24 Oct 9 criteria for choosing a yoga mat that is the best for you
If you have already decided to purchase your very own yoga mat, then another question arises, that is which mat to choose. This questions is simple only at first sight, yet in reality it’s pretty tricky. Your final choice depends on numerous criteria and your personal preferences. To make things easier, I have shortlisted below 9 most important criteria for choosing the best yoga mat for you:
1. Thickness
Yoga mats can be very thin, medium or thick. The thickest ones are usually also the heaviest, so you have to be aware that you will have to carry around on your shoulder(s) additional weight. Yet thick mats are especially suitable for those of you having sensitive joints, because they provide much more cushioning. This is especially important if you practice more active types of yoga, where there are many jumps and dynamic transitions between positions. A thin mat will not provide such good cushioning, if at all, but it is light, usually very flexible, so it can be easily folded and packed into a suitcase, so if you are a frequent traveler, consider buying a thin mat. You can also purchase specially designed travel mats, which are the best option to pack into your suitcase.
2. Weight
The rule of thumb is that thicker mats are usually the heaviest and thin ones are the lightest. If you often carry a mat with you, this is an important criteria for choosing a mat. If you keep mat at home or you transport it in a car or on a bike, then you do not have to worry about its weight so much and you can focus your attention on other criteria
3. Stickiness
Just after the thickness it is the second, most important criterion for choosing your perfect yoga mat. The perfect mat is sticky and not stretchable, so that you don’t slip. Sticky mats that are not slippery not only make performing of asanas easier, but also ensure safety and stability.
4. Durability
If you exercise once a week, it is not a big problem for you, but if you jump on the yoga mat almost every day, its durability will be an important selection criterion.
5. Appearance / Color
Mats have different colors and patterns. Choose the one you like best and the one that suits your favorite yoga stylizations. However, it is worth remembering that the most practical mats have dark colors. On yellow, pale pink or blue you can perfectly see the traces of … dirty feet. I suggest you choose darker colors such as navy blue, dark brown, black or similar.
6. Price
This is often one of the criteria that you must follow when buying a mat. Remember that not always the most expensive mat will be the best and not necessarily the cheapest will be the worst.
7. The material from which the mat is made
If you have an allergy to the materials from which yoga mats are made, this is an important criterion for you. Modern mats are biodegradable, made from eco-friendly materials, often without allergens, latex and other potentially harmful substances.
8. Mat size
Tall yoga practitioners should consider buying longer mat, so that in each position they have a chance to fit on it.
9. Place of use
Some mats available on the market are not intended to be used outdoors or exposed to direct sunlight for long period of times. If you plan to practice yoga outside your yoga center, consider buying mat that is suitable for outdoor use
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