In a hot yoga class your hands and feet get wet within minutes. On many mats, sweat sits on the surface and turns it into a slide. The fix is a mat whose surface either absorbs moisture or grips better when it is damp.
Why mats get slippery
Smooth, closed surfaces such as PVC and some PU mats grip well when dry, but sweat has nowhere to go. It pools on top and your palms start sliding in downward dog. Many hot yoga students put a towel over their mat to cope with this.
The best materials for hot yoga
1. Recycled suede (our top pick)
A soft microfiber top layer soaks up sweat, and the grip increases as you heat up. It works like a mat and a towel in one. Ours use recycled microfiber suede on a natural tree rubber base. Shop the Sweat Practice collection.
2. Cork
Cork becomes grippier when it is a little damp, and it naturally resists odours, which matters when you sweat a lot. Shop cork yoga mats.
3. Hemp
A textured woven surface gives your hands something to hold on to, even when they are wet. Shop hemp yoga mats.
Tips for hot yoga
- Spritz a cork or suede mat with a little water before class to activate the grip.
- Wipe your mat down after every class and let it dry fully, unrolled.
- Wear fitted clothes that will not slip: see our high-waisted leggings and sports bras.
- Bring a water bottle and drink before you feel thirsty.
Comparing all materials? Read cork vs PU vs hemp vs TPE yoga mats.
