Yoga Mat vs. Yoga Towel for Hot Yoga?

A yoga mat and a yoga mat towel are two distinct pieces of equipment that serve complementary purposes, and in the world of hot yoga, the combination of the two is essential for a safe and effective practice. A yoga mat is the foundation of your practice. Its primary purpose is to provide cushioning for your joints (wrists, knees, spine) and a stable, non-slip surface to practice on in dry conditions. Mats are typically made from materials like PVC, TPE, or natural rubber, and they vary in thickness and texture. However, even the 'stickiest' yoga mat can become dangerously slippery when it gets wet. A yoga mat towel is specifically designed to solve this problem. It is a thin, highly absorbent layer, usually made of microfiber, that you place on top of your yoga mat. Its first job is to absorb the profuse sweat of a hot yoga class, preventing it from pooling on your mat. Its second, and equally important, job is to provide grip when wet. Most hot yoga towels have a surface that becomes more 'grippy' with moisture, and they often feature silicone nubs or a special backing on the underside to prevent the towel from sliding around on the mat. In hot yoga, the mat provides the cushion, and the towel provides the grip.