Why our cork is the best quality

When it comes to the materials used for your yoga mat, not all mats are created equal. Even mats labeled “natural” often contain synthetic materials and use chemical finishes.

However, at Corc Yoga, when we say our products are sustainably sourced and all-natural, we mean it. For centuries yoga has been a life-giving practice. We believe your mat should do the same.

There are three important characteristics of each Corc Yoga product: the origin, the manufacturing, and the material used.

Origin

Portugal is the world’s largest producer of cork. In fact, Portugal’s forests supply half of the world’s cork. This natural resource is used and sold throughout the country in a variety of ways: purses, jewelry, even cork umbrellas. And of course, yoga mats.

The beautiful thing about our cork harvesting is that no tree is ever harmed in the process. Our cork is collected using completely sustainable practices. The farmers harvest the material during peak times simply by stripping the bark from the tree. It’s a regenerative process, contributing to the tree’s ability to live up to 200 years.

Manufacturing

The country’s carefully regulated cork industry protects the integrity of the environment while creating high-wage seasonal jobs for over 10,000 Portuguese workers throughout the year.

We’re intentional about the way our cork is sourced and who harvests it. Corc Yoga only works with small family-owned cork farms and factories. In fact, each of our mats is handcrafted – no two are alike.

Material

There are many advantages of practicing yoga on a cork yoga mat over a traditional one. Our materials are 100% natural protecting you from harmful chemicals and ensuring no harm is done to the habitat from where it’s harvested. Our cork is life-giving for both the yogi and the environment.

In addition to the sustainability of our production, our products are 100% recyclable, vegan, and free of plastic, rubber, and/or latex. Yogis just like Susan immediately see and feel the difference with our Corc Yoga products. “I love how it feels under my bare feet and hands and the natural cork material feels and looks so much better than the smelly foam pads I’ve used over the years.”

There are many benefits to using cork, but here are just a few of the reasons our cork is the best material for your yoga mat. 

It’s 100% natural and chemical-free

Our products are 100% chemical-free and don’t contain heavy metals or harsh hormone-disruption materials like PVC or latex. It’s comforting to know you won’t be inhaling any harmful toxins during your downward dog.

It’s sustainable

Our products are 100% recyclable, renewable, and biodegradable. In fact, each harvest of cork contributes to the health and longevity of the trees.

“I appreciate the natural and regenerative practices with using cork plus it feels great and smells subtly sweet and woody. It is so superior to any “natural” rubber mats I have tried since they persistently off gas. I am also very grateful that no synthetic plastic is part of the mat. The cork mat seems to keep an even temperature suitable for practice in cooler or warmer settings where it maintains a balanced temperature.” – Melanie W., Corc Yoga customer.

It’s water-resistant

The wax found in the cell walls of cork makes it impermeable to liquids and resistant to moisture leading to a longer life.

It’s hypoallergenic and antimicrobial

Cork is naturally resistant to dust and mites, making it an ideal material for those who suffer from allergies and asthma.

It has non-slip grip

Thanks to cork’s honeycomb structure, our mats are naturally non-slip. The grip actually increases as you sweat, making it suitable for all types of yoga.

Incorporate cork into your practice

Cork trees naturally store carbon to regenerate their bark. Every year, cork trees absorb up to 20 million tons of CO2, while reducing greenhouse gases. These forests support one of the highest levels of biodiversity among forest habitats, as well as the highest diversity of plants found anywhere in the world.

Choosing cork over synthetic products is the best way to support the preservation of these habitats. Choosing Corc Yoga products ensures your practice is sustainable for both you and the world around you.