Kakaku：599 saved$5.99
Gaiam
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Superthick mat easy on the knees!) 『I researched a lot of mats and this is the one that seemed to be the thickest, something that's really important for the knees. This product totally delivered on "thick"! I love this mat!』
(Not for yoga...) 『But probably great for pilates and floor exercises. I found my mat migrating around the yoga studio with me on it...not sticky enough. And as another reviewer mentioned, it's a bit too thick for balancing on safely. If you've a bad back/knees, I can see where these issues may be overlooked to keep your sore bits comfortable during your yoga practice. I ended up doing all my standing poses on the floor, as my balance isn't great to begin with! Plenty long for me, and I'm 5'8. It did smell initially, but I left it outside for a few days and no more stink. Nicely made, but not exactly what I needed.』
(good mat) 『My husband and I recently moved from an apartment with carpet to a house with hardwood floors. These mats provide the right cushion for yoga in the new house. My only complaint is that it isn't wide enough for some moves, so I usually push two of them together.』
(thick mat with minimal slipping) 『I purchased the Superthick exercise mat because the tile floor in my livingroom is textured and I didn't think the thinner mats would be able to cover all the little bumps and grooves adequately. With the Gaiam Superthick Fitness Mat I had no idea the surface under me wasn't totally smooth. I had minimal slipping the first couple of times I used the mat, and after that I had no problems maintaining yoga poses. Now that we have an area rug, I am not sure how well a mat this thick will perform (will update after my next workout). I do think a thick mat makes it harder to balance as it has more "give" than a thinner mat, but I did not find it problematic on the tile floor. I did not notice a strong odor, but I know when I was shopping for mats and reading reviews, odor was a common problem among different styles. I have not tried the "free" stretch DVD that came with this mat, instead I have been using Yoga-Pilates Fusion (Kathy Ackerman) and the combination of the DVD and the Superthick Mat has made for some great workouts! I love the carry strap, even though I don't carry my mat to the gym. I could if I wanted to, and it makes it easy to store. I alternate how I roll up the mat (smooth side in, smooth side out, roll from opposite ends) so that I don't end up with one end overly curled. So far it lays flat every time! Highly recommended if you know you'll need more padding than a standard yoga mat (we'd always double up at the gym, no need for an extra mat with this mat!).』
(Great Mat) 『Gives great cushion to my knees! I have had surgery on both knees so it is great to finally be able to kneel. Also a great mat for simple meditation. I can comfortably lie on the floor and relax.』 『Enjoy sink-into-the-earth stretches, padded Pilates sessions and joint-cushioned vinyasas. This super-thick, ribbed mat is lightweight and portable and provides knee-cushioning comfort in yoga or Pilates classes. Includes a sampler DVD that introduces basic stretches and alignment. Made in China. Mat: 68"L x 24"W x 3/8"D, Rolled: 6.25" diameter. Carry strap: 19"L.』 『Whether you're practicing yoga, standing on your head, doing summersaults, or performing a host of other fitness routines, this Gaiam extra-thick fitness mat is a must. The 10 mm foam mat provides the ultimate in cushioning, making most floor exercises far more comfortable than with traditional mats. Plus, the mat is durable and long lasting, and adds a fashionable touch to any room in the home.
About Gaiam Gaiam was created as a lifestyle company with the vision that, given a choice, people would choose a lifestyle that is healthy and life enhancing, for themselves, their families and the Earth. The Gaiam lifestyle is a vote for individual health as well as the future sustainability of the Earth’s resources. Gaiam strives to provide customers with alternatives to traditional products by offering natural, eco-friendly or healthy versions that compare with the style, quality and price of conventional products.
Gaiam’s goal is to become the trusted source and unifying brand for Lifestyle of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS) participants. They understand that the opportunity to affect people’s lives with information and products is both a privilege and a responsibility. Gaiam believes in the concept of Conscious Commerce, the practice of making purchasing decisions based on personal values and beliefs. It takes into consideration all the aspects of our lives and the impact we have upon the planet. Research indicates this concept appeals to approximately 50 million people in the U.S. alone. Gaiam's strategy in delivering the distinctive quality for which they are known is to partner with experts in health/wellness, eco-living and personal development to develop proprietary products that meet our customers’ needs with meaningful solutions.
The name GAIAM is a fusion of the wordsGaia(the name of Mother Earth from the Minoan civilization in ancient Crete), andI amreminds us that we are all interconnected with the Earth, the air and water, and very much a part of this living system that sustains us all.
IPhone 3G used's review (Unfortunatelly this mat is very slippery) 『This mat is very slippery for vinyasa yoga. I bought it to replace my old mat that I have for over 5 years, a regular inexpensive mat that I couldn' t find any more in the market. I have washed the manduka mat more than 20 times and I have tried all possible different detergents. It is still slippery.』
(BEST MAT EVER!) 『This mat is excellent. At first it was a little slippery, but if you read the instructions and wash it and leave it in the sun, it comes alive. Recommend it to anyone who is tired of leaving little mat pieces on the floor.』
(land fill blues) 『after a few months it started to disintegrate. Now I have to put it in the land fill.』
(Great mat) 『I was torn between this lighter version and the heavier version. I am very pleased with my final choice of the lighter Manduka mat. It is wide enough and thick enough in comparison to your average mat without being too heavy to tote to the gym. It was delivered extremely fast so fast that I checked to make sure I didn't order expedited delivery! Yes, it was VERY stinky and a little slick. I tried washing it in the house but it wasn't helping with the smell. My solution was to leave it outside for about 2 weeks on my porch table. Our winters are mild so it wasn't getting too cold or getting too much sun. I would flip it periodically and wipe it down. We had a few rainy nights that was just perfect to get rid of the residue. After 2 weeks, the smell was gone. I tried once to use it sooner and it was an hour of torture - way too stinky to use. I prefer to use the bottom side of the mat - it has a better grip with the little circles on my hands. I haven't had any problems slipping until just recently when I had an instructor who insisted the room temperature be at about 100!!! I was sweating enough to slip for the first time ever. I had a thin hand towel with me that I placed on the mat under my hands. It was the perfect solution and no more slipping!』
(The best!) 『Honestly, the best mat ever and not too bulky! I bought one in 2003 and just now replacing it - lasted for 5 years!』 『This awesome eco-responsible yoga mat is Manduka's alternative offering to their ultra-heavy 7-pound-BlackMatPRO. The 4-pound PROlite has all of the great qualities of the BlackMatPRO (density, durability, firmness), but it is slightly thinner and narrower than the its heavyweight counterpart. Available in 5 colors: purple, olive, pacific, pinot, and apricot. 3/16" x 24" x 71" (3" longer than a standard yoga mat)』
Kakaku：1000 saved$10.00
Gaiam
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Yoga Mat Review) 『I absolutely love my new "Ready for Baby" Yoga mat and video. I had originally purchased the same exact product from Target for $15 more than I found it on Amazon. And the product was brand new. Thanks so much for your site.』
(Excellent starter set!) 『My wife is 6mos pregnant and wanted to get started on yoga right away. I was a little nervous about buying an "all in one" kit and what kind of quality it would be. I have to say, the DVD is excellent and the included mat/block/strap are also of very good quality. My wife has been very happy with this set! The DVD features 3 women - one who is barely showing, one who is further along, and one who is ready to burst - each do the moves a little differently (obviously the women who is further along does more relaxed poses/stretches) so you can follow the best match. My wife feels that this has helped her stretch out and relax during her pregnancy. Overall, highly recommended.』 『Baby Ready Yoga Find a wide variety of Mother's Day Gift Ideas at drugstore.com, where you get 5% back and free shipping!』 『Is a new baby on the way? Now you can stay true to your yoga routine with the Gaiam Baby-Ready yoga kit. Outfitted with a premium 5 mm yoga mat, a yoga block, a natural cotton strap, and a workout DVD, the kit includes everything you need to practice yoga while pregnant. The mat is extra thick to ensure plenty of cushioning, while the yoga block and strap help improve your alignment and postures. Finally, the instructional DVD comes with two workouts--PreNatal Yoga and PostNatal Yoga--for practicing before and after your pregnancy.
About Gaiam Gaiam was created as a lifestyle company with the vision that, given a choice, people would choose a lifestyle that is healthy and life enhancing, for themselves, their families and the Earth. The Gaiam lifestyle is a vote for individual health as well as the future sustainability of the Earth’s resources. Gaiam strives to provide customers with alternatives to traditional products by offering natural, eco-friendly or healthy versions that compare with the style, quality and price of conventional products.
Gaiam’s goal is to become the trusted source and unifying brand for Lifestyle of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS) participants. They understand that the opportunity to affect people’s lives with information and products is both a privilege and a responsibility. Gaiam believes in the concept of Conscious Commerce, the practice of making purchasing decisions based on personal values and beliefs. It takes into consideration all the aspects of our lives and the impact we have upon the planet. Research indicates this concept appeals to approximately 50 million people in the U.S. alone. Gaiam's strategy in delivering the distinctive quality for which they are known is to partner with experts in health/wellness, eco-living and personal development to develop proprietary products that meet our customers’ needs with meaningful solutions.
The name GAIAM is a fusion of the wordsGaia(the name of Mother Earth from the Minoan civilization in ancient Crete), andI amreminds us that we are all interconnected with the Earth, the air and water, and very much a part of this living system that sustains us all.
Kakaku：718 saved$7.18
Wailana
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Namaste Wai Lana) 『I bought mine from Amazon in 2003 and it is still in amazingly good condition despite frequent use. I don't have any comparison as I've never needed another mat. I'm very pleased with the durability and performance of this product. So far it seems like it will last for a lifetime.』
(Average good yoga mat) 『I do like the "stickiness" and cushion of this mat, but for the $12.99 I paid 2 years ago and combined for free Super saver shipping it very good, but for nearly 20 bucks it's average and not super impressive. I am 5'3" and find it just right for me. I use it mostly at home but I took it to a highly regarded and priced class of a local yoga teacher and one of the first comments made to me was how narrow the width of my mat was =-/ Oh, well of course being small I had never really noticed because the mat is AVERAGE, but you may if you are taller and wider. For the current price plus burning fuels to get one I would recommend a local sports shop or general Dept. store. If you need to find the "up" side the mat is engraved/moulded with the Wai Lana name and has a sticker on the correct side to use(I will upload). It also comes with instructions to wash off the residue from manufacturing(?) before use. If you have slipping problems try washing it as described- stick it in the tub with lukewarm water and a good rinsable, mild soap or detergant.』
(love this mat!) 『This is the best mat I've owned in a while. It's thick enough for pilates moves (especially ones that require balancing on our tail bones - eesh) and it's sturdy enough for yoga poses (no sliding around while doing a downward facing dog!). Not only that, but its pretty long, so I can use it for regular floor exercises too. Definitely worth the price.』
(Good product) 『Doesn't break the bank. I have bought three over the years and they are all from Wai Lana. Her workout, is a different thing. :-)』
(Comfortable Mat) 『I have had my fare share of yoga mats and this one rates as one of the best. The thickness (1/8 inch) is just perfect - not too thick so it's easily portable but thick enough to provide adequate cushioning. What I really like about this mat is that it has the right amount of stickiness and grip, in a word, it is comfortable.
』 『Designed to provide a safe, comfortable foundation for any yoga practice. * Sticky, nonslip surface provides superb traction * Cushions the spine, knees, ankles, and elbows * Offers support and stability in poses * Latex-free*, lightweight, and easy to wash. Available in a wide range of beautiful colors. (1/8" H x 24" W x 68" L) *Tested by an independent laboratory.』 『This Wai Lana yoga mat offers a stable, comfortable surface on which to begin or develop your yoga poses and practice. The mat is cushiony for comfort with a tacky surface to help you maintain postures accurately and safely. Durable and lightweight, it measures 68 by 24 by 1/8 inches. To wash it, you simply rinse with cool water and detergent and squeeze it dry with a towel. The mat rolls up to a tube shape with an approximate diameter of four inches for easy storage and transport.--Emily Bedard』
Kakaku：2062 saved$20.62
Hugger Mugger
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Bio-degradable...) 『I had a this mat for about a year.
Positive 1. I do like the thickness/extra padding with it 2. Biodegradable is good for the environment
Negative 1. Tends to flex in wide legged poses. 2. Biodegradable has its price, I leave my mat to in the car and I live in Southern California. Heat and direct sunlight WILL destroy it. I didn't realize this and now its pretty much done for.
If you are careful with it I give it 4 stars but since many people will not be I have to give it 3 stars.』
(breaks down after a year) 『When I first bought this mat I loved it. After a year of use the mat started to shrink in spots and buckle. It has become so bad that I had to abandon it because it would not flatten out and it became difficult to execute balancing poses. I contacted the company explaining the situation and sent a picture. They told me that the mat was designed to be biodegradable and would break down under some conditions and environments. If you expect your yoga mat to last, then look at other products.』
(Love This Mat) 『This mat is perfect for me. The 10mm thickness provides the cushion that I need for my ankles, back, and knees. I also love that it is decomposable, recyclable, does not absorb moisture, is toxic-free, hypoallergenic, and wipes clean with a mild solution of soap and water. Very much worth the price.』
(Nice&Cushy, Improves With Age) 『Pros- I bought this mat for yoga class, but it would work well for pilates, too. The thickness (which is actually 3/8") is wonderful for preventing pain in my knees, hips and wrists. Not the best for balancing poses, of course, but I've always stepped off even the thinnest mats for balancing. I am 5' 7" and the extra few inches of length really make a difference. I don't have to adjust as often to keep my whole body on the mat.
Cons- Can get a little slippery if it gets wet, although this seems to be happening less the more I use it. Still, this mat might not work for you if you sweat heavily. It doesn't lay totally flat on the end you first roll up, so you have to unroll it and then flip it over so it won't curl up while you're using it. It smelled a bit strong at first, but I just gave it rub down with a dilute blend of Mrs. Meyers all-purpose cleaner and water and then left it unrolled for a few days in a well-ventilated area. It took about 2 weeks for the smell to dissipate completely.
Overall I'm very happy with this mat. Many people in class have asked me where I bought it. I will update this review after several months of regular use with regard to durability. Right now it's too early to tell how well it will hold up.』
Kakaku：448 saved$4.48
Gaiam
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Materials make a difference) 『I was a little skeptical about how much a cork block would make a difference but yes it does , a huge difference. I have always used the hard foam (not sure if that is what it is) and after awhile it does sort of cave in but so far the cork block is holding up very good and it does support alot better.』
(Choose cork over foam ...) 『If you're shopping for yoga bricks to help you modify poses, get a cork one rather than the foam. The cork provides more stability and doesn't "give" like the foam bricks do.
I originally had a foam brick which came with my yoga mat, and found myself in need of a 2nd brick. When I went shopping for a foam mate to my brick, I found these cork bricks. I could not believe the added stability! Its more like putting your hand on the floor. I'm also able to place the brick closer to my body, because its heavy enough that the depression my foot makes in the mat and/or carpet does not cause the cork brick to tip over when placed close to my feet.
Unlike the other reviewer, I find the weight of this particular cork block helpful, as it provides stability. I practice entirely at home now, so I'm unlikely to travel with it.
The cork was a little more expensive, but I'm definitely glad I splurged on it.
It's also nice that it'll biodegrade after I'm dead! 』
(Eco-friendly yoga tools) 『This strap and block combo is a good find since they are both environmentally conscious products. They are both good quality and I foresee many years of use from both of them. The only thing I dislike about this set is that the block is really big and heavy. Other cork yoga blocks I've seen only weigh about half of what this one does, and are a bit smaller. However, if you rely heavily on your block, this one will provide you will substantial support. The strap seems very sturdy, and it has a nice quality D-ring on the end. Overall, this is one of the best sets of yoga tools I have run across.』 『Improve your yoga routine with this yoga block/strap combo. The all-natural cork block, which measures 9 by 4 by 6 inches (W x H x D), will help you refine your alignment in certain standing and sitting poses. The hemp strap, meanwhile, is a must for people who want to boost their flexibility, as it lets you easily grasp your limbs and hold them in certain deep stretches. The strap also features a metal "D" ring for more precise assistance.
About Gaiam Gaiam was created as a lifestyle company with the vision that, given a choice, people would choose a lifestyle that is healthy and life enhancing, for themselves, their families and the Earth. The Gaiam lifestyle is a vote for individual health as well as the future sustainability of the Earth’s resources. Gaiam strives to provide customers with alternatives to traditional products by offering natural, eco-friendly or healthy versions that compare with the style, quality and price of conventional products.
Gaiam’s goal is to become the trusted source and unifying brand for Lifestyle of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS) participants. They understand that the opportunity to affect people’s lives with information and products is both a privilege and a responsibility. Gaiam believes in the concept of Conscious Commerce, the practice of making purchasing decisions based on personal values and beliefs. It takes into consideration all the aspects of our lives and the impact we have upon the planet. Research indicates this concept appeals to approximately 50 million people in the U.S. alone. Gaiam's strategy in delivering the distinctive quality for which they are known is to partner with experts in health/wellness, eco-living and personal development to develop proprietary products that meet our customers’ needs with meaningful solutions.
The name GAIAM is a fusion of the wordsGaia(the name of Mother Earth from the Minoan civilization in ancient Crete), andI amreminds us that we are all interconnected with the Earth, the air and water, and very much a part of this living system that sustains us all.
IPhone 3G used's review (nice, but wrong color) 『i dont think you can get a bad yoga block, but i didnt get the color i asked for. no big deal. it came quick though so that was nice.』
(good delivery, good product) 『The blocks arrived in 4 days. They have good quality for home practice, although they are rather light.』
(Good yoga blocks) 『I like these yoga blocks. They're a good deal, and they work as they should.』
(Fantastic) 『This product works well. It slightly flexes to hold you in the correct position. And it has had no problems with 300 pounds.』
(Great Yoga Blocks!) 『I love these blocks! I have limited range of motion when bending over or going into the childs pose and these help a lot. They don't move around however I press or lean on them, I can sit on them on not make a dent and they give support when bending over. The best thing is they weigh next to nothing but give me all that I need to exercise.』 『Two 9"x6"x4" yoga blocks used for balancing and support during yoga poses. Each block has a beveled edge for added comfort. Our blocks are very strong and durable while also being lightweight and comfortable. Yoga blocks lend support and extension to yoga postures. They provide the support and/or height needed to do poses safely and effectively. When placed under the hips, hands, heels, or between the hands, they provide the stability and grounding needed to extend fully. HIGH DENSITY 4lb BLOCKS. DO NOT BE FOOLED BY OTHER BRANDS!!! Offered in Blue, Purple, and Black』
IPhone 3G used's review (This Mat Rocks!) 『I've practised on the Black&Purple Lite mats and this mat is right up there with the rest of them. The Black mat's too heavy for me as I travel frequently, and I find even the Purple Lite too heavy for shorter trips like hauling to&from the yoga studio. This Eko Lite's great for transporting/ travelling but still retains its heavy feel.
After a week of practice I can safely say it doesn't buckle like the other thin 3mm mats do. It sometimes looks as if the mat is uneven and doesn't sit flat on the floor smoothly, but when you're practicing you don't even feel it - it feels like a flat and solid mat. I practice in a heated room and after warming up, you do need a towel or yogitoes coz it gets slippery when wet (like most other rubber/ PVC mats too). But it grips well when doing a regular not-too-sweaty practice.
While researching this mat I couldn't find more close-up shots of what it looks like up-close, so I've taken some pictures here: http://skippettystreet.blogspot.com/2008/08/eko-lite-where-have-you-been-all-my.html
Overall, a highly recommended product, especially if weight is a consideration.』
(great mat-- smell goes away) 『I was so glad to get this new mat--it's light and easy to transport (because it's thin you can roll OR fold it into a suitcase). The smell is strong but goes away-- you can lay it outside for an hour or 2 to reduce it significantly. Best not to leave it rolled up at first, but let it breathe and the smell goes away. I got the sand color and it's a nice gold... It does wrinkle a little bit in practice, but it's worth it for the lightness and the low enviro-impact.』
(yoga mat review) 『i like the idea of being eco friendly but for me this mat is too thin. also it's texture is too slippery for hot yoga in my opinion. mike』
(Great mat. Smell not bad.) 『I have the Manduka thick black mat. It is the greatest but it is hard to transport and it's not eco-friendly. All of the other thin mats I've used buckle. I've used a lot of mats and have done yoga for a long time. This is an amazing transportable mat and it's eco-friendly. After 3 days leaving it unrolled, the smell on my blue mat is FINE. The quality and sustainability of this product should make it a no-brainer. I love it. If I didn't already own a non-eko black mat (that will survive me- and my kids), I would get the 5 mm eKO mat.
GREAT job, Manduka! Yogis- buy this mat. You'll love it.』
(Returned it) 『I really liked the mat when it arrived - but on opening I saw a 2 inch long deep gash on the smooth side of it - the rubber had not filled properly on that spot. I'm inclined to think it was a quality issue on that particular mat. There are some spots where the rubber seems to have not filled smoothly which I think is how you can make things with natural rubber? - Really dont know. But the deep one made me return the mat, since I thought it might tear at that point given it is only 3mm thick. But I really liked the mat's look and feel. I'm going to buy the 5mm version since it might not be affected by the irregular filling scenario.』 『This is the lighterweight version of Manduka's new eKO yoga mat. We can confidently report that the new eKO mat is the best eco-friendly yoga mat on the market, period. After three long years of research and development, Manduka's resulting product is stunningly impressive. It has a great grip and feel, superior surface grip, and nice durability. The eKO mat's manufacturing process is of the highest integrity. It's made from 100% natural, non-Amazon forested tree rubber, and it's the only eco yoga mat on the market whose foaming agents are completely non-toxic. (Other eco mats might be made from rubber like Manduka's eKO, for example, but their actual manufacturing process still involves toxins.) Because of this, when the eKO mat is disposed of and biodegrades, it will leave behind zero toxic residue. And unlike TPE and other petro-based chemical eco-yoga mats, the eKO mat does not have "memory" from being rolled up and will lay completely flat without corners rolling. This is an extremely high quality yoga mat. Available in 4 great colors. 1/8"x24"x68".』 『The Manduka eKO yoga mat offers something new for eco-conscious yoga practitioners--a natural-rubber, closed-cell mat that's designed for durability and comfort, yet decomposes completely at the end of its useful life without leaving a footprint in landfills. The 3mm thick eKO mat is made from non-Amazon-harvested tree rubber, and boasts a patented manufacturing process that's completely free of oil-based products, toxic materials, foaming agents, and the type of plasticizers commonly found in other eco mats, such as TPE and POE. At the same time, the natural rubber in the eKO mats is latex-free and non-allergenic, so you needn't worry about allergies hampering your yoga routine. This particular yoga mat is 71 inches long and 26 inches wide--4 inches longer and 2 inches wider than most yoga mats. Designed and manufactured with the same level of quality, attention to detail, and respect for the environment that sets apart all Manduka products, the eKO mat comes in four brilliant colors: moss, lava, aqua, and sand.
Kakaku：365 saved$3.65
Hugger Mugger
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (the mat to end all other mats!) 『ive been doing yoga for quite some time now and ive tried SEVERAL different mats. the problem with most mats is that when you get one that is squishy enough to be comfy for doing floor work they inevitably stretch in down dog and get all bent out of shape. the mandara is an awesome feet of yoga engineering! there is very little to no movement at all in the shape of the mat so theres no stretching if your in a narrow downward facing dog. another problem ive found is that if you do ashtanga or bikram yoga theres an issue with sweat, most sticky mats if they even think about getting wet, you simply slide right off your mat. not only is the mandera not slippery when wet, as you grip the surface with your hands or feet or both at the same time, the mandara grips you back instead of just being sticky. the spongy texture is comfy and supportive enough for floor work as well as being firm and stable enough for even the hardest balance poses. i cant say enough about my new favorite mat! thanks guys!
p.s. the only minor snafu is that it kinda smells like a pool floaty when ya get it but the smell does go away ;o)
peace and light Karson』
(LOVE the Mandara Mat!) 『This is the best mat for your money. I have used my mat for over two years as an instructor and in my personal practice and absolutely love it. Still has many more asanas left in it. Thick for comfort on the joints, but not mushy. My 5'8" frame appreciates the extra length. The chemical smell does go away and the initial slipperiness will go away with a few uses and wipe downs. Hang in there. You'll be so glad you did.』
(Odor) 『The mat worked well enough, it was fairly comfortable but it smelled like industrial rubber. I aired it out, washed it as per instructions and after two weeks the odor was still very annoying. When you are doing Yoga there is a lot of time spent with your face close to the mat and, for me at least, the smell or rubber / chemicals takes away from the experience. I sent it back.』
(Great mat, just wish the chemical smell didn't come with it! :)) 『My first mat was a Wai Lana mat - and after 3 months of my "power yoga" classes it showed it wasn't quite up for the challenge. I don't regret investing my 12.99 in my first mat - it was a good way to "test" out yoga to see if I liked it and could actually do it. Once it started leaving confetti on the floor and my body during yoga I knew I needed something tougher.
I love my Hugger Mugger Mandara mat - my only complaint is the chemical smell it comes with. I know it is hard to get a mat without some sort of funky smell so I expected it and gave it a quick scrubbing the day it arrived. So far the mat has stood up against my yoga classes and hasn't caused me to slip yet! I haven't had the mat that long - and if problems arise, I will try to post an update but so far it's done what it promised
I would recommend this mat to anyone who wants to invest the money in a heavy duty yoga mat. I like that it is 1/4 inch thick - helps when you are doing a 10-minute frog pose!』
(big improvement) 『This is a big improvement over previous mats I've used. It's a little slick when wet, but is improving and is not an issue for me.』 『The Mandara Mat strikes the perfect balance between stability and lightweight luxury. One of our thickest mats at 1/4inch, this mat provides the ultimate cushioning, is dense and stable, but light enough to transport easily between home and studio. Designed to hold up to the rigors of vinyasa-style practice, this mat will provide long-lasting service. The ultimate mat for the committed practitioner or beginner.』
