Yoga Mat Bags

Yogis or yoginis on the go needs yoga mat bags to keep yoga equipment protected on the road or in storage. But that doesn't mean you need something drab and charmless.

Fortunately, they come in a wide range of materials, colors and designs so you're sure to find something that appeals.

If you're shopping for a yoga bag, here are some important considerations:

Firstly, what material would suit you? The choice of materials for yoga mat bags is very important not only for the durability of your yoga bag but also for its feel and look.

The main materials used are cotton, silk and hemp though innovative manufacturers and designers are adding new fabrics regularly.

Cotton Yoga Bags

Cotton is the most popular fabric for yoga bags owing to its many qualities. For one thing it's a tough and durable material which makes it perfect for bags that are used often and carry heavy items. Yoga mats can be heavy, especially post practice when they can be damp.

Cotton is also easy to clean. Just pop it in a washing machine or do it by hand. You need to be careful of shrinkage though. Either buy a ready-shrunk item or take care by hang drying your bag.

Silk Yoga Bags

Silk yoga mat bags are enjoying a vogue at the moment. They're perfect for evoking that Eastern ambiance that it a part of yoga wherever it's done. Silk yoga bags are just the thing if you're the kind of person for whom style is important as they are available a wide range of designs and colors.

On the downside, silk isn't as tough as other materials such as cotton. For this reason manufacturers usually line silk bags with cotton or other stronger materials.

Hemp Yoga Bags

Hemp bags appeal to environmentalist and those committed to being friends of the earth. Though not as stylish as silk bags or as easy to wash as cotton, hemp bags have an endearing rough and ready charm of their own.

Having chosen your fabric, you now need to make sure your yoga mat fits into the bag. Most bags can hold mats up to a length of 100 inches which should accommodate most mats. Check too that your bag of choice looks strong. Reinforced seams are a must for a hard working yoga bag.

Finally you should look at such items as straps and pockets. A strap is essential for carrying your yoga bag around as mats can be heavy. Make sure the strap is adjustable and broad enough that it doesn't cut into your shoulder.

Most yoga mat bags have pockets or compartments of some kind. Other than packing yoga items such as books or socks, these are handy for keeping your valuables during your practice period.

If you really want to travel light and loose, you'll really appreciate the yoga mat strap.