Earth awareness is becoming more and more important. We’re learning more about the ways our products are harming the planet. However, it also means that we receive information on how to develop more sustainable products. This includes a range of products, even our range of yoga mats.
This is one of the reasons cork mats have become so popular lately. Cork mats are usually 100% biodegradable and recyclable. They are made of natural tree rubber and high-quality cork. People who buy cork yoga mats are confident in sustainability.
Yoga mats come in a variety of colors, thicknesses and materials. So if you’re trying to adjust your lifestyle or reduce your footprint, you have several options. These decisions can be overwhelming in your Earth awareness practice. But are they the best option for sustainability? How do they compare to their peers? Let’s take a look at some of the most important factors to consider before buying a yoga mat.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Yoga Mat
Factors to Consider When Buying a Yoga Mat
When shopping for a yoga mat, you may come across a variety of materials, not all of which are environmentally conscious. Some of the most common materials are listed here. And what to look for when choosing the best yoga mat for you.
Material:
- Rubber: Some of the benefits of buying a rubber yoga mat is that it is a traditional choice. It’s not too hard, and the material is easy to shape. However, if a person is sensitive to latex, it is recommended to stay away from pads made of this material as they may react to the pad. Another complaint about the rubber comes from travelers or yogis on the go, as the material has proven to be quite heavy and uncomfortable to wear.
- Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE): This option is also another popular material for yoga mats. It is a man-made material, but it is biodegradable and lightweight. However, some of these cushion materials complain that they seem to dry out over time. Some people complain that it doesn’t seem to have much durability.
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): PVC mats often have a sticky surface. This is great for those who practice yoga as it provides extra support and grip while practicing poses. However, this material is not environmentally friendly, cannot be recycled, and is not biodegradable. In fact, harmful toxic chemicals and carcinogens are released during the manufacture of these mats. These pads can have great traction. But maybe not the most earth-conscious. If you want to get into it, this isn’t your best choice.
- Polymer Environmental Resin (PER): This option is similar to PVC mats. But free of chemical softener phthalates. It has passed tests that measure its ability to biodegrade. However, the long-term effects of materials and chemicals remain unknown.
- Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA): These mats are less toxic than competitors. But some yogis are still unsure about the effectiveness of their chemicals.
- HEMP: The hemp yoga mat is earth conscious. But the biggest complaint is that they sometimes feel uncomfortable. Their material can sometimes cause itching.
- Cotton rugs: Cotton rugs are absorbent and can also be used as typical household rugs. But their fibers can be slippery, which is not the best characteristic when determining yoga moves.
thickness
- Thick pads (6-7mm): These pads help with shock absorption; but they can be a bit too “mushy”.
- Thin Pads (1.5-2mm): Great for travel when folded up, but probably not enough for hands and knees.
density
- Performance mats: These mats tend to be stronger because they improve the athlete’s balance. However, their hard surface may not be as shock-absorbing as a typical Pilates or exercise mat.
- Regular (Typical) Mats: These are used for exercise and comfort. They help promote shock absorption. Due to balance issues, it can be difficult to assume a standing position on these mats.
Cork Yoga Mat Comparison
Cork Yoga Mat Comparison
As with the comments above, there are many aspects to consider when introducing new material. It might be a comparable option, but is it the best of both worlds? How does the cork mat compare to similar products? We break down the most important factors and see how they perform.
price
A quick online search can yield results for less than $15. They are not sustainably manufactured. Often made from cheaper alternatives mentioned in the materials above. Cork yoga mats cost between 40 and 120 euros, depending on the thickness and design of the mat.
handle
Reviews of cork yoga mats indicate that they have excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions. This is great because we wanted to make sure it was suitable for both traditional classrooms and hot yoga classes. In this case, cork seems comparable. It has the same stable grip as its competitors. And depending on the thickness, it provides plenty of padding. This is a matter of participant preference.
weight
These pads may look heavy, but they’re surprisingly light. Depending on the desired thickness, these mats can keep up with travel to and from a yoga studio or location. They can move with you and maintain durability. However, they are not collapsible and are usually best stored by rolling the mat up and down.
maintenance
The cork material is easy to clean and is naturally antibacterial and antibacterial. The cork pads only require a quick wipe with water. Participants encouraged fellow yogis to air dry their mats before rolling them up. as t