How often do you replace your yoga mat? I have to admit I never have. My mat is close to a decade old, but with all the hot yoga I’ve been doing lately I’ve been wishing I had more than one option. I’ve been on the hunt for a new yoga mat for over a year. I kept putting it off because it didn’t seemed like that exciting of a purchase. Then I came across this funky Gaiam 5mm Reversible Yoga Mat in Elephant. 

Super cool yoga mat giveaway

How I love looking at this elephant every time I practice!

Best reversible yoga mat

The moment I spotted this happy mat I was hooked. Bye bye boring solid colours. Hello vibrant blue elephant on one side and intricate orange designs on the other. Yep, the mats are reversible. The trouble with that is I don’t want to get all OCD about it and only use blue for flow classes and orange for sculpt classes or something ridiculous like that. So far so good.

orange print yoga mat

When I need energy, I use the orange side.

As much as I’m in love with the stylish aspect of this reversible mat, it’s the comfort level that really wows. It’s 5mm thick, which I didn’t think was a big deal, but the extra padding actually is. My wrists aren’t as sore and I’m now able to plank like everyone else instead of from my elbow.

orange and blue yoga mat

Nobody in my studio has a mat as rad as this one!

I’m not a super environmentalist, but I must admit, I like that though the mat is made of PVC (as the majority are), they’ve eliminated the six most harmful phthalates, making it a healthier choice.

On-The-Go Yoga Mat Carrier

Because I bike to yoga, I was all over this On-The-Go Yoga Mat Carrier. It has the ease of a sling, with essential storage space. There’s this internal elastic band that holds the mat secure so it doesn’t slip out when I’m biking. An external zip pocket holds my phone, keys and cash.

yoga mat sling

Sometimes I crisscross the handles and wear this carrier like a backpack

I still get a rush when I glance at my happy mat and I want you to be as jazzed about your yoga practice as I am. I reached out to Gaiam and asked if I could offer one lucky Travels with Baggage reader a mat, and they happily agreed.

yoga mat carrier

It’s now 2018 and neither the elastic nor the velcro has worn out.

Please comment below and let me know how often you replace your fitness equipment. You can also share this post on Twitter or Facebook. Just be sure to tag me, so I can record your entry. (Twitter: @Jody_Robbins and facebook.com/TravelswithBaggage). All shares and comments must be received by midnight, April 1, 2016.

Thank you, Gaiam!

And if you’re looking for a good travel yoga mat (as I now am) check out this compact and lightweight one.