Manduka Yoga Mats: Causes of Slipperiness and How to Restore Grip

Why is my Manduka yoga mat slippery?

Manduka yoga mats, particularly the PRO series, often exhibit initial slipperiness due to a factory-applied release agent, requiring a break-in period; however, factors like sweat, improper cleaning, and environmental conditions can also contribute to a loss of grip.

Understanding Manduka Mat Construction

Manduka is renowned for its durable, high-performance yoga mats, particularly the PRO series (e.g., Manduka PRO, PROlite). These mats are crafted using a dense, closed-cell PVC material, which offers exceptional cushioning and longevity. The closed-cell structure is designed to prevent sweat and moisture from seeping into the mat, which inhibits bacterial growth and makes the mat easier to clean. However, this unique construction also plays a role in the initial feel and performance of the mat.

The "Break-In" Period: A Necessary Process

One of the most common reasons a new Manduka PRO series mat feels slippery is the presence of a thin, invisible film or release agent applied during the manufacturing process. This film is a byproduct of how the mat is molded and prevents the material from sticking to the machinery. While harmless, it significantly reduces the mat's natural grip until it is worn away.

• Initial Sensation: Users often describe new Manduka PRO mats as feeling slick or having a "waxy" residue. This is the release agent.
• Gradual Improvement: With consistent use, the friction from your hands and feet, combined with the natural oils from your skin, will gradually break down and remove this film. This process is known as "breaking in" the mat.
• Accelerated Break-In: Specific methods, such as the "salt scrub" (detailed below), are often recommended by Manduka to expedite this process.

Factors Contributing to Slipperiness Beyond Break-In

Even after a mat is properly broken in, several other factors can contribute to a slippery surface during practice:

• Sweat and Moisture: This is perhaps the most significant ongoing factor. While Manduka PRO mats are closed-cell and don't absorb sweat, excessive perspiration on the surface can create a slick layer between your skin and the mat, reducing friction.
• Environmental Humidity: High humidity in the practice environment can make the mat surface feel damp and less grippy, even if you're not heavily sweating.
• Oil and Residue Buildup:
  • Skin Oils and Lotions: Natural skin oils, hand creams, sunscreens, or body lotions can transfer to the mat, creating an oily film.
  • Cleaning Product Residue: Using harsh or oil-based cleaning products, or not thoroughly rinsing the mat, can leave a slippery residue.
• Incorrect Cleaning Practices:
  • Harsh Chemicals: Strong detergents, abrasive cleaners, or alcohol-based solutions can degrade the mat's surface over time, potentially altering its texture and grip.
  • Infrequent Cleaning: Allowing sweat, dirt, and oils to accumulate without regular cleaning can lead to a perpetually slick surface.
• Mat Age and Wear: Over many years of intense use, the mat's surface texture can gradually smooth out, leading to reduced grip. However, Manduka mats are designed for extreme durability, so this is typically a very long-term issue.
• Foot/Hand Condition: Very dry hands or feet, or conversely, excessively sweaty palms and soles, can affect individual grip regardless of the mat's condition. Calluses on hands or feet can also reduce direct skin-to-mat friction.

Strategies to Enhance Grip and Prevent Slipperiness

Addressing slipperiness often involves a combination of proper mat care and practice adjustments.

• The Salt Scrub Method (For New PRO Series Mats):
  1. Preparation: Sprinkle a generous amount of coarse sea salt (about 1/4 cup) evenly over the entire surface of your new mat.
  2. Scrubbing: Lightly mist the salt with water to dampen it, then gently scrub the salt into the mat using a stiff brush or sponge.
  3. Rinsing: Rinse the mat thoroughly with water to remove all salt and residue.
  4. Drying: Hang the mat to air dry completely. This process helps to abrade and remove the factory film.
• Regular, Appropriate Cleaning:
  • Post-Practice Wipe-Down: After each session, wipe your mat down with a damp cloth and a few drops of a mild, non-oil-based soap (like dish soap) or a Manduka-specific mat cleaner.
  • Deep Cleaning: Periodically, give your mat a more thorough cleaning, scrubbing gently and rinsing well.
  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or oil-based products, as these can damage the mat material and leave a residue.
• Using a Yoga Towel:
  • For Sweaty Practices: If you sweat heavily or practice hot yoga, placing a grip-enhancing yoga towel (often made of microfiber with silicone nubs) over your mat can provide excellent traction.
  • Targeted Placement: Even a small hand towel placed under your hands can significantly improve grip in specific poses.
• Pre-Practice Preparation:
  • Clean Hands and Feet: Wash your hands and feet before practice to remove any lotions, oils, or dirt.
  • Dry Skin: Ensure your hands and feet are dry. If you have excessively sweaty palms or soles, consider using a small amount of chalk or a grip enhancer designed for yoga.
• Mat Storage:
  • Roll Loosely: Store your mat rolled loosely (not tightly folded or creased) to maintain its surface integrity.
  • Avoid Extremes: Keep your mat out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, which can degrade the material over time.
• Consider Mat Type (If persistent issue):
  • While the PRO series offers unparalleled durability, if you consistently struggle with grip due to heavy sweating, you might explore Manduka's eKO series mats, which are made from natural rubber and often provide a more immediate, "sticky" grip.

When to Consider a New Mat

If your Manduka mat is many years old, shows visible signs of wear and tear (e.g., crumbling edges, significant surface texture loss), and remains persistently slippery despite consistent cleaning and adherence to break-in protocols, it might be time to consider a replacement. However, given Manduka PRO mats' legendary durability, this is often a decision made after a decade or more of dedicated practice.

Conclusion

The initial slipperiness of a Manduka PRO series yoga mat is a common, temporary characteristic stemming from its manufacturing process. With a proper break-in, often accelerated by the salt scrub method, the mat's true grip emerges. Beyond this initial phase, maintaining optimal grip involves diligent cleaning, managing sweat, and being mindful of external factors. By understanding these principles, you can ensure your Manduka mat provides the stable, supportive foundation it was designed for, enhancing your yoga practice for years to come.