A Comprehensive Unbiased Guide To Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats

woman practicing Balasana on an eco-friendly yoga mat
Balasana Yoga Pose (Child’s Pose)

While doing yoga, have you experienced the smell of hormone-disrupting chemicals coming from the yoga mat? That could be due to the release of toxic gases from your yoga mat. Fortunately, some yoga mat brands are manufacturing safe and eco-friendly yoga mats to solve for that. Apart from taking care of our health, we have to take proactive measures to become sustainable in every way possible. We must start avoiding toxic and non-biodegradable yoga mats and choose eco-friendly alternatives. 

P.S. We don’t get any commission if you purchase any of the yoga mats below. Our goal is to provide you with unbiased information so that you can make the right choices towards sustainability.

  1. PVC Yoga Mats
  2. NBR Foam Yoga Mats
  3. Polymer Environmental Resin (PER) Yoga Mats
  4. Polyurethane (PU) Yoga Mats
  5. Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Yoga Mats
  6. Best Eco-Friendly Cork Yoga Mats
  7. Best Eco-Friendly Natural Rubber Yoga Mats
  8. Best Eco-Friendly Jute Yoga Mats

Problems with Conventional Yoga Mats

Most yoga mats are composed of materials that disrupt human hormones and are harmful to the environment. They may contain up to 100,000 bacteria per cubic cm. These bacteria can stay for a substantial period if you don’t clean the mats regularly. Some of the least eco-friendly yoga mats are:

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Yoga Mats

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is the most commonly used material in manufacturing yoga mats. PVC is a toxic chemical, and you can get exposed to it while inhaling during yoga. According to Cancer.gov, PVC exposure is associated with an increased risk of a rare form of liver cancer (hepatic angiosarcoma) and brain and lung cancers, lymphoma, and leukemia. During manufacture, it also emits dioxins as a by-product, which is very harmful to the environment.

Manufacturers use a group of chemicals, phthalates, to make yoga mats soft and flexible. The health effects of phthalates are not entirely known, but some studies suggest that phthalates can adversely affect human reproduction and damage the liver, kidneys, and lungs. 

NBR Foam (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber) Yoga Mats

NBR foam, in simple terms, is synthetic rubber. Yoga mats made of NBR are generally thicker and more comfortable. However, Butadiene, a key ingredient for NBR, has been listed as a toxic substance under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. Yoga mats made of NBR may be better than PVC yoga mats but are not the most eco-friendly yoga mats. NBR is not easily recyclable, commonly ends up in landfill and doesn’t biodegrade. For the same comfort as NBR foam yoga mats, you can opt for natural rubber yoga mats as an alternative eco-friendly option.

Polymer Environmental Resin (PER) Yoga Mats

Polymer Environmental Resin (PER) is just another type of plastic, but with processing stages that minimize PVC’s toxic effects on humans. Manufacturing Polymer Environmental Resin is a relatively new technology that was patented in 2003. Hence, there is very little research available to conclude that PER is an eco-friendly material. However, based on the patent details, we know that it is undoubtedly better than PVC and doesn’t emit toxic gases that a PVC mat would. The patent implies are below are the reasons that make PER more environmentally friendly than PVC:

  • PER is disposable, biodegradable and can decompose into the earth without pollution, such as paper;
  • PER is recyclable, reproducible and reusable; and
  • After being used, it can be degraded by burning meanwhile without the generation of toxic gas, and the ground can absorb the resulting ash.

If you have to pick between a PVC based mat or a PER based mat, PER is definitely the sustainable choice. Jute yoga mats commonly have PER as the base. If you come across a jute yoga mat with a PVC base, it may not be an eco-friendly mat.

Polyurethane (PU) Yoga Mats

Polyurethane (PU) is another commonly used material to manufacture yoga mats. Some mats are made primarily from PU, and some natural rubbers mats have a thin layer of PU on the top for moisture absorption and protection of the rubber. Polyurethane (PU) may not necessarily be a completely safe and eco-friendly material. Toluene diisocyanate (TDI), a chemical used in polyurethane production, is very toxic and can cause respiratory problems and skin irritations. Polyurethane is also highly flammable. Hence, yoga mat manufacturers may add fire retardants during the manufacturing process. Fire retardants are very toxic, and when exposed to the human body can cause various health hazards.

Many companies are investing in their manufacturing processes to make safe and eco-friendly polyurethane. For example, Liforme uses eco-polyurethane, a non-toxic proprietary polyurethane, to manufacture yoga mats. When you purchase a PU yoga mat, make sure you check the description of the mat clearly to ensure it’s toxin-free.

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Yoga Mats

A lot of yogis prefer TPE mats as they are anti-microbial and easily cleanable. TPE yoga mats are recyclable and biodegradable. However, we haven’t found enough research to suggest whether TPE is harmful to human health or not. However, we know whether or not TPE is detrimental to your health depends on how it was made. This article provides a detailed overview of TPE yoga mats. It mentions that TPE could be as dangerous as PVC based on the results of tests conducted by a researcher at the University of Texas-Austin. It might be best to avoid a TPE yoga mat and go for an option you know is safer for your health.

Eco-friendly and Safe Yoga Mats

Instead of using yoga mats made from toxic materials, start using eco-friendly yoga mats, which will keep you healthy and our environment healthier. Let’s take a look at the common types of eco-friendly yoga mats and compare the most popular ones amongst the yoga community.

Cork Yoga Mats

Cork, which is harvested from the bark of the tree, is an environmentally-friendly and sustainable material that is commonly used to make eco-friendly yoga mats. It is the same cork that is used in wine bottles and bulletin boards. These yoga mats generally have cork on one side and natural rubber or TPE on the other side. Cork yoga mats possess an excellent grip and do not slip. Cork is a natural barrier to germs. Hence, cork yoga mats are anti-microbial. Bacteria will not survive for long on these mats. Cork yoga mats are also very durable, and you can easily clean them too. However, they can be a bit expensive and sometimes heavy to carry. We went to Amazon to find out the best-rated cork yoga mats. Here’s the list:

Brand

Amazon Rating

Price

Free Strap

Plants Tree for Every Mat Sold

Dimension

Thickness

Weight

SatoriConcept

4.7

$64.50

No

No

72"x 24"

4 mm

5.5 lbs

Platinum Sun Luxury

4.6

$79.99

Yes

No

72"x 25"

5 mm

6 lbs

Gurus with TPE (Sprout)

4.5

$54.99

No

Yes

72"x 25"

4 mm

2 lbs

Repose

4.4

$69.99

Yes

No

72"x 24"

4 mm

6 lbs

Gurus with Natural Rubber (Roots)

4.4

$98.99

No

Yes

72"x 25"

5 mm

6.2 lbs

Gaiam

4.2

$33.77

No

No

68"x 24"

5 mm

3.7 lbs

1. SatoriConcept Cork Yoga Mat

SatoriConcept Cork Yoga Mat is the highest rated cork yoga mat on Amazon. Moreover, the price point of $64.50 in this yoga mat is mid-range compared to other cork yoga mats in the market. However, it doesn’t come with a free yoga mat strap. It is 4 mm thick and weighs 5.5 lbs. Customers have some great things to say about this mat:

“I’ve owned this mat for several months of regular use now. It’s in the same condition as when it arrived, and I absolutely love the natural feel of the cork when doing yoga on it.” 

“It really grips well when wet, so if you give it a little spritz with water, a hot yoga class will go really nicely with this.”

“Compared to other mats, this mat’s price is very reasonable. I like this yoga mat a lot and, I will recommend this to my students.”

2. Platinum Sun Luxury Cork Yoga Mat

Platinum Sun Luxury Cork Yoga Mat is one of the highest-rated cork yoga mats on Amazon. The mat’s price is $79.99, which is slightly higher than the SatotiConcept cork yoga mat. However, a bonus point is that this mat comes with a free strap, which can especially be useful for cork yoga mats that tend to be heavy. The 6 lbs mat is also somewhat heavier than the SatoriConcept cork yoga mat, but it’s thicker (5 mm) than the SatoriConcept mat, providing more comfort while doing yoga. Here’s what customers are saying about Platinum Sun Luxury Cork Yoga Mat:

“I like the added thickness, especially since I’ve been having some trouble with my right elbow while practicing.”

“My hands and feet don’t slip at all when I use it, and it’s easy to balance on as well.”

3. Gurus Natural Cork Yoga Mat with TPE Latex-Free Bottom, Sprout

Gurus Natural Cork Yoga Mat with TPE Latex-Free Bottom is one of Amazon’s most popular cork yoga mats. About 250 customers have given it a rating of 4.5 on Amazon. The best part about this 4 mm thick mat is that it weighs only 2 lbs, making it one of the lightest cork yoga mats you will find. It’s light-weighted since there is no latex in this mat. Moreover, it is also one of the cheapest cork yoga mats in the market, making it an attractive option for those with the budget. What makes this brand more eco-friendly than others is that Gurus brand has partnered with Trees For The Future, a non-profit to plant a tree for every mat they sell.

Gurus brand also has a premium version of this mat, which is made of natural rubber bottom. We have included it in our list below. Here’s what customers are saying about Gurus Natural Cork Yoga Mat with TPE Latex-Free Bottom:

“I love this mat. I’ve been using it for a couple of months now. It’s easy to clean. I simply wipe a cloth with essential oils over it at the end of class.”

“Once you get good perspiration going the cork offers great grip.”

4. Repose Eco-Friendly Cork Yoga Mat

Repose Eco-Friendly Cork Yoga Mat is one of the top 3 popular cork yoga mats on Amazon. More than 100 customers have given it a rating of 4.4 on Amazon. Priced at $69.99, Repose is a good bargain because it comes with a free yoga mat strap, which can typically cost you an additional $8 – $10. It’s 4 mm thick and weighs about 6 lbs. Here’s what customers are saying about Repose Eco-Friendly Cork Yoga Mat:

“I sweat a lot, and the cork surface absorbs moisture really well and prevents my hands from slipping.” 

“I teach hot classes, and I don’t feel like I need a towel to help me from slipping during practice.”

5. Gurus Cork Yoga Mat with Natural Rubber Bottom, Roots

Gurus Cork Yoga Mat with Natural Rubber Bottom is one of the most expensive cork yoga mats. One unique aspect of this mat is the option to use either the cork or rubber side. Gurus sources the natural rubber bottom in this mat from their family rubber farms in Kerala, India. The mat is 5 mm thick and weighs about 6.2 lbs. This $98.99 mat is not very popular on Amazon but has been rated 4.4 by more than 50 customers. Customer reviews popularly discuss how this mat is non-slippery and have a good grip than others on the list. One Amazon review also compares this mat to an Apple product due to its premium feel and quality.

The mat is expensive, but it’s also one of the most eco-friendly yoga mats on this list as it’s made of cork and natural rubber. Here’s what customers are saying about this premium mat:

“The cork surface has a really nice premium feel and great traction.”

“Bit expensive compare to other yoga mats, but it is worth it. Absolutely “no sliding hands” during the yoga poses.”

6. Gaiam Cork Yoga Mat

Priced at $39.99, Gaiam Cork Yoga Mat is one of the most affordable cork yoga mats. It’s is a popular choice on Amazon. More than 150 customers have given it a rating of 4.2. Most critical reviews complained about the cork cracking, but some customers mentioned that they didn’t worry about it as the cork is securely glued. The cork layer on this mat is very thin. However, the mat is 5 mm thick and weighs 3.7 lbs, which is lesser than most other cork yoga mats. However, the mat is slightly smaller in size than most other cork yoga mats in this list. It measures 68 “x 24” while most other mats measure 72 “x 24”. You can use this mat from both sides. It has cork on one side and TPE rubber material on the other. Here’s what customers are saying about Gaiam Cork Yoga Mat:

“The mat is easy to carry, so much lighter than other mats I have carried.”

“It’s a little bit smaller than I thought, but love the material and rounded edges.”

Other Cork Yoga Mat Options To Consider

We also looked at other highly rated cork yoga mats on Amazon. However, these less popular cork yoga mats had less than 50 customer reviews. Let’s take a look at those if you want to consider these options.

7. Masdery Cork Yoga Mat:

Masdery is another highly-rated cork yoga mat but not a popular one on Amazon. About 30 customers have rated it 4.7. At $72.99, the mat may seem expensive, but it does come with a free yoga mat strap. It’s 4 mm thick, measures 72 “x 24” and weighs 5.3 lbs.

8. Seeka Premium Cork Yoga Mat

This $59.99 mat is rated 4.6 by about 13 customers. Seeka is the heaviest cork yoga mat amongst the top ones on the list. It weighs about 6.3 lbs. However, it’s gains an extra point on eco-friendliness as Seeka plants a tree for every yoga mat sold. If you don’t mind the weight, this 4.5 mm thick mat may be a great eco-friendly item to own.

9. YOGA Design Lab Cork Yoga Mat

Yoga Design Lab cork yoga mat is a premium mat that costs about $88. If you’re looking to splurge, this mat may be a good option compared to Gurus Roots cork yoga mat, which costs closer to $100. About 36 customers have rated this mat a 4.6. This 3.5 mm thick mat weighs 4 lbs, lighter than most other cork yoga mats. Yoga Design Lab also donates $1 of each purchase goes to support boys and girl’s youth yoga programs in need. 

10. Yoloha Original Air Cork Yoga Mat: 

Yoloha Original Air Cork Yoga Mat is the most expensive cork yoga mat we came across. It is also the longest cork yoga mat available in the market. This 80″ x 26″ mat costs $140 on Amazon and is rated 4.2 by about 50 customers. This mat also comes in a 72″ x 26″ size, and this size costs about $119. Moreover, this 6 mm thick mat is also the thickest cork yoga mats in this list. If you’re looking to splurge and looking for a long and thick mat for the ultimate comfort, Yoloha could be your choice. 

11. SNΛKUGΛ Cork Yoga Mat

SNΛKUGΛ Cork Yoga Mat was rated a perfect 5, however, only by ten customers. It measures 72″ x 26″. This 4 mm mat is cheaper than most other yoga mats in the top 6 list. However, it weighs about 6.2 lbs, which makes it heavier than most other cork yoga mats. Priced at $46.99, SNΛKUGΛ may be a good deal for you those on budget. 

Natural Rubber Yoga Mats

Natural rubber is a sustainable and recyclable material commonly used to make eco-friendly yoga mats. It is made from the bark of rubber trees, and hence trees are not cut down to make natural rubber. The bark of the tree is sliced to harvest latex, which manufacturers then process the latex to form refined rubber. 

Natural yoga mats are incredibly comfortable as they provide excellent cushioning. They also have a great grip (could lose grip when web) and do not slip much. Moreover, you can easily clean them. Similar to cork yoga mats, natural rubber yoga mats can be expensive and heavy to carry. Natural rubber yoga mats could also take a lot of time to dry if they get wet. Additionally, yogis with latex allergy might not find these mats the most suitable. 

So, which are the best natural rubber yoga mats? We went to Amazon and looked at customer reviews to handpick the best natural yoga mats for you.

Brand

Amazon Rating

Price

Free Strap

Plants Tree for Every Mat Sold

Dimension

Thickness

Weight

LiquidBalance by Clever Yoga

4.8

$108.00

No

Yes

72"x 25" (also available in 84" x 25" for $118)

4.5 mm

6.5 lbs

Liforme Original Yoga Mat

4.7

$149.95

Yes

Yes

72.8" x 26.8"

4.2 mm

5.5 lbs

Yogi Bare Paws

4.7

$89.00

No

No

71" x 26"

4 mm

5.5 lbs

TXK Yoga Mat

4.7

$65.99

Yes

Yes

72" x 26.77"

5 mm

7 lbs

Jade Yoga - Harmony

4.5

$84.95

No

No

74"x 24"

4.5 mm

4.4 lbs

Manduka eKO

4.5

$92

No

No

71” x 26”

6 mm

7 lbs

1. The LiquidBalance Yoga Mat by Clever Yoga

The LiquidBalance Yoga Mat by Clever Yoga is one of the most highest-rated natural rubber yoga mats on Amazon. About 280 customers have rated it a 4.8. The mat comes in two sizes. The 72″x 25″ mat cost $108 and the 84″ x 25″ costs $118. It’s 4.5 mm thick and weighs about 6.5 lbs. 

The mat includes a carry bag with a strap. Like most other natural rubber yoga mats, this mat has a thin polyurethane top layer that absorbs moisture enabling a firmer grip. Most customers didn’t complain about the rubber smell. Some have mentioned a mild rubber smell that went away after a couple of times of using it. For those who are looking for colorful yoga sessions, this mat comes in six different colors! Here’s what customers are saying about the mat:

“It was earthy and didn’t smell unnatural or unpleasant.”

“It’s not as thick as the Manduka Pro, which means it’s less cushy and lighter.”

2. Liforme Original Yoga Mat

The Liforme Original Yoga Mat is a popular natural rubber yoga mat on Amazon, and more than 900 customers have rated it a 4.7. It is also one of the most expensive natural rubber yoga mats you will find. This $150 mat measures 72.8″ x 26.8″, and weighs 5.5 lbs. This 4.2 mm mat also includes a carry bag with a strap and comes in 4 different colors.

One unique aspect of this mat is that the top layer of the mat is made from a specially engineered eco-polyurethane. Most natural rubber yoga mats have a polyurethane layer on the top. However, Liforme seems to have taken it one step beyond. Liforme sources its polyurethane responsibly such that the mat is completely toxin-free. This makes Liforme the most eco-friendly natural rubber yoga mat on this list. Moreover, this mat has a unique alignment marker system designed on it, which allows you to do your yoga poses accurately. The mat may smell of rubber when it’s new, but the smell goes away after 2-3 uses. Here’s what customers are saying about this premium natural rubber eco-friendly yoga mat:

“Dries quick, absorbs sweat fast.”

“As a yoga teacher, it helps me easily adjust my alignment to be a better example for my class.”

“If you’re a serious Yogi, don’t be put off by the price. When I think about all the money I wasted on cheap mats, I could have bought one of these in the first place.”

3. YogiBare Paws Yoga Mat

YogiBare Paws Yoga Mat is another highly-rated mat on Amazon and comes at an attractive price of $89. More than 300 customers have rated it a 4.7, and they love the mat’s firm grip. This mat also has body alignment guidelines on top of the mat. YogiBare uses only natural plant-based dyes, and laser etches their design to avoid any toxic inks. It’s 4 mm thick, measures 71″ x 26″, and weighs 5.5 lbs. If you are comfortable with a 4 mm thick mat, this less expensive mat could be the right choice for you. However, note that this mat doesn’t come with a carry bag or body strap. Here’s what customers are saying about this mat: 

“This mat is smooth, super grippy, and makes me feel safe and secure that my hands aren’t going to slip out.”

“I will not be buying any other mat. The price and quality are unbeatable.”

“Smells of natural rubber, not overwhelming though. The paw print looks cute. Feels great! “

4. TXK Yoga Mat

If you are looking for a colorful eco-friendly yoga mat, definitely consider the TXK Yoga Mat as an option due to its beautiful design. Around 70 customers rated the mat a 4.7. TXK natural rubber yoga mat is also one of the least expensive yoga mats, costing about $65.99. Moreover, it includes a carrying strap and a yoga bag. The 5 mm thickness makes this mat very comfortable to use. However, that also makes this mat very heavy, weighing about 7 lbs. An important thing to note about the TXK natural rubber yoga mat is that the mat’s top surface has a layer of natural suede, which makes this mat ultra-soft. If you are looking for a thick and comfortable mat with a very soft feel, TXK could be your favorite choice. Here’s what customers are saying about the TXK yoga mat:

“Such a pretty and cushy yoga mat. Great grip and comfort. It does not slide while using. It comes with a nice carry bag.”

“The # 1 reason I picked this mat was, after careful research, I found that it would be the best for my bad knees.” 

5. Jade Yoga – Harmony Yoga Mat

Jade Yoga’s Harmony natural rubber yoga mat is the most popular natural rubber yoga mat on Amazon. More than 3000 customers have rated it a 4.5. It’s a decently priced $85 mat that is 4.5 mm and weighs between 4.3 lbs – 4.5 lbs. The mat comes in 8 different colors. Additionally, Jade Yoga has also partnered with Trees for the Future to plant trees for every product sold.

Unlike most other natural rubber yoga mats, Jade Yoga Harmony yoga mat is made from open-celled natural rubber, which absorbs sweat better than closed-cell natural rubber. Hence, this mat doesn’t need to have a polyurethane or suede layer on the top to absorb sweat. However, the downside is that the mat also absorbs bacteria, making it difficult to clean the yoga mat. However, Jade Yoga suggests that a simple solution made of vinegar and water should help deep clean the mat. Here’s what customers are saying about this popular natural yoga mat:

“There is a slight rubber smell, but it does fade, and honestly, it didn’t bother me. That smell went away after about two weeks of daily use.”

“I love the non-slip grip-on the floor and under my feet. I didn’t realize how much my old cheaper mats moved around until I got this one.”

6. Manduka eKO Yoga Mat

Manduka eKO is another natural rubber yoga mat you could consider, especially if you’re looking for extra cushion for your knees. This 6 mm thick mat is one of the thickest natural rubber yoga mats. The comfort of thickness does come with 7 lbs of weight. However, Amazon reviewers have given the mat a 4.8 for its sturdiness. This $92 natural rubber yoga mat has non-toxic foaming agents and non-azo dyes. Here’s what customers are saying about the Manduka eKO Yoga Mat

“This mat is extremely grippy, and the cushion really protects my knees and wrists.”

“Very nice yoga mat, heavy but super comfortable.”

Other Natural Rubber Yoga Mat Options To Consider

We also looked at other highly rated natural rubber eco-friendly yoga mats on Amazon. However, they are currently not very popular on Amazon. Less than 50 customers have reviewed these mats. But, there are some worthy options you may want to consider. Let’s take a look.

7. Rumi Sun Yoga Mat

Rumi Sun Yoga Mat is not a very popular natural rubber yoga mat on Amazon, but it’s a highly rated one. About 30 customers have given the mat a 4.6, which is why it made it to our list. This mat is also different from other natural rubber yoga mats because it is made from natural rubber and blended cotton fabric. Rumi has engineered their mat with blended cotton fabric such that it makes the mat more durable as it prevents loss of bits of rubber after prolonged use. The cotton blend also allows for the absorption of sweat. Lastly, the cotton blend also makes this $85 mat slightly more affordable than other pure natural rubber yoga mats. The mat weighs about 5.5 lbs and is 4.3 mm thick. 

8. YUGLAND PU Yoga Mat

If you are looking for an affordable natural rubber yoga mat, YUGLAND PU Yoga Mat could be a perfect option. At an attractive price point of $49.99, the mat also includes a carry bag with a strap. YUGLAND is not very popular on Amazon, but about 30 customers have rated it 4.6. Similar to most other natural rubber mats, this 4mm thick mat has a polyurethane top layer. It has alignment lines designed on top of it for accurate positions. The mat weighs about 7 lbs. But if weight is not a concern for you, this mat may be an excellent deal for an eco-friendly yoga mat.

9. UGO Rubber Yoga Mat

UGO Rubber Yoga Mat is another natural rubber yoga mat that is not very popular on Amazon, but it’s a decently rated one. This 5 mm thick mat is also affordable than other natural rubber yoga mats. It costs about $65. It’s one of the least expensive natural rubber yoga mats on our list. Similar to Jade Harmony Yoga Mat, this mat is made of open-celled natural rubber. Some yogis can find the texture of an open-celled natural rubber yoga mat rough and unsuitable. It’s worth zooming in the pictures of all the mats to ensure that you are comfortable with the texture.

Jute Yoga Mats

Jute, a natural fiber with a golden shine, is made from the bark of the jute plant. Amongst a variety of other uses, jute is also used to make eco-friendly yoga mats. Jute yoga mats are typically manufactured by mixing PER (Polymer Environmental Resin) with jute. They are also anti-microbial and free from allergens like latex. Due to their strong fibers, these mats do not slip and provide an excellent grip. Moreover, they are very durable and easy to clean. 

Jute is naturally a rougher material, and yogis who practice intense poses may not like the burns or irritation caused by the texture of these mats. However, if your yoga practice includes simple poses, jute yoga mats can be an incredible, eco-friendly option.

Brand

Amazon Rating

Price

Free Strap

Plants Tree for Every Mat Sold

Dimension

Thickness

Weight

Ajna Eco Organic

4.4

$49.99

Yes

Yes

72” x 24”

5 mm

3 lbs

YogiMall

4.4

$48.00

Yes

No

72” x 24”

5 mm

3.4 lbs

Lottus Life

4.3

$64.99

Yes

No

72” x 24”

8 mm

4.2 lbs

Gaiam Jute

4

$33.77

No

No

68” x 24”

5 mm

5 lbs

1. Ajna Eco Organic Yoga Mat

Ajna Eco Organic jute yoga mat is the most popular and highest rated jute yoga mats on Amazon. It is one of the most beautiful looking jute yoga mats and comes in 4 different colors. More than 500 customers have rated it 4.4 on Amazon. It also comes with a free cotton strap so that you can easily carry the mat. It costs about $49.99, an excellent price for an organic and eco-friendly yoga mat. It’s 5 mm thick and weighs about 3 lbs. It’s a dual-sided mat. On days when you don’t feel like doing your yoga on the jute side, you can use the other softer side. Ajna also plants a tree for every mat they sell. That makes this mat even more environmentally-friendly. Here’s what customers have to say about Ajna Eco Organic jute yoga mat:

“There is no smell at all from the Ajna yoga mat. I can now rest easy and breathe in deep in child’s pose.”

“This is a great mat for hot yoga. I sweat a moderate amount and do not slip at all with this mat!”

“I love the earthy feel that the jute lining gives. However, the palms of my hands do feel slightly irritated after class due to the scratchier material.”

2. YogiMall Natural Jute Yoga Mat

YogiMall Natural Jute Yoga Mat comes as a part of the YogiMall jute yoga mat kit. The kit includes non-slip socks, a cotton strap, a microfiber hand towel, and a 5 mm thick yoga mat. With all these items included, the kit costs only $48, and customers love it. About 300 customers have rated it a 4.4 on Amazon. Like most other jute yoga mats, YogiMall is reversible, and you can use it from both sides.

An important note about the YogiMall jute yoga mat is that it is made from jute and eco-friendly PVC material. Regular PVC is not an eco-friendly material, but according to YogiMall, their ECO-PVC is free of the six phthalates declared toxic by SGS. These six phthalates are DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP & DNOP. YogiMall also assures that their mat is free of lead and heavy metals. Here’s what customers are saying about the YogiMall Natural Jute Yoga Mat:

“The mat has a rough texture on one side but softens with use. It prevents slipping, so that’s a benefit.”

“After an hour of ashtanga yoga, I am usually sweating, and the jute does a nice job of absorbing the moisture. It is so comfortable!”

3. Lottus Life Natural Jute Fiber Premium Yoga & Exercise Mat

If you are looking for a very thick jute yoga mat, Lottus may be a good option. It’s an 8 mm thick mat that feels like memory foam and provides a good cushion for your wrists and knees. Due to the thickness, the mat weight around 4.2 lbs. The mat is reversible, and you can use it from both sides. The mat is not very popular on Amazon. About 70 customers on Amazon have rated it 4.3. The mat’s original price is $78, but it’s on sale for $64.99 (as of the 07/23/2020). 

“This mat is great, stays put, and extra long. The jute felt scratchy at first but did not take long to smooth out. I would recommend it.”

“A little rough on bare skin but otherwise comfortable & sturdy. If the smell s bothersome, it aired out & went away in a couple of days.”

4. Gaiam Yoga Mat Jute 

Gaiam Yoga Mat Jute is one of the least expensive jute yoga mats. It costs about $34. However, the low cost comes with somewhat low quality than other jute yoga mats. It’s not a very popular choice on Amazon. About 50 customers have rated it a 4. The mat is slightly smaller than standard yoga mats. It measures 68″ x 24″, while most other mats measure 72″ x 24″. It’s 5 mm thick and weighs about 5 lbs. Due to the weight and thickness, customers like the stability of this mat. However, a lot of customers didn’t like the rough texture of the mat. The mat doesn’t come with a free carrying strap. Here’s what customers are saying about the Gaiam Yoga Mat Jute:

“For the price, it is unbeatable! Super grippy and beautiful color!”

“The only complaint I have, which isn’t really a complaint: in the first few uses, I got the fabric material all over me, but now that I have had it for a bit, my mat has stopped shedding.”

A healthy mat signifies a healthy mind and healthy body, and thus a healthy soul. It is also our social duty to look after the environment and not pollute it with toxic chemicals and non-biodegradable waste. Some of these eco-friendly yoga mats may seem expensive, but remember, their natural materials also make them very durable. They can last for a few years if you take proper care of the yoga mat. An eco-friendly yoga mat is a worthwhile investment for your health and another baby step towards a sustainable world.

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