Top 10 Sustainable Yoga Mat Brands You Need to Know in 2024
As more people embrace yoga, the demand for eco-friendly products has surged. Sustainable yoga mats are not just good for the planet; they also enhance your practice by providing safe and non-toxic surfaces. In 2024, several brands stand out for their commitment to sustainability while delivering quality mats for yogis of all levels. Here’s a look at the top 10 sustainable yoga mat brands you should consider.
Key Takeaways
- Sustainable yoga mats are made from natural materials like rubber, cork, and organic cotton.
- Choosing eco-friendly mats helps reduce plastic waste and harmful chemicals in the environment.
- Many brands give back to communities or support environmental causes with their sales.
- These mats often provide excellent grip and support for various yoga practices.
- Investing in a sustainable yoga mat is a step towards a healthier lifestyle and planet.
1. Scoria
Scoria is a standout brand in the world of sustainable yoga mats. Their extra thick cork yoga mat is made from natural cork and rubber, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly option for yogis. Here are some key features of the Scoria mat:
- Materials: Natural cork and rubber
- Size: 72" x 24"
- Thickness: 6mm (1/4")
- Price Range: $$
Key Benefits
- Extra Thickness: The 6mm thickness offers added cushioning, making it great for those who need extra support during their practice.
- Vegan and Antimicrobial: The cork surface is naturally antimicrobial, which helps keep the mat clean and safe to use.
- Ethical Sourcing: Scoria mats are made from sustainably harvested materials, ensuring that no trees are cut down in the process.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Added knee protection | Not machine washable |
| No plastic packaging | Thickness may not suit everyone |
| Supports Right to Play charity |
Scoria's commitment to sustainability is evident in their packaging, which is plastic-free and recyclable. They also donate a portion of their sales to support Indigenous youth through the Right to Play organization.
In summary, Scoria offers a high-quality, eco-friendly yoga mat that is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their practice while being kind to the planet. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi, this mat provides the support and grip you need, especially when sweating. Embrace the sweat with Scoria!
2. Avocado
Avocado is a standout brand in the world of sustainable yoga products. They are the world’s first climate neutral mattress and furniture company, and this commitment extends to their yoga and meditation pillows as well. Their products are made from high-quality, eco-friendly materials that are both durable and comfortable.
Key Features of Avocado Yoga Products
- Materials: Avocado uses organic cotton and vegan buckwheat for their pillows, ensuring a natural and safe experience.
- Sustainability: The company is GOTS-certified, meaning their products meet strict environmental and social criteria.
- Ethical Production: Every step of their supply chain is designed to be ethical and sustainable, from sourcing to manufacturing.
Benefits of Using Avocado Products
- Comfort: The buckwheat filling provides excellent support for your spine during meditation.
- Eco-Friendly: Their commitment to sustainability means you can feel good about your purchase.
- Versatility: While known for their pillows, Avocado also offers a range of yoga mats that are perfect for various styles of practice.
Avocado’s dedication to sustainability and quality makes them a top choice for eco-conscious yogis. Their products not only support your practice but also the planet.
3. Oko Living
Oko Living offers herbal dyed yoga mats that are not only beautiful but also eco-friendly. Made from 100% organic cotton, these mats are soft and smooth, weighing just 3.4 lbs and measuring 72" x 25". They are crafted in India and come in sustainable packaging, either in a cardboard box or a compostable mailer, ensuring no plastic waste.
Key Features:
- Materials: Organic cotton and herbal dyes
- Durability: 9/10
- Eco-friendliness: 10/10
Pros:
- Excellent grip when wet, making them ideal for sweaty sessions.
- Supports better alignment and muscle engagement compared to plastic mats.
- Machine washable for easy cleaning.
Cons:
- Some users may find it hard to adjust to the cotton grip compared to traditional mats.
Oko Living was recognized as Yoga Journal's #1 most sustainable mat, showcasing their commitment to the environment and wellness.
In summary, Oko Living's yoga mats are a fantastic choice for those looking to practice sustainably while enjoying a unique and effective yoga experience.
4. Brentwood Home
Brentwood Home is known for its commitment to sustainability and quality. Their yoga mats are made from organic materials, ensuring a safe and eco-friendly practice. Here are some key features of their mats:
- American Made: All mats are crafted in the USA.
- Biodegradable: They break down naturally, reducing waste.
- GOTS Certified: This means they meet strict organic standards.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Cotton yoga mat |
| Natural Materials | GOTS-certified organic cotton, natural latex |
| Price | $143 |
| Thickness | 5 mm |
| Size | 71" x 24" |
Brentwood Home has been creating high-quality products for over 30 years. They use natural materials that are free from harmful chemicals, making their mats a great choice for health-conscious yogis.
Their organic cotton yoga mat offers a soft, breathable surface that feels great during practice. The non-slip latex base ensures stability, even when you sweat.
In summary, if you're looking for a reliable and eco-friendly yoga mat, Brentwood Home is a fantastic option. Their dedication to sustainability and quality makes them stand out in the market.
Highlights
- Organic non-slip yoga mats sale: One of the world's only GOTS-certified organic yoga mats. Made from organic certified cotton with a non-slip base of natural latex for grip. 5 mm thick.
5. Manduka
Manduka is a well-known brand in the yoga community, offering mats that are both eco-friendly and durable. They provide a variety of mats suitable for everyone, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Here are some key features of Manduka mats:
- Biodegradable materials
- Natural non-Amazon tree rubber
- OEKO-TEX® certified for safety
Best For
- Grip and cushion
Price Range
- $52 – $100
Customer Feedback
Many users praise Manduka mats for their excellent grip and comfort. One customer noted, "The strong grip meets my expectations and the 4mm thickness is enough to protect my knees." This shows how Manduka mats can enhance your yoga experience.
Sustainability Commitment
Manduka is dedicated to a zero-waste manufacturing process. They ensure that all post-industrial scrap is reused to create new products. This commitment to sustainability makes them a top choice for eco-conscious yogis.
Manduka mats are designed by yoga teachers, ensuring they meet the needs of practitioners at all levels. Their mats are not only functional but also kind to the planet.
In summary, Manduka offers a range of high-quality, sustainable yoga mats that cater to various needs, making them a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their practice while being mindful of the environment.
6. Jade Yoga
Jade Yoga is a brand that stands out for its commitment to sustainability and quality. Their mats are made from natural rubber, which not only provides excellent grip but is also eco-friendly. Here are some key features of Jade Yoga mats:
- Made in the USA: All Jade Yoga mats are produced in the United States, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship.
- Tree Planting Initiative: For every mat sold, Jade Yoga plants a tree. They have planted over a million trees so far!
- Comfort and Grip: The mats are designed to offer a strong grip, making them perfect for hot yoga sessions.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Materials | Natural rubber, sustainably sourced |
| Price Range | $47 – $200 |
| Best For | Cork yoga mats |
Jade Yoga mats are everything you want in a yoga mat – cool colors, incredible grip, great comfort, and eco-friendly. They are made in a sustainable manner, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious yogis.
7. Gaiam
Gaiam is a well-known brand that focuses on making yoga accessible to everyone. They offer a wide range of eco-friendly yoga mats that are both budget-friendly and made from natural materials. Here are some key points about Gaiam:
- Variety: Gaiam provides mats in different thicknesses, widths, and designs, catering to various preferences.
- Materials: Their mats are made from PVC, jute, and TPE, ensuring they are latex-free and environmentally friendly.
- Price Range: You can find Gaiam mats priced between $28 and $105, making them affordable for many.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Variety of thickness and design |
| Natural Materials | PVC, jute, TPE |
| Price | $28 – $105 |
Gaiam is committed to promoting sustainable living, making it easier for everyone to practice yoga without harming the planet.
In summary, Gaiam stands out for its commitment to sustainability and affordability, making it a great choice for yogis of all levels. Their mats are not only functional but also contribute to a healthier planet, aligning with the values of many yoga practitioners. Remember, when you choose Gaiam, you're supporting a brand that cares about the environment and your practice!
8. Yoloha
Yoloha is a standout brand in the world of sustainable yoga mats. Their mats are made from fine grain plant foam, which combines cork and sugarcane, making them eco-friendly and comfortable. Here are some key features of Yoloha mats:
- 70% renewable materials
- Free from PVCs, latex, and plasticizers
- Naturally antimicrobial and organic
- Carbon neutral production
- A portion of proceeds is donated to support youth, veterans, and healthcare workers
Yoloha mats are not just good for the environment; they also provide a great grip and comfort during your practice. They are perfect for all types of yoga, including hot yoga, ensuring you stay stable and secure on your mat.
Yoloha is committed to sustainability, making it easier for yogis to practice with a clear conscience. Their mats are designed to last while being gentle on the planet.
In summary, if you're looking for a yoga mat that is both sustainable and effective, Yoloha is a brand you should consider!
9. Bennd Yoga
Bennd Yoga is a woman-owned brand that focuses on creating eco-friendly yoga mats. These mats are made from natural materials like organic cotton and natural latex, ensuring that you practice without harmful chemicals.
Key Features
- Handcrafted: Each mat is carefully made by hand, ensuring quality and uniqueness.
- Natural and Recycled Materials: The mats are made from ethically sourced materials, making them sustainable.
- Medicinally Dyed: The mats are dyed with ayurvedic herbs, which can help improve circulation and support overall health.
Pricing
| Type of Mat | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Ayurvedic Yoga Mats | $237 - $327 |
Bennd Yoga mats are not just about sustainability; they are designed to enhance your yoga experience by being naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic.
With Bennd Yoga, you can feel good about your practice, knowing that you are using a mat that is both good for you and the planet!
10. 42 Birds
Overview
42 Birds is a family-owned brand that focuses on creating eco-friendly yoga mats. Their mats are made from natural materials, ensuring a sustainable choice for yoga enthusiasts.
Key Features
- Best For: Hot yoga
- Natural Materials: Sustainable cork and slip-resistant foam
- Price: $74
Product Details
The 42 Birds cork yoga mat is lightweight and smooth, designed with nature in mind. It features a non-slip surface with natural anti-microbial properties, which helps keep mold, mildew, and bad smells away. The mat has a comfortable 5mm thick foam base that is free from PVC, making it suitable for all yoga styles, especially hot yoga. You won’t need a towel with this mat! Plus, it comes with a cotton strap for easy carrying. For better grip, just add a little water where your hands and feet go.
Customer Feedback
"Lightweight, grippy, and made from natural materials. No harmful chemicals or plastic off-gassing. The cork is naturally antifungal and antibacterial, making it easy to clean and maintain a hygienic surface." – EK
Conclusion
Choosing 42 Birds means supporting a brand that prioritizes sustainability and quality. Their mats are not only good for your practice but also for the planet!
Final Thoughts on Sustainable Yoga Mats
Choosing a sustainable yoga mat is a great step towards a healthier planet and a better practice. With so many brands making eco-friendly mats, you can find one that fits your style and needs. Whether you prefer natural rubber, cork, or organic cotton, there’s a perfect mat out there for you. Remember, every small choice counts. By picking a mat that’s good for the Earth, you’re not just helping yourself; you’re also supporting a greener future. So, as you roll out your mat for your next session, know that you’re making a positive impact!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a yoga mat sustainable?
A sustainable yoga mat is made from natural or recycled materials, like rubber, cork, or organic cotton, and doesn't contain harmful chemicals.
Are eco-friendly yoga mats more expensive?
Eco-friendly yoga mats can be a bit pricier, but they often last longer and are better for your health and the environment.
How do I clean my sustainable yoga mat?
You can clean your sustainable yoga mat with a damp cloth and mild soap. Some mats are machine washable, but always check the care instructions.
Can I use a sustainable yoga mat for hot yoga?
Yes, many sustainable yoga mats are designed to be absorbent and slip-resistant, making them great for hot yoga.
Do sustainable yoga mats provide enough grip?
Most sustainable yoga mats are designed to offer excellent grip and support, making them suitable for various yoga practices.
How often should I replace my yoga mat?
It's a good idea to replace your yoga mat every 1-3 years, depending on how often you use it and its condition.
