.
PVC (Polyvinylchloride): Pro: Very durable, slip-resistant, and easy to clean, Con: less environmentally friendly.
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer): Pro: More environmentally friendly than PVC, lightweight and non-slip, Con: less durable under intensive use.
Natural rubber: Pro: Biodegradable, particularly slip-resistant and durable, Con: heavier and more expensive.
Cork: Pro: Environmentally friendly, antibacterial, and particularly grippy with wet hands, Con: less cushioned.
Cotton or jute: Pro: natural and pleasant, Con: less grip and durability.
Thickness of the mat
3 to 6 mm: Ideal for stable grip and balance positions. Good for the joints and comfortable for many exercises.
6-8 mm or more: Particularly soft, suitable for meditation or Pilates, but less stable for balance exercises.
Slip resistance
A non-slip yoga mat is essential, especially for dynamic styles like Vinyasa or Ashtanga. Make sure that the mat provides a secure grip even with sweaty hands and feet. Ideally, you should try the mat out before purchasing.
Width and length
The standard dimensions are approximately 180 cm long and 60 cm wide. Larger mats provide more freedom of movement and are particularly suitable for taller yogis.
Weight of the mat
The weight should be chosen so that the mat lies stable on the ground and does not ripple. At the same time, it should be light enough to be easily transported.
Care and Cleaning
An easy-care mat is important. Make sure that the mat is water-repellent and can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth. Fabric mats can even be washed in the washing machine.
The right mat for your yoga style
Hatha Yoga: A medium-thick mat (about 4 mm) with good cushioning is ideal for static exercises.
Vinyasa or Ashtanga Yoga: Here, a non-slip mat made of natural rubber or TPE is recommended, which provides a secure grip even with sweaty hands.
Yin Yoga or Restorative Yoga: Thicker and softer mats (about 6-8 mm) provide maximum comfort and relaxation.
Hot Yoga: A water-repellent, non-slip mat is essential here.
Sustainability in Yoga Mats
"Those who value sustainability should opt for a mat made of natural rubber or PU. These materials are durable and more environmentally friendly than PVC. Jute and cork mats are also eco-friendly, but they wear out more quickly."
Our recommendations
"After years of experience, we have some recommendations for you on how to find your perfect yoga mat."
For beginners: A TPE mat with good cushioning and slip resistance.
For Advanced Users: A natural rubber mat with maximum grip.
Price-Performance Winner: A PVC mat that is durable and easy to clean.
Sustainability Tip: A biodegradable mat made of natural rubber or cork.
Conclusion
The perfect yoga mat depends on your yoga style, your needs, and your personal preferences. Pay attention to material, thickness, and slip resistance to find the best yoga mat for you. Invest in a high-quality mat that provides you with stability, comfort, and safety. This way, your practice will become a true source of relaxation and inspiration.
Namaste!