DIFFERENT TYPES OF YOGA MATS AND THEIR BENEFITS

 Yoga is a great way to improve physical and mental health, but it's important to have the right equipment to get the most out of your practice. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any yogi is the yoga mat. There are several different types of yoga mats available, each with their own unique benefits. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the different types of yoga mats and their pros and cons.

 

PVC Yoga Mats

PVC Yoga Mats - Kati Kaia

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a synthetic plastic material that is commonly used to make yoga mats. Here are some of the pros and cons of PVC mats:

Pros:

  • PVC mats are affordable and widely available.
  • They are durable and can last a long time with proper care.
  • PVC mats are lightweight, making them easy to carry to and from yoga classes.
  • They provide good grip and traction, making them ideal for beginners.
  • PVC mats are easy to clean and maintain.

Cons:

  • PVC mats are not eco-friendly and has been proven to be Carcinogenic - cannot be used for sweaty or vigorous practices as when they heat with energy or from hot yoga, they release chemicals.
  • They are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose.
  • PVC mats can be slippery when wet or sweaty.
  • They are not as cushioned as other types of mats, which may be uncomfortable for some users.
  • PVC mats can emit a strong odor, especially when new.

TPE Yoga Mats

TPE Yoga Mats - Kati Kaia

TPE, or thermoplastic elastomer, is a newer material that is becoming increasingly popular for yoga mats. Here are some of the pros and cons of TPE mats:

Pros:

  • TPE mats are eco-friendly and can be recycled.
  • They are lightweight and easy to carry.
  • TPE mats are hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals.
  • They provide good grip and traction, making them ideal for beginners.
  • They are comfortable and provide good cushioning.

Cons:

  • TPE mats may not last as long as other types of mats.
  • They are more expensive than PVC mats.
  • The edge of the mats curls up and affect practice.
  • TPE mats can be slippery when wet or sweaty.
  • They may not provide as much grip as other types of mats due to lighter base.
  • TPE mats may have a slight rubbery smell...READ MORE HERE

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