The Best TOPLUS Yoga Mat - 2021

When buying a yoga mat, comfort and safety come first. A good nonslip, textured mat is essential for staying put as you practice a multitude of yoga poses.

This is why yoga mats are made of materials that naturally encourage sticking in place. These materials often include natural rubber or thermoplastic elastomers, or TPE, which is antimicrobial and easy to clean, and polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, which is made of petroleum and designed to be soft and pliable but also often contains phthalates, which have been linked to health issues ranging from asthma to cancer to fertility problems. It’s also difficult to recycle and doesn’t break down in landfills.

There are countless yoga mats on the market, but choosing one that is eco-friendly may also be a concern. In the recent past, chemicals and harmful products have been used to produce many mainstream yoga mats.

When looking for a greener yoga mat, consider natural rubbers, jute, newer PVC materials or TPE for a truly non-toxic yoga experience. These are eco-friendly and often do not contain phthalates. Chances are good if a mat you’re considering does not specifically say it is phthalate-free that it does contain them.

Consider the dimensions of a yoga mat before you buy it. The mat needs to be long enough to accommodate you in all the positions you use during your practice. In addition, it should be thick enough to be comfortable on whatever surface you practice yoga on, whether at home, in the studio or at the park.

Are you frequently on-the-go before and after yoga class? Look for a mat that is lightweight and comes with a carrying strap for your convenience. You’ll be glad to have this when you’re walking long distances to get to your fitness studio or gym.

Finally, your yoga mat should be an extension of you. Choose a color or pattern that speaks to you and encourages the mental state you’re seeking through your yoga practice. You’ll be spending a lot of time on your yoga mat, so find one you truly love.

• The thickness of your yoga mat i important. If you practice yoga only periodically, you might be able to use a thinner mat or one with less cushioning. However, if you do yoga on a daily basis, you’ll likely want one with more absorption to protect your joints and bony prominences.
• You should ensure the length of any yoga mat you’re considering will work for you. If you are particularly tall, you might want to order a longer yoga mat. Ask a friend or family member to use a measuring tape to determine the span of your body during the yoga pose that requires you to spread out the most. Be sure that your yoga mat is at least that long.
• The grip on your yoga mat needs to be adequate to prevent you from slipping during practice. Look for mats that identify as nonslip. If they are textured, that should also help your hands and feet grip.
• If you’ll be spending a lot of time on your yoga mat, it’s important to choose one that is eco-friendly. Steer clear of mats made of NBR (Nitrile butadiene “rubber,” which is synthetic) if at all possible. Newer materials, like TPE (non-toxic), or an upgraded PVC (be sure it’s free of phthalates), are good options. You can also purchase a true natural rubber or jute yoga mat.
• Avoid a yoga mat that contains phthalates. How will you know? Look for chemicals labeled DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP, all of which are phthalates.
• Clean your yoga mat properly after each workout. Use a damp sponge or rag to wipe down both sides of the mat. If you practice yoga in a public place, you might consider using an antibacterial or antimicrobial spray to clean the mat. Make sure you buy a yoga mat spray that’s appropriate for the mat material you’ve chosen.
• Allow your yoga mat to dry completely after it is cleaned. Do not roll it up or fold it for transport if it has not dried, as this can lead to the growth of mold or mildew. If you must leave immediately after wiping the mat, use a towel to dry it off before you pack up and unroll it as soon as you get home.