Product Review: Manduka Yoga Mats - Worth the Money?

If you've ever heard of Manduka Yoga Mats, then you're probably aware that they aren't cheap.  But are they worth it?  Read on to find out!

I waffled over getting a new yoga mat for a long time. I do have several; the one in my bedroom that I use primarily, the one in my car just in case I want to do yoga on the run (which is never), and one I use just for working out.

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I didn’t need another mat when I put the Manduka EKo light on my Christmas wish list last year, but I wanted it. It’s the Ferrari of yoga mats. It’s heavier, stickier and more durable than any other mat on the market (or so they say). I’m assuming this thing will outlive me, and since all of my worldly belongings are being willed to Animal Sanctuary, I hope the cows and chickens get good use out of it.

Is it worth the $90 price tag?

If we’re judging on stickiness and cushioning alone then marginally, yes. There is no chance of your hands sliding out from under you in down dog. If you’re willing to invest in the prevention of landing on your face after an unfortunate slip, then sure, it’s worth it.

It’s also thicker than most mats, and I do love that it’s made with recycled materials. Thumbs up for that, although it doesn’t really impact my use of the product.

But the true test of a mat’s worth beyond the immediate comfort and performance is how long it will last before it starts to wear out and ball up as so many other mats have done already.

From a minimalist perspective, I guess I could have said no to a new mat (since I already own 3), but none of them are in great shape, and I do a lot of yoga. Truly, I’d rather have one really good mat than 3 mediocre ones.

So now that I’ve had my mat for 9 months, I can safely say that this thing is built for the long haul. I mean, I work out, do yoga and pretty much use the thing as a carpet on a daily basis and it still looks brand new (except for the big red wine stain… don’t ask).

So is Manduka worth the $$? Hands down yes. It’s durable, strong and really supportive. It’s still too heavy to walk around with post-yoga class, but I do 90% of my practice at home, so it can weight as much as it wants as far as I’m concerned.

What kind of yoga mat do you use?

*Photo props to Manduka!