The difference between yoga mats for indoors and outdoors: your guide to the yoga mat on the road

You’re planning a yoga trip and facing a choice: which yoga mat do you take with you? Not all mats are suitable for every environment. Choosing the right mat depends on where you’re going to practice. Think hotel rooms and studios. But also beaches and terraces. In this guide you’ll discover the key differences between yoga mats for indoor and outdoor use.

Why your environment determines your yoga mat choice

Yoga indoors and outdoors requires different properties from your mat. Indoor environments offer protection and stability. Outdoor locations expose your mat to extreme conditions. A wrong choice can lead to slipping. Or rapid wear. Or an uncomfortable practice.

The perfect yoga mat for traveling suits both situations. But let’s be realistic. Most mats are optimized for a specific environment.

Yoga mats indoors: comfort and grip in protected environments

In hotel rooms, yoga studios, Airbnbs and retreat centers you have different priorities. Here it’s all about comfort and stability on different floor types.

Materials that prefer indoor environments

Natural rubber is the king of grip in indoor environments. This material offers excellent traction on wooden floors and tiles. It feels pleasant under your hands and feet. But it does have its weak points. Natural rubber can wear faster than other materials. It’s sensitive to extreme temperatures.

Cork is another favorite for indoor use. It absorbs moisture naturally. It even becomes grippier when you sweat. Perfect for hot yoga sessions in studios.

Thickness and comfort considerations

For indoor use you can choose a thicker mat. This applies if you can travel with XL luggage. Travelers with a large suitcase can take a standard yoga mat rolled up. The suitcase must have a minimum interior length of 70 cm. This gives you more comfort during poses on hard wooden floors.

Do you have a thin travel yoga mat? Fold it double or triple for extra cushioning. Super handy under sensitive joints like your knees during cat/cow poses.

Yoga mats outdoors: durability against the elements

Yoga at different outdoor locations means your mat is tested by UV rays. Heat. Humidity. And dirt. Here other properties are essential.

PVC: the unexpected hero for outdoor use

PVC often receives criticism due to environmental concerns. However, it performs excellently in outdoor environments. The material is more resistant to environmental influences than natural rubber. It discolors less quickly. It also becomes brittle less quickly.

The biggest advantage of PVC? It’s super simple to clean. Sand and dirt stick less to the smooth surface than to rubber alternatives. A soft microfiber cloth and some water are enough.

Resilience and recovery capacity

For spontaneous outdoor sessions you need a mat that recovers quickly from creases. Travel mats like the Fold-N-Flow spring back without permanent folds. This happens after they’re unfolded. Ideal when you suddenly spot a perfect place for a sunset flow.

Practical tips for the traveling yogi

For indoor locations

• Choose natural rubber or cork for optimal grip
• Consider a thicker mat if your luggage allows it
• Fold thin mats for extra cushioning
• Pay attention to materials with an open-cell structure for moisture absorption

For outdoor locations

• Go for PVC because of its weather resistance
• Choose a mat that’s easy to clean
• Check if the mat recovers quickly from folds
• Consider the impact of UV radiation on colors

The best of both worlds: the versatile travel mat

Some mats try to combine the best of both worlds. They offer sufficient grip for indoors. They can take a beating outdoors. These compromise solutions are perfect if you alternate between hotel yoga and beach sessions during a trip.

Pay attention to the balance between portability and functionality. A mat that performs well everywhere won’t be excellent anywhere. But for many travelers that’s exactly what they’re looking for. Consistent performance in different conditions.

Maintenance and hygiene on the road

Regardless of your choice for yoga mats indoors or outdoors, hygiene is essential during travel. You prevent bacterial growth by cleaning your mat regularly. This is extra important if you switch between different environments.

For outdoor use: clean your mat immediately after use to remove sand and dirt. For indoor use: ensure sufficient ventilation after sweaty sessions.