When it comes to hot yoga the specifications for a mat are a little varied from traditional yoga. The main need when using a hot yoga mat is traction. Traction is key to having a successful practice and even more importantly avoiding injury. Picking a hot yoga mat is not rocket science but there are a couple things that you should know before hand.
Hot Yoga Mats
Hot yoga is popular enough today that it has warranted the creation of a few mats unique to just hot yoga. One of the best hot yoga mats on the market is the Breathe Yoga Mat. Although this mat is great for all hot yoga styles it was designed by those who practice Bikram’s yoga only. So it was made with that clan in mind.
Other Marketed Hot Yoga Mats
Second to the Breathe mat you will see that that the Manduka company has positioned itself as a brand suited for hot yoga as well. This is true – the Manduka black mat pro, their top mat, is great for hot yoga as well as many other styles of yoga. However, there is noting very specific about it that makes it a better pick then other mats relative to hot yoga. Overall the durability of the Manduka mats supersedes all others but this has little to do with hot yoga at all. The surface of their mat is considered no slip, but also no stick so you don’t trip over yourself with too much adherence either.
The Qualities of a Hot Yoga Mat
The best hot yoga mat is actually one that has an open cell structure, which is very helpful to your grip as you practice. It will adhere better then any other materials out there. The only time this may be a drawback is if you are in a very fast paced class. There are a variety of mats out there that are open cell structured, and most are made form natural rubber. The Jade series of mats is very desirable for this quality. The thing to understand about open cell is that it needs to be well cleaned. Otherwise the perspiration and dirt will build up in the little pockets that allow your grip to be so solid.
Another quality to consider is the texture of the mat. Mats that are more fibrous usually offer better traction naturally. One of the most popular materials used to add texture is jute. Jute is like what potato sacks are made from. This material is integrated into the mat giving it a slightly bumpy surface to cling to.
If You Already Have a Yoga Mat
Now if you already have a yoga mat and your world doesn’t revolve around hot yoga then you can consider a hot yoga mat towel instead. Hot yoga mat towels are perfect for versatility of a mat you already own. They layer over your current mat, absorb sweat like crazy and make sure you don’t slip as you practice. They are however not super grippy until they are slightly damp. These are easy to use and wash, very hygienic and great for various styles of yoga too.
Hot Yoga Mat Towels
The most popular pick in the hot yoga mat towels is by far Yogitoes Skidless Premium Towel. This towel runs around the $50 mark but despite the price many consider it a very worthwhile investment. It is very convenient and durable and does it’s job well. Yogitoes was good at also including style in the equation. They hot yoga towel comes in several colors so you can match it up with whatever you currently enjoy.
So as you can see you have some options, and ultimately don’t take my advice or anyone else. We are all incredibly different in our preferences and what works for us. Remember this and trust your own decisions about what is good for you. Then adjust as you go. That way you will never be disappointed.