Jade Yoga produces what they claim to be nature’s best yoga mats. The Jade yoga mat is crafted of natural rubber tapped from rubber trees and contains no heavy metals, ozone depleting substances, PVC, or other synthetic rubber.  Natural rubber is tapped, like maple syrup, from rubber trees, making it a sustainable, renewable resource.  In fact, Jade prides itself on producing mats using only components approved by the FDA for use for rubber in continuous contact with food.  Though I am not sure I would want to eat off my yoga mat after class, knowing there are not dangerous chemicals being absorbed into my body from contact with the rubber is a comforting thought. 

In addition to using only environmentally friendly components, all Jade mats are manufactured in the United States, in compliance with all US environmental, labor, and consumer safety laws.  That means their products are not only eco-friendly but fairly and ethically produced.  Plus, for every mat sold, Jade plants a tree.  So not only are you choosing a product that has minimal environmental impact, you are buying it from a manufacturer who is helping to improve and beautify the earth and its communities. 

While the exclusive use of natural rubber is an environmentally friendly decision, it does have some drawbacks.  When new, the mats have a strong rubber smell, almost like new tires, and while some people find the smell overwhelming, others hardly notice it.  If you are bothered by the smell, Jade recommends airing out your mat unrolled for several days, away from direct heat or sunlight.  Do not be discouraged by the smell; it fades over time. Remember, it smells like rubber because it is made of, well, rubber.  Natural rubber mats are also a bit heavier than their synthetic counterparts, making them a bit less convenient to take to and from the studio, but most users agree it is worth the slight inconvenience.

My favorite mat in the Jade line is the Harmony Professional Mat.  At 3/16-inch thick, it provides the perfect balance between cushion and traction.  It is crafted with open cell natural rubber, guaranteeing optimum grip.  Available in 68 and 74-inch lengths and assorted colors, there is a choice for every yogi.

See what Sadie Nardini, top NYC yoga teacher has to say about the Harmony Jade Yoga Mat.

 Sanuk Sidewalk Surfers come with the following disclaimer: Sorry if you were hoping to find some high-tech springs, coils, pumps, or air-bags.  You just won’t find them here.  After walking naturally in these, though, we’re confident that you won’t want to wear anything else…but then again, what do we know, we’re just a bunch of surfers in sandals.  Sidewalk surfer styles like the Sanuk Vagabond  are made with Sanuk’s “Barefoot Un-Technology.”  This footwear features a shoe upper on a sandal bottom, combining year-round style with the comfort of a sandal. 

Sanuk Vagabond Sidewalk Surfer

Sanuk men’s and Sanuk women’s styles alike feature the benefits of Barefoot Un-Technology, allowing the wearer to experience the benefits of walking naturally.  According to Sanuk, the rigid stitch-down boards and shanks found in most athletic shoe create un-natural control while their products allow your feet to bend correctly, utilizing and strengthening the many muscles in the foot involved in the process…muscles that would otherwise be stagnant.  Any surfer or rock climber understands how important it is for feet to function naturally. Our Sidewalk Surfers and thongs adjust naturally to the terrain under your feet. Unlike athletic shoes, thongs have no shims or a rigid board…which means more ‘feel’, stronger feet and better balance.  Most shoes limit the natural shock absorption mechanism of the foot by rigidly containing it. The loose upper on our Sidewalk Surfers allows your foot to spread for maximum shock absorption.

Sanuk shoes and Sanuk sandals  are available in a variety of styles for men, women, and children, including an eco-friendly line with hemp uppers.  If you are looking for a comfortable and casual style, consider a sanuk.