GurusSweat Proof Durable Cork Yoga Mat Thick Non Slip Exercise Mat for Home Workout

I have been doing yoga for about 15 years and in that time I've used many different types of mats. Most recently I was using a used LuLu Lemon mat and a Manduka (I'm not sure the exact models of either). The LuLu was just plain worn out and the Manduka was just too thin and uncomfortable, and I was almost always losing grip with my hands. So the search began for a new mat...and lasted for about 1 year! If you're reading this, you know what I mean: everything is either seemingly cheap (and how good/long lasting can it be?) or ridiculously expensive (in my humble opinion). Where was the middle ground? I just began Yoga Teacher Training (upping my yoga practice personally AND professionally) so I wanted to INVEST, not just purchase. I also wanted it to be environmentally friendly because that sort of things is important to me. I came across a top ten list of the most eco-friendly yoga mats (and manufacturers) and used that to narrow things down. The problem with those types of lists is that they tend to focus on larger corporations/etc. I also love to support small(er) business, even though many companies (like Manduka and many other established names in the yoga industry) are reputable and I believe have respectable processes and practices. Somewhere in my search with all of this criteria I came across cork yoga mats. I was very intrigued...but it opened up yet another can of worms and spirals of more and more searching!Then I found Gurus. Their item description spoke to me and so I decided to turn away from a fabulous deal on a Manduka EKO mat and give this one a try instead. So far I am VERY satisfied with this purchase. Here are the highlights in my book:No plastic or off-putting smell. While there was a bit of an odor, it wasn't unnatural or invasive and after a handful of uses, is totally gone.Most reviews I read said cork is fantastic for hot yoga as the non-stick aspect is even BETTER with sweat/moisture. Reviewers said if you do NOT sweat you may need to mist the mat with water before using to help "activate" the tackiness. This almost turned me away from cork, as I don't practice hot yoga or sweat (too much anyway). However, my hands almost always warm up and I find myself slipping within minutes of practice. I have NOT misted this mat before use and I also have NOT slipped! My feet feel grounded, my hands feel grounded...but I can also flow from one asana to another without a squeaking, sticking problem like other super-tacky mats. I'm stoked about this!One cork mat reviewer said he feels more connected to the Earth when practicing on his mat. I have to say that I agree! I love having the steadiness underneath me while I practice WITHOUT the plastic-like feeling. When my face is on or near the mat, it is pleasant and almost comforting. Perhaps that sounds a bit odd, but some of you readers will understand.The thickness is perfect! I don't have to double the mat up when I'm on my knees or other asanas. It's also not so thick that it interferes with balance.It rolls out nearly flat every single time. There is often a little bump at the edges, which concerned me at first, but it has not once moved or shifted during practice. It sticks to the ground wonderfully.The reasonable price of this mat was a huge selling point. If I didn't like it or it wasn't up to my expectations, at least it wasn't $100+ down the drain. I figured that for less than $60, it was totally worth a shot. And I'm so glad that I went for it! I LOVE this new mat and having been telling everyone about it!

I LOVE this mat. I practice hot yoga, where the room is 105 degrees and humidity 40-and 50%, for 90 minutes. This mat is thick, sturdy, and non-slip. It's very soft and comfortable without being squishy and unsupportive. The best part - wipe it down (very easy to clean) with no scent of sweat embedded into the mat. I've used for 2 months now, just to see...and every time I unroll my mat it has no scent. Can't say enough how amazing this mat is

UPDATEI have had this mat 2 weeks. I use it for more haha flow style yoga 20 to 40 minutes a day and sometimes an hour. The cork layer already started to disappear almost 2 weeks in on the high traffic areas, where my knees and hands frequently art. This really makes the mat look gross. Then a few days later I noticed those same high traffic areas are already thinning and it feels like I am doing my poses right on the hard wood floor on those areas.I contacted the company through their website and I can tell you they do stand by their products. They are pleasant to deal with and I still like them as a company. I do think I got a defective mat. As they also say this is unusual and these mats last for years. I am more than happy with my experience. My 5 stars is staying the se despite these issues. Very rare a company today stands by their products. No run around no repetitive questions, no printing shipping labels and arranging a pick up time. Stress free. They are truly an awesome company.This mat is so wonderful. I was ready to get a new mat after wearing out a cheap mat I had. I was nervous about buying one online that I couldn't feel in person. I am so happy. It is so comfy. The top is still curled a little but it is so close to being flat. I've had this mat only about 5 days. I do a 45 minute yoga flow in the morning and a shorter flow at night. It feels so nice. First 2 uses I sprayed with some water and no slips at all. I also do not leave imprints in this mat from down dog like I have previously had happen with other mats. I see this mat lasting a long time and treating me well. Thanks so much.

The cork is smooth, rubber bottom is comfortable and mat length is perfect! To benefit from the cork, give your body some time to warm up to the mat for NON-HOT yoga practices. Personally, I think the cork surface is too finished (or polished) because you can slip-out of your downward dogs if your hands and feet are not warmed up yet. However, once you get a good perspiration going the cork offers great grip. However, I think this will change overtime with more wear-and-tear :). I also like the idea that this mat provides two different materials (to practice on) but I am cautious with the type of surfaces to use it on. For example, if I wanted to practice on the rubber side of the mat, I would not put the cork side on parquet or slippery floors because of the smooth finish. Instead, I would place it on carpeted floors, again, if I wanted to practice on the rubber side of the mat. When it comes to rolling the mat, it's a bit cumbersome at first because of the material and thickness but I believe it will be easier to roll-out and roll-up overtime just consider using a mat strap, if you are on the go. Also, I advise to lie the mat flat with the top surface (cork) facing outward when you start out. As for the mat weight, it is super-light and a nice surprise given that it's partially made with rubber. Overall, I am very happy with my eco/natural mat and foresee this being a long-lasting product. Thanks, Gurus!

I’ve been practicing over 20 years and teaching for 10. My last mat (a combo mat/towel) was great, but got really nasty after 6+ years of daily use. I always had curiosity about cork mats but had never tried one. Today, as soon as the Amazon box arrived, I headed to the studio to practice then teach.Absolutely NO slipping, even in 105° in vinyasa after vinyasa. No smell—no weird plastic odor. Felt great lying on it…and since I got the lighter weight travel version, really easy to roll and store. Wiped down after class and left to dry before rolling—dried quickly! Love it!