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Choosing a yoga mat is not just about colour or price, it’s about finding the right surface that supports your body and your practice. For beginners, understanding the different types of yoga mats and buying the right one can be a challenge. What do materials like PVC, TPE, rubber, cotton, cork mean and what difference will they make to your yoga practice? Our yoga mat guide studies the common yoga mat materials used, their important features, and how they support your yoga practice.
| Type | Best For | Pros | Cons | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PVC Yoga Mats | General home practice, beginners on a budget | Durable, sticky grip, easy to clean, very affordable | Not eco-friendly, chemical smell when new |
| 2 | TPE Yoga Mats | Beginners wanting comfort + eco-conscious choice | Lightweight, recyclable, soft texture, good grip | Less durable than PVC, grip may reduce with sweat |
| 3 | Natural Rubber Mats | Vinyasa, Ashtanga, sweaty or dynamic styles | Excellent grip, cushioning, biodegradable, eco-friendly | Heavier, natural rubber scent, more expensive |
| 4 | Cotton Yoga Mats | Gentle yoga, meditation, traditional Indian styles | Breathable, absorbent, washable, can layer over other mats | Minimal grip and cushioning on smooth floors |
| 5 | Cork Yoga Mats | Hot yoga, eco-conscious practitioners | Antimicrobial, improves grip with moisture, firm and supportive | Less cushioning, may feel slippery when dry |
1. PVC Yoga Mats: Affordable & Durable
- Material: Polyvinyl chloride
- Best For: General home practice. Beginners on a trial or budget
- Pros: Highly durable, excellent “sticky” grip, easy to clean, and very affordable
- Cons: Not biodegradable or eco-friendly; may have a chemical smell when new
These types of yoga mats are widely available and often used in yoga classes. They offer great grip, and are a great starting point as a beginner yoga mat due to their low cost and durability. However, they are not the most eco-friendly option.
2. TPE Yoga Mats: Lightweight & Eco-Conscious
- Material: Thermoplastic elastomer
- Best For: Beginners seeking a balance of comfort and durability
- Pros: Lightweight and recyclable, good grip, soft texture, and a great eco-friendly alternative to PVC
- Cons: Less durable than PVC over time; may not be as sticky if you sweat a lot
TPE types of yoga mats are a popular choice due to their light weight and skin-friendly surface. They are an excellent option for those who want a quality mat without the environmental impact of PVC. Also explore articles on yoga mat thickness before buying as it thickness is an important factor.
3. Natural Rubber Yoga Mats: Grip & Grounding
- Material: Natural tree rubber
- Best For: Dynamic styles like Vinyasa or Ashtanga
- Pros: Unbeatable grip, excellent cushioning, biodegradable and eco-friendly.
- Cons: Heavier than other mats, it may have a natural rubber scent, and it can be more expensive
These types of yoga mats are a popular choice due to their light weight and skin-friendly surface. Rubber mats are ideal for practitioners who prioritise performance and durability. The dense material provides a solid feel and prevents slipping, even with sweat.
4. Cotton Yoga Mats: Traditional & Breathable
- Material: Woven cotton or organic blends
- Best For: Gentle yoga, meditation, and traditional Indian practice
- Pros: Breathable, absorbent, and can be spread over other mats. Some brands are machine washable
- Cons: Offers less grip on smooth floors and provides minimal cushioning on its own
Cotton yoga mats are a popular choice due to their light weight and skin-friendly surface. Cotton mats are often used in classical yoga settings and are perfect for gentle practice. Many yogis use them as a comfortable, absorbent top layer over another mat.
Cork Yoga Mats: Natural Texture & Antimicrobial
- Material: Cork surface with a rubber or TPE base
- Best For: Hot yoga, eco-conscious practitioners
- Pros: Naturally antimicrobial and non-allergic, improves grip with moisture, firm and supportive
- Cons: Less cushioning than rubber or TPE, may feel slippery when dry
Cork yoga mats offer a unique feel and are great for sweaty sessions. Their antimicrobial properties make them a hygienic choice for regular use.
How to Choose the Right Type of Yoga Mats for You
With so many different types of yoga mats, how do you decide? The best choice comes down to your primary needs:
- For Hot Yoga: Select cork or natural rubber mat. They offer superior grip when damp, which is one of the most important yoga mat features for a sweaty practice.
- For Home Practice: TPE or PVC mats are excellent choices. They are durable and offer a great balance of comfort and stability for everyday use.
- For Portability: A TPE mat is lightweight and easy to carry. If you travel frequently and don’t want to miss your practice, select a dedicated travel mat that folds easily.
There’s no single best yoga mat for everyone, understand the different types of yoga mats. The ideal one depends on your practice style, comfort needs, and personal values. Consider reading our article What to Look for in a Yoga Mat.
By understanding the different yoga mat materials, you can make an informed choice that will support you on your yoga journey. For more guidance on finding the perfect type of yoga mat, check out our guide on yoga mat thickness.
