How to choose foam mats

There are so many foam mats on the sports market, that it is sometimes difficult to decide which is best for your sporting needs. This article aims to indicate which foam mat qualities are required for each sport, in order for you to better choose the mats that match your needs.

Which mats do I need?

Foam mats are made in a variety of ways, and with a variety of materials.
Each different type performs a different function, and if not selected properly, it may not be suitable for purpose. Thus, it may cause damage to equipment or injury to people involved in the sport or activity. Soft mats Soft mats can be used for a range of purposes that relate to 'soft' activities. You may require play mats for your children or nursery group, flooring mats for light housework or DIY activities, kids floor mats to protect surfaces. You can even provide a soft play mats area for children to play or sleep in. Outdoor mats Outdoor mats tend to be made of more durable material than indoor mats, and are usually resistant to water or damp exposure. Outdoor mats can be used for a variety of reasons, and are very popular amongst gardeners, who wish to kneel of them or outdoor flooring for outhouses/outbuildings. The building trade also use outdoor rubber flooring in temporary structures, and often choose safety mats, that are like interlocking tiles for greater stability. Sports and gymnasium mats When deciding which mats to buy for sporting activities, it is imperative that you check the purpose of the mat and its characteristics and qualities, before you buy them. This is because injury can occur without proper consideration and attention. Gym floor mats range from soft mats for use with activities, like yoga and pilates, to hard, durable mats for use with martial arts like judo or karate. Judo mats, especially need to be of an exceptionally high quality as the judokas (judo participants) will be thrown at speed into the floor. You need to make sure that your mats are strong enough to be used with your sport, that they are non-slippery (as gym floors tend to be shiny surfaces) and that they are easy to store and clean.

Where you can get more information

You can take a trip to your local sports centre, and ask about the mats that they use. The staff will be happy to explain the differences between them all, if you arrange a convenient time for them. Also, you must ask in sports shops and equipment retailers, as they will have an in-depth product knowledge. Online shops often give many information about suitability too.