The Bottom Line
A good alternative for those who want a natural mat. The biggest drawback is the weight , so it will work best for those who keep their mat in one place (home, yoga studio, car) rather than carry it from class to class.
Pros
- PVC-free
- Very grippy
- Nice thickness
Cons
- Heavy
- Has a distinct rubber smell
Description
- Made from open-cell natural rubber.
- Available in four different lengths.
- Machine washable.
Guide Review - Harmony II Yoga Mat
Most yoga mats are made from synthetic materials, which include polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Since I spend a lot of time on the mat and am concerned about the effects of PVC on my health and the environment, I decided to try a PVC-free mat. Enter the Harmony II by Jade Yoga. When the mat first arrived, I was surprised at how heavy it is. This is a slight disadvantage for those who have to carry their mat around town. The mat also has a distinct rubbery smell, not unlike that of a new tire. When I tried the mat out, however, I wasn't bothered by the smell and I found it to be both very cushy and very grippy. It seems almost impossible to slip while using this mat. Links to sites selling the Harmony II are available on the manufacturer's website.