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3 Reasons to try a Cork Yoga Mat


 

Are you looking for a new yoga mat? Here are 3 reasons why a Cork Yoga Mat might be the one for you...

 

1. Eco Friendly and Sustainable

 

Most yoga mats are made from polyurethane which is a plastic material sourced from fossil fuels. Cork on the other hand is a natural material used by humanity for over 5000 years. It is harvested and stripped from tree trunks every 9 years, without causing permanent damage to the tree itself.  Carbon footprint studies conducted by Corticeira Amorim concluded that cork is a far better environmentally friendly material than plastic.

It's no surprise when you first roll out a cork yoga mat it feels great both for you and the environment.

2. Excellent Grip

We've all been there, deep into a heated Vinyasa or Bikram class you're covered in sweat and your hands and feet are sliding across your PVC mat as your instructor is telling you to hold onto your downward facing dog for just 3 more breaths…

 

What is different with cork is that it actually provides even more grip with moisture. This is thanks to a natural wax called Suberin within the cork - think of how surfers wax their board before hitting the waves!

 

3. Naturally Antibacterial

 

Typical PVC mats have a synthetic antimicrobial additive to prevent mould and mildew. Not only is this harmful for your skin, but do you find those mats still smell a bit…funky?

 

The beauty of cork is that it is naturally antibacterial. According to a 2015 study published in FEMS Microbiology letters, cork exhibited a 97% reduction in Staphylococcus aureus activity and 36% reduction in Escherichia coli after 90 minutes. In these cases, cork matched or outperformed the benchmark synthetic antimicrobial additive.