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Manduka eKO Lite 3mm Yoga Mat
Equipment DetailsManufacturer: Manduka Brand: Manduka Release Date: 2007-10-01 Model: EKO (3mm) Product features: - Made from natural rubber harvested under regulations and not from the Amazon rainforest
- Free of oil-based products, toxic materials, foaming agents, PVC, and toxic plasticizers
- Developed over 3 years by yoga teachers
- Measures 69 by 24 inches wide and 3mm thick
- Scent free after break-in period
Accessories:
Sports reviews of Manduka eKO Lite 3mm Yoga MatCustomer Review: A high quality, environmentally friendly mat perfect for practicing at home or on the go Sport shop rating: 5 Stars
Prior to obtaining the Manduka eKO Lite, I practiced for years on a thin, inexpensive yoga mat that I had received as part of a kit. I always thought that I had no need of a pricey yoga mat; my old mat was a familiar friend, and it suited me fine. But from the moment I rolled out my new eKO Lite, I knew I had been wrong.
First of all, the eKO Lite, although about the same thickness as my old mat (1/8") had a much weightier feel; despite having been rolled up in a box for shipment, it immediately lay completely flat, virtually hugging the floor, with absolutely no lumps or buckling of any kind. Several other reviewers have mentioned that this mat has an odor; this is something that Manduka discusses on their web site, as it is related to the natural products which are used to create the mat. And yes, my mat did have a fairly strong, natural rubber scent when I first received it. However, I didn't find this scent to be particularly unpleasant, and it didn't stop me from using the mat the day after I received it. Furthermore, as instructed by Manduka, I left my mat unrolled for a few weeks, and now, after owning it for about a month, I can barely discern any smell at all.
Now, on to the most important issue: practicing with the eKO Lite! I am so impressed by the degree to which the surface of this mat grips my hands and feet during asanas--although I had thought my old mat was fine, the difference is astounding. Furthermore, my former mat tended to shift around under my feet a bit while performing certain standing postures, such as the warrior poses, but the eKO Lite does not--as mentioned above, it gripes my feet AND the floor, so I stay in place and the mat does too. I am not sure why others mentioned problems with sliding on this mat, as I have not had this issue at all, although I admit, I am not much of a sweater (perhaps those who sweat profusely would be happier with Manduka's original Black mat, which is much thicker and supposedly good for this purpose; I haven't tried it myself).
Finally, in terms of aesthetics: my eKO Lite is green (my favorite color!), and the Moss truly is a pretty shade, yet another thing to like about my new mat. The only (minor) downside about this mat is the size. I realize that because it is the eKO "Lite," it is designed to be the smaller, thinner, lighter, more travel-friendly version of Manduka's original eKO mat, which comes in at 71" x 26" and 7 lbs. (the eKO Lite weighs only 3.5 lbs.). Still, for this price, I still would've liked to have have seen a slightly larger than standard-sized mat, even if it was only to add a single extra inch all around. I should also note that at 1/8" thick, this is not a particularly cushy mat--that is fine with me, but if you like a thicker mat, you may want to go with the original eKO, which is 3/16".
Overall, however, I am extremely happy with my Manduka eKO Lite mat--it has definitely made practicing yoga even more pleasurable! I wouldn't hesitate to recommended trying the eKO Lite (or the eKO if you need more cushioning) to anyone wanting a high quality, high performance, and attractive mat that's environmentally friendly too.
Description of Manduka eKO Lite 3mm Yoga MatThe Manduka eKO Lite Mat is a wonder of eco&ndsh;conscious innovation and convenience. Developed by yoga teachers looking for a high&ndsh;performance,environmentally friendly mat,the eKO Lite features Mandukas proprietary natural closed&ndsh;cell rubber and comfortable sea&ndsh;grass texture. The eKO Lite marries performance and durability with a lightweight,travel&ndsh;friendly design. This 100% natural mat wont flake or fade. The eKO Lite will leave no footprint in landfills,and is perfect for people who want to make a commitment to our planet and take their eco yoga practice on the road.
Tri Layer Technology for optimal combination of grip,durability and slip&ndsh;resistance.
Grip & Durability :?Sea Grass? surface texture is naturally grippy; the closed&ndsh;cell surface keeps out moisture from seeping into the mat and breeding bacteria for better durability.
3.5 lbs.; 68? x 24? x 1/8" The Manduka eKO Lite Mat is the only choice for those who want a high-performance, durable yoga mat that's lightweight, easily portable, and easy on the planet. The top surface is an innovative, proprietary closed-cell natural rubber.The sea-grass texture finish and superior cushioning are kind to your body and the environment. This natural rubber mat uses a toxic-free softening process and is completely free of foaming agents and plasticizers found in other mats. The eKO represents a bright future for yoga mats - it leaves behind no footprint in landfills, but will definitely make a lasting impression in the studio. Natural and Biodegradable - Made from biodegradable, non-Amazon harvested tree rubber
- Only non-toxic foaming agents and non-AZO dyes used in manufacturing
Tri-Layer Technology for Grip, Durability, and Traction
- Sea Grass surface texture is naturally grippy and durable--the closed-cell surface keeps perspiration from sticking to mat and breeding bacteria
- Thicker, open-cell bottom layer provides lightweight cushion; can be reversed to function as the top surface for additional traction
- Center layer is made from biodegradable cotton and recycled silk blend that eliminates need for toxic glues
eKO Mat Features: - Made from non-Amazon harvested, natural tree rubber
- Most durable mat on the market
- Developed over 3 years by yoga teachers
- Designed to provide the ultimate combination of cushion and grip
- No PVC or toxic plasticizers
- Weight: 3.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 68 by 24 by 1/8 inches (L x W x D)
To Clean: We recommend using Manduka Mat Restore or a diluted organic cider vinegar wash (50/50) and a damp cloth or sponge. It is recommended that you Do not put the eKOmat in the washing machine as it will encourage the material to break down (biodegrade). To Store: Do not leave the mat exposed to excessive amounts of sunlight. If wet, allow the mat to dry before rolling up. Manduka's Green Mission Manduka PRO series yoga mats, designed to last a lifetime (or two), curb the amount of PVC mats that enter landfills every year and reduces overall mat consumption. Also, during the manufacturing of most PVC products, toxic emissions may be released into the air. However, PRO series mats are manufactured through a process that ensures no toxic emissions are released into the atmosphere. The eKO Mat is certified safe for human contact by OEKO-TEX, an environmental certification agency in Europe for the textile industry.
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