Manduka The brand produces the most popular accessories in the yoga world. echo And PRO series are among the most preferred mats by yogis all over the world. You can use this comparison to find out which of these superior series is right for you.
Manduka produces three models for both the eKO series and the PRO series: Basic (original), Lite and Travel. Both series are designed with reviews from yoga instructors. There are features that distinguish models with features that provide a perfect yoga practice. At the end of the article, you can decide more easily which mat is right for you.
Why PRO?
PRO, is Manduka's best-selling model worldwide. The reasons for this are the product's durability, perfect cushioning feature, increasing grip with use and being environmentally friendly. PRO, which has a closed cell structure, is long-lasting because it does not absorb moisture. In fact, it is so long-lasting that it has a lifetime durability guarantee. If a mat that you use according to the instructions deteriorates over time, the brand will replace the product with a new one.
Another feature that the closed cell structure brings to PRO is the ease of cleaning. After completing your session, you can clean the surface with a damp cloth, let it dry and then remove your product.
The perfect cushioning feature of the PRO series comes from the density and thickness of the models in the series. This structure safely protects joints such as knees, elbows and wrists. You can easily do difficult asanas without feeling the presence of the ground underneath. Thanks to the wide surface of the mat, transitions between poses are more comfortable.
The closed-cell surface structure in the PRO series adapts to you as you use it. In other words, the comfort of the PRO increases after each use. However, this product can become slippery with moisture. If you have a structure that sweats a lot during practice, especially if your hands get sweaty and damp, you can use a yoga towel. The towel you place on any model in the PRO series will ensure that your session is uninterrupted.
The PVC used in the production of the Manduka PRO series is a high quality material. The series, which carries the internationally valid OEKO-TEX certificate, is produced in Germany. This certificate is proof that the environment and human health are not harmed during the production of the product. Another feature that makes the model environmentally friendly is that it does not wear out. The mat, which has a lifetime durability guarantee, accompanies you throughout your yoga adventure without getting tired or breaking down.
Why eco?
The eKO series, which is completely handmade with its specially textured surface, is produced from rubber trees grown outside the Amazon forest. Representing the next generation of environmentally friendly mats, eKO does not use any harmful chemicals in its production. It is more durable and long-lasting than other rubber mats on the market.
The eKO series is a much softer mat than the PRO. Its special texture provides instant cushioning for your joints. It does not open as you use it like the PRO. The rubber surface provides high grip and the usage period of the eKO is limited, unlike the PRO. Rubber, which is a natural material, wears out and fades over time. For this reason, you need to maintain this product more gently.
You should avoid using the models in the eKO series in intensive sessions. Ashtanga or Vinyasa practices cause the surface of the product to wear out more quickly. For this reason, it is more logical to use the more durable PRO series instead of the eKO in these practices.
Deciding What Suits You Best
In conclusion, both products have superior features. The three models in the series also serve different purposes.You can choose the model that best suits your needs from among the models classified according to their size and weight.
If you travel a lot, you can consider the Travel model of the series you like. If you do yoga in different spots in the city, the Lite model offers both the comfort you are looking for and the thinness and weight you want. If you do not travel much, it would be a good choice to evaluate the basic models.
You can use the closed-cell structure of the eKO and PRO with a towel for extra grip. So no matter how much you sweat, you stay stable and your balance does not change. You do not slip during pose transitions and your practices continue uninterrupted. If you know exactly what kind of model you are looking for, one of these two superior products will meet your needs perfectly.