You can find yoga mats in an array of colors, textures and prices, so if selecting the right yoga mat seems more complicated than practicing a Side Crow or Hand Stand pose, then it is time to narrow down the choices. One of the most important aspects of a yoga mat is how well it keeps you firmly sticking to its surface without sliding. A durable mat that lasts through many yoga sessions is important, too. Stickiness and durability may not mean much to you, however, if the mat is made from potentially non-recyclable, toxic materials, like PVC.
Step 1
Consider the type of yoga you primarily practice. Some yoga styles may recommend specific mats.
For Bikram Yoga, consider buying a standard 1/8- or 1/4-inch mat as well as a yoga towel to put on top of your mat. A yoga towel typically has small, rubber nubs on the bottom and soft fabric on the top. You can throw your yoga towel in the washing machine after each practice.
For Ashtanga Yoga, your teacher may encourage you to get a Mysore Practice Rug.
In general, a yoga practice which has a lot of vinyasa sequences (movement linked with each breath), is easier with a slip-resistant mat. Also, for Bikram, Ashtanga, Power Yoga or other vigorous practices, consider buying a yoga mat with antibacterial properties, because you'll probably sweat a lot.
Step 2
Be easy on your joints. You might feel fine practicing asanas (yoga poses) on a thin mat, but if you have arthritis or fibromyalgia, buy a thicker mat for comfort. The only downside to thicker mats is that some students feel that the less firm the ground is beneath them, the less balance they have.
Step 3
Read the label on a yoga mat before you buy it. Many yogis are trying to practice more of their yamas, in particular ahimasa, or non-violence. Choosing a mat which is made without PVC or rubber from endangered trees may give you a sense of a more pure practice. Some yoga mat manufacturers make mats with recycled rubber or other biodegradable materials. For example, Barefoot Yoga uses PER (polymer environmental resin) for its Barefoot Environmental Mat, which does not contain phthalates, dioxins and furans, phenal or heavy metals and uses a nontoxic method of production.
Step 4
Consider your skin sensitivity. Many are allergic to rubber and latex materials. Consider jute fiber or cotton materials for your yoga mat if you have sensitive skin.
Step 5
Choose your color and design. Keep in mind that some mats, like the popular Manduka Premium Yoga mat only come in black. Many other eco-friendly, slip-resistant and comfortable mats come in a variety of colors and patterns; some even have various textures. If you need to choose a color, simply pick one which resonates with you and calms you. Try not to choose a color or pattern that is overly distracting.
Tips and Warnings
- Research your mat before you buy it. What seems to be the perfect mat might not do well for an outdoor practice, lose stickiness after cleaning or have a lingering, unpleasant odor.
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