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5 Best Yoga Mats for Outdoor Practice: Top Picks for Comfort and Durability

July 30, 2024 7 min read

Practicing yoga outdoors offers a unique experience that connects you with nature while enhancing your practice. The right yoga mat can make a significant difference in your comfort and stability during outdoor sessions.

A serene outdoor setting with 5 different yoga mats laid out on a grassy or sandy surface, surrounded by nature and natural light

Choosing the best outdoor yoga mat can elevate your practice by providing the right balance of grip, cushioning, and durability. It's essential to consider factors like material, thickness, and portability when selecting a mat that suits your needs.

1) Manduka PRO

A Manduka PRO 5 yoga mat laid out on a grassy outdoor setting with a clear blue sky and a few scattered clouds above

The Manduka PRO is a renowned choice for those who practice yoga outdoors. It’s known for its durability and performance, making it a favorite among yogis. This mat is made from closed-cell PVC material, which prevents moisture and bacteria from seeping in.

You will appreciate the thickness of the Manduka PRO, providing ample cushioning for your joints on hard surfaces. With a high-density structure, the mat offers stability and support. It’s also larger than standard mats, giving you increased space to move.

The surface texture is designed to improve grip and reduce slipping. This is essential when practicing in different outdoor conditions. You can use it on grass, sand, or even concrete without compromising comfort or safety.

Despite its size and density, the Manduka PRO is relatively easy to transport. It rolls up compactly, and you can use a strap or a bag for carrying. This convenience makes it simple to take your practice anywhere you go.

For eco-conscious practitioners, the Manduka PRO is a responsible choice. It’s manufactured with sustainability in mind. The mat comes with a lifetime guarantee, which speaks to its quality and longevity.

Cleaning the Manduka PRO is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth will keep it in excellent condition. Regular maintenance will help ensure your mat lasts for many years.

With its combination of durability, comfort, and excellent grip, the Manduka PRO stands out as a top choice for outdoor yoga enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, this mat caters to a wide range of needs.

2) Liforme Yoga Mat

The Liforme Yoga Mat is a high-quality option designed with eco-friendly materials. You’ll appreciate its non-toxic, biodegradable construction. This ensures your practice remains sustainable and safe for the environment.

One of its key features is the alignment markers. These are etched directly onto the mat. They help you achieve better posture during various yoga poses.

The mat offers excellent grip. It prevents slipping even during intense sessions. This is due to its unique rubber and polyurethane composition.

It's slightly larger than many standard mats. This provides more space for your movements. The extra room can enhance comfort during practice.

The mat is also reasonably thick. This helps to cushion your joints. It’s particularly beneficial for outdoor sessions on harder surfaces.

Liforme Yoga Mats come with their own carrying bag. This makes it easy to transport. You can take it with you to parks, beaches, and other outdoor locations.

3) Jade Yoga Harmony Mat

The Jade Yoga Harmony Mat is a top pick for outdoor yoga enthusiasts. Made from natural rubber, it offers exceptional grip, even on uneven or wet surfaces.

Its thickness of 3/16 inch provides a balance between comfort and stability. This makes it suitable for various yoga styles and poses.

You will also appreciate its eco-friendly composition. Jade Yoga plants a tree for every mat sold, supporting environmental sustainability.

The mat is available in several colors, allowing you to choose one that suits your preference. Portability is another advantage, as it rolls up easily for transport.

Durability is a strong point of the Jade Yoga Harmony Mat. With proper care, it can last for years, even with frequent outdoor use.

Maintenance is straightforward. Cleaning with mild soap and water keeps the mat in good condition, ensuring long-term usability.

4) Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip Yoga Mat

A bright, sunny day in a peaceful outdoor setting with a Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip Yoga Mat laid out on the grass, surrounded by natural elements like trees and flowers

The Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip Yoga Mat is designed specifically for outdoor practice. This mat features a unique material that provides excellent traction, even when conditions are damp. You’ll find it maintains a solid grip, keeping you stable during your poses.

This yoga mat measures 5mm in thickness, offering soft cushioning for your joints. Despite its thicker profile, it remains lightweight and easy to carry.

The mat is made from PVC, which is latex-free, reducing the risk of allergies. Additionally, it lacks the smell that many other mats have, making your practice more pleasant.

Its durability is another strong point. Designed to withstand regular use, the Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip Yoga Mat will serve you well over time. You can trust it to hold up through numerous outdoor sessions.

5) PrAna E.C.O. Yoga Mat

A serene outdoor setting with a PrAna E.C.O. Yoga Mat laid out on lush green grass, surrounded by tall trees and a clear blue sky

The PrAna E.C.O. Yoga Mat stands out for its combination of sustainability and performance. Made from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), it is free from harmful PVC and latex, making it a healthier option for you and the environment.

This mat offers excellent grip, ensuring that your hands and feet don’t slip during your outdoor sessions. The cushion provides sufficient support for your joints, reducing strain during various poses.

Lightweight and easy to carry, the PrAna E.C.O. Yoga Mat is convenient for outdoor practice. Its closed-cell construction prevents moisture absorption, which helps keep your mat clean and odor-free.

Durable and long-lasting, this mat can withstand frequent use in different outdoor conditions. Its stylish design and variety of available colors add a touch of personality to your practice.

If you value both performance and eco-friendliness, the PrAna E.C.O. Yoga Mat is a top choice for your outdoor yoga practice.

Benefits of Outdoor Yoga

Practicing yoga outdoors offers the unique benefits of connecting with nature and enhancing your concentration. These elements can enrich your yoga experience in ways that an indoor setting might not.

Connection with Nature

Being in nature can enhance your yoga practice by immersing you in a serene environment. The sounds of birds, the rustle of leaves, and the feeling of grass under your feet all contribute to a sensory experience that can be both calming and invigorating.

Fresh air improves your breathing, which is central to yoga practice. Exposure to natural light can boost your mood and energy levels, helping you maintain a positive mindset throughout your session.

Natural surroundings provide a break from the usual indoor environment, offering a refreshing change that can inspire you and keep your practice varied.

Improved Concentration

Outdoor yoga demands heightened focus due to the ever-changing environment. You'll need to concentrate on balancing and maintaining your poses on uneven ground, which helps improve your overall stability and strength.

The presence of external stimuli like wind or distant noises can train your mind to block out distractions, enhancing your mental discipline.

Natural settings can reduce stress levels, making it easier to clear your mind and focus on your breathing and movements. This mindfulness can translate into a deeper, more effective yoga practice.

Features to Look for in an Outdoor Yoga Mat

When choosing an outdoor yoga mat, consider aspects like durability, grip, thickness, and portability. These features ensure that your mat performs well on various surfaces and remains easy to carry around.

Durability

Outdoor yoga mats need to withstand harsh elements like sun exposure, moisture, and rough surfaces. Look for materials such as natural rubber, PVC, or TPE, which are known for their resilience. A durable mat will resist tearing and maintain its form over time.

Reinforced edges and high-quality stitching can also enhance durability. Ensure the mat is easy to clean, as outdoor use can make it prone to dirt and debris. Washable mats or those that can be cleaned with a simple wipe-down are ideal for maintaining hygiene.

Grip and Traction

Good grip is essential to prevent slipping during practice. Mats with textured surfaces provide better traction and ensure stability. Check for mats that perform well on various terrains, such as grass, sand, or pavement, to avoid any risk of slipping.

Materials like natural rubber or non-slip PVC often provide excellent grip. You can also look for mats with dual-layer construction, where a grippy top layer is paired with a stable base layer. This combination offers the best performance in diverse outdoor conditions.

Thickness and Comfort

Outdoor environments can be uneven, so having the right thickness can protect your joints and provide comfort. Mats typically range from 3mm to 6mm in thickness. Thicker mats offer more cushioning, making them suitable for rougher terrains.

Consider the type of yoga practice. For more static poses, a thicker mat with extra padding works well. For more dynamic styles, a balance between firmness and cushion is key. High-density foam or multi-layered mats provide both comfort and support.

Portability

Since you will be transporting the mat to various locations, portability is crucial. Lightweight mats made of materials like TPE or microfiber are easier to carry. Look for mats that can be rolled up tightly or folded.

Features like a built-in carrying strap or a separate carry bag can enhance portability. Mats that weigh around 2 to 3 pounds are generally ideal for outdoor use. Make sure the mat is compact enough to fit into a backpack or tote bag for convenience.

Maintenance Tips for Outdoor Yoga Mats

A serene outdoor setting with a yoga mat placed on a grassy patch, surrounded by trees and natural elements. The sun is shining, and there is a sense of tranquility and peace in the air

Proper maintenance of your outdoor yoga mat extends its lifespan and ensures hygiene. You need specific cleaning and storage techniques to keep your mat in prime condition.

Cleaning Techniques

Wash your mat after each use to remove dirt and sweat. Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for the solution.

Steps:

  1. Wipe down: Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe the mat.
  2. Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove soap residue.
  3. Air dry: Lay flat or hang up to dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight.

Avoid harsh chemicals to prevent material damage. For tough stains, a mix of water and white vinegar can be effective.

Storage Recommendations

Store your mat in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture build-up and mildew. Roll it tightly and secure it with a strap.

Tips:

  • Avoid direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure can degrade material.
  • Use a mat bag: Protects from dust and damage.
  • Ventilation: Ensure your storage area allows air circulation.

For long-term storage, keep your mat in a cupboard or under your bed. Regularly check for any signs of wear or tear.