Skip to content 
Ah, the great outdoors! There’s something magical about unrolling your yoga mat on a lush green lawn, feeling the grass beneath your feet, and breathing in the fresh air.
As an avid yogi who’s tried just about every surface imaginable, I can tell you that practicing on grass is a game-changer.
But let’s face it, not all yoga mats are cut out for the job.
So, grab yourself a cup of herbal tea, and let’s dive into the world of outdoor yoga mats!
Benefits of Outdoor Yoga
Before we get into the low down of mats, let’s talk about why you should bother schlepping your gear outside in the first place.
Connection with Nature
Picture this: You’re in downward dog, and instead of staring at your studio’s floor, you’re gazing at a ladybug making its way across a blade of grass.
That’s the kind of connection I’m talking about!
Outdoor yoga lets you immerse yourself in nature’s symphony – the rustling leaves, chirping birds, and maybe even a curious squirrel or two.
Trust me, it’s way better than the sound of Karen’s heavy breathing in your usual class.
Improved Concentration
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Won’t all those distractions mess with my focus?”
Surprisingly, no!
In fact, the ever-changing outdoor environment can actually sharpen your concentration.
You’ll need to stay extra mindful to maintain your balance on uneven ground, and blocking out those external stimuli?
That’s like a mindfulness superpower you’re developing.
Before you know it, you’ll be zen-ing out like a pro, even with a lawnmower buzzing in the background.
Features to Look for in an Outdoor Yoga Mat
Alright, now that we’re sold on the idea of outdoor yoga, let’s talk gear.
Not all mats are created equal, especially when it comes to grass-friendly options.
Durability
You wouldn’t wear your fancy dress shoes to mow the lawn, would you?
Same goes for yoga mats.
Outdoor mats need to be tough cookies, ready to handle whatever Mother Nature throws their way.
Look for materials like natural rubber or high-quality PVC that can stand up to a little dirt and moisture without falling apart faster than my resolve on pizza night.
Grip and Traction
There’s nothing worse than sliding around during your sun salutations.
A good outdoor mat should have you sticking to it like a gecko, even if the grass is a little dewy.
Textured surfaces are your friend here – they’ll keep you grounded whether you’re on grass, sand, or that weird gravelly stuff in your local park.
Thickness and Comfort
Remember that time you tried to do yoga on a beach towel? Yeah, let’s not repeat that.
A thick mat (think 5-6mm) will cushion your joints from any hidden rocks or twigs, making your practice as comfy as possible.
It’s like bringing a mini mattress to the park – luxurious!
Portability
Unless you’re planning on setting up a permanent yoga spot in your backyard (which, honestly, sounds amazing), you’ll want a mat that’s easy to carry.
Look for lightweight options that roll up tight or even fold.
Bonus points if it comes with a carrying strap – your shoulders will thank you later.
Best 5 Outdoor Yoga Mats to Stretch Outside With
Drum roll, please! After countless hours of sun salutations on various grassy knolls (tough job, I know), here are my top picks for outdoor yoga mats:
Best Outdoor Yoga Mats
5. Best Overall: Manduka PRO
The Manduka PRO is like the Swiss Army knife of yoga mats – it does it all, and does it well.
It’s thick, durable, and has a fantastic grip. Plus, it comes with a lifetime guarantee.
The only downside? It’s a bit on the heavy side, so maybe skip arm day before lugging this bad boy to the park.
4. Best for Grass: Liforme Yoga Mat
If you’re serious about your grass yoga game, the Liforme mat is your new best friend.
Its unique alignment markers are a godsend when you’re trying to nail your warrior pose on uneven ground.
And let’s talk about that grip – it’s stickier than my hands after eating a melted chocolate bar.
3. Best for the Beach: Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip Yoga Mat
Beach yoga, anyone?
The Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip mat laughs in the face of sand and moisture.
It’s like the Navy SEAL of yoga mats – tough, reliable, and ready for any condition.
Just don’t forget your sunscreen!
2. Most Eco-Friendly: Jade Yoga Harmony Mat
For all my tree-hugging yogis out there (no judgment, I’m right there with you), the Jade Yoga Harmony mat is a dream come true.
Made from natural rubber, it’s as eco-friendly as they come.
Plus, Jade plants a tree for every mat sold. It’s like your downward dog is saving the planet!
1. Customer Favorite: PrAna E.C.O. Yoga Mat
Last but certainly not least, the PrAna E.C.O. mat is a crowd-pleaser.
It’s lightweight, eco-friendly, and performs like a champ on grass.
Plus, it comes in fun colors that’ll make you the envy of every outdoor yoga session.
Maintenance Tips for Outdoor Yoga Mats
Now that you’ve got your perfect outdoor mat, let’s talk about keeping it in tip-top shape.
Cleaning Techniques
After your outdoor session, give your mat a good wipe-down with some mild soap and water.
Think of it as a spa day for your mat – it deserves some TLC after supporting you through all those chaturangas.
For tough stains, a mix of water and white vinegar works wonders.
Just don’t go overboard, or your next practice might smell like a salad dressing factory.
Storage Recommendations
When you’re not communing with nature, store your mat in a cool, dry place.
Rolling it up tightly and securing it with a strap will keep it from unraveling like my attempts at crow pose.
And whatever you do, keep it out of direct sunlight – unless you want your mat to age faster than a vampire at high noon.
And there you have it, folks! Your comprehensive guide to finding the perfect yoga mat for outdoor practice on grass.
Remember, the best mat is the one that makes you excited to get outside and practice.
So grab your mat, head to your nearest patch of green, and get ready to namaste all day.
Just watch out for those sprinklers – trust me on this one!
Pingback: Transform Your Practice with the Right Yoga Mat - Idea Express