I feel my money was well invested. Remember to wash it before you use it, or it will be very slippery (I used a moist towel). I would recommend to anyone who does yoga on a consistent basis. I use it for the infamous p90x and I wanted to be equipped with the best product available! I do asthanga yoga, so the mat takes a beating because my yoga practice is a bit unsightly. This is a very good mat.

As far as using it, it has an amazing floor support and the mat grips the floor very steadily, either on hardwood or on carpet. The support is nice with excellent thickness.

It provides good support, even when getting sweaty. The Manduka black mat offers the most secure footing of any mat I have used; the enhanced stability allows one to concentrate on the pose and not on keeping the feet from slipping.

If you sweat a lot, then you’ll probably also want to grab a towel: Manduka Large Towel. All of these products together will run you about $160, which is A LOT, I know, but what price is ultimate comfort when you’re practicing your daily asanas” I’m amazed that it looks the same as when I bought it. I practice 90 minutes on it 4 or 5 times a week, mostly Ashtanga.

I bought the mat with the matching bag as a set from Amazon.com, and once I slid the movable shoulder pad up to cover the buckle, off I went. As far as slippage is concerned, I experienced some foot slippage the first time I used it but have had no problems since.

Because the mat is thicker and softer/more cushioned (though not too squishy) my feet are “gripping” differently. Of course, this is a great feature for any kneeling/floor poses. Why wouldn’t you want a mat that is guaranteed for two lifetimes” You can put it in your will. I have bought 1/4″ mats before, but they gave under the pressure of my body weight. The Manduka mat has absolutely no give.

I would recommend this mat to anyone looking for a well built, highly functional yoga mat. I love my new Manduka black mat. I was hesitant to buy this mat because it’s expensive…but after having bought a couple of cheap mats, I decided to stop wasting more money on more cheap mats and bought this. I am so happy that I did! I definitely recommend the Manduka mat to those interested in yoga. I’m a beginner in the yoga world, but this is clearly a top-notch company and product.

I have high expectations for this mat. I don’t have any complaints really.

If you are keeping this Black mat at home and not needing to travel with it, it’s an excellent mat. antique wooden filing cabinets.