Yoga mats are the most widely used mat in the world. They come in many different shapes, sizes, and materials, but which one is right for you? Here’s a guide to help you find your perfect mat.
The gaiam yoga mat is a popular mat that can be found in most yoga studios. It is made of natural rubber and has an anti-microbial treatment.
This is a common question we get from yogis. To be honest, both the PRO and the eKO are excellent yoga mats, but depending on your needs, one will be more appropriate. These are our two most popular mats, and yogis have been using them for years. So, which one is the best fit for you?
To begin with, both the eKO® Series and the PRO® Series were created by yoga instructors to offer the best surface for practicing yoga. However, owing to the various characteristics of the materials, they provide a unique practice experience! There are three different variations of both mats. The Original, Lite, and Travel versions are available.
FOR UNMATCHED CUSHION AND STABILITY, CHOOSE THE PRO® SERIES.
The PRO® is the original and most well-known among its devotees. Since the company’s beginning, this mat has been continually improved. Teachers all around the globe suggest this yoga mat. Ideal for advanced practitioners who need the greatest level of assistance as well as a Lifetime Guaranteed durability. The performance surface promotes optimum mobility, flowing between postures, while the closed-cell structure offers dense support. The PRO’s closed cell construction prevents moisture on the top surface, making cleaning a breeze. The PRO Series provides maximum durability, comfort, and performance, as well as robust and thick support, making it perfect for people who have sensitive knees and joints. Look out for the lengthier variants available in this series if you’re a taller person.
The PRO Series is designed such that grip improves over time as the mat is broken in and trained on, so you won’t fall in love with it right away. This technique is unique to each yogi and differs from one to the next, but much like your favorite pair of shoes, your PRO will be one-of-a-kind!
Probably one of our collection’s most ecologically friendly options. Although constructed of PVC, which is not considered ecologically friendly since toxins are frequently produced during the production process, these same chemicals generally end up in landfills. However, we’re pleased to inform that our PRO mats are toxin-free (particularly, phthalate-free) and that the PRO production process is emissions-free. Furthermore, the Manduka PRO Series mats are certified safe and free of hazardous chemicals by OEKO-TEX, a European textile industry organization. It’s also so long-lasting that we back it with a lifetime warranty. If you do obtain a PRO, this may be the only mat you ever purchase, so choose your color carefully!
There’s a reason the PRO is named the PRO. This is not something we suggest for all of our yogis. Customers that purchase a PRO and don’t understand they need a foundation before jumping on one of these mats have complained to us. People misjudge how in control of their bodies they must be during yoga, and they blame the mat when they begin to slide in what they consider to be a fundamental posture. To be honest, these individuals might benefit from a grippier mat or the use of a yoga towel to help them maintain their balance. Many yogis like the density and usefulness of the PRO’s less fixed in place grip, while others, particularly those who sweat more from their hands and feet, prefer a stickier/gripper mat to keep them in place.
The PRO mat is available in various sizes if you need additional practice area.
(Dimensions 215cm (or 200cm) x 66cm) – PRO Extra Long
– PRO Long & Wide – Don’t have access to a specialized gym or yoga studio? With little effort, the PRO Long & Wide can turn your living room into a home studio (Dimensions 200cm x 132cm).
– PRO Squared – Suitable for two people. There’s plenty of space to explore on your own – or to practice with a friend (Dimensions 198cm x 198cm).
FOR A GROUNDING EXPERIENCE, THE eKO® SERIES
Now it’s time for the eKo®. Each one is handcrafted from natural non-Amazon tree rubber, giving each one a distinct design. The latest generation of eco-friendly yoga mats has arrived. With dry-grip, the closed-cell surface offers a stable practice. Manduka’s eKO mat is made without harmful glues or foaming chemicals, and it is more durable than other natural rubber mats on the market.
The eKO® Series offers a good solid grip, doesn’t need to be “broken in,” and is a little gentler on the joints, making it a good choice for beginners. However, since it is made of natural materials, it will not last as long as the PRO mats. With time, the natural rubber will oxidize and break down, so you’ll need to be extra cautious about how you handle and preserve these mats. Use rubber-safe cleaning products and avoid storing your mat in direct sunlight.
With a springy responsive ride, the eKO mat offers the ideal mix of grip and drag. It’s ideal for anybody who wants to feel more connected to the ground throughout their exercise. Because our eKO mats are constructed of natural tree rubber and are more sensitive than synthetic mats, we do not suggest this mat series for Ashtanga or intensive Vinyasa practices because it will wear out quicker. A PRO or PROlite mat is recommended for Ashtanga practitioners since it is intended to endure strong flows for a lifetime.
We suggest using a yoga towel with any of our mats, whether Series PRO or eKO, to improve lifespan, keep your mat and hands dry, and maintain your practice in place. Please see our Guide to Yoga Towels for more information on how a yoga towel may improve your practice.
In conclusion, both of these mats are excellent, but if you want the best in terms of longevity, comfort, and performance and already have a strong yoga foundation, TEAM PRO is the way to go. TEAM eKO, on the other hand, is ready for you if you prefer a more natural feeling, a grippier ride, and spongier support.
To assist you in making your decision, we traveled across our European headquarters and asked the Manduka staff which mats they like to train on and why.
Linda Lindgren is in charge of customer service.
Manduka PROlite 4.7MM is my favorite mat.
“My favorite yoga companion is the PROlite! Until I tried it, I had no idea how terrible my old yoga mats were. I like the PROlite because of its solidity and support, as well as its ease of maintenance. I can use it outside without fear of it being ruined, and it is simple to clean. In contrast to the eKO-mats, which have a more rough feel for the purpose of grip, I prefer the PROlite’s smooth surface while lying down on the mat. Yoga has been a part of my life for almost ten years, and I’ve learned how to work with my core as well as applying pressure to my hands and fingers, so I seldom have slippage. If I’m taking a harder class and know I’ll be sweating a lot, I have a Manduka hand towel on the side to swiftly wash my hands and keep practicing.”
Rebecca Levy is a salesperson.
eKO Lite 4MM is my favorite mat.
“The eKO Lite 4mm mat has been my go-to mat for years. The 4mm thickness is ideal for me since it provides more padding than a thin travel mat while still being lighter than 5mm or 6mm mats. I appreciate that the eKO Lite is made of rubber since I know I’m utilizing a natural product that will ultimately biodegrade after I’m done using it. I usually perform a hard vinyasa flow, but since I don’t sweat much and have dry hands, the eKO grip is ideal for me. It has a stickier feel than the PRO and PROlite, and I appreciate that it is a bit softer and squishier on my joints thanks to the rubber. If I’m taking a class that I know will make me sweat a lot, I have an eQua Hand Towel on hand to put beneath my hands on top of the mat or to wipe off a little perspiration as my practice heats up. I particularly like that the eKO Lite mats are available in a variety of marble hues.”
Fanny Bausse is in charge of marketing.
PRO Travel 2.5MM is my favorite mat.
“My PRO Travel is my most often utilized piece of gear. I like the mat’s firmness and consistency, as well as how simple it is to transport to my local studio. It’s something I usually bring with me to places to use as an additional hygiene barrier on Studio mats. The PRO’s closed cell surface makes cleaning it a breeze. My PRO is still in great shape even after weekly outdoor workouts in the spring and summer. After each usage, wipe a wet cloth with warm water to remove dirt, grass, and sand stains. I also like the PRO Travel since it’s not always easy to walk about with a rolled-up mat for longer trips; the fact that I can fold it up, put it in my bag, and go is ideal!”
The 6mm yoga mat is a good choice for those who don’t want to spend too much money. It’s also a good option for those who need a mat that will last them a long time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the healthiest yoga mat?
I am not sure what you mean by healthiest yoga mat.
What is a good thickness for a yoga mat?
A good thickness for a yoga mat is about 1.5 inches thick.
Is a 4mm or 6mm yoga mat better?
The 6mm mat is better for the reason that it provides more surface area to work with.
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