With so many yoga mats on the market, beginners often feel overwhelmed:

Which material offers the best grip?

Which one is most eco-friendly?

Which is ideal for hot yoga?

Which mat provides the best stability?

In reality, each yoga mat material has its own characteristics and best-use scenarios. As long as you understand the properties—texture, stickiness, durability, sustainability, moisture absorption, and cushioning—it becomes easy to choose the right one.

Below is a comprehensive guide to the 9 most common yoga mat materials, along with their benefits and ideal applications.

Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Yoga Mat

Texture & Grip — A textured surface increases friction and prevents slipping, especially when choosing a non slip yoga mat.

Thickness — Thicker mats offer better cushioning; thinner mats provide better stability.

Breathability — Depends on material density; high density improves support but reduces airflow.

Non-toxic & Skin-Friendly — Natural fibers are typically safer and more eco-friendly.

Durability — Heat resistance, tensile strength, wear resistance, and elasticity matter.

Eco-Friendliness — Whether the material is biodegradable, recyclable, and low-carbon.

Flexibility & Weight — Lightweight mats are easier to carry.

Moisture Absorption — Important for sweaty hands/feet or humid environments.

Insulation — A good insulator helps during floor-based or cold-surface practices.

Understanding these will help you select the best mat for your yoga journey.

9 Yoga Mat Materials Explained — With Their Ideal Use Cases

1. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC mats are widely used due to their affordability, durability, and stickiness. They offer good grip and flexibility.

Best For

Budget-conscious beginners

Occasional yoga practitioners

Yoga studios and gyms purchasing in bulk

Users needing a lightweight, easy-to-clean mat

2. Natural Rubber

Natural rubber comes from rubber trees and is one of the most eco-friendly and high-performance materials. It provides excellent grip and stability.

Many advanced practitioners prefer a natural rubber yoga mat for its superior traction.

Best For

Eco-conscious users

Sweaty hands/feet requiring strong traction

Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Power Yoga

Yoga instructors and studios

3. TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer)

TPE mats are soft, lightweight, odorless, and environmentally friendly—making them a top choice for beginners.

Best For

New practitioners

Sensitive skin or those preferring odor-free materials

Home practice

Light to moderate intensity yoga

4. NBR (Synthetic Rubber)

NBR mats are thick, cushioned, and protective—excellent for reducing joint impact.

Best For

Users needing extra joint protection

Pilates, stretching, floor workouts

Seniors, prenatal yoga, or rehabilitation training

Hard flooring environments

5. Natural Rubber + PU (Polyurethane)

This combination is considered one of the most premium yoga mat constructions today.

PU provides exceptional wet grip, while natural rubber offers stability.

Best For

Hot yoga (the best option)

Users who sweat easily

Intermediate to advanced practitioners

High-end yoga brands and studios

6. EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)

EVA mats are extremely lightweight, flexible, and budget-friendly. Often used in schools and group classes.

Best For

Travel and portable use

Schools, group training sessions

Kids’ yoga mats

Casual or occasional practice

7. Jute Yoga Mats

Jute is a natural plant fiber with a rough texture that offers excellent grip. It is one of the most eco-friendly options.

Best For

Environmental advocates

Practitioners who prefer natural, minimalistic materials

Sweaty hands needing strong traction

Light to moderate yoga practice

8. Cotton & Hemp Yoga Mats

Soft, breathable, and traditional—cotton and hemp mats have long been used by classical yoga practitioners.

Best For

Yin yoga, restorative yoga, meditation

Users who prefer soft and natural surfaces

Travel (easy to fold and carry)

Indoor, mild-intensity practice

9. Cork Yoga Mats

Cork is a renewable and biodegradable material that offers strong sweat absorption and good grip, especially when wet.

Best For

Eco-conscious yogis

Hot yoga & flow yoga

Users who enjoy firm, natural textures

Those needing high sweat absorption

So, Which Yoga Mat Material Is the Best?

There is no single “best” yoga mat—only the best for your needs.

Best Grip (Wet Grip): PU + Natural Rubber

Most Eco-Friendly: Natural Rubber / Jute / Cork

Best for Beginners: TPE

Softest & Most Cushioned: NBR

Most Professional Stability: Natural Rubber

Best for Travel: EVA

Best for Hot Yoga: PU + Rubber & Cork

Before choosing, ask yourself:

What type of yoga do I practice?

Do I sweat a lot?

Do I care more about eco-friendliness, price, or professional performance?

YupingYoga Helps You Find the Perfect Yoga Mat

With over 20 years of manufacturing experience, YupingYoga provides:

A full range of materials: Natural Rubber PU, Suede, Cork, TPE, Jute, Hemp, EVA, etc.

Support for yoga studios, global brands, wholesalers, and e-commerce sellers

No matter your practice level or brand needs, we can help you select the most suitable yoga mat — supported by our expertise as a trusted yoga mat manufacturer.