When it comes to purchasing a new yoga mat, there are several features to consider. The cushion that the mat will provide is important, especially for yoga exercises on the floor. The mat should be heavy enough that it won't slip during certain standing yoga poses. In addition, the mat should be a color and style that suits you, and easy to transport. According to the Wall Street Journal article, "Looking for a Soft Spot to 'Om'" by Anjali Athavaley, "The latest mats...helped keep us from slipping during our practice and provided enough padding to ease the pressure on our joints during certain poses."
The Lotuspad Earth Mat
The top of the list according to the Wall Street Journal is the "Lotuspad Earth Mat," Portable and made from recycled materials, this yoga mat is light and easy to transport and zippy--in a lime green color, orange and blue.
Eco Yoga Jute Mat
The best mat, according to the website Planet Green is made by the company EcoYoga. One reason that this mat is differenet is that it can be washed, as it's a mixture of natural rubber and the fiber jute. Planet green calls the "Eco Yoga Jute Mat" both "soft and supportive." Colors include pink, lavender and green.
Manduka ProLite Mat
The second in the top five from the Wall Street Journal is the "Manduka ProLite" mat, which gets high marks for durability as well as non-slippage. Comfortable for standing poses, this mat also provides extra cushion for floor work.
PER Environmental Yoga Mat From Barefoot Yoga
The "PER Environmental Yoga Mat," manufactured by Barefoot Yoga Zoom, is similar in feel to a slip-free sticky mat, but is made with fewer chemicals than many sticky mats. PER stands for polymer environmental resin. These mats are made without latex, and are recommended by Planet Green.
Lulumon Athletica Eco Align Ultra Mat
Lululemon Athletica's "Eco Align Ultra Mat," also recommended by the Wall Street Journal, has bright lines painted on the mat, which makes a difference when lining up certain standing yoga poses, such as the Warrior Pose. This mat is made of thermal plastic elastomer.
Member Comments