Type of Yoga Mat Material
A yoga mat is an essential tool for any yogi or fitness enthusiast. It provides a stable and non-slip surface for practicing various poses and exercises. When selecting a yoga mat, the material is one of the most important factors to consider. There are several types of yoga mat materials available on the market, each with its unique characteristics.
5 Kinds of Material
- NBR
NBR is a type of synthetic rubber with excellent oil resistance, high wear resistance, good heat resistance, and strong adhesion. Although it has poor low-temperature resistance, ozone resistance, insulation performance, and elasticity, it can still be used as a yoga mat by adding foaming agents to produce porous bubbles and then adding fillers to increase weight and texture. However, some unscrupulous businessmen may use harmful foaming agents or poorly controlled filler ratios, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health risks. Therefore, the quality of NBR yoga mats varies greatly depending on the manufacturer’s conscience.
- PVC
PVC is a widely used plastic, often used for sewer pipes, cups, etc. PVC yoga mats are hard after foaming and have poor tearing resistance, but anti-tear nets made of high-strength fibers can improve this. The rebound effect is poor, but “memory slow rebound” technology enhances accuracy. These mats are affordable, 6mm or 8mm thick, but may shed with extended use. Suitable for beginners in yoga.
- TPE
TPE Yoga Mat is the abbreviation of Thermoplastic Elastomer, both plastic and rubber advantages, widely used in sports equipment, sealing materials, adult toys, etc., anti-slip effect and rebound effect are very good, the production of mats generally lower degree of foam, filler also used less, so the taste and safety is better, TPE mats also have anti-tear and no anti-tear net two, but the production process is different from PVC, is respectively with two layers of TPE mats feature: good rebound, medium price (50-150), good anti-slip effect, strong durability.
TPE mats are suitable for: professional yoga practice (most yoga studios in China are TPE), high strength sports such as mountain running.
- Rubber
Rubber mats are very good in terms of slip resistance and durability, the disadvantage is that the smell is very heavy and not easy to remove, the anti-slip effect is reduced after sweating hands and feet, the advantage is that they are tasty but non-toxic
Features of rubber mats: good rebound, non-slip and wear-resistant, expensive (200-600), non-absorbent
Rubber mats are suitable for use in all areas of yoga, except for hot yoga.
- PU
PU is the abbreviation of carbamate, is an emerging organic polymer material, applications are: artificial leather, the famous sharkskin swimming costume, sofa, car steering wheel outer film, etc., characterised by absorbent and breathable, skin-friendly, dry and wet in both cases are non-slip, PU rubber mat surface using polyurethane film, and rubber base high-temperature lamination, made into a non-slip, skin-friendly, absorbent mat, the touch is very good, but also The disadvantage is that it is difficult to clean, it absorbs dust and has a rubbery smell.
PU mat features: wet and dry non-slip, expensive (more than 1000 yuan), difficult to care for PU mat range of application: professional yoga with.
In conclusion, choosing the right yoga mat material depends on personal preference, budget, and environmental concerns. PVC and TPE are popular choices for their affordability and durability, while rubber and cork are eco-friendly options. Jute, cotton, and microfiber offer unique characteristics that may suit specific needs. Consider these factors when selecting a yoga mat to ensure comfortable and safe practice.
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