How to Choose a Yoga Mat

A yoga mat should be specifically for yoga. This is because we rely on our mat more than in other activities.

Since we practice barefoot, we engage the muscles of our feet, and even socks can get in the way. We need to properly press on our palms; otherwise, our wrists will say "ciao" by the second downward dog. We perform vinyasas, transitioning from one challenging position to another with each inhalation and exhalation.

So, at a minimum, your mat should:

✅ Not slip on the floor (if it can be easily moved with one foot or hand, it's slippery).

✅ Not stick to your hands and feet when you lift them off the mat.

In other words, it shouldn't irritate you 🙂 You're here for yoga, after all.

Now let's narrow our focus. There are still tons of mats for choice. What else should you pay attention to?

1.  Mat thickness. Thicker options for joint cushioning. If you suffer with discomfort in your knees in positions where you support yourself on them, look for thicker mats. Yes, we learn to engage the joints - to take the body weight off the knees even when standing on them, but I'm far from  "suffer until understand" approach. Yoga is slow. Give yourself time to learn.

2. Anti-slip effect. If your palms and feet sweat a lot during practice, look for mats with an additional anti-slip effect.

3. Mat length. Choose a mat that is approximately your height. Working on a much shorter mat is inconvenient. And there is no point in having a significantly longer one.

4. Where do you plan to use it? Indoors only or also outdoors? This will determine the composition of the mat.

5. Will you take it on trips? Consider possible yoga tours where you always need to bring your mat. When traveling, the main priority is weight. Travel options can be folded into a small, lightweight square - this is their main advantage. They are usually very thin. I would only consider buying a travel mat as a second one, having already a main one that is convenient for daily practice.

6. The mat should appeal to you. With this list of criteria in hand, choose with your heart.Below, please share the stores where you bought your mat, especially if they helped you decide.