Aren't all yoga mats the same?
It's not true. Most yoga mats, including the one you probably use in your studio, are made from a toxic brew of chemicals. Not only is the manufacturing process harmful, most of the materials used in that process are not recyclable and are non bio-degradable, and over time they have been shown to leach into the soil, eventually entering into the ground water system.
Why is cork a natural alternative?
Korq mats use none of those harmful materials or processes; our materials and processes are far more environmentally friendly.
What about the cork trees?
Unlike the traditional harvesting of wood products, cork harvesting doesn't use the whole tree — just the bark — so no trees are ever cut down. Massive cork forests are harvested periodically and a healthy cork tree can regenerate its bark about 12-13 times during a 150-year lifespan.
Why is using cork good for the environment?
Firstly, using cork supports local farmers and protects the Cork Oak in its native habitat in arid areas of the Mediterranean, primarily Spain and Portugal. The preservation of cork oak forests is also important to the survival of thousands of species in this rare ecosystem.
Cork forests also play a vital role in combating soil erosion by wind and rain.
Cork oaks are also naturally resistant to forest fires and play a vital role in protecting delicate landscapes from devastation.
Cork production is entirely sustainable and renewable. Cork Oak trees are not harmed in the harvest of their bark for cork, and cork forests have been harvested for a thousand years.
Cork mats are resilient, tough and long-lived. A mat that can last longer than other natural material mats such as rubber, Jute is definitely a responsible choice for the environment.
How long should a Korq mat last?
Cork is an extremely durable material. Your mat may last as long as your enjoyment of yoga does.
Are Korq mats hard to take care of?
All you have to do is wipe your mat down with a damp towel and a little soap then let it sit. It dries very quickly, normally within a minute.
Are Korq mats heavy because they're made from wood?
Not at all. Cork is an extremely lightweight material as is our foam, so Korq mats weigh less than the synthetic rubber mat you're currently using.
What are the unique properties of the Korq mat?
Many of the special qualities of cork derive from the fact that it is actually the bark of the cork oak. Its role as a protective barrier for the tree also means that it is also naturally hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial and anti-fungal. Cork, because of its micro-cellular structure, is very resilient — cushioning blows, resisting dents and absorbing sound. Cork is also beautifully warm underfoot because of its high insulation value.
In short, a cork mat can simultaneously reduce sound transmission, make a mat feel warm, be easy to maintain and practicing on a cork mat promotes a healthier living environment!
Are Korq mats comfortable?
The natural absorption properties of cork are incredible. It has a warm suede feel and provides much greater cushioning than any other kind of mat.
I have allergies — can switching to a Korq mat help me?
A cork mat is naturally hypo-allergenic. Cork is anti-microbial and is resistant to mold and mildew. A cork mat doesn't hold a static charge, hence can't hold dust on the surface and is easy to keep clean. Our cork mats do not off-gas like PVC mats.
Are Korq yoga mats suitable for all yoga practices?
Korq mats can be used in all types of yoga practice. However, at present we do not recommend using Korq mats for hot or Bikram type yoga. Our R&D department is working on a mat specifically for these types of yoga.
