Yoga is a great way to improve physical and mental health, but it's important to have the right equipment to get the most out of your practice. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any yogi is the yoga mat. Choosing your yoga mat is such a personal choice. There are several different types of yoga mats available, each with their own unique benefits. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the different types of yoga mats and their pros and cons.

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a synthetic plastic material that is commonly used to make yoga mats. Here are some of the pros and cons of PVC mats:

• PVC mats are very affordable and widely available.
• They are durable and can last a long time with proper care.
• PVC mats are lightweight, making them easy to carry to and from yoga classes.
• They provide good grip and traction, making them ideal for beginners.
• PVC mats are easy to clean and maintain.

• PVC mats are not eco-friendly and most end up in landfill and cannot be recycled easily.
• Carcinogenic - PVC has been proven to be carcinogenic and cannot be used for sweaty or vigorous practices as when they heat with energy or from hot yoga, they release chemicals and sweat toxins. That is why they smell of chemical plastic. 
• They are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose.
• PVC mats can be slippery when wet or sweaty, in the old days chalk would be provided to use on your mat when this happened, adding particles to the air.
• They are not as cushioned or supportive as other types of mats, which may be uncomfortable for some users and break down in cushioning. 
• PVC mats can emit a strong odour, especially when new.

TPE, or thermoplastic elastomer, is a newer material that is becoming increasingly popular for yoga mats. TPEs are a blend of a polymer and rubber that combine the properties of both thermoplastics and elastomers. They are soft and rubbery, and are often used in household objects like toothbrush grips, sippy cup lids, and phone cases. Here are some of the pros and cons of TPE mats:

• TPE mats are somewhat eco-friendly and can be recycled.
• They are lightweight and easy to carry.
• TPE mats are hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals.
• They provide good grip and traction, making them ideal for beginners.
• They are comfortable and provide good cushioning.

• TPE mats may not last as long as other types of mats and break apart.
• They are more expensive than PVC mats.
• The edge of the mats curls up and affects your practice, they are not grounding.
• TPE mats can be slippery when wet or sweaty.
• They may not provide as much grip or support as other types of yoga mats due to lighter base.
• TPE yoga mats may have a slight rubbery smell.
• TPE is still a form of plastic. TPEs are a blend of a polymer and rubber that combine the properties of both thermoplastics and elastomers. 

NBR, or nitrile butadiene rubber, is a synthetic rubber material that is commonly used for yoga mats. It is fabricated through the co-polymerization of acrylonitrile (ACN) (polar building block) and 1.3-butadine (nonpolar building block). Here are some of the pros and cons of NBR mats:

• NBR yoga mats are affordable and widely available.
• They are durable indoor use and can last a long time with proper care.
• NBR yoga mats are cushioned and provide good support for joints.
• They are non-slip and provide good traction.
• NBR yoga mats are easy to clean and maintain.

Cons: 

• NBR yoga mats are not eco-friendly and can release harmful chemicals during production and during exercise use.
• They are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose.
• NBR yoga mats can be heavy and difficult to carry.
• They may have a strong rubbery smell.
• NBR yoga mats may not provide as much grip as other types of mats.
• NBR yoga mats are not suitable for outdoor use, weathering or any exposure to the elements, It is therefore not advisable for outdoor applications.

Natural rubber and polyurethane (PU) mats are a popular choice for eco-conscious yogis. Here are some of the pros and cons of natural rubber and PU mats:

• Natural rubber and PU mats are eco-friendly and most are biodegradable.
• They are durable and can last a long time with proper care.
• These mats provide good grip and traction when sweaty.
• They are comfortable and provide good cushioning.
• Natural rubber and PU mats are easy to clean and maintain.

• Natural rubber and PU yoga mats tend to be more expensive than other materials.
• The natural rubber component of these yoga mats can wear down over time with use, especially on wooden textured floors.
• The PU top at first is very sticky and grips, but that effect wears off and the mat becomes redundant. 
• The combination of materials can result in a strong odour, particularly when the mat is new.
• The texture of the mat may not suit everyone's preferences. If you like flow and mandala yoga, turning around on the mat easily can be difficult. 
• Natural rubber and PU mats may not be as environmentally friendly as other materials.
• They can collect every bit of dust if left out on the floor or pet hairs etc. 
• The sticky effect of PU wears off quickly with daily use, lasting about 1 year with daily use. 
• Cannot be worn with trainers/sneakers as the top will mark easily. Body oils or sweat will stain the top. 

EVA (Ethylene Vinyl acetate) yoga mats are lightweight, flexible, and durable with excellent shock absorption and moisture resistance properties.

EVA is an elastomeric (naturally stretchy) polymer that produces materials which are "rubber-like" in softness and flexibility. EVA stands for a plastic which is made by mixing ethylene and vinyl acetate. Together they create a material which is often used for shoe soles in EVA sneakers.

• Lightweight and easy to carry.
• Provides good foam cushioning and support.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Very Affordable.
• Easy to clean and maintain.

• Not eco-friendly or biodegradable.
• Can emit an unpleasant odour.
• May compress over time and lose cushioning and support.
• Less traction compared to other materials.
• Can break down quickly due to stress (use) or if exposed to direct sunlight.

Jute yoga mats are natural, biodegradable, and provide a non-slip surface with good grip even when wet. Usually these are heat bonded onto a base fabric for grip to surfaces, such as resin or rubber. 

• Eco-friendly and biodegradable.
• Natural, non-toxic material.
• Less odour than other materials. 
• Provides good grip and traction.
• Naturally anti-bacterial.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Highly textured surface, can take use well.

• Rough texture can be uncomfortable and scratchy for some practitioners.
• May require a break-in period to improve the grip.
• May become slippery after frequent usage.
• Less cushioning or comfort compared to other materials.
• Can absorb moisture and become heavy.
• Not as easy to clean as other materials.
• Fibres start to break and comes out after a while, you mat will moult. 

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Cotton and hemp yoga mats are eco-friendly, absorbent, and provide good cushioning for joints with a soft texture. A nice blend for a natural yoga mat. Again, these are usually bonded onto a base of natural rubber or resin (sometimes they are on their own, like an authentic yoga mat/rug). 

• Eco-friendly and biodegradable.
• Natural, non-toxic materials.
• Soft and comfortable for practice.
• Provides good grip and traction.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Some have ayurveda herbs inside the fabric, which makes them smell lovely.

• Less cushioning compared to other materials, so not very supportive on wrists or elbows. 
• Can absorb moisture and become heavy.
• May require a break-in period to improve grip.
• Not as easy to clean as other materials.
• Many shrink or lose shape if not cared for properly.

Cork yoga mats are sustainable, non-slip, and antimicrobial with natural cushioning and insulation properties. Cork is an  impermeable buoyant material. It is the phellem layer  of  bark tissue which is harvested for commercial use primarily from Quercus suber (the cork oak), which is native to southwest  Europe  and northwest Africa .

• Eco-friendly and sustainable.
• Provides excellent grip and traction.
• Naturally anti-bacterial and odor-resistant.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Provides good cushioning and support especially with natural rubber base. 

• Can be heavy and difficult to carry.
• Higher cost compared to other materials.
• Not as easy to care for as other materials.
• May require a break-in period to improve grip.
• Can trap oils and dirt from the skin, will need cleaning after each session. 
• Top surface can crack easily and flakes off if not well cared for.

Microfibre yoga mats are lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying with a soft texture and good grip. Most microfibre yoga mats are heat bonded onto a natural rubber base for surface grip and cushioning. 

• Provides excellent grip and traction to all surfaces with no edge curling.
• Soft and comfortable cushioning for practice.
• Excellent for sweaty practices or as the body builds heat the more grip.
• Can be used with trainers/sneakers and weight training so more versatile.
• Grip is good for flow can pivot and turn easily. 
• Natural rubber bases are very grounding and suitable for vegan use.  
• Microfibre is often made from recycled bottles, which is a very thin layer that protects the rubber from wear. 
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Machine washable and very easy to clean.

• Can be slippery when first used, may require a break-in period to improve grip by scrubbing up the fibres or spritz with water.
• Can be heavy to carry depending on thickness of natural rubber base. 
• Cannot be left out in direct sunlight as the rubber can dry out. 

Wool yoga mats are natural, durable, and provide excellent insulation and cushioning with moisture-wicking properties. A natural fibre from sheep, wool has been used for thousands of years. 

• Provides good cushioning and support.
• Suitable for Yin Yoga or Meditation.
• Warm and very comfortable for practice.
• Naturally anti-bacterial and odour-resistant.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Provides good grip and traction.

• May not be suitable for hot yoga or sweaty practices.
• May not suitable for vegans or vegetarians. 
• Can be heavier and more difficult to carry.
• Not as easy to clean as other materials.
• May cause allergies for some practitioners.
• Less availability compared to other materials.

Recycled neoprene yoga mats are eco-friendly, durable, and provide excellent cushioning with good grip and moisture resistance properties. Made from recycled wetsuit materials that might otherwise go into landfill. 

• Recycled materials helps to re-purpose wetsuit neoprene from landfill.
• Provides good grip and traction.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Provides good cushioning and support.
• Easy to clean and maintain.

• May not be as grippy as other materials.
• Can emit an unpleasant odour.
• Less availability compared to other materials.
• Not as natural or non-toxic as other materials.
• Can break down if exposed to direct sunlight.

The type of yoga mat that is right for you depends on your personal preferences and needs. Consider the factors that are most important to you, such as eco-friendliness, grip and traction, cushioning and support, and ease of cleaning. 

When it comes to choosing the right material for a product, there are several properties to consider, and this is no different when it comes to yoga mats, it is such a personal choice to your ethics, standards and use. 

In this blog post, we'll discuss the key properties of yoga mat materials, and why they're important to consider.

1. Texture: The texture of a yoga mat is crucial for providing grip and preventing slipping during practice. Materials such as rubber, jute, and cork tend to have a more textured surface, providing better traction for the hands and feet.
2. Thickness: The thickness of a yoga mat can affect its cushioning and support. Thicker mats are typically better for those with joint pain or sensitive knees, while thinner mats can be easier to transport and provide a stronger connection to the ground.
3. Breathability: Breathability is important for preventing odour and bacterial buildup on the mat. Natural materials like cork and jute tend to have better breathability than synthetic materials like PVC.
4. Free of harmful chemicals: Many yoga mats are made with toxic chemicals that can be carcinogenic and harmful to both the environment and the body. It's important to look for materials that are free of phthalates, PVC, and other harmful chemicals.
5. Durability: Yoga mats need to be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Materials like natural rubber and cork are known for their durability and long-lasting performance.
6. Eco-friendly: As more people become conscious of their impact on the environment, eco-friendliness is an important factor to consider when choosing a yoga mat. Eco-friendly materials like jute, cork, and natural rubber are sustainably sourced and biodegradable. Whilst recycled materials also take existing plastic out of the landfill environment and repurpose it, which is important for future consumption. 
7. Flexibility and weight: A yoga mat needs to be flexible enough to be rolled up and carried around, but also sturdy enough to support a variety of poses. Weight is also a factor to consider for those who need to carry their mat around frequently.
8. Moisture absorption: Materials like microfibre are designed to absorb moisture and sweat during practice, keeping the surface of the mat dry and slip-free. If you are a hot yogi or warm easily or sweat - these mats are easy to clean and care for as well. 
9. Insulation: During outdoor yoga practice, a mat with good insulation can provide warmth and comfort on cold or damp surfaces.
10. Price range: Finally, price range is an important factor to consider for many yogis. While natural materials like cork and jute can be more expensive, synthetic materials like PVC and EVA tend to be more affordable.

When choosing a yoga mat, it's important to consider the properties of the material to ensure that it meets your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize eco-friendliness, durability, or texture, there is a yoga mat material out there for everyone.

1. Traditional/Standard Mats: These are the most common type of yoga mats and are rectangular in shape. They are usually made from PVC, natural rubber, or other materials and come in various thicknesses, textures, and colours. Traditional mats are ideal for beginners and professionals and those who practice a variety of yoga styles. The mat gives you space and shaped in the best way fro most natural practice. 
2. Round/Oval Mats: These mats have a circular or oval shape and are perfect for practicing circular or flowing movements. They provide a larger surface area to move around and are suitable for gentle and restorative yoga.
3. Hourglass Mats: Hourglass-shaped mats are designed to provide additional support and stability for practitioners. They are wider at the ends and narrow in the middle, giving your hands and feet more space to move while keeping your centre of gravity balanced.
4. Square Mats: Square mats are a unique option for yogis who prefer a different shape to the traditional rectangle. They provide more room to move and offer a different aesthetic to the traditional mat.
5. Extra Long Mats: For taller yogis, extra-long mats are ideal as they provide additional length to support the entire body. They can be helpful in preventing injuries caused by not having enough space to move comfortably.
6. Extra Wide Mats: Extra-wide mats are perfect for those who prefer more space to move around or those who have broader shoulders or hips. They provide extra support and stability and are excellent for practicing more challenging yoga poses.
7. Extra Thick Mats: Extra-thick mats are designed to provide more cushioning and support for your joints, making them an ideal option for those with sensitive knees or joints. They also provide additional comfort during longer practices.
8. Extra Thin Mats: Extra-thin mats are lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for yogis on-the-go. They provide less cushioning but allow for better balance and stability during yoga poses.
9. Travel Mats: Travel mats are lightweight and easy to carry, designed specifically for yogis who like to practice on-the-go or taking on holiday and retreats. They are thin and foldable, making them easy to pack in a suitcase or backpack. Some are fabric thin, and some (like ours) has a think rubber base for additional support. 
10. Rough Mats: Rough mats provide excellent grip and are perfect for those who tend to sweat during their practice. The texture on these mats prevents slipping and sliding, even during the most challenging poses.
11. Smooth Mats: Smooth mats offer a different aesthetic to the traditional textured mat. They are easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for those who practice daily.
12. Sticky Mats: Sticky mats provide excellent grip, making them an ideal option for beginners or those with less strength. They have a textured surface that prevents slipping and sliding.
13. Printed Mats: Printed mats offer a unique and fun aesthetic to your practice. They come in various colours and patterns, allowing you to express your personality and style during your practice.
14. Reversible Mats: Reversible mats offer two different textures and colours on each side, providing flexibility and variety during your practice. They are perfect for yogis who like to switch things up regularly.
15. Acupressure Mats: Acupressure mats have small plastic spikes or acupressure points that stimulate specific areas of the body during your practice. They can help improve circulation, reduce stress, and alleviate tension in the muscles.

In conclusion, choosing the right yoga mat can significantly impact your practice. Consider your individual needs and preferences, such as your preferred yoga style, height, and level of experience, to find the perfect yoga mat that suits your needs.