Retrospec Solana 1/2" vs Manduka PRO Travel Yoga Mat Comparison

Retrospec Solana 1/2" Yoga MatManduka PRO Travel Yoga Mat
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Retrospec Solana 1/2"

The Retrospec Solana 1/2" is the thinner version of the same NBR foam mat, with half the cushion and about a pound less weight for $15 less. It keeps the 72 by 24 inch footprint, ribbed non-slip surface and nylon carrying strap, and the reduced thickness makes it steadier underfoot for standing poses than the 1" version. It's free of BPA, phthalates, heavy metals and latex, though Retrospec notes the foam can release an odor at first that airs out over a day or two.

Manduka PRO Travel

The Manduka PRO Travel is the PRO built for a suitcase: 2mm of the same dense German-made PVC, foldable rather than rolled, at 2.9 pounds. It gives up cushioning for packability, keeping the closed-cell surface, the dot-pattern grip underside and the PRO series lifetime guarantee. Like every PRO, it needs a break-in period before the surface grips reliably.

Size Comparison

72"

Retrospec Solana 1/2"

24"
71"

Manduka PRO Travel

24"

Specifications

Length
72" (183 cm)
Length
71" (180 cm)
Width
24" (61 cm)
Width
24" (61 cm)
Thickness

12.7 mm

Thickness

2 mm

Weight
3 lbs (1.36 kg)
Weight
2.9 lbs (1.3 kg)

Material
NBR Foam
Material
PVC
Made in
-
Made in
Germany
Warranty
6 Months
Warranty
Lifetime

Which Mat is Right for You?

Choosing the perfect yoga mat depends on your needs, preferences, and how you plan to use it. In this guide, we’ll compare the Retrospec Solana 1/2" and Manduka PRO Travel yoga mats, focusing on their key features, price, size, weight, and suitability for different users.

Price Comparison

Starting with price, the Retrospec Solana 1/2" yoga mat is moderately less expensive with a suggested retail price of $24.99, while the Manduka PRO Travel yoga mat retails for $74.00. That's a noteworthy price difference of $49.01.

Size Comparison

When comparing the sizes of two yoga mats, such as the Retrospec Solana 1/2" and the Manduka PRO Travel, it's essential to consider both the length and width of each mat, as well as their suitability for different types of practice. The Retrospec Solana 1/2" measures 72 inches long by 24 inches wide, while the Manduka PRO Travel measures 71 inches long by 24 inches wide. Both mats are categorized as standard mats, making them ideal for most users and standard yoga sessions.

Weight Comparison

Weight is a key factor in choosing the right yoga mat, especially depending on where and how you plan to use it. The Retrospec Solana 1/2" yoga mat is slightly heavier than the Manduka PRO Travel by a difference of 0.1 pounds. The Retrospec Solana 1/2" weighs 3 pounds, while the Manduka PRO Travel weighs 2.9 pounds. Both mats are perfect for portability and frequent travel, making them a solid choice for anyone seeking an easy-to-carry mat for travel and on-the-go yoga.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Retrospec Solana 1/2" or the Manduka PRO Travel cheaper?
The Retrospec Solana 1/2" is cheaper at $24.99, compared to $74.00 for the Manduka PRO Travel — a difference of $49.01.
Which is lighter, the Retrospec Solana 1/2" or the Manduka PRO Travel?
The Manduka PRO Travel is lighter at 2.9 lbs, versus 3 lbs for the Retrospec Solana 1/2".
Which is thicker, the Retrospec Solana 1/2" or the Manduka PRO Travel?
The Retrospec Solana 1/2" is thicker at 12.7 mm, versus 2 mm for the Manduka PRO Travel.
Is the Retrospec Solana 1/2" or the Manduka PRO Travel longer?
The Retrospec Solana 1/2" is longer at 72″, versus 71″ for the Manduka PRO Travel.
What are the Retrospec Solana 1/2" and Manduka PRO Travel yoga mats made of?
The Retrospec Solana 1/2" is made of NBR Foam, while the Manduka PRO Travel is made of PVC.