Product Review: Hugger Mugger Sattva Mat

 My New Hugger Mugger Sattva Mat

by One Happy Pondering Yogini

I like practicing bareback (sans mat) but I also need a mat and mine had worn out. However, the rubber mats longer feel right.  I contemplated a rug but then I would have to use a mat under it and I don't want that thickness.  After asking around, my friend Jennifer at Yoga With Style suggested the Hugger Mugger Sattva Jute Mat and generously offered to send me one.

Sattva in yogic terms is one of the three Gunas which refers to happiness and balance.  Jute is a natural fibre and it is combined with PER (Polymer Environmental Resin) which is eco-friendly and phthalate, heavy metal,  & formaldehyde-free. Considering the Hugger Muggers mats I've had and the features of this mat I decided to try it.  

The Mat: The bottom is solid PER for stability; it doesn't slide around or bunch. The top is jute fibres enmeshed into the PER; it has really cool soft feel like a nice breathable cotton. It isn't hot under my hands and feet like rubber is.  The grip is excellent without feeling tacky.  The thickness is just right for getting rooted. Also, it's lightweight for carrying to class and doesn't require an oversize mat bag.

The Color: My only hesitation on this mat was the natural color; in my 15 years of practice I've never had anything but a solid purple mat. I'm a little weird on this point so I just had to keep an open mind to keep my eye from twitching.  When I opened the package I was actually very pleased.  The color is very soft and has a slight pink cast to it.  It's not distracting to practice on and it looks nice on my wood floor.

The Smell: There is none! Yay! I have had natural rubber mats that start out with a heavy scent which eventually goes away.  I was pleased as punch not to be greeted by that scent when I unrolled my mat for the first time.

The Price: This mat sells for a great price at $42.95 on Hugger Mugger's website. I have had mats that sell for 2 times that amount and this one is just as good and feels better under my hands and feet.  

In conclusion, the Hugger Mugger Sattva Jute Mat is terrific choice for beginner to advance yogis.  It is crafted with the environment in mind and combines the feel of fabric with the security of the grip of PER.  I recommend it to anyone.