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If you practice yoga daily you're bound to form a pretty close relationship with your mat. In a strange way, it becomes an extension of yourself. I know I take mine everywhere I go, from the mountains of Northern New Jersey, to The Bronx, to all of the places I've ever done a dog sitting stay. I even take it on the plane with me to the UK.
Yes, I even used my mat as an emergency bed when the heat went out on a dog-sitting gig and Max and I needed to huddle up to keep warm
My mat is just as much a part of me as my phone or laptop and because of that it's a purchase choice worth putting some time and consideration into.
Now, before we start, if you're new to yoga, or just want to try it out, PLEASE don't spend big bucks. Your best bet is heading to TJ Maxx or Marshalls or (if you're in the UK) TK Maxx and checking out what they have in their fitness department, and learn what you want through a regular practice, with minimum risk investment.
My very first yoga mat was purchased at a TJ Maxx in The Bronx for about $12 bucks- I later came to find out it was an $85.00 mat! WIN!
Oh I love that mat pictured above so much It was the perfect beginner's mat by a great company named Manduka, but sadly I had to leave it behind in the UK this past trip. And so I was forced to start thinking about what I actually wanted (and more importantly DIDN'T want) in a mat when I got home.
1. // Not Too SQUISHY! //
The allure of getting a super squishy cozy mat may be strong, but resist that urge!
Yes it looks SOOO luxurious, and while this might be a great Pilates mat, or floor workout mat, but in certain poses it STRETCHEDDD, and made me feel like I was doing downward dog on a Pizza Dough!
You're looking for stability in a mat, because stability = safety especially in balance poses where you really have to trust yourself and your foundations.
2. // Keep it Portable! //
Now of course, this is a totally personal choice, but one of my favorite things about yoga is that it gives me the freedom to practice anywhere and get's me reconnecting with nature. If you're a digital nomad, or just love the great outdoors, make sure you're checking the weight specs of a mat, especially if you're buying online.
Here's a PROTIP: You can actually bring your mat in your carry-on luggage for most flights.- Many mats are JUST under the width requirements - WINNING.*
*OF COURSE check with your airline first.
3. // Remember, You're Gunna Have To Wash It//
This is certainly not something I even considered when I was just starting out, I mean, how gross could it get- Let me tell you, your mat can get real gross real quick! Usually you can get by with a home made disinfectant solution and a good wipe down but every once and awhile you're going to want to give it a good clean.
Check with the manufacturer to make sure you're not getting a mat made of high maintenance materials (vs one that can't just be hosed down) if you're not ready for that kind of upkeep.
4. // Materials Matter! //
Before I started a regular practice, I had no idea I even had a choice in the materials my mat was made of. If you're a beginner, you may not give a damn, and that's totally fine. But if you have a preference concerning the sustainability or ecological footprint- heck, even if you have a latex sensitivity, there's a mat out there to suit every price point and every need.
As a note, if you're a heavy sweater when you practice, you may want to consider a yoga towel (basically a sweat absorbing micro fiber towel layer which is the exact size of your mat) in order to reduce slippage.
5. // Amazon Is Your Friend //
OK shameless plug, I know but I swear they don't pay me to say that. If you're a new yogi- you may just need to try a mat and see how it speaks to your soul... or see if you slip and fall flat on your face.
Amazon is a great way to try a mat out with the assurance that you'll be able to return it if it's just not the one. Plus you'll be able to read a ton of reviews before you buy, that kind of tried and true user info can be invaluable.
The first mat I bought after returning to the states was AWESOME, it was a total beast and I loved the feel of it- but it was heavy as hell- great for a home-gym practice, but it didn't fit my mobile lifstyle, so back it went. I had my refund almost instantly.
In short, your mat is going to be where you may be spending quite a few hours out of your week, I can't tell you how many adventures my mat has been on with me. It's an important choice, so I hope my personal trials and errors in the realm of mat buying helps you narrow down your search.
Also your dog will CERTAINLY let you know if you've made the right decision- they make great yoga mat consultants...
If you have any specific questions feel free to leave them for me in the comments below!
Happy Yoga-ing!
<3
Dayleeo
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