If you’ve ever shopped for a new yoga mat, you know what a monumental decision it can be. This is especially true if you’re shopping for a new type of yoga mat, like making the switch from a generic PVC mat to a hot yoga mat. Not all yoga mats are created equal, and simply having “hot” in the product name doesn’t necessarily mean it’s truly ideal for hot yoga. So, how do you find the best yoga mat for hot yoga? Here are 4 key features to look for:
A Grippy Base
One of the main benefits of hot yoga mats is their ability to stay locked into place, no matter how sweaty you might get. Still, some yoga mats that are branded as being for hot yoga are prone to sliding around on hardwood or tile floors should any moisture seep underneath. Something you’ll want to look for on your search for the best yoga mat for hot yoga is a grippy base. Ideally, your hot yoga mat should have a slightly textured base made with a “stickier” material like recycled rubber. This extra grippiness will ensure your hot yoga mat stays locked to the floor, rather than sliding around.
Pictured: Chakra yoga mat
A Textured Surface
The only thing more dangerous than having a slippery yoga mat base? Having a slippery yoga mat surface! Sweating is a nearly inevitable part of a hot yoga session, and your yoga mat will more than likely get wet. If the surface of your hot yoga mat is too smooth, you will be more likely to slip and run the risk of injury. Just like a textured base locks your yoga mat to the floor, a textured surface locks your body into your mat. The very best hot yoga mats will also be made with absorbent materials that can really suction your hands and feet to the ground.
The Ideal Thickness
Finding the ideal thickness for your hot yoga mat can put you in a Goldilocks scenario. Ultra lightweight yoga mats meant for traveling only offer about a millimeter of padding, which can be too thin for many yogis. On the other hand, heavy duty yoga mats with 5 millimeters of thickness are great for practicing outside on concrete, but can be too thick and cumbersome to be practical. Apeiron hot yoga mats are right in the middle at 3 millimeters - the perfect “just right” thickness for almost any situation or surface, including hardwood floors.
Clear Instructions
It bears repeating: not all yoga mats are created equally. Even if you’ve used a hot yoga mat before, there are often nuances from brand to brand. For example, Apeiron hot yoga mats work even better when wet. In fact, we encourage our customers to spray down the surface for maximum grippiness! No matter which hot yoga mat you end up trying out, make sure you buy it from a company who explains any features you’ll need to know ahead of time to get the most out of your new mat.
Finding the Best Yoga Mat for Hot Yoga
At the end of the day, the best yoga mat for hot yoga is the one that makes you feel the most connected with yourself and your practice. As beneficial as these features might be, your hot yoga mat isn’t truly “the best” if you don’t feel inspired every time you roll it out. In addition to looking for these structural elements that make a hot yoga mat great, make sure it also has a design that you connect with.
Not sure where to start? You’re in the right place! Apeiron Yoga mats are designed for form, function and flair, with more than 20 unique designs inspired by the stars above, earth below and life in between. Our durable and eco-friendly hot yoga mats are printed on natural tree rubber and microfiber cotton with water based inks to ensure an odorless, non-toxic, and fade resistant design that lasts in the washing machine. Our slip-proof and stylish hot yoga mats are designed to help improve your practice and inspire you to always Live Limitless - both on and off your mat!