As someone who has done yoga for years, from hot and steamy studios to peaceful flows at home, I’ve learned that the gear you pick is important. A mat that moves about, a prop that gets flatter with time, or equipment produced from synthetic, non-sustainable materials might not only mess up your flow but also your values.
I had to test Gayo’s Cork Yoga Mat and Standard Yoga Bolster once I found out about the U.S.-based sustainable yoga firm that makes eco-friendly items with care. Spoiler: I’m not going back.
This is my honest assessment of both items, including what I liked about them and why I think every mindful yogi should have them in their home studio.
Gayo Cork Yoga Mat: The Grip I Didn’t Know I Needed
Let’s start with the star of my practice lately: the Gayo Cork Yoga Mat. This isn’t your average yoga mat. It’s made from sustainably harvested cork and natural rubber, and you can feel the quality the moment you unroll it.
What I love about it:
Incredible Grip: Even When Sweaty
I’ve tested this mat during hot yoga and vinyasa flows, and the grip improves with moisture. No towel needed. No slipping. Just stability.
Naturally Antimicrobial
Cork is a powerhouse: it resists bacteria, mold, and odors naturally. That means less frequent cleaning and more peace of mind.
Thick, But Not Bulky
At 5mm thick, it strikes the perfect balance: cushioned enough for joints, yet firm enough for standing poses and balance work.
Alignment Marks
It comes with subtle alignment lines etched into the mat, which I found super helpful for keeping my posture in check during longer holds.
Sustainable & Plastic-Free
The mat is completely free from PVC, EVA, or other harmful chemicals. It’s compostable and biodegradable, making it a great choice if you’re looking to reduce your footprint.
You can read more about how cork mats support a more sustainable lifestyle here.
Gayo Standard Yoga Bolster: A Restorative Game-Changer
If you’ve ever felt the magic of a supported heart opener or hip release in yin or restorative yoga, you’ll understand why a good bolster is everything.
Gayo’s Standard Yoga Bolster is one of the best I’ve tried. And I’ve tried a lot.
Here’s why I’m obsessed:
Filled with Natural Cotton
Unlike bolsters that are overstuffed with foam or synthetic fiberfill, Gayo’s bolster uses organic cotton. It’s firm, but not stiff, perfect for long holds.
Supportive & Dense (Not Squishy)
This isn’t one of those bolsters that sags over time. It holds its shape through supported bridge poses, reclined twists, and even seated meditations.
Soft, Washable Cover
The outer cover is made from 100% cotton and can be removed and washed. It’s soft on the skin and breathable during longer practices.
Thoughtfully Designed
It’s just the right size: 25 x 10.5 x 6 inches, ideal for a wide range of poses. It’s compact enough to store easily and versatile for home or studio use.
I’ve been using it daily for both my wind-down flows and to elevate my legs while reading. Highly recommend pairing it with Gayo’s mat for the ultimate sustainable setup.
Final Thoughts: Do I Recommend Gayo?
Absolutely. If you’re looking to upgrade your yoga essentials with eco-conscious, high-performing gear, Gayo’s Cork Mat and Yoga Bolster are excellent investments. They’re built to last, rooted in sustainability, and beautifully designed for better practice.
You can explore more of Gayo’s yoga gear here. For 10% off, use the code: CLAIRE10 at checkout!
For those looking to build a complete at-home studio, I also recommend reading this helpful blog post from Gayo: The Best Yoga Equipment for a Complete Home Studio.
Shop the Products Featured in this Review:
Cork Yoga Mat: gayoshop.com/products/yoga-cork-mat
Standard Yoga Bolster: gayoshop.com/products/yoga-bolster-standard