Choosing an eco yoga mat is better for you because you won’t be breathing in nasty chemicals while you practice. It’s also better for the planet.
Many yoga mats are made of synthetic, oil-derived materials and contain chemicals we would rather not have in our lives. But there is now a huge range of eco-friendly yoga mats available that won’t hurt you or the planet. When choosing an eco yoga mat consider factors like use of chemicals, the sustainability of the product and the working conditions of those who produce the mat.
The following eco-friendly yoga mats are made of natural and sustainable products, won’t give off chemical fumes and are long lasting. The modern eco yoga mats have great comfort and grip so you can enjoy your practice in the knowledge that it is earth friendly.
1. Barefoot Yoga Original Eco Yoga Mat
I’ve mentioned this one first as it is rated the best environmentally friendly yoga mat by the New York Times.
What makes this mat so good is the mixture of natural rubber and jute fiber (a vegetable-based fiber) used in its construction. The rubber underside grips the floor and the jute top surface provides a comfortable yet grippy surface. No chemicals are used and the mat is biodegradable. The mat is made in the UK
Costs $90
http://www.barefootyoga.com/the-original-eco-yoga-mat
2. Manduka eKO Lite Mat
Another rubber-based option is the Manduka eKO Lite Mat. This mat is made from biodegradable, non-Amazon-harvested, natural tree rubber. The rippled surface texture makes it super grippy – even during the most strenuous routine!
It’s also available in a range of colors and prints using natural dyes making it one of the prettiest eco mats around.
Cost from £55
https://www.manduka.com/eu/
3. The Liforme Yoga Mat
The Lifeforme yoga mat uses natural rubber for the base layer, felt in the middle, and ‘eco-friendly polyurethane’ for the top layer. The British company also supply their mats in recycled cardboard packaging. The mat is supportive and grippy while still providing excellent cushioning qualities.
The company uses a heat bonding process on the mats to avoid the need for toxic glues and uses etching rather than printing to avoid potentially toxic dyes. The mats are also bio-degradable.
Cost £100
https://liforme.com
4. Rawganique Ultimate Hemp Yoga Mat
If you prefer a 100% hemp mat then the Ultimate Hemp Yoga Mat could be for you. This hemp mat follows in the long tradition of natural fabric yoga mats in India and Nepal.
The ultimate hemp yoga mat is made from 2 layers of organically grown European hemp. The mat is sweatshop-free, chemical-free, PVC-free and formaldehyde-free.
Hemp mats are not as grippy as rubber ones and you may need to put your hands or feet on the floor for inverse poses. However, it is quite versatile and can be folded to provide extra thickness during sitting meditation or used as a pillow or support. The hemp mat is also extremely absorbent making it perfect for intense yoga sessions and hot yoga.
Cost $99
http://www.rawganique.co/default.asp
5. Yoloha Cork yoga mat
The Yoloha cork yoga mat uses recycled tires for the backing and cork for the surface. Cork is naturally antimicrobial and is free from PVC’s or harmful chemicals. It is also sustainable as no trees are harmed in its production. Cork forests also help to support biodiversity. Yoloha uses non-toxic Greenguard adhesives to join the cork to the mat backing.
The mats are 100% recyclable and come in 100% recycled packaging.
Cost $119
http://yolohayoga.com/cork-yoga-mat
Let us know your favorite eco-friendly yoga mats in the comments below.
