As somebody who workouts continuously and is at all times on-the-move, I’ve found that not all exercise tools is well-suited for journey, particularly in terms of yoga mats. Over time, I’ve examined out a lot of journey mats throughout journeys internationally—and those that stood out all shared comparable options (resembling a compact design, easy-to-clean surfaces, and light-weight construction).
However don’t simply take my phrase for it: That can assist you determine an important journey yoga mat on your subsequent journey, SELF consulted specialists and pulled collectively an inventory of the perfect choices accessible. Whether or not you wish to sustain along with your follow on trip or stretch all of it out whereas on the street, one in all these mats may also help you obtain these targets.
How to decide on a journey yoga mat
First issues first: In the event you’ll be bringing it on the go, it needs to be simple to haul: “Relating to a journey mat, it needs to be grippy, light-weight, and transportable sufficient to slot in my carry-on bag,” Jake Panasevich, a registered yoga teacher based mostly in Philadelphia, tells SELF.
As for yoga mat materials, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a well-liked selection for vacationers due to its grip—however many yogis choose pure rubber, which presents a bit extra cushion. And for an easier-to-clean mat (a serious plus while you’re on a visit), search for a closed-cell design, which means the fabric is nonporous, Sarah Larson Levey, a registered yoga teacher and cofounder of Y7 Studio in NYC, beforehand advised SELF.
Whereas commonplace yoga mats are typically no less than three millimeters (mm) thick, one thing thinner is right for folding, rolling, and squeezing into journey luggage, Morgan Rodríguez, a registered yoga teacher and founding father of Grounding Down, tells SELF. You must also take into account general weight: Most choices vary from two to seven kilos, however a super journey mat will are available in slightly lighter—say, between two and 4 kilos. That mentioned, minimalist mats is probably not well-suited for all yogis: A thicker mat with extra cushion may really feel far more comfy for individuals with delicate knees or joint ache, Annie Strikes, a registered yoga teacher at Alo Strikes, beforehand advised SELF.
Different options may also help hold your mat ultra-portable, too. For example, strap bands hold it folded or rolled up throughout expeditions, changing cumbersome mat luggage.
The very best journey yoga mats
Beneath, you’ll discover yogi- and expert-recommended picks, in addition to a few of my favourite mats. All of those choices are underneath 4 kilos, lower than two millimeters thick, and tremendous simple to pack.