How to choose a yoga mat
There are many yoga styles out there, each with their own features and requirements. A yoga mat is a definite must-have for your practice. Follow our advice to make sure you choose the right one!
There are many different yoga styles that it can be challenging to choose the right mat for your practice. Proper support is essential, and you need to have the right equipment to practice yoga properly.
We'll help you make the right choice!
Gentle yoga
Hatha, Yin, Prenatal, Restorative, Nidra: put comfort first. A mat between 5 and 8 mm thick limits the impact between your body and the ground; which protects your back and joints. Thickness is an essential factor when you practice yoga or hold poses for longer periods.
Resistance to wear and tear is another factor to consider when choosing your yoga mat. It’s best to choose a mat that can handle repeat exercises. Gentle yoga mats are typically made of PVC.
Dynamic yoga
Ashtanga, Iyengar, Vinyasa, Hot yoga: focus on stability and grip. These yoga styles distinctively use standing and balancing poses, so you'll want to be sure you have the right amount of support. Choose a mat between 3-5 mm thick. If the mat is too thick, it will make balancing more difficult.
To practice dynamic yoga, you need a mat that has good grip so it won't slip between your poses.
For particularly hot practices, like hot yoga, it’s also recommended to use a microfibre towel on your mat. The rubber material on the back of the towel will provide you with extra grip, and the microfibre material on top will absorb your sweat as you practice.
