The most asked question I get as a yoga teacher is '‘how do I become more flexible?’ The second is, ‘which mat shall I buy?!’ So let me give you a run down on my favourite ones.

My first recommendation, and also my favourite, is Bowern. I purchased my Bowern mat about 3 years ago now and it’s still going strong. Their designs are works of art and hardest decision was picking which one to go for!

They are made from 100% biodegradable & recyclable rubber with a micro-fibre suede top on the Luxury Yoga Mat - perfect if you like a hot practice or get sweaty hands. The suede top means I am not sliding about during my down dog!

The mat is quite heavy at 2.2kg, so not ideal if you have to carry your mat around with you a lot. But that makes it perfect for a home practice or if you’re driving to your class. At 3mm thick it provides a solid amount of padding for your knees and comes with a strap for easy carrying.

Bowern is an Australian owned brand so ideal if you are living in that part of the world - they do deliver elsewhere but there is of course a delivery charge added.

Best for: Sweaty hands, at home practice, those living in Australia, anyone who wants a beautiful mat!
Cost: £70 approx.
Website: https://www.bowern.com.au/discount/KATLOVE - use this link to get 15% off your order (discount will be applied automatically)*

A lot of my students often want a mat that provides a little more padding so my next recommendation does just that.

The Manduka PRO yoga mat comes in a 6mm thickness meaning your knees will enjoy a little extra cushioning, especially good if you are practising at home on a hard floor. This does of course increase the weight to 3.4kg so again, not ideal if you are carrying your mat across a distance.

This mat is designed to last a lifetime and made from 100% latex free PVC.

Best for: those that want a little extra cushioning, at home practice.
Cost: £115
Website: https://www.yogamatters.com/products/manduka-pro-yoga-mat

* Bowern Yoga Mats are an affiliate partner but I can ensure you my love for their mats started way before this!