A yoga mat is a yoga mat, right, they are a variation on the same theme? Well, yes and no. Looking at it simplistically, a yoga mat is rectangular (usually) piece of material which serves as a platform between you and the floor to enable your practice.
In reality there are a number of factors to consider before deciding which mat is best for you.
What’s your practice?
First, what type of yoga are you going to be practicing primarily? If you are practicing an intensive form of yoga, such as Ashtanga or hot yoga then you will want a mat which has the best grip even when it is wet.
Any injuries?
Do you suffer from joint pain or injure yourself easily? If the answer is yes then a thicker than normal mat, at least 4mm, would be advisable to provide you with extra cushion and comfort.
Sustainability
Is sustainability important to you? If it is then using a mat at the cheaper end of the market, which usually use materials such as PVC should be avoided as these are not kind on the environment and take years to biodegrade. Instead, look for something made from natural and sustainable materials, such as natural rubber which both our Pro and Eco mats use as their base. One of the most sustainable top layers is cork, which our Eco mat uses. If you want something that provides more grip than cork, then you will likely need to go for a synthetic material. If you do, make sure it is as environmentally sustainable as possible. The eco polyurethane used on our pro mats, although synthetic is made such that it has the lowest possible effect on the environment and will biodegrade in normal landfill conditions in approximately 5 years.
Size
Generally, a standard yoga mat (if there is such a thing) is 61cm wide. Asana Tree yoga mats range from 61cm – 68cm in width.
You probably won’t find many yoga mats wider than 68cm and even for the broadest of shoulders this should be sufficient.
Length is slightly different. For most people a 180cm long mat will be sufficient but if you are over 6 feet tall, you may benefit from a longer mat (some mats reach 220cm).
How long do you want it to last?
The question everyone wants to know. Unfortunately, it really isn’t that simple to answer. It depends on how often you practice, your style of practice and your type of practice. If you practice in hot conditions a lot or out in the sun then a mat will not last as long as if you use it inside at normal room temperature.
Of course, if you practice once a week, your mat will last 7 times longer than someone who practices every day.
Essentially you get what you pay for. The more expensive mats have more robust materials which should mean that your mat will last a lot longer than cheaper alternatives
Line or no lines
Yoga mats with guidelines have become a common thing in recent years and for those that are new to yoga, having some reference points on your mat can definitely help at the start.
However, every one of us is different in terms of how we practice, our size and our body shapes. Most lined mats only have 2 or 3 options so they cannot possibly cater for us all and you may find yourself trying to force your body into a position which is not right.
Asana Tree mats are designed to be clean an elegant with maximum functionality. By having no lines, you are free to place yourself where feels comfortable for you. You can concentrate on your breathing and posture, rather than the exact alignment of your hands and feet.
