What Are The Different Types of Yoga Mat Material?

There of lots of different styles of yoga and there are lots of different types of yoga mat to accommodate the various styles, where and how often you will practise yoga and how much cushioning or grip that your yoga class requires.

The Yoga Mat Materials Guide

Here is a quick guide to the various yoga mats on the market.

Yoga mats come in a variety of styles, materials, and thicknesses to suit your individual needs.

1. Natural rubber yoga mats

Natural rubber yoga mats are made from tree rubber sap, making them biodegradable and environment-friendly. These mats provide superior grip and cushioning for optimal comfort during practice.

There are two main types of rubber yoga mats:

  • natural rubber and
  • synthetic rubber.

Natural rubber is made from the sap of a Hevea brasiliensis, or Brazilian rubber tree, while synthetic rubber is produced using petrochemicals.

Natural rubber yoga mats provide superior grip and cushioning compared to synthetic materials, making them great for those who practice more vigorous forms of yoga.

 

 

They tend to be heavier than their synthetic counterparts and require more effort in order to transport.

On the upside, many users find that natural mat materials have an earthy scent which can help relax your senses during meditation or mindful practices.

Additionally, since they’re biodegradable and free from PVCs (polyvinyl chloride) and other plasticizers, natural rubber mats are the more eco-friendly option.

Synthetic rubber yoga mats are generally cheaper than their natural counterparts and are often less dense, meaning they’re lighter and easier to transport. They tend to be shinier in appearance and offer better grip when used with sweat or on a slick surface.

However, since synthetic rubbers are petroleum-based, they’re not as environmentally friendly as natural rubber mats. Additionally, some people find that synthetic materials have an odor when first unpackaged which may be off-putting for some users.

2. Synthetic yoga mats

Synthetic yoga mats offer additional support, durability, and color options compared to natural rubber yoga mats. They are also lightweight and travel-friendly, making them ideal for those who often practice on the go.

3. Foam or PVC-based yoga mats

For those looking for extra cushioning while practicing their postures, foam or PVC-based yoga mats provide superior shock absorption during poses that require balance or flexibility.

4. Cotton or hemp yoga mats

Cotton or hemp yoga mats offer balanced insulation between the body and the ground surface while providing good grip.

5. synthetic or natural travel yoga mats

Finally, travel yoga mats are lightweight, thin, and easy to carry around for those who practice on the go. They can be made from synthetic or natural materials, depending on personal preference.

No matter which type of yoga mat you choose, make sure it is comfortable and supportive for your individual needs during your practice.

Yoga mats provide a safe and supportive surface to practice poses on so you can focus on your breath and get the most out of each practice session.

6. Basic Sticky Yoga Mats

Basic sticky yoga mats provide a secure, slip-resistant surface to practice yoga on. They have a textured finish that helps maintain grip even through sweat and movement.

These mats are lightweight, easy to transport and require minimal effort when cleaning. Basic sticky mats are ideal for practitioners looking for an affordable option that still provides adequate cushioning and stability.

With their simple design, basic sticky mats offer reliable support no matter the type of workout or position being performed.

Whether you’re practicing sun salutations or holding warrior poses, these durable yet economical yoga mats will keep you firmly in place!

One of the great things about basic sticky yoga mats is that they can be used both indoors and outdoors with equal success - perfect for yogis who like to practice with nature. They’re also ideal for those just starting out as they are often more affordable than other types of yoga mats, making it easier to get started in the practice.

Overall, basic sticky yoga mats are an efficient and economical choice that help make your practice safe and comfortable. Whether you're looking for a way to enhance your at-home yoga routine or need something lightweight for outdoor classes, these mats will provide reliable support without breaking the bank!

7. jute yoga mats

Jute yoga mats are a great way to bring an eco-friendly option into your yoga practice.

They are made from natural jute fibers, which makes them biodegradable and renewable. In addition to being environmentally friendly, jute yoga mats also provide excellent cushioning and stability, making them perfect for all types of yoga poses.

The surface of the jute mat is slightly rougher than regular cotton or foam mats, providing extra grip and traction as you move through your poses.

Jute mats also have increased air circulation so that your body temperature can stay regulated during intense workouts. They come in a variety of colors to match any style preference and are very durable, lasting up to three times longer than traditional foam or nylon mats.

For those looking for a sustainable and comfortable option, jute yoga mats are the perfect choice.

8. Plastic Elastomer Yoga Mats

Plastic Elastomer Yoga Mats are increasingly becoming the go-to choice of many yogis.

They offer superior cushioning, durability and support than traditional foam yoga mats, making them ideal for any level of yogi.

The plastic elastomer material is made from a combination of rubber and plastic that is designed to be flexible yet firm, giving you great cushioning without sacrificing stability.

It also has excellent grip properties so you won’t have to worry about slipping during your practice. Plastic Elastomer Yoga Mats are also lightweight and easy to carry around with you, perfect for yogis who need something durable but portable.

Not only that, but these mats come in a wide range of sizes and colors too, allowing you to find one that is perfect for your needs and style.

Whether you’re looking for a simple, no-frills mat or something with more features, Plastic Elastomer Yoga Mats can provide the comfort and support you need to get the most out of your practice. With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why these mats are becoming increasingly popular with yogis of all levels. 

9. Latex Yoga Mats

Latex yoga mats are made from natural rubber and offer excellent cushioning that is perfect for yogis of all levels. They provide just the right amount of traction, allowing you to stay in place even when sweat starts to build up on your mat.

Latex yoga mats are also naturally antimicrobial, meaning they resist the growth of bacteria and fungus that can cause skin irritation or infection. Many latex yoga mats are designed with a dual-density surface layer that provides extra grip and stability for poses like Warrior III or Half Moon Pose.

They're lighweight and easy to transport, making them an ideal choice for yogis who are always on the go. Latex yoga mats are also highly durable and can last for years with proper cleaning and care. For all these reasons, latex yoga mats are a great choice for those looking for an eco-friendly, supportive mat that will stand the test of time.

No matter your practice level or experience, a latex yoga mat is sure to provide you with the cushioning and traction needed to stay in place during your practice. With its natural antibacterial weight yet durable, making them ideal for frequent travel between classes or studios. Plus, because it's made from natural rubber, latex yoga mats are 100% recyclable so you can feel good about

10. Wool yoga mats

Wool yoga mats offer an alternative to traditional rubber-based yoga mats and provide a more natural, eco-friendly approach to practice.

Wool felt is a material made from wool fibers that are felted together without the use of adhesives or chemicals. Unlike regular rubberized yoga mats, wool yoga mats provide excellent grip and cushioning while allowing your body to stay cool during exercise.

Furthermore, wool’s open cellular structure helps it resist mold, mildew, and bacteria which can accumulate over time on regular yoga mats.

In addition, wool naturally absorbs moisture helping to wick away sweat during your workouts. This makes it ideal for hot yoga classes or any other type of vigorous exercise where you may be sweating profusely.

11. TPE Yoga Mats

TPE yoga mats are an excellent choice for many yogis, as they provide superior grip and cushioning. These mats are made of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), which is a type of synthetic rubber that is recyclable, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly.

The material makes TPE yoga mats lightweight yet durable, with superior grip even when wet. They also offer excellent cushioning and support to protect your joints and muscles during your practice.

The easy-care surface can be easily wiped down or spot cleaned with mild soap and warm water as needed. With proper use, care and storage, these mats can last you for years to come. Whether it's for hot yoga or regular studio classes, TPE yoga mats are a great choice for yogis of all levels.

12. Cork Yoga Mats

Cork yoga mats are perfect for yogis who want to reduce their environmental footprint.

Made from natural, sustainable cork, these yoga mats are free from plasticizers and toxins.

Cork is also naturally antimicrobial and resistant to bacteria, meaning that your mat will stay cleaner longer.

Additionally, the unique texture of cork offers superior grip on the ground and it won’t slip even when you sweat! The material is lightweight yet durable so you can use it over and over again without worrying about wear and tear.

Plus, cork has a soft cushioning effect which makes it comfortable to use during long yoga sessions. With all these benefits, it's no wonder why more people are turning to cork yoga mats! 


What are the main types of natural yoga mat?

The five main types of natural Yoga Mats are

  1. Cork,
  2. Jute,
  3. Hemp,
  4. Wool,
  5. Cotton.

Cork is an eco-friendly material made from the bark of cork oak trees. It is firm but has some cushioning, making it a great choice for those who need extra support while practicing.

Jute mats are made from jute fibers, which have a coarse texture that provides excellent grip and stability during practice.

Lastly, Hemp yoga mats are composed of hemp fibers that provide superior cushioning and durability compared to other natural materials.

All natural Yoga Mats offer excellent grip and support on any surface - perfect for your practice! With their hygienic properties and versatility, they make an excellent choice for yogis looking to enhance their practice with sustainability in mind.

Plus, they are easy to clean and maintain! So, if you're looking for a natural Yoga Mat that supports your practice on multiple levels, then these three options are a great place to start.

Conclusion

No matter what type of mat you choose, make sure it is comfortable enough for you to practice in and durable enough to withstand your practice. The right mat for you should be able to offer both support and cushioning, so try out a few different options before settling on one.

With the right combination of comfort and grip, your practice will be sure to blossom!