If you’ve ever slipped and slid during a yoga session, you’re not alone. The slippery yoga mat problem is a common frustration, especially for those who work up a sweat during their practice. Whether you’re in the middle of a challenging Vinyasa flow or holding a Warrior pose, losing your grip can throw off your balance and disrupt the flow of your practice.

But don’t worry—there are plenty of tricks to keep your yoga mat grippy and your practice steady. In this article, we’ll explore several practical solutions to help you deal with slippery yoga mats so that you can focus on your poses instead of your mat.

Understanding the Slippery Mat Problem

The type of material your mat is made from also plays a significant role. Mats made from PVC or TPE might be more prone to slipping when wet, compared to mats made from natural rubber or cork, which can offer better grip. However, even the best mats can become slippery if they aren’t properly maintained.

Slippery mats can be a problem in various yoga practices, but they’re particularly troublesome in dynamic styles like Vinyasa or Ashtanga, where you move quickly between poses. Maintaining a solid grip is crucial for stability and safety in these practices.

Solution 1: Using a Yoga Towel

A yoga towel is one of the most popular solutions for a slippery yoga mat. Yoga towels are designed to absorb sweat and create a grippy surface on top of your mat. As the towel gets wet, it sticks to the mat, and your hands and feet can grip the towel instead of the mat’s slick surface.

Yoga towels are handy in hot yoga classes, where sweating is a given. Lay the towel over your mat before class starts, and you’re good to go. Some yoga towels even have a grippy underside to help them stay in place, even when dry.

However, there’s a small catch. At the beginning of your practice, when you’re not sweating yet, the towel might slip around on the mat. To avoid this, try lightly misting the towel with water before class. This will help it stick to the mat right from the start, giving you a secure surface to practice on.

In addition to yoga towels, you might also consider microfiber towels. These towels are highly absorbent and become grippier as they get wet. They can be a great for anyone dealing with slippery mats.

Solution 2: Pouring Water on the Mat

If you’re looking for a quick and easy fix for a slippery yoga mat, pouring water directly on the mat could be the answer. It might sound a bit unconventional, but many yogis swear by this method. The idea is simple: by wetting the areas of the mat where your hands and feet typically go, you create instant grip. This trick can be handy if you don’t have a yoga towel or find your towel isn’t staying in place early in your practice.

Here’s how it works: before class starts, take your water bottle and pour a small amount of water on the mat where your hands and feet will be in poses like Downward Dog or Plank. The water helps create traction between your skin and the mat, reducing the chances of slipping.

One of the biggest benefits of this method is its simplicity—you don’t need any special equipment or products. Just a little water can make a big difference in your practice. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter! You might get a few curious looks in class, but once people see how well it works, they might just start doing it too.

Of course, this method has some downsides. Pouring too much water can create a puddle, which might be more slippery than helpful. It’s also important to be mindful of your mat type; some materials might not react well to being wet, so test this method cautiously.

Solution 3: Liquid Chalk

For those who need a bit more grip, especially on their hands and feet, liquid chalk can be a great solution. Originally popularized in rock climbing and weightlifting, liquid chalk creates a dry, grippy layer on your skin that helps prevent slipping. It’s now making its way into yoga studios, and for a good reason.

Liquid chalk is easy to use—just apply a small amount to your hands and feet before starting your practice. It dries quickly, forming a layer that increases friction between your skin and the mat. This can be particularly helpful in poses where you rely heavily on your hand and foot placement, such as Arm Balances or Warrior poses.

One of the best things about liquid chalk is that it doesn’t leave behind a sticky residue, unlike some grip gels or sprays. Compared to traditional chalk powders, it’s also less likely to irritate the skin, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Liquid chalk can be messy if not applied carefully, and once it’s on, you’ll need to be mindful not to touch your face or hair. Finding the right amount to use without overdoing it might also take some trial and error.

Solution 4: No-Slip Grip or Grip Gel

A no-slip grip gel is another effective way to combat a slippery yoga mat. These products are specifically designed to enhance your grip during yoga practice. They create a tacky surface on your hands and feet, significantly reducing slipping, even when the mat is wet.

Grip gels are easy to apply—simply rub a small amount onto your hands and feet before starting your session. The gel dries quickly, leaving a slightly sticky residue that enhances grip. This can be particularly helpful in high-intensity yoga classes where you constantly move and sweat.

One popular brand among yogis is Manduka’s Grip Gel, known for its effectiveness and ease of use. However, many fitness brands now offer similar products, so you have plenty of options.

The main advantage of using a grip gel is that it provides a strong, consistent grip throughout your practice, without needing to reapply. It’s also a great solution if you don’t want to use a towel or find that towels interfere with your practice.

On the downside, grip gels can be a bit sticky, and it’s important not to over-apply. Using too much might make your mat feel gummy, which could actually hinder your practice instead of helping it. Additionally, some gels might leave a residue on your mat that needs to be cleaned off after practice.

Solution 5: Investing in a High-Quality, Grippy Yoga Mat

Sometimes, the best solution to a slippery mat is to invest in a high-quality yoga mat that’s specifically designed to provide superior grip. Not all mats are created equal, and if you’re regularly slipping, it might be time to upgrade to one that better suits your needs.

Several brands are known for their grippy mats, with Bmat and Lululemon leading the way. These mats are designed to provide excellent traction, even when wet. They are often made from natural rubber or special coatings that enhance grip. For example, Lululemon’s “The Reversible Mat” is praised for its sweat-absorbing surface, making it ideal for hot yoga practitioners.

While these mats tend to be more expensive, they’re a worthwhile investment for serious yogis. A good mat can last for years with proper care, and the added stability can significantly improve your practice.

Consider the thickness, material, and overall texture when choosing a grippy mat. A thicker mat might offer more cushioning, but it could also affect stability in standing poses. Conversely, thinner mats can provide a more grounded feel but might be less comfortable on the joints. Test out a few options if possible to find the perfect balance for your practice.

Solution 6: Yoga Paws

Yoga Paws could be an innovative solution if you’re looking for an alternative to traditional yoga mats. Yoga Paws are essentially small, grippy gloves and socks you wear on your hands and feet. They allow you to practice on any surface without worrying about slipping, making them a great option for travel or for people who find standard mats cumbersome.

Yoga Paws are particularly useful in poses where grip is critical, like Arm Balances or Downward Dog. Because they’re worn directly on the skin, they eliminate the issue of slipping on a wet mat altogether. Plus, they offer the freedom to practice anywhere, whether it’s on a carpet, hardwood floor, or even outdoors.

While Yoga Paws can be a fantastic tool, they do have some limitations. They might take some getting used to, especially if you’re accustomed to practicing on a full mat. Additionally, they might not provide enough cushioning for poses that involve kneeling or lying down. However, Yoga Paws can be a game-changer for those who prioritize grip over all else.

Solution 7: Towel Clips

If you prefer using a yoga towel but struggle with it slipping around, towel clips could be your solution. Towel clips are small, clip-on devices that secure your towel to the mat, keeping it in place throughout your practice.

These clips are especially helpful in classes where you move frequently and don’t have time to constantly adjust your towel. By securing the towel at the top and bottom of your mat, you can prevent it from bunching up or shifting, allowing you to focus fully on your practice.

Towel clips are simple to use and relatively inexpensive. Many yogis who sweat a lot find them indispensable to their practice. They work particularly well with thinner towels, which might be more prone to slipping.

Remember that towel clips might not be compatible with all mats, especially thicker ones. Before purchasing, ensure that the clips can accommodate the thickness of both your mat and towel.

Solution 8: Suede or Microfiber Yoga Mats

Another innovative solution for preventing slips is using a yoga mat with a suede or microfiber surface. These mats are designed to get grippier as you sweat, making them perfect for hot yoga or any practice where you work up a lot of moisture.

Suede and microfiber yoga mats combine the benefits of a mat and a towel in one product. The surface is soft to the touch and becomes more adhesive when it gets wet, providing a secure grip throughout your practice. This dual functionality means you don’t need to carry a separate towel, simplifying your yoga gear.

One popular brand that offers this type of mat is Popflex, known for its durable and stylish suede mats. These mats are also easy to clean and maintain, often just requiring a quick wipe down after practice.

While these mats offer excellent grip when wet, they can be a bit slippery when dry. You might want to lightly mist the surface before starting your practice to combat this. Additionally, suede and microfiber mats tend to be a bit pricier, but the investment is often worth it for the added comfort and stability.

Solution 9: Use of Spray Bottles

Keeping a small spray bottle handy during yoga is another effective way to maintain grip on your mat. Spray bottles allow you to quickly mist your mat or towel during class, ensuring that the surface remains slightly damp and grippy.

This method is beneficial if you use a towel on your mat. As the towel dries out, a quick spray can re-activate its grippiness, helping you stay stable in your poses. You can also spray directly on your mat if certain areas get slippery.

Spray bottles are convenient and easy to use. They’re small enough to fit in your yoga bag and can be filled with water or a mixture of water and essential oils for a refreshing scent. Some yogis even prefer using a mixture of water and salt, as saltwater can increase the tackiness of the mat.

One thing to watch out for is over-spraying, which can make your mat too wet and potentially slippery. A light misting is usually all you need to keep things under control.

Solution 10: Proper Maintenance and Care

Finally, proper maintenance and care is one of the most overlooked solutions to a slippery yoga mat. Over time, dirt, oils, and sweat can build up on your mat, reducing its grip and effectiveness. Regular cleaning can help maintain the surface’s texture and prolong the life of your mat.

To keep your mat in top condition, clean it regularly with a gentle mat cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar. Avoid harsh chemicals, as these can damage the material and reduce grip. After cleaning, make sure to let your mat air dry completely before rolling it up.

If you use a yoga towel, washing it after every use is equally important. Frequent washing will keep the towel fresh and maintain its grippy qualities. Be mindful of how you dry it—air drying is often recommended to preserve the integrity of the towel’s material.

Proper storage is also key. When not in use, keep your mat in a cool, dry place, and avoid leaving it in direct sunlight, which can cause the material to degrade. By taking care of your mat and towel, you’ll ensure they provide the grip you need for many practices.

Conclusion

If you’re focused on improving your yoga practice, dealing with a slippery mat is essential. Just as the right techniques can enhance your poses, finding effective solutions for your mat can make a big difference. At Joga Yoga Teacher Training in Bali, we understand the importance of stability—both in your practice and on your mat. Whether you opt for a grippy towel, a high-quality mat, or other practical tools, these adjustments help you stay grounded and focused. Ensure every pose is secure and steady as you deepen your practice.

Remember, the key is experimenting and finding the solution that best suits your practice and preferences. So, grab your mat, try out these tips, and enjoy a more stable and satisfying yoga experience.

Namaste!