There are several kinds of yoga mats available for sale in the market. Before you rush to make your purchase, you should have more information on the types of materials available and what to expect from each of them.

The first kinds of models we are going to look into are those made of PVC. These are the most common kinds in the market and are often available at affordable prices. They are an excellent fit for anyone looking for a durable alternative. Beginners who plan to continue practicing for some time will benefit from them because they won't have to budget for new models continuously. Additionally, they are latex-free, making them user-friendly for people who have such allergies.

PVC models also offer an excellent floor grip. Thus, you can rest assured that it won’t slip whenever you’re using it. It will boost your confidence as a beginner because you won’t be paranoid. You will be able to focus on getting your poses right and catching up with the rest of the class. These models will also give you an easy time when cleaning them. Naturally, things also have a downside to them. PVC is not biodegradable, so people who prefer eco-friendly products do not favor them. Some people argue that they emit toxins, and aren’t the healthiest choice.

There are also models that use TPE (Thermoplastic elastomer) materials. This material is often a blend of rubber polymers and plastic. They also have excellent traction, so that is a bonus. If you want to avoid PVC, you could opt for this kind of material. It is eco-friendly, making it a better choice for the environment. However, such models don't last as long as that of PVC do. You will still enjoy the same level of thickness, but you need to be prepared to deal with replacement costs.

If you are not interested in any of the above yoga mat materials, you could opt for natural ones instead. Such materials include jute, natural rubber, and organic cotton. Cotton and jute are excellent for gentle forms of yoga: and they are beginner friendly. Cotton is absorbent, which is good because things may get sweaty during practice. It’s also soft and will not give you a hard time when washing it. All these options are ideal for the environment, but you need to be wary of natural rubber. Buyers who are allergic to latex are advised to avoid such models and choose between the other eco options.

The eco-materials will offer you decent body traction, but they don’t have as much of a grip. They also have a short useful life compared to the rest. Each of the products also differs in price, but you won’t fail to get one that’s in your price range. Just make sure that you don’t sacrifice quality to save a few dollars.

One of the significant things to look at in terms of comfort is thickness. It's advisable for beginners to go for thicker models with excellent padding because they are more comfortable. Such models offer better support for your wrist and knees and will help you prevent injuries. They are the best alternative for people who are sensitive and need to take extra care of those joints. Some people also prefer these kinds of models because they are compatible with restorative and therapeutic practices.

You can get products that are 1/4 inch thick, 1/6 inch thick, and 1/8 inch thick. Despite the advantages of a beginner using a thicker model, it can also be quite hectic. Since they are new to the practice, they may find it challenging to take on standing poses. Additionally, these kinds of models are also bulky and may prove difficult to carry. That is why some of them still prefer to go for standard sizes. Alternatively, you could choose a model that measures somewhere in between the two, such as the 1/6 alternatives.

The kind of clothing you will wear during your practices will also determine your comfort levels. It is advisable that you shop for the appropriate attire for more convenience. Yoga consists of many poses that require you to lift, bend, and stretch your body and certain body parts. The right attire will enable you to minimize exposure, and give you the confidence you need to carry on with the session. These clothes will not limit you. They are easy to move in, thanks to their design.

Their fabric performance is ideal, compared to regular clothing: they have moisture wicking capabilities and are often quick drying. As such, they absorb the sweat from your body, giving you room to continue with your session without such discomfort. So don't just pick out any casual attire, select the right kind for more benefits.

Some brands will provide you with accessories with your purchase. Some accessories will make things convenient for you while others will help enhance your practice. One of the most common accessories is bags. Some people consider them a necessity because they make it easier to carry the mats to and from practice. Some people practice at the studio, others prefer exercising outdoors, and there are those who love practicing in the comfort of their own homes.

Mobile people need bags the most because they are handy in terms of portability. It makes it less hectic to walk around with them as the bags have handles and shoulder support. Additionally, bags help keep them from unrolling since they are contained in a confined space. They also keep your hands free, so you can multi-task as you head for practice. You will be able to grab a drink or even cycle to your sessions if need be.

They also offer you a storage means. If storage space is an issue, you can simply hang the bag and sort the problem out. The pack will also protect it from the elements. It will be safe from snow, dust, and even rain. Nothing will be able to stand in your way. It will also last longer because the bag will prevent its exposure to any of the above. Some kits have more than enough room, allowing you to store your other possessions. You can keep your other accessories, towels, and even some spare clothes if need be.

Straps are also accessories that you can get with your purchase. You can also use them to carry your selected model, just like the bag. Some people buy them separately while others make one for themselves. Other important accessories include slings and blocks. They don't often come with purchases and are optional for most people. Their purpose is not so much about convenience as they help one get a better handle on their techniques.

They are accommodating for beginners as they help them achieve better alignment. Reason being, most beginners, are not as flexible and may struggle in taking on some poses. With these tools, they will be able to get the most out of their sessions, because they offer them some much-needed support. Some studios have them, but you can also purchase them for yourself. If you have never used any of them before, make sure you get an experienced instructor to guide you.

Yoga towels are important, but they are also among those that don’t come with purchases. They are not optional per se, but owning one will work to your advantage. These products are not like regular bath towels. They are ultimately built for moisture absorption and are quick drying. The towels’ design consists of nubs on the underside, which are responsible for the grip they offer. That is why they are quite secure when placed on the mats.

Another advantage of placing them there is that they help create a sweat-barrier. There are many advantages to this with one being that they help improve your stability. You will have an even better grip during as you practice. Cleaning will also be effortless and quite effective. To top it off, it will also be healthier for you since you won't have direct contact with it. Since it’s often on the floor and may have some traces of dirt and dust. Yogis, who often use their towels in this manner, also claim that their models end up lasting longer than expected.

The texture is one of the features that people always look at when narrowing down which models to buy. You have to choose a model that offers you the right amount of traction. Reason being, when you make a random selection, you may end up with one that keeps sliding around. Such models are potentially dangerous, because they may cause you to fall or sustain some injuries. Examples of such models include those made of PVC. They usually are quite smooth and slippery.

Beginners who go for such options tend to have a tough time. The best models are those that have textured kind of patterns. The patterns are responsible for the grip they offer. Some poses require powerful movements and may need you to use a smoother model. To be on the safe side, users are advised to purchase natural rubber options. They offer the same benefits as PVC alternatives but are much safer. The only downside is that they don’t have sweat absorption capabilities, compared to their textured counterparts.

You should also consider looking into the size of the model you want to buy. Its length should be able to fit your entire body. Positions like the Savasana require that you lie down. As such, if you choose a smaller one, there’s no way that that would be possible. You would end up on the floor, too uncomfortable to finish the pose. Always make sure that you confirm the length of the model you are buying, avoiding such inconveniences. Afterward, compare it to your height and check if it’s a good fit.

Some people are heavier and therefore need wider options. Otherwise, they would end up in the same situation as the one described above. If you have a bigger body, you will need more space. That is why you also have to countercheck the width of the product before making your purchase. The weight of the model you choose is also equally important. As discussed earlier, most people are mobile and carry them around. If you are such an individual, then you have to make sure that its weight is reasonable enough for you to bring.

If it's too heavy, you will have a hard time doing so. If the mat is too light, it may also mean that it's not thick enough. That is why you need to strike the perfect balance between the model's thickness and its weight. There are models created specifically for traveling with. Such models tend to be light and compact. They are easy to pack because they don't take up much space. Users love them because they easily fit into suitcases and other forms of luggage. For that reason, be patient when making your selection and choose a model that you can easily handle.

There are different types of workouts. Your choice needs to be compatible with the kind of practice that you’ve taken on. People who practice Yin yoga are compatible with standard models. The 1/8 models are also a good fit for people who practice Hatha yoga as well.

Other people practice more intense forms of yoga. Hot yoga, Ashtanga, and Vinyasa forms of yoga require the use of models with more traction. Because of their intensity, users also sweat a lot compared to the gentler practices. If possible, make sure you add a towel to the mat, to get the benefit of its sweat absorbency and additional grip.

You should also look at the style or design of the model. You should select a color you find appealing, or one that you feel will be easier to maintain. Some have prints and patterns as well. If you like such designs, you can opt to go for such alternatives. All in all, it all comes down to your personal preferences.