Yoga Mats, Props, and WIRED-Tested Yoga Gear (2024)

November 9, 2024

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Yoga Mats, Props, and WIRED-Tested Yoga Gear (2024)

Whether you’ve been utilizing yoga mats for years or are simply studying your first downward canine, the suitable gear can improve your yoga observe and help your physique.

Finding one of the best yoga necessities begins with what issues to you and your observe. Start by asking your self some key questions. What fashion of yoga do you get pleasure from? Are you extra into restorative stretching or intense Ashtanga flows? Will you be practicing at home or commuting to a studio? How essential is sustainability to you? This information covers the mats, props, and equipment that may remodel your expertise on the mat, wherever it would take you.

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Table of Contents

You’ll Need a Yoga Mat

Material issues. Most yoga mats are fabricated from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), pure rubber, or cork. If you are after affordability and grip, PVC mats are a tried-and-true possibility, however they are not biodegradable and not probably the most environmentally pleasant. Natural rubber, alternatively, is a sustainable selection with good traction, however steer clear in case you have a latex allergy. TPE mats are a little bit of a compromise. They’re a hybrid of plastic and rubber polymers, making them lighter than rubber however extra versatile than PVC. Cork mats are one other pure selection; they’re antimicrobial, eco-conscious, and even have a grip that improves with sweat. However, they are usually pricier, heavier, and require additional care to keep up their high quality.
Consider thickness and texture. Different practices will profit from totally different thicknesses, however additionally it is a matter of private choice. Think about what feels greatest underneath your ft, knees, and wrists. Thinner mats maintain you nearer to the bottom, which might enhance stability throughout standing or balanced poses. They’re additionally naturally lighter and simpler to move. Thicker mats are good for restorative poses and for yogis with delicate joints. Also, think about the floor texture: If you sweat lots, you will most probably want a sticky mat that may enable you keep grounded.
Match your mat to your stream. What kind of yoga do you observe? If you observe many flows, chances are you’ll be searching for a extra well-rounded mat. If you are taking your mat outdoor or doubling it up for pilates, sturdiness is essential. You may need a mat that may endure footwear.
How typically do you observe? If you are on the mat every day, think about investing in a high-quality possibility that may stand as much as put on and tear. For occasional classes or learners, there are extra budget-friendly selections that also supply respectable consolation and stability.

For extra steering on yoga mats, take a look at our information to the Best Yoga Mats Tried and Tested by Experts.

Lululemon the Mat.

Photograph: Lululemon

If you need a well-rounded mat, this Lululemon mat is one to think about. Yes, it is dear, however the consideration to element makes it definitely worth the splurge. One standout characteristic is the antimicrobial additive, which helps fend off mould and mildew. This is nice for individuals who do not at all times keep in mind to air out their mats (responsible). It’s additionally reversible, providing you with the choice to flip between a clean polyurethane floor for sweaty classes and a cushioned rubbery facet for slower flows. The 5 millimeter thickness provides simply the correct quantity of padding in your knees throughout restorative poses.

Note: Since it is made with a mix of polyurethane, pure rubber, and artificial rubber, it is not an excellent match for anybody with latex allergic reactions. Also, whereas the sleek floor feels nice, it is vulnerable to scuffing, so keep away from sneakers on the mat.

This is my go-to mat for indoor practices, and it has traveled with me in all places, from Boston winters to Chicago summers. I’m an enormous fan of this model produced from sustainable rubber with no PVC or artificial supplies and in compliance with US environmental, labor, and client safety legal guidelines. (Jade additionally vegetation a tree for each mat offered.) The grip is stellar, however so is its capacity to choose up lint, pet hair, and mud, so you will must wipe it down after each use. It additionally has a rubbery scent at first, which fades over time however by no means absolutely disappears. Weighing simply over 3 kilos, it is tremendous transportable, although I would not suggest it for warm yoga or outside practices. Prolonged publicity to warmth or daylight will dry out and harm the rubber, so do not go away it baking in your automotive both.

My very first mat, and truthfully one of the best for anybody simply beginning out or on a finances. It’s light-weight (underneath 3 kilos), so I might simply tote it to the park or my neighborhood studio. I additionally used this mat for flooring exercises throughout the quarantine, and due to the reasonably priced value I did not really feel unhealthy about utilizing sneakers. It’s additionally latex-free, an awesome possibility for anybody with delicate pores and skin or allergic reactions. That mentioned, you are not getting probably the most sturdy mat. My cat managed to poke holes in it throughout one in all her kneading classes, however at $25, you possibly can’t count on it to be invincible.

When it involves heated practices, the Manduka PROlite is my favourite. The mat is designed to remain put, because of its no-slip dot sample, and it has a closed-cell floor that retains sweat and moisture from seeping in. Unlike the open-cell building of the Lululemon and Jade mats, this one does not take in as a lot sweat, so it’s going to maintain up longer. It’s additionally freed from phthalates and latex.

How to Clean Your Yoga Mat

First off, verify your mat’s care directions. Yoga mats aren’t all produced from the identical supplies, so the cleansing course of is not a one-size-fits-all. In basic, make it a behavior to wipe down your mat after each observe. Use a mild mat cleaner and a delicate towel, spraying the answer straight onto the towel (by no means on the mat) to keep away from any recognizing. Opt for sprays with pure antimicrobial properties (like important oils); they scent nice, too.

About as soon as a month, give open-cell mats a deep clear by soaking them in heat water blended with a mild dish cleaning soap. After a couple of minutes, rinse completely and let the mat air dry. If you’ve a closed-cell mat, skip the complete submersion; use a soapy rag to wipe it down as a substitute, and then let it air dry.

I can not stress this sufficient—at all times let your mat dry fully earlier than you roll it up. Rolling up a humid mat is the quickest strategy to invite mildew and funky odors. Nobody needs that.

Hand holding a spray bottle aimed toward a rolled up yoga mat while the other hand wipes the mat with a sponge

How to Dispose of Your Yoga Mat

When your yoga mat finally bites the mud, there are some things to think about earlier than tossing it—until you’ve a biodegradable mat, which you’ll ship to the landfill with out the guilt. Most mats, although, are crafted from supplies like PVC and TPE, that are gradual to interrupt down. Some manufacturers, like Jade Yoga, have recycling packages that can take these mats off your palms. You can even attain out to your native recycling heart to substantiate in the event that they settle for your mat.

If you possibly can’t recycle it, repurpose it. Many animal shelters will welcome previous mats to line kennels and crates, so long as they’re clear. Just be sure you name forward to substantiate. You can even reuse your mat for outside excursions. Use it as padding underneath your sleeping bag for added insulation whereas tenting. Stash it in your automotive for impromptu picnics on the park, or use it to cease groceries from sliding round. If you surf, place it between your surfboard and automotive to forestall dings. The alternatives are countless, actually.

Yoga Towels

IUGA Yoga Mat towel set two grey towels folded up

If you are hitting heated courses as typically as I do (three to 4 instances every week), a single yoga mat towel will not minimize it. This reasonably priced microfiber set features a mat and hand towel, and they’ve grow to be staples in my towel rotation. I like the standard for the value and the mat towel’s nook pockets; it is a easy characteristic that makes an enormous distinction. It stays put even when I’m shifting by way of lunges and stability poses, so I haven’t got to continually regulate my towel mid-flow. For underneath $25, it is a strong buy for anybody who practices often.

This is a good towel for warm yoga, pilates, and even weight-lifting classes. Unlike most hand towels, it is delicate sufficient on my pores and skin that I do not really feel that scratchy feeling whereas wiping my face. It’s quick-drying, too, so you are not lugging round a soggy towel by the top of the session. My solely want is that it was a barely bigger measurement.

Manduka Yogitoes Yoga Mat a red and black mat with the upper right corner folded down

The Yogitoes Yoga Mat Towel is a splurge, however it lives as much as its status. Made from recycled plastic bottles and outfitted with silicone nubs on the underside, it retains you grounded even when your palms and ft begin to go to sleep. The distinctive designs are what you are actually paying for, although, with choices starting from sundown landscapes to animal prints. Choose properly. Each print provides a sure vitality to your observe, and you will need a vibe that matches your stream.

Made from polyester microfiber, this Jade towel checks off all of the fundamentals. It’s tremendous absorbent, quick-drying, and grippy sufficient for these extra intense flows and even HIIT exercises. Plus, Jade companions with the Water Project. which means that every towel offered helps present a day of consuming water to somebody in want.

Bags and Slings

Beis Sport Carryall a green bag with shoulder strap 2 handles and outside pockets

The Beis Sport Carryall is fabulously purposeful. It’s a complete multitasker, with area in your yoga gear, work provides, and different necessities. There’s a padded laptop computer sleeve (for as much as 15 inches, a water bottle slot, a slit in your yoga mat, and many different extras. I particularly love the added key leash and entrance pockets, so I’m not continually digging round for my smaller objects. It feels trendy sufficient to hold all through the day, even after your observe.

If you are after a no-frills service, the Manduka Commuter Mat Carrier matches most (if not all) yoga mats. The padded shoulder strap (produced from one hundred pc pure cotton) makes it snug to hold wherever you are headed, and I very a lot respect the silent gravity cinch closure.

I just like the Alo Yoga Mat for these lengthy hauls to the studio. The adjustable strap is plush, and the carabiner hook and prime deal with are good touches. There are three zippered pockets, one in your mat and two extra in your keys, pockets, cellphone, and so forth. The mesh compartments imply you are not fumbling in your stuff. Maybe that is simply me?

Jade Yoga’s Recycled Sari Yoga Mat Bat is just not solely stunning—every one is handmade with recycled cotton from saris by Local Women’s Handicraft (LWH) in Nepal. There are three compartments in your mat, water bottle, and the remainder of your necessities. The principal pocket’s lengthy zipper makes it straightforward to slip your mat in and out while you’re dashing out the door, and the 55-inch is adjustable to suit all physique varieties.

Blocks, Straps, and Props

If you are shopping for just one prop, I extremely suggest yoga blocks. At least two will enable you keep stability and observe correct alignment by way of flows. This Manduka Lean Cork Yoga set is sustainably sourced from renewable cork oak timber and supply top-tier grip for these with sweaty palms. The slimmer width can also be very best for folks with smaller frames, on-the-go yogis, or for anybody searching for an additional problem throughout balancing asanas.

Two yoga blocks allow you to set your self up for achievement with wonderful help in practising and holding tough stability postures. They encourage you to observe correct alignment in a wide range of strikes and stretches, too. With its super-solid building, slimmer width, and textured floor for straightforward grip, the Lean Cork Block set improves stability and alignment for an enhanced observe. The set can also be sustainably sourced from renewable cork oak timber with zero poisonous chemical substances.

The Manduka Recycled Wool Blanket is not only for Savasana. Fold or roll up for additional help throughout poses. You can even fold it right into a makeshift cushion or wrap it round your physique for meditation. It’s delicate and stretch-resistant; simply be sure that to dry-clean solely to keep away from untimely put on.

If you are searching for a extra reasonably priced possibility, this bundle additionally features a yoga strap. Yoga straps are nice for deepening stretches and bettering flexibility.

Whether you are easing right into a backbend or seeking to prop up your knees throughout Svasana for elevated blood stream, yoga bolsters supply the right help to chill out. Round bolsters like this one are particularly useful for chest openers, facet stretches, and deeper arches with out pressure. If Sukhasana (sitting cross-legged) or hero’s pose feels powerful in your hips, you possibly can place a bolster between your legs for consolation.

Reusable Water Bottles

We’ve spotlighted just a few selections under, however you could find extra suggestions in our Best Reusable Water Bottles information.

The Hydro Flask has constructed a rep with outdoorsy people, most likely as a result of it is almost indestructible. This bottle is ideal for yogis who prefer to take their observe outdoors; the sturdiness is unmatched, and it retains drinks chilly for hours. It’s a should for somebody searching for a bottle that may deal with all of the bumps and tumbles of an energetic life-style.

Clear reusable water bottles in pink blue and green

If plastic is extra your vibe, we love the newest Nalgene. Made from BPA-free Tritan and half recycled plastic, it is a traditional with a contemporary improve. Tech director Martin Cizmar appreciates the screw-top lid, the measurement strains, and the extensive mouth for straightforward cleansing.

The hype is actual with Owala FreeSip (9/10, WIRED Recommends). It’s insulated, excellent for warm days or sizzling yoga. What actually units it aside, although, is the dual-function lid: You can both sip by way of the built-in straw or chug from the spout. Switch up the way you drink together with your stream (I’m completely kidding).

Other Helpful Gadgets

Manduka Yoga Mat Wash and Refresh a white spray bottle

Manduka’s lavender-scented refresh spray can have your mat smelling zen. It’s made with important oils and is pet-friendly. If you are not a fan of lavender, the model provides ginger grass and lemongrass fragrances.

Wearing socks throughout observe is a private selection. I generally want being barefoot, however when tackling balancing asanas, I do respect the additional stability. Bombas socks excel at sustaining their grip, even on a sweaty mat, which is a particular bonus.

Image may contain Cushion Pillow Clothing Cap Baseball Cap Hat Apparel and Furniture

You clearly do not want a meditation cushion, however it transforms your observe. The Zafu helps alleviate knee pressure, cut back ankle strain, and enhance spinal alignment—making it simpler to settle into stillness. Realistically, you might seize any pillow, however when you’re seeking to elevate your yoga area, this cushion is a considerate addition.

I’ve been a proud proprietor of the Quiet Mind Weighted Pillow for over a yr, and I can not keep in mind my life with out it. My every day companion, I’ll place it on my lap when I’m meditating for consolation. It additionally weighs me down, serving to me focus throughout these quiet second when the scattered ideas begin to creep in. I haven’t got a weighted blanket, however I’ll vouch for this pillow any day.

The Alo Yoga Bend It Yoga Wheel makes stretching really feel extra accessible. Use it for these tough backbends and inversions. Roll your backbone over it to open up your physique, relieve rigidity, and improve flexibility in your shoulders and hip flexors. For any learners hesitant about superior poses, consider this as coaching wheel. It additionally doubles as a prop for legs-up inversions.