Yoga Mat design – closed cell vs open cell

There’s been an ongoing debate on open-cell vs closed-cell yoga mat design. While closed cell design requires less maintenance and yields higher durability, open-cell mats are usually much better performers and will not bunch up or curl during practice.

The typical yoga mat design

A typical yoga mat features a closed-cell design. This means that the mat’s surface is closed, not allowing moisture and bacteria to penetrate into the mat’s material. The closed-cell design has been an industry standard for years. Closed-cell yoga mats are more durable, require less maintenance and are more hygienic. The recent uprise in the popularity of hot yoga created a huge demand for slip-proof mats that do not require regular cleaning. This created a challenge for yoga mat manufacturers, as 99% of closed-cell yoga mats are not designed for excessive moisture accumulation on their surface. The sweat has nowhere to go and creates a very uncomfortable surface. The practitioners have been solving this problem by using yoga towels, these solve the problem of extra moisture and do add to traction. However, a good yoga towel is expensive and could easily cost as much as your mat.
Reputable companies, such as Manduka began experimenting, trying to create an open-cell yoga mat that is not susceptible to extra moisture.

Open cell yoga mats

The advantages of open-cell yoga mats are pretty clear – the porous natural rubber surface creates perfect traction and enhances stability, while absorbing any moisture that usually accumulates on the surface. The problem with porous material is also pretty straightforward – bacteria growth. Sweat, once trapped inside your mat, creates a perfect living environment for all kinds of microscopic life. The solution to this problem is twofold – first, open-cell mats require regular maintenance, Manduka people recommend at least wiping their incredible mats with a cloth after practice and to wash them frequently (this may sound like too much work, but once you try practicing on a manduka mat, you will know what the extra effort is for); second – use a yoga towel, or treat your mat with an antibacterial solution (the simplest one consists of vinegar diluted in water).

Conclusion

Open-cell yoga mats require less maintenance, do not harbor bacteria and provide a smooth surface to practice on, they are not suitable for hot yoga practice without an additional yoga towel or continuous wiping.

Closed-cell yoga mats are a lot more stable, do not bunch up or curl and absorb moisture during sweaty workouts. These mats require regular cleaning or treatment and may not last as long.

Choice is yours