Yoga Mats, Rugs and Blankets
When I first started practicing yoga in the early 70’s there were no commercial yoga mats. We used rug remnants, large towels, or cotton blankets. Poses were performed statically; dynamic sequences involving a vinyasa style of yoga were in their infancy if they were taught at all. As the science and art of yoga evolved many different styles of yoga developed and along with this development came the props, mats, and other accoutrement that are now part of the yoga experience. The basic yoga mat used today in most classes is known as a ‘sticky mat.’ Some people also prefer to use a softer, padded mat in combination with a sticky mat or a cotton practice rug (which absorbs moisture and perspiration and provides traction and stability).
Sticky Mats
Sticky mats are just that; they are sticky and for the most part they are slip-proof. They come in a variety of colors, lengths, thicknesses and some even have guide marks on them to help you with proper hand and foot placements.
Sticky mats usually have a structured or fibrous texture to them allowing for a sure grip. They are made from various materials, including latex, rubber, or PVC and may contain metals and phthalates (substances added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity). If you are concerned about the metals, phthalates or PVC that may be incorporated into sticky mats then you can choose to use a rubber mat or one of the various eco friendly yoga mats. These mats are a little more expensive.
Sticky Mats vs. Yoga Rugs
Yoga rugs are most often made of cotton or other porous materials and are normally washable. They can be used by themselves or over yoga mats. They’re most often used by those who engage in Ashtanga yoga and yoga that is performed in very hot rooms where the participants sweat more. Cotton yoga rugs are beneficial in these cases because they are absorbent and comfortable. However, these rugs are not good by themselves especially on a wood floor because they can slip around.
Buying the right mat for you
Thickness and Length: You need to decide how much thickness you prefer, and how long you want your mat to be. Sticky mats come in various thicknesses and lengths. Travel mats tend to roll up more easily and are often thinner than regular mats. The average thickness for a beginner, or for those that prefer thin mats, is around 1/8 inch while a medium thickness is 3/16 to ¼ inch, and a premium mat can be around 5/16 inch. If you’re involved in more strenuous forms of yoga, you may want one with more cushioning. Generally, a yoga mat should be between 3/16 and ¼ inch thick. Some people prefer an even thicker mat for comfort, and to cushion and protect their joints.
A standard sized mat is 24 inches by 68 inches, but some are available in longer lengths, such as 72 or 74 inches. So, if you’re tall, you may require or want a longer mat.
Materials: If you want your mat to be eco-friendly, check the materials. You also want to consider any allergies - if you can’t tolerate latex, then you want to make sure that the mat you choose is made of an alternate material, such as rubber.
Type of yoga you are practicing: A durable, non-slippery yoga mat would be best for a vigorous yoga practice, such as Ashtanga yoga; however, a basic sticky mat is appropriate for a Hatha-style yoga practice.
Ease of Cleaning: Yoga isn’t easy, and you may find yourself sweating during a vigorous yoga class. Many companies sell mat cleaning wipes but you can easily make your own solution. See right side panel for a discussion on how to clean your mat.
Type of yoga you are practicing: A durable, non-slippery yoga mat would be best for a vigorous yoga practice, such as Ashtanga yoga; however, a basic sticky mat is appropriate for a Hatha-style yoga practice.
Where to buy Yoga Mats Online
Barefoot Yoga has reviews of different mats from users and carries all different brands and types, including Ultra Mats, Eco mats, and Prana mats.
Mats, Mats, Mats carries a wide selection of yoga mats, including a pink one that helps fight breast cancer by donating a portion of the proceeds to a cancer research foundation.
Jade Yoga carries high quality mats such as the Harmony mat.
