Help Center - PRO Series Yoga Mats

Help Center - PRO Series Yoga Mats

What Does “Closed-Cell Surface” Mean for the PRO Series?

The PRO Series yoga mat features a closed-cell surface, which means it’s non-absorbent. Sweat, moisture, and bacteria won’t seep into the mat, keeping it clean, hygienic, and long-lasting much longer than mats that soak up moisture.

To enhance your practice:

  • Light sweat: Pair your PRO mat with an eQua® or Yogitoes® hand towel for extra grip.

  • Heavy sweat: Use an eQua® full mat towel or Yogitoes® full mat towel to keep your mat dry and slip-free.

  • Extra grip: Manduka Yoga Grip Gel works like liquid chalk, forming a barrier between your hands/feet and the mat to prevent slipping.

Caring for Your PRO Series Mat

  • Daily Refresh: Use Mat Wash & Refresh to keep your mat smelling fresh and ready for each practice.

  • Deep Clean: For a more thorough clean, especially after studio use, use Botanical Cleaner, which contains Thymol, a natural antiseptic.

Your PRO Series mat is built to last, so with proper care, it can stay hygienic and perform beautifully for years.

Useful Tips & Guides

Latex Sensitivity – Can I Use the PRO Series?

Yes! The Manduka PRO Series is 100% latex-free and made from OEKO-TEX 100 certified PVC, making it safe for yogis with even the slightest latex sensitivity.

Available Sizes and Thicknesses

Manduka offers the PRO Series in a variety of sizes to suit your practice:

PRO Series:

  • PRO: 180 × 66 cm, 6 mm thick

  • PRO Long: 215 × 66 cm, 6 mm thick

  • PRO Long & Wide: 200 × 132 cm, 6 mm thick

PROlite Series:

  • PROlite: 180 × 61 cm, 4.7 mm thick

  • PROlite Long: 200 × 61 cm, 4.7 mm thick

  • PROlite Long & Wide: 200 × 76 cm, 4.7 mm thick

PRO Squared:

  • 198 × 198 cm, 6 mm thick

What’s the Difference Between the Manduka PRO™ and PROlite®?

The Manduka PRO™ and PROlite® yoga mats are actually more alike than different. Both feature the same high-performance surface, dense support, and come with a Lifetime Guarantee. They’ve been top-sellers for over 10 years!

So what sets them apart? It comes down to weight, thickness, and color. The PROlite® was designed for yogis who love the feel and quality of the PRO™ but want a lighter, more portable mat. Available in a range of inspiring colors, the PROlite® offers the same comfort and durability as its big sibling, but weighs just 1.9 kg.

For a detailed comparison of the PRO Series, you can check out our PRO vs PROlite® guide.

What Are PRO Series Yoga Mats Made Of?

The PRO Series mats are designed by yoga teachers with function, comfort, and longevity in mind. They are made from OEKO-TEX certified, safe PVC and feature a closed-cell surface, which means nothing is absorbed into the mat. This makes cleaning easy and ensures your mat stays hygienic over time.

How Does the PRO Series Differ from the eKO® Series?

The PRO Series has earned a reputation as the Taj Mahal of yoga mats. With a single-layer construction, dense support, and a surface designed for smooth movement between poses, it’s built to last a lifetime. By choosing the PRO, you reduce overall yoga mat consumption and the amount of PVC ending up in landfills.

The eKO® Series is made from all-natural, non-Amazon harvested tree rubber and represents Manduka’s eco-friendly innovation. With a closed-cell surface, it provides stable practice and dry grip. Made without toxic glues or foaming agents, the eKO® mats are also more durable than most other natural rubber mats on the market.

Wondering about “closed-cell surfaces”? This design means your mat won’t absorb sweat or moisture, unlike many other mats. If you tend to sweat a lot during practice, pairing your mat with a yoga towel can help keep it dry and maintain your grip.

Do the eKO® and PRO Series Feel Different When Practicing?

Both the eKO® Series and PRO Series were designed by yoga teachers to provide an optimal practice surface, but their materials create different experiences:

  • PRO Series: Offers maximum durability, comfort, and performance. At 6 mm thick, it provides dense support that’s perfect for sensitive knees and joints.

  • eKO® Series: Made with two layers of different densities, giving a soft, spongy feel while still being durable. Ideal for yogis who enjoy a grounding experience with excellent dry grip.

Does the PRO Travel Fold Easily Into My Suitcase?

Yes! The PRO Travel mat folds easily to fit into your suitcase or bag, unlike thicker mats that must be rolled. It may show creases when first unfolded, but these will smooth out over time when the mat is laid flat or rolled together.

Is the PRO Series OEKO-TEX® Certified?

Absolutely. The PRO Series is STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified (12.HUS.17706 | Hohenstein HTTI), ensuring it is free from harmful substances and safe for you and your family.

Meet the PRO Series

Discover the Manduka PRO Series, designed for durability, comfort, and performance.

Where Is the PRO Series Made?

The PRO Series is sustainably made in Germany from high-quality PVC. It is STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified (12.HUS.17706 | Hohenstein HTTI), ensuring it’s free from harmful substances and safe for you and your family.

Use & Care

How Do I “Break In” the PRO Series?

Just like a favorite pair of jeans or a well-loved baseball glove, the PRO mat requires a little break-in process or as we like to call it, the PROcess.

As you practice, the top surface naturally wears in, creating a mat that’s uniquely yours. The more you stretch, twist, sweat, and breathe on it, the better it feels just like your yoga practice evolves over time.

Thanks to its durability (and backed by a lifetime guarantee), you’ll never wear your PRO mat “out,” only “in.” Some of our first Black Mat PROs are still in use today over 20 years later.

Tips to Break In Your Mat:

  • Practice consistently the best way to wear it in is simply to use it.

  • Use a performance hand towel for extra grip while breaking in your mat.

  • Try Manduka Yoga Grip Gel for instant grip during any practice.

Which Side of the Yoga Mat Should I Use?

  • Top: Look for the frog logo in the top-right corner. This is your practice side.

  • Bottom: The underside features a dot-pattern texture to prevent slipping on the floor.

How Do I Get My Yoga Mat to Lie Flat After Being Rolled Up?

If you store your mat rolled, try rolling it with the top surface facing outwards. This helps the corners stay flat when you unroll it for practice.

How Long Does the Break-In Period Take for My PRO Series Mat?

Like a baseball glove, every PRO Series mat has a break-in period. The more you use it, the softer and grippier it becomes!

The break-in time varies depending on your mat and your practice style, but typically it takes about three months of regular use. During this time, a little slipping is normal the friction from your hands and feet helps the mat wear in perfectly to your practice.

Since all PRO Series mats have a closed-cell surface, they don’t absorb moisture. If you sweat, the mat may feel slippery at first. To improve grip:

  • Use a performance hand towel to absorb moisture and provide traction.

  • For hot yoga or heavy sweating, use a full mat towel for maximum coverage.

For more tips on reducing slip and increasing grip, check out our blog post on less slip in yoga.

My Hands Are Slipping What Should I Do?

The PRO Series Yoga Mat features a closed-cell surface, which prevents moisture and bacteria from being absorbed. This means sweat stays on the surface rather than soaking in. When enough moisture builds up between your hands or feet and the mat, slippage can occur.

If your hands are slipping, try these solutions:

  • Use a hand towel or full mat towel to absorb sweat.

  • Apply Manduka Yoga Grip Gel for instant traction.

  • Ensure your mat is clean and free of dust or debris, as even a thin layer can reduce grip.

To prevent slipping:

  • Light sweat: Use a performance hand towel for extra traction.

  • Hot yoga or heavy sweating: Use a full mat towel for complete coverage.

  • No towels: Try Manduka Yoga Grip Gel, an evaporating gel that creates a moisture barrier between your skin and the mat. It’s perfect for helping yogis develop grip during practice.

When Should I Use the Salt Method?

The salt method can help speed up the break-in process for your PRO mat.

  • Use plain salt with no added oils (e.g., bath salts).

  • This method does not change the mat’s surface it only helps your mat break in faster.

Important:

  • The salt method is optional. Your PRO mat naturally develops its grip over time through regular practice.

  • If you want extra traction during practice, pairing your mat with a hand towel, full mat towel, or Yoga Grip Gel is recommended instead.

Do I Have to Use the Salt Method Before Practicing on My New PRO Yoga Mat?

No! The salt treatment is completely optional. It’s only suggested if you want to speed up the break-in process. Your PRO mat can be used immediately without it. The salt treatment does not alter the mat’s surface or make it sticky it simply helps your mat wear in faster if desired.

How Do I Store the PRO Series?

For best results, store your PRO Yoga Mat rolled up in a dry place, with the top side facing outwards. This helps the corners stay flat when unrolled for practice.

How Do I Care for the PRO Series?

Your PRO mat naturally improves with use, developing subtle surface texture that enhances grip over time. To keep it in top condition:

Daily Refresh:

  • Wipe down your mat after each practice with Manduka Mat Wash & Refresh.

  • Spray the mat, then use a clean cloth to dry it before rolling or using again.

  • Never soak, shower, or submerge your mat in water.

  • Store in a cool, dry place.

Deeper Refresh:

  • Spray generously until visibly wet.

  • Let sit 1–2 minutes, then gently scrub areas with dirt or stains using a clean cloth.

  • Dry completely before rolling or using.

Thorough Cleaning:

  • Use Manduka Botanical Cleaner, which contains Thymol to deeply clean your mat’s surface.

Important:

What Makes Manduka Care Solutions Better Than Home Solutions?

It comes down to ingredients and preparation.

While both Manduka products and homemade solutions are based on water and essential oils, water and oil naturally don’t mix at least not without help. Manduka adds a bio-based fragrance solubilizer, which ensures the essential oils spread evenly throughout the purified water and stay suspended instead of floating to the top.

Additionally, Manduka mixes the ingredients in an industrial mixer at 1700 rpm (a home stand mixer usually maxes out at 280 rpm). This ensures every spray delivers the perfect balance of water and essential oil to your yoga mat.

Approved Yoga Mat Care Products for the PRO Series

The following Manduka care products are safe to use on the PRO Series:

If you prefer not to use Manduka products, you can also clean your mat with a cloth dampened with water.

Important: Do not use homemade cleaners or disinfectants, or solutions from studios that are not Manduka-tested. These can negatively affect performance or cause long-term damage, and may void the Lifetime Guarantee.

Is This Normal?

1. My PRO Yoga Mat is Slightly Shorter Than 180 cm - Is This Normal?
Yes! Each PRO mat is hand-cut, so slight variations in length are normal and do not affect performance.

Additional factors that can affect length:

  • The internal scrim (woven layer) gives the mat its shape. Over time, the scrim may tighten slightly, causing minimal shrinkage.

  • If your mat is from the Almost Perfect Collection, minor deviations in size are allowed, but the mat still meets the same quality standards as standard PRO mats.

2. My PRO/PROlite Color Field Yoga Mat Looks Different From the Images Online - Is This Normal?
Yes! Color Field mats are hand-processed, making each pattern unique. The mat may not exactly match the product images, but every mat is carefully quality-tested to ensure top performance.

I Practice Hot Yoga and Slip During Practice on My PRO Yoga Mat – What Do You Recommend?

For hot yoga or heavy sweating, we recommend pairing your mat with a full yoga mat towel: either Yogitoes® Mat Towel or eQua® Mat Towel.

Why a full mat towel helps:

  • Hot yoga can cause sweat to drip from head to toe. A full towel absorbs the moisture before it pools on your mat.

  • This activates grip where you need it most—under your hands and feet.

  • It also keeps floor-based poses, like Savasana, comfortable by preventing you from lying in pools of sweat.

Choosing the right towel for your practice:

  • Yogitoes® Mat Towel: Offers maximum absorbency and keeps the mat comfortable even during heavy sweating. Silicone nubs provide a firm hold and great grip for hands and feet. Ideal if absorption and comfort are your priority.

  • eQua® Mat Towel: Provides a fast, first-sweat grip but may weaken once fully saturated. Best if instant grip is your priority, but may bunch slightly under heavy sweat.

Summary:

  • Heavy sweat + comfort: Yogitoes®

  • Fast grip: eQua®

I Practice Power Flow and Slip During Practice on My PRO Yoga Mat When I Start Building Heat - What Do You Recommend?

For heavier flow practices where a solid grip is essential, we recommend using a Yogitoes® Hand Towel.

  • The towel’s silicone nubs hold it in place exactly where you need grip under your hands or feet.

  • Perfect for practices like Ashtanga or Power Flow, where your body generates heat but isn’t dripping as in hot yoga.

  • The extra traction keeps your hands and feet stable as your practice intensifies.

I Practice Various Types of Yoga and Slip Specifically at My Hands and Feet - What Do You Recommend?

In this case, we suggest using an eQua® Hand Towel.

  • Place the towel under your hands (or feet) when you notice slippage.

  • It absorbs sweat and adds traction exactly where it’s needed, helping maintain stability in poses like Warrior or Lunge.

  • Its compact size allows you to move it around to wherever extra grip is needed.

Why a hand towel instead of a full mat towel?

  • Full mat towels are best for hot yoga, when the entire body is sweating.

  • Hand towels work for localized slip, as sweat from hands or feet is enough to activate the towel’s grip.

Alternative Option:

  • Manduka Yoga Grip Gel creates a moisture barrier between your skin and mat, enhancing grip.

  • Ideal for yogis learning to develop consistent grip during regular practice.

I Practice Various Types of Yoga and Slip on My PRO Yoga Mat Immediately with Dry Hands – What Do You Recommend?

If you notice slipping before sweating or warming up, a full towel won’t help towels only grip once moisture is present. In this case, you might consider:

  • Reviewing core basics and proper alignment.

  • Checking your yoga mat care routine.

  • Avoiding hand creams or oils before practice.

Alternative Option:

  • Manduka Yoga Grip Gel works like liquid chalk, creating a dry, grippy surface on your hands.

  • Provides instant traction from the beginning of practice and can be easily washed off afterward.

My Yoga Mat Has Hardened Over Time – Is This Normal?

Yes. Over time, the use of detergents can change the characteristics of the PVC surface of the PRO Series. PVC is a plastic, and some cleaners can harden the surface, reducing cushion and grip.

Tip: Only use Manduka approved cleaning products for best results. Avoid homemade or studio-provided cleaners, as these are not tested and can void the Lifetime Guarantee.

For more guidance, check out our Yoga Mat Care Guide.

PRO Series Lifetime Guarantee

What Is the PRO Series Lifetime Guarantee?
Manduka guarantees that PRO™, PROlite®, and PRO Travel yoga mats are free from manufacturer defects and built to last a lifetime if used and cared for properly.

  • If the mat wears out under normal conditions and regular use, Manduka will replace it, regardless of where it was purchased.

  • Proof of purchase is required to request a replacement.

  • Damage caused by improper care, misuse, alterations, or using the mat for non-yoga purposes is not covered.

How to Request a Replacement:

  1. Fill out the PRO Series Lifetime Guarantee Form.

  2. Manduka will review your submission and determine eligibility.

  3. You will receive a response within five business days with further instructions.

What Is Covered Under the PRO Series Lifetime Guarantee?

The Lifetime Guarantee covers:

  • Wear to the top surface from regular use that impacts the mat’s performance.

  • For visual examples, see the Lifetime Guarantee page.

What Is Not Covered Under the Lifetime Guarantee?

The following are not covered:

  • Cosmetic wear that does not affect performance.

  • Uneven color patterns, stains, or discoloration, whether at purchase or from use.

  • Creases or folds caused by improper storage or handling (always roll or lay flat).

  • Damage from excessive water or liquids, including submerging the mat.

  • Improper cleaning with anything other than Manduka Yoga Mat Care products or water.

  • Damage from machines such as washing machines or vacuum cleaners.

  • Damage from non-yoga activities or outside elements.

  • Slipping on the mat.

  • Bad odor caused by lack of cleaning.

  • Yoga mats purchased before September 1, 2008.

  • Mats marked as “Irregular” at purchase.

  • PRO Squared mats.

  • Almost Perfect PRO Series mats.

  • Yoga mats used by studios for in-studio equipment purposes.

How Do I Make a Claim for the Lifetime Guarantee?

To request a replacement yoga mat under the Lifetime Guarantee:

  1. Fill out the Lifetime Guarantee request form and attach it via our Contact Us form.

  2. Proof of purchase is required for all claims.

  3. Manduka will review your submission to determine if your PRO® Series mat meets the Lifetime Guarantee criteria.

  4. You will receive a response within five business days with further instructions.

I Purchased My PRO Yoga Mat from Another Retailer. - Is It Still Covered?

Yes! The Lifetime Guarantee applies to mats purchased from third-party retailers.

  • Complete the Lifetime Guarantee request form found at the bottom of the Lifetime Guarantee page on our website.

  • Submit the form via the Contact Us form with all required information.

  • A sales receipt is necessary to process your request.

Sustainability

Is the PRO Series Environmentally Conscious?

Yes! While PVC is generally not eco-friendly, the PRO Series mats are:

  • Phthalate-free and free from other harmful toxins.

  • Manufactured through a certified emissions-free process.

  • OEKO-TEX certified, ensuring they are safe and free of harmful substances.

Eco-responsibility also comes from durability:

  • PRO mats are designed to last a lifetime, reducing the number of mats ending up in landfills.

  • Their longevity allows mats to be donated or reused, making yoga more accessible for others.

What Is Sustainable About the PRO Series?

The PRO Series is designed to last for years, reducing the number of PVC yoga mats that end up in landfills and lowering overall yoga mat consumption.

While most PVC products can release toxic emissions during manufacturing, PRO mats are made through a process that emits no harmful toxins into the atmosphere.

Additional certifications and features:

  • OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified (12.HUS.17706 | Hohenstein HTTI), ensuring the mat is free from harmful substances.

  • Crafted in Germany with durability and safety in mind.

By investing in a PRO mat, you’re making a long-term, environmentally conscious choice that minimizes waste and supports sustainable practices.

PRO Series Almost Perfect Yoga Mats

What type of imperfections can I expect?
“Almost Perfect” mats may vary in appearance and dimensions from standard PRO mats, including:

  • Large variations in Colorfield patterns

  • Differences in length, thickness, or weight

  • Minor surface imperfections or nicks on the bottom

  • Variations in color, logo placement, or cut

Important:

  • All Almost Perfect mats have been quality tested and provide the same performance as standard PRO mats.

  • While the Lifetime Guarantee does not apply to Almost Perfect mats, they are built to last and should serve your practice for many years.

Can You Give Me the Exact Imperfections of a Specific Almost Perfect Yoga Mat?

No, each Almost Perfect Yoga Mat is unique, and it is not possible to predict the exact imperfections of any individual mat.

Possible variations may include:

  • Large variations in Colorfield patterns

  • Differences in length, thickness, or weight

  • Minor surface imperfections or nicks on the bottom

  • Variations in color, logo placement, or cut (e.g., cut askew)

Important: Despite these imperfections, all Almost Perfect mats are quality tested and perform the same as standard PRO Series mats.

Are PRO Series Almost Perfect Yoga Mats Covered by the Lifetime Guarantee?

No. The Lifetime Guarantee does not apply to Almost Perfect mats.

However, these mats are built to last and designed to provide years of reliable use.

The Almost Perfect PRO Series Is Constructed of a Closed-Cell Surface, What Does This Mean?

  • The closed-cell surface is non-absorbent, preventing bacteria and moisture from penetrating the mat.

  • This keeps the mat hygienic and long-lasting, compared to mats that absorb sweat or moisture.

Tips for Grip:

  • If your hands or feet sweat, the mat may feel slippery. Pair it with:

    • Hand towels to absorb moisture and provide extra traction

    • Full mat towels for hot yoga classes

    • Manduka Yoga Grip Gel, which creates a moisture barrier between your skin and the mat, enhancing grip

For more tips, check out our blog post on reducing slip and increasing grip.

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