If you’re a yoga lover and located in most yoga courses, or observe yoga at home, even if in case you have simply began working towards yoga, Wherever and everytime you observe, a correct yoga mat is crucial, as a result of yoga mats are used for cushioning and traction, if you do asana or pose. Nonetheless, in fashionable occasions with the selection of yoga mats made of varied supplies out there, it turns into a bit tough to decide on the perfect yoga mat supplies.
For the reason that supplies utilized in yoga mats will not be solely extra essential to your observe but in addition make you extra comfy and steady in your poses and are additionally a security gauge for total well being.
Every materials has its personal professionals and cons. Some mats are cozy and cushiony, whereas others are snuggly and transportable; Others are extra sturdy, and you may additionally need your mat to be eco-friendly.
An consciousness of the optimistic and unfavorable facets of every yoga mat materials earlier than you possibly can have an concept of what traits could be higher or worse for you and your routine, and accordingly, resolve on the correct yoga mat for you. (It should assist you choose a mat that matches your private wants).
Right here’s what you must know in regards to the several types of supplies used to make yoga mats, earlier than shopping for your yoga mat.
Totally different Kinds of Yoga Mat Supplies
In fashionable occasions, yoga mats are constructed from varied supplies akin to pure rubber, chemical polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polymer environmental resin (PER), jute, cotton, cork, and so forth. For some customers, the fabric used within the manufacture of the mat doesn’t matter offered all the pieces else is taken under consideration, whereas for some others, it is a vital one.
1. Pure Rubber Yoga Mat
Pure rubber mats are the commonest and doubtless the perfect materials alternative. They’re constructed from tree-borne rubber, a renewable useful resource. The floor of the mat is a bit arduous, however eco-friendly, with unimaginable grip and nice consolation. New rubber mats have a rubbery odor that normally fades away over time.
In contrast to different mats, it incorporates EVA or different artificial rubber which poses a minimal environmental hazard.
Pure rubber yoga mats are good at absorbing sweat and water, in order that they compensate for this with their robust grip. This mat supplies a terrific cushion, and even excessive tensile power reduces tearing.
Created from tree rubber, these mats have been out there for a really very long time; Longer than foam and PVC.
Pure rubber mats present premium cushioning to assist the joints and muscle groups whereas doing yoga. Nonetheless, they require a number of upkeep and must be cleaned incessantly. If an excessive amount of strain is utilized, it could possibly go away imprint marks of the physique or arms, which will be tough to realize in its texture. And it may be arduous to work out a pressed-down mat. They are often thick, heavy, and have a powerful odor which will be tough to deal with and journey with.
2. PVC Yoga Mat
This plastic-based materials referred to as vinyl may be very sturdy, supplies a flooring grip, is versatile, and is straightforward to scrub as nicely. Polyvinyl Chloride is the commonest and low cost materials used to make yoga mats. For instance, ProLite (Manduka) or B’Rock (Beanx) yoga mats use high-density PVC.
These mats effectively stick with the bottom and are high-density mats, which minimizes the possibilities of you slipping in the course of the pose.
However PVC yoga mats can not take up sweat. In case you sweat loads whereas doing yoga, then this feature is just not appropriate as it’s possible you’ll turn into mat. As PVC is latex-free, folks with allergy symptoms to latex can use this mat. However this materials is just not eco-friendly as it isn’t biodegradable.
Be aware: Individuals with bronchial asthma or different respiratory points ought to keep away from utilizing a PVC yoga mat.
3. TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) Yoga Mat
TPE materials is definitely a mix of plastic and rubber polymers which makes them sturdy, and elastic and supplies comfortable cushioning. Its thermoplastic properties make TPE mats reusable.
As its texture is extremely comfortable and gel-like, these yoga mats are mild in weight, excessive in high quality, and final a really very long time. And its thermoplastic properties make TPE mats reusable.
TPE mats are extremely sturdy and long-lasting and the biodegradable, odorless, and extremely mild weight makes them journey pleasant.
In comparison with PVC fashions, TPE mats are eco-friendly and fully recyclable. Nonetheless, they’re much less sturdy however nonetheless ship good traction. And moreover, they’re cheaper, as nicely. They don’t seem to be appropriate for people who find themselves severe about working towards yoga usually.
4. NBR or Nitrile Butadiene(Artificial rubber) Yoga Mat
NBR is an artificial rubber generally utilized in cars. It has turn into widespread amongst yoga mats as a result of the NBR has nice insulation and equally good cushioning.
Mats constructed from NBR are very cost-effective and can be found at varied costs. This mat is very sturdy and withstands much less put on and tear. It is a strong choice if you happen to’re simply beginning out, or have a decent funds. Nonetheless, NBR mats are very hazardous to the setting.
5. Jute Yoga Mat
Jute as a pure materials has been widespread amongst people all through historical past. This pure fiber obtained from a plant of the genus Corchorus is used for curtains, cushion covers, rugs, and rugs. Minimal pesticides are required for jute manufacturing. Jute yoga mats have one aspect of Jute and the opposite of PVC or PER.
Jute mats are very mild and might face up to put on and tear for a very long time. They’re additionally known as go-green yoga mats. Due to its eco-friendly nature, persons are these days preferring jute yoga mats. Because it has glorious respiratory high quality, they’re good for working towards many yoga asanas like Trikonasana, Tadasana, Vrikshasan, and others. They’re sturdy and reasonably priced as nicely. Nonetheless, such a yoga mat materials is just not as comfy and bouncy as rubber PVC mats.
6. EVA (Ethylene-vinyl acetate) Yoga Mat
Ethylene-vinyl acetate makes up the EVA yoga mat. EVA yoga mats come at very reasonably priced costs and are comfortable and versatile which supplies them cushioning functionality. They’re moisture-resistant, budget-friendly, and simple to scrub after the session which makes them appropriate for studio use and people who observe yoga on daily basis.
With extra use, the thickness of the EVA mat can turn into flat and fewer helpful.
7. Cotton Yoga Mat
These kind of yoga mat supplies are normally quite common in Indian households. They’ve a excessive absorbing capability of the seat and are very simple to clean as nicely. The feel of this yoga mat is much like that of an extra-thick cotton blanket.
Moreover offering good grip whereas doing yoga (lengthy or quick periods), in addition they present nice consolation as nicely. Nonetheless, cotton yoga mats will not be as sturdy as different supplies. They’re a bit costly in comparison with different varieties (PVC or rubber choices).
How To Select
The fabric from which your yoga mat is made can have a bodily impression in your efficiency throughout your common routine. Some yoga mat supplies provide higher grip than others: PVC, generally utilized in cheaper yoga mats, is a bit slippery. Mats constructed from moldable supplies akin to artificial rubber or recycled plastics typically have barely raised textures and patterns which could be a drawback.
In the meantime, supplies like cork and cotton are extra choices for a yoga class like Bikram, Vinyasa, and Energy Yoga.
In comparison with the common yoga mats, padded cushioned yoga mats are very comfortable and comfy. Usually, a cushioned yoga mat includes two components – the half (foam) and the outer half (the detachable material cowl).
They’re appropriate for individuals who observe hatha yoga, which includes a number of asanas that require you to take a seat, stand or lie down. Though these yoga mats present good assist are in comparison with common. However by way of catch, they’re no good. Subsequently, it’s possible you’ll expertise slipping or falling whereas doing one thing generated whereas utilizing the padded mat. The primary disadvantage of utilizing padded mats is that they can’t be fully washed. Solely the outer half is washable and the internal foam is actually non-washable.
In case your yoga observe includes a number of hatha yoga or yin yoga, even then a regular yoga mat is ample. As you’ll not get fully sweaty with these yoga asanas. So, common traction with a yoga mat will likely be simply positive.
If you will observe ashtanga or vinyasa, or energy yoga, then it’s important to put money into mat that has the power to soak up sweat and has robust traction. For further absorption, you possibly can unfold the mat with a textured yoga towel.
There are many firms making mats out of much less dangerous supplies, normally together with pure rubber, sturdy cork, or recycled plastics. Everybody has their very own expertise, however we’ve discovered {that a} materials like embossed rubber or cotton is rather less slippery.
Conclusion
All of the above-mentioned yoga mat supplies are greatest and secure to make use of, however there may be nonetheless confusion on which one to decide on. We advocate Eco-friendly yoga mats constructed from TPE, and PVC supplies together with pure rubber, natural cotton, and jute, why as a result of these are specifically designed to face up to the hardest of periods and have double-sided non-slip surfaces with thick cushions. It’s the good alternative for beginners, intermediate or common customers.
Often Requested Questions
Listed here are some incessantly requested questions on yoga mat supplies:
- What are the commonest supplies used for yoga mats?
The most typical supplies used for yoga mats embody PVC (polyvinyl chloride), TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), pure rubber, and cork.
- What are the advantages of PVC yoga mats?
PVC yoga mats are reasonably priced, light-weight, and sturdy. Additionally they present good traction and grip, making them a preferred alternative for yoga practitioners.
- Are TPE yoga mats eco-friendly?
Sure, TPE yoga mats are eco-friendly as they’re constructed from non-toxic and recyclable supplies. They’re additionally biodegradable and free from dangerous chemical compounds.
- What are the advantages of pure rubber yoga mats?
Pure rubber yoga mats are eco-friendly, biodegradable, and non-toxic. They supply glorious grip and cushioning, making them a terrific alternative for practitioners preferring a extra pure and sustainable materials.
- Are cork yoga mats sturdy?
Sure, cork yoga mats are extremely sturdy and might final for a few years. They’re additionally eco-friendly and supply good grip and cushioning.
- What are the advantages of utilizing an eco-friendly yoga mat?
Eco-friendly yoga mats are constructed from sustainable supplies which might be free from dangerous chemical compounds. They’re higher for the setting and likewise safer for the practitioner, as they don’t emit any dangerous toxins.
- Can I clear my yoga mat with water?
Most yoga mats will be cleaned with water, however you will need to verify the care directions on your particular mat. Some mats might require particular cleansing merchandise or strategies.
