How to Pick a Yoga Mat + My Favorites! — Irene Pappas

When it comes to picking a mat there are so many options and things to consider that it can often be overwhelming. These are the main features and factors that I consider when choosing a new mat:

Material: The material of a mat dictates not only the grip, but how durable it is, how long it will last; and even how sustainable and biodegradable it is. Often the more durable a mat is the longer it will take to biodegrade, which is also something to consider. Grip is one of the most important factors to me, so I always make sure to choose a mat that has a “no slip” grip.

Weight: If you are mostly practicing at home, weight is not a huge factor. If you plan to bring your mat to studios or travel with it, you might want to consider a lighter mat or investing in a travel mat designed for that purpose.

Dimensions: For those of you who are taller or have longer limbs, you might want to consider a mat that is slightly larger. I also prefer a slightly larger mat to have extra room even though I am not very tall :)

Thickness: For those of you with sensitive knees, or those who will primarily use the mat for stretching, I recommend choosing one of the thicker options. For folks who plan to practice handstands and arm balances, mats that are slightly thinner will be better for wrist health, and make it easier to balance.

Color + Design: I love light and brightly colored mats, but they do tend to show stains and signs of wear faster than darker colors. Having alignment markers on your mat can be extremely useful, but some people find the lines and designs distracting.

Price: Try to decide on a general price point before mat shopping to help you stick to your budget! If you really love one of the more expensive mats you can keep an eye out for sales, or try to find an option that has similar specifications at a lower price point.

Once you’ve gotten an idea of what you are looking for in a mat, it will be much easier to choose!