Unlike other exercise program which requires you to use different equipment and machines, yoga, as a discipline do not need much but a mat. One of the first few necessities that you should buy in addition to a yoga outfit is a yoga mat that will serve as your silent partner in all the yoga routines and movement that you will accomplish during your yoga sessions. Another essential that should be part of your shopping list when starting yoga is the yoga mat bag, which will help secure your yoga mat and will help you lug it around from your office to the gym to the house.
Yoga mat bags come in various styles and materials. Less expensive ones that are sold in the market are often made from materials like linen, cotton or hemp. These types of yoga mats are also recommended for people who are on the go because they are easily washed and are easily carried.
The more expensive ones are leather-made. Actually, there is no difference when it comes to functionality as all these materials will protect your yoga mat. Leather, however is more durable and of course, more fashionable. Besides if you feel that you will be taking yoga for a very long time, the leather mat bag will be a greater alternative for you because it will look even better with age.
Knowing whether a leather is quality depends on what people term as the “hand-feel.” In fact, the softer the feel of the leather in your hands, the better its quality is. You should consider the tears and markings in the leather surface.
Size matters!
In buying a yoga mat bag, it is vital that you take careful attention on some features of the yoga mat. One of the main things that you should take into account is of course the size of the mat. Some people make the mistake of buying the yoga mat bags first before buying the yoga mat. This shouldn’t be the case because the bag should be roomy enough to hold your mat and a whole lot more!
Locks and zips
Before purchasing yoga mat bags, you should first try to open and close the zippers easily. If you are planning to put some really personal items like wallets and stuff especially if you do not have any lockers at your yoga class, go for the designs that have locks. Additional feature that you should look into is the stitching on the drawstrings, which will make it more heavy duty.
Pockets and straps
Features that you should also look for in yoga mat bags are pockets on the side, which can hold some, or a lot, of your knick-knacks. This is especially needed if you do not bring an extra bag where you can place your money and your keys. Another great feature that you should look out for are the inside pockets where you can keep smaller stuff. This will prevent you from rummaging inside the bag every time you need them. Adjustable straps are also best as this will help you tailor-fit the bag according to your body frame.
Fashion statement
Who says that you can’t be fashionable even when you are on your way to your yoga classes? There are so many colors and designs that you can choose from. Others are sporty looking while some have more artistic slants into the designs.
Filed under: Yoga