The Aspects We Better Look for a New Yoga Mat

Whether you are a beginner who just gets into yoga or a seasoned yogi who has been working on yoga for years, you have to pick a decent yoga mat first before starting any hot yoga session. Even if you have already got the mat that you thought is right for you, still one day you might have to clean or replace the mat because it can not last a lifetime.

You can imagine how messy your yoga mat would get every time you twist and sweat on it contacting with almost every part of your body. In addition, not only the mat would get stinking, but germs or bacteria may hide on it. Therefore, it is necessary and essential to clean a yoga mat every time after use. For how to clean a yoga mat, please refer to the entry we posted before. We are going to cover more about when should we replace a yoga mat and what to look for a new yoga mat.

So, how to tell whether it is time to get a new yoga mat or what are the signs that you definitely need a new yoga mat?

First of all, the top of the mat begins to flake or there is evident flakes coming off the mat especially at the sites where you often press your fours, knees or elbows. Furthermore, one of the most important features of yoga mats is its excellent grip compared to the floor or bare ground. Hence, if your mat is not anti-skid anymore, it is time to get a new one.

Then if you decide to get a new yoga mat, what aspects of yoga mat should you look for?

Consider the Material

Generally speaking, materials of yoga mats could be categorized into two types, natural and synthetic mats. Many prefer natural mats such as rubber, cork or hemp yoga mats to vinyl or PVC yoga mats which have a bad reputation in yogis. However, both natural and synthetic materials have their own advantages during yoga practice. Vinyl tends to have better endurance and lasting time while rubber and other natural yoga mats are eco-friendly and elastic.

Cushioning Matters Particularly for Yoga Beginners

A standard or regular yoga mat measures 1/8 inch in thickness while an extra thick yoga mat may reach a thickness of 1/4 inch. To provide excellent cushioning, extra-thick yoga mats or padded yoga mats are the two perfect options, either of which is more comfortable than regular mats and ideal for yoga training that requires putting your overall weight on one or some specific areas of your body such as elbows or knees. A padded mat includes an inside padding and an exterior detachable cloth covering which is washable.

Pick a Yoga Mat That is Easy to Carry and Store

Portability is a determinant factor of picking yoga mats so many yoga mats come with carrying strap that allows individuals to easily take it anywhere they like. Therefore, compare to clumsy and heavy yoga mast, lightweight and portable yoga mats are growing in popularity among more and more yoga enthusiasts.