A yoga mat provides the perfect foundation for your practice, ensuring that you can perform your poses comfortably and safely while following along with the best yoga apps or classes.
With so many yoga mats available in South Africa, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the top 8 best yoga mats in South Africa. Read on to discover our top picks.
Introduction
A yoga mat is an essential accessory for any yoga practitioner. It provides a stable and comfortable surface to perform your poses and ensures that you don’t slip or slide during your practice. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be difficult to choose the best one for your needs. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 8 best yoga mats in South Africa and help you make an informed decision.
What to Look for When Choosing a Yoga Mat
Before we dive into our top picks, let’s first discuss the factors you should consider when choosing a yoga mat. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Thickness
The thickness of your yoga mat will determine how comfortable it is to practice on. Thicker mats provide more cushioning for your joints and are a good choice if you have knee or wrist pain. However, they can also make it harder to balance during certain poses.
Material
The material of your yoga mat will affect its grip, durability, and overall feel. Most yoga mats are made from PVC, rubber, or eco-friendly materials like cork or natural rubber. PVC mats are the most affordable but are not as eco-friendly as other options. Rubber mats provide excellent grip but can be heavy and bulky. Eco-friendly mats are a great choice if you’re looking for a more sustainable option.
Texture
The texture of your yoga mat will determine how much grip it provides. Mats with a textured surface are less likely to slip during your practice. However, they can also be harder to clean.
Size
The size of your yoga mat will depend on your height and the type of practice you do. Standard mats are around 68 inches long and 24 inches wide, but you can also find larger or smaller options.
Price
Yoga mats can range from budget-friendly to high-end options. Consider how much you’re willing to spend and what features are most important to you.
Top 8 Best Yoga Mats in South Africa
Now that you know what to look for in a yoga mat, let’s take a closer look at our top 8 picks:
Manduka Pro Yoga Mat
The Manduka Pro Yoga Mat is a top-of-the-line mat that is perfect for serious yogis. It’s made from a high-density PVC material that provides excellent cushioning and grip. The mat is also extra thick, making it a great choice for anyone with joint pain. The only downside is that it’s quite heavy and can be difficult to carry around.
Liforme Yoga Mat
The Liforme Yoga Mat is another high-end option that’s perfect for those who value quality and sustainability. This mat is made from eco-friendly natural rubber and features a unique alignment system that helps you achieve proper alignment in your poses. The mat is also extra grippy, making it a great choice for hot yoga or any practice where you may sweat a lot. However, it is on the pricier side compared to other mats.
Jade Harmony Yoga Mat
The Jade Harmony Yoga Mat is a popular choice among yoga practitioners for its excellent grip and durability. This mat is made from natural rubber and features an open-cell design that provides superior grip, even when wet. It also has a pleasant, natural rubber scent. However, some users may find that it’s not as thick as other mats, which may be an issue if you have joint pain.
Gaiam Sol Studio Select Yoga Mat
The Gaiam Sol Studio Select Yoga Mat is a budget-friendly option that still provides excellent quality and performance. This mat is made from PVC and features a textured, non-slip surface that provides a good grip. It’s also thicker than some other budget mats, which makes it more comfortable to practice on. However, it may not be as durable as other options.
Yogi-Bare Paws Yoga Mat
The Yogi-Bare Paws Yoga Mat is a unique and innovative option that features a non-slip grip surface made from eco-friendly rubber. The mat also has a unique “paw” design that helps you maintain proper alignment in your poses. It’s also lightweight and easy to carry around, making it a great choice for those who practice on the go. However, some users may find the design distracting or uncomfortable.
Adidas Training Mat
The Adidas Training Mat is a versatile option that’s perfect for yoga, Pilates, and other fitness activities. This mat is made from a non-slip PVC material and features a textured surface that provides good grip. It’s also thick and cushioned, which makes it comfortable to practice on. However, it may not be as durable as other options, and some users may find it too heavy.
Reebok Yoga Mat
The Reebok Yoga Mat is a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for beginners or anyone who’s just getting started with yoga. This mat is made from PVC and features a textured surface that provides good grip. It’s also lightweight and easy to carry around, making it a great choice for those who practice on the go. However, some users may find that it’s not as thick or durable as other mats.
Yoga Design Lab Combo Yoga Mat
The Yoga Design Lab Combo Yoga Mat is a unique and colorful option that’s perfect for anyone who wants to make a statement with their mat. This mat features a microfiber suede surface that provides excellent grip, even when wet. It also has a thick natural rubber base that provides cushioning and support. However, some users may find that the microfiber surface is difficult to clean.
Conclusion
Choosing the right yoga mat can make a significant difference in your practice, and there are many factors to consider. The best yoga mats in South Africa come in a range of materials, sizes, and thicknesses to suit different preferences and budgets. It’s important to consider factors such as grip, cushioning, durability, and eco-friendliness when making your choice. Hopefully, this guide has helped you narrow down your options and find the perfect mat to support your practice.
FAQ
What’s the best yoga mat for hot yoga?
The Liforme Yoga Mat and Jade Harmony Yoga Mat are both great options for hot yoga, as they have superior grip even when wet.
What’s the best yoga mat for beginners?
The Reebok Yoga Mat is both affordable and easy to use, making them great choices for beginners.
What’s the most eco-friendly yoga mat?
The Liforme Yoga Mat and Yogi-Bare Paws Yoga Mat are both made from eco-friendly materials such as natural rubber.
Can I use a towel instead of a yoga mat?
While it’s possible to practice yoga on a towel, a yoga mat provides better grip and support, especially for standing poses and inversions.
How often should I replace my yoga mat?
It’s recommended to replace your yoga mat every six to 12 months, depending on how frequently you practice and the wear and tear on the mat.
