Yoga mats are an essential piece of equipment for any yoga practitioner. They provide a stable and comfortable surface to practice on, and can help prevent slipping and injuries. There are many different types of yoga mats available on the market, made from a variety of materials. In this blog post, we will be discussing cork and rubber yoga mats, two popular options that offer unique benefits for yogis. While these mats are great, the winning combination is a mat that's made of both cork AND rubber. 

Recommendation: Zenful Yoga Cork+Rubber Yoga Mats

Cork Yoga Mats

Cork yoga mats are made from a natural and sustainable material - cork. Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, which grow primarily in Mediterranean countries such as Portugal, Spain, and Italy. The harvesting process is eco-friendly and does not harm the trees, making cork a renewable resource.

Cork yoga mats have several benefits over traditional PVC yoga mats. Firstly, they are extremely lightweight, making them easy to transport to and from yoga classes. They are also naturally anti-microbial, meaning they resist the growth of bacteria and fungi, making them more hygienic than other types of yoga mats. This is particularly important for yogis who practice hot yoga or who sweat heavily during their practice.

Another benefit of cork yoga mats is their non-slip surface. Cork is a naturally grippy material, providing a stable surface for yoga poses. This can help prevent injuries and make it easier for yogis to hold challenging poses.

Rubber Yoga Mats

Rubber yoga mats are made from natural or synthetic rubber, which is a durable and long-lasting material. Natural rubber is derived from the sap of rubber trees, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly option. Synthetic rubber is made from petroleum-based materials, but is still more eco-friendly than PVC yoga mats.

Like cork yoga mats, rubber yoga mats offer a non-slip surface that can help prevent injuries. They are also more cushioned than other types of yoga mats, making them a good option for yogis who have joint pain or who practice on hard surfaces.

One downside of rubber yoga mats is that they can have a strong odor when first purchased; however this can be mitigated by airing the mat out for a few days before use. They can also be substantially heavier than typical yoga mats due to the density of rubber. 

The Winning Combination: Cork+Rubber Yoga Mats

Cork and rubber yoga mats are a hybrid of two popular materials used in yoga mats. These mats combine the best features of cork and rubber, creating a unique surface that is durable, eco-friendly, and provides excellent grip.

Cork and rubber yoga mats are made by bonding a layer of natural rubber to a layer of cork. The rubber layer provides cushioning and durability, while the cork layer provides a non-slip surface that is also antimicrobial. The result is a mat that is easy to clean and provides excellent traction for yoga poses.

One of the benefits of cork and rubber yoga mats is that they are eco-friendly. Cork is a renewable resource that is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees without harming the tree. Natural rubber is also a sustainable material that is biodegradable and can be recycled.

Another advantage of cork and rubber yoga mats is their durability. Rubber is a strong material that can withstand wear and tear, while cork is a natural shock absorber that can help prolong the life of the mat. These mats are also resistant to moisture and can be easily wiped down after use, making them easy to maintain and clean.

Finally, cork and rubber yoga mats provide excellent grip and stability during yoga practice. The cork surface provides a natural grip that improves with moisture, while the rubber layer prevents the mat from sliding on smooth surfaces. This combination makes cork and rubber yoga mats ideal for hot yoga, power yoga, or any practice that requires a non-slip surface.

What to Look For: Forest Stewardship Council Certification

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification is a global certification system that promotes responsible forest management. The FSC is an international non-profit organization that sets standards for forest products and verifies that they are sourced from responsibly managed forests.

The FSC certification process involves an assessment of the forest management practices used in the forest, including the protection of biodiversity, the rights of indigenous peoples and workers, and the management of the forest's ecological functions. In addition, the certification process verifies that the forest products are tracked from the forest to the end user, ensuring that they come from a responsibly managed source.

Recommendation: Get a Cork+Rubber Yoga Mat

Cork and rubber yoga mats are a great option for yogis looking for a mat that is eco-friendly, durable, and provides excellent grip. These mats combine the benefits of two popular materials and are a great investment for anyone looking to enhance their yoga practice.

Check out Zenful Yoga Cork+Rubber Yoga Mats and learn more here about the mats.