Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding Your Yoga Strap
- How to Put on a Yoga Mat Strap: The D-Ring Method
- Using a Cinch Strap or Sling
- Tips for Securing Different Mat Materials
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Converting a Practice Strap for On-the-Go Stretches
- Caring for Your Yoga Mat Strap
- Ergonomics: How to Carry Your Mat Comfortably
- Why Quality Matters
- Summary of the Setup Process
- FAQ
Introduction
We have all been there: you are rushing out the door for a sunset class, and your yoga mat keeps unrolling under your arm while you juggle your keys and water bottle. If you are choosing between mat styles, take our Yoga Mat Quiz for a quick starting point. A yoga mat strap is one of the most practical tools in a practitioner's kit, serving as both a convenient carrying handle and a versatile prop for deepening stretches. Since 1986, Hugger Mugger has provided high-quality tools to support practitioners, and we know that even the simplest accessories can make a significant difference in your daily routine. This guide will walk you through exactly how to put on a yoga mat strap using various methods, ensuring your mat stays secure and your hands stay free. Whether you are using a dedicated mat sling or a traditional D-ring yoga strap, mastering this setup will help you transition from your commute to the studio with ease.
Quick Answer: To put on a yoga mat strap, create a loop at each end of the strap by feeding the tail through the D-rings or adjustment hardware. Slide one loop over each end of your rolled mat, tighten the loops securely about six inches from the edges, and then sling the center portion over your shoulder.
Understanding Your Yoga Strap
Before we dive into the mechanics of how to put on a yoga mat strap, it is helpful to understand the tool you are using. If you want a broader overview of the props that pair well with strap work, our Yoga Prop Guide is a helpful companion.
Practice Straps vs. Carrying Slings
A practice strap is a long, flat band—usually made of cotton or nylon—used to extend your reach in poses like Seated Forward Fold or Cow Face Pose. These typically feature hardware at one end, such as metal D-rings or a plastic cinch buckle. If you are using one of our 6 ft. D-Ring Cotton Yoga Straps, follow these steps to turn it into a carrier.
A carrying sling is designed specifically for transport. These often have pre-sewn loops or specific sliding hardware that makes it faster to secure a mat. However, a high-quality practice strap can easily be converted into a carrier, which is a great way to minimize the amount of gear you need to manage.
Why Use a Strap?
Using a strap to secure your mat offers several practical benefits:
- Prevents Unrolling: Some mats, especially thicker ones, have a lot of "memory" and want to spring open when not in use. A strap keeps them tightly coiled.
- Hygiene: By keeping the mat tightly rolled, the "top" surface (where your hands and feet go) is less likely to touch the floor or the outside of your car.
- Portability: It allows you to carry your mat over your shoulder, leaving your hands free for other items.
- Longevity: Regularly securing your mat prevents the edges from curling or getting damaged during transit.
How to Put on a Yoga Mat Strap: The D-Ring Method
Most traditional yoga straps use metal D-rings. These are incredibly durable and provide a non-slip grip once tension is applied. If you are using one of our cotton D-ring straps, follow these steps to turn it into a carrier.
Step 1: Prepare the First Loop
Hold the end of the strap with the two D-rings in one hand. Take the other end of the strap (the tail) and thread it through both D-rings. Then, fold the tail back and thread it through only the first D-ring. This creates a slip-knot style loop that will tighten when pulled.
Step 2: Position the First End
Slide this loop over one end of your rolled yoga mat. For the best balance, place the loop approximately 4 to 6 inches from the edge of the mat. Pull the tail of the strap to tighten the loop until it is snug against the mat surface.
Step 3: Create the Second Loop
Take the remaining length of the strap and bring it toward the other end of the mat. You will need to create a simple "half-hitch" or a slip loop with the remaining tail. Wrap the tail around the mat, tucking the end under the length of the strap to create a loop that cinches as you lift the mat.
Step 4: Adjust for Carrying
Ensure there is enough slack in the middle of the strap to act as a shoulder handle. Lift the mat by the center of the strap to check the balance. If one end hangs lower than the other, slide the loops closer to or further from the center until the mat sits horizontally.
Key Takeaway: When using a practice strap as a carrier, the loop at the D-ring end is the most secure. Always ensure the "handle" part of the strap is long enough to fit comfortably over your shoulder without the mat hitting your hip.
Using a Cinch Strap or Sling
If you prefer a faster setup, a cinch strap or a dedicated mat sling is the way to go. These are designed with two sliding loops that don't require threading through D-rings every time you leave the studio.
How to Use a Cinch Strap
Step 1: Open the loops. Most cinch straps come with two pre-formed loops. Slide the plastic or metal adjusters to make the loops large enough to easily fit over the ends of your mat. Step 2: Insert the mat. Slide your rolled mat through both loops. Step 3: Tighten. Pull the center part of the strap upward. The weight of the mat will naturally cause the loops to cinch tight. Step 4: Secure. Give each loop a quick tug to ensure the mat won't slide out if it tilted vertically.
Comparison of Strap Types
| Strap Type | Best For | Material | Hardware | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | D-Ring Strap | Practice + Carrying | Heavy-duty Cotton | Metal D-Rings | | Cinch Strap | Quick transitions | Cotton or Nylon | Plastic/Metal Slide | | Strap Sling | Dedicated carrying | Lightweight webbing | Minimalist loops | | Yoga Tote/Bag | Full protection | Fabric/Canvas | Zippers/Drawstrings |
Tips for Securing Different Mat Materials
If you are matching strap tension to your mat, our Yoga Mat Guide makes side-by-side comparisons easy.
Sticky Mats (Tapas® Series)
Our Tapas® Original yoga mat is the classic choice for many practitioners. Because it is a "sticky" mat, the friction between the layers helps keep it rolled. You do not need to pull the strap excessively tight; just enough to keep it from sliding.
Natural Rubber Mats (Para Rubber Mat)
Natural rubber mats are often heavier and have a more substantial "grip." If you are carrying a Para Rubber Yoga Mat, you will notice it is heavier than a standard foam mat. Ensure your strap loops are placed slightly further toward the center of the mat to distribute the weight evenly and prevent the strap from digging into the rubber material.
Eco-Friendly Mats (Tapas® ECO)
For mats like the Tapas® ECO yoga mat, it is important not to leave the strap cinched extremely tight for long periods (like weeks in a hot car). This can occasionally leave indentations in the softer eco-materials. We recommend loosening the strap once you get home to let the mat "breathe."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While putting on a yoga mat strap seems straightforward, a few common errors can lead to a mat falling out mid-walk or even damaging the strap hardware.
- Loops Too Close to the Edge: If your loops are right at the very ends of the mat, the mat can easily slip out if it tips. Always aim for at least 4 inches of mat "overhang" on either side of the loops.
- Threading D-Rings Backward: If the strap slips when you pull it, you likely threaded the tail through the D-rings incorrectly. Remember: Through both, then back through one.
- Rolling Too Loosely: If the mat is rolled loosely, the strap will compress the middle but the ends will "telescope" out. Always roll your mat as tightly and evenly as possible before applying the strap.
- Ignoring the Hardware Position: Try to keep the metal D-rings or plastic buckles on the "top" or "outside" of the mat. If the hardware is pressed between the mat and your back while you carry it, it can be quite uncomfortable.
Converting a Practice Strap for On-the-Go Stretches
The beauty of knowing how to put on a yoga mat strap is that you always have a practice prop with you, and Quick Tips for Using Yoga Props shows even more ways to use it. Once you arrive at class and remove the strap from your mat, it is ready to assist you in your practice.
For Tight Hamstrings
If you cannot reach your feet in a seated forward fold (Paschimottanasana), loop the strap around the balls of your feet. Hold one side of the strap in each hand and use it to maintain a flat back as you gently hinge forward. For a deeper look at this kind of support, see How a Yoga Strap Can Save Your Spine.
For Shoulder Mobility
Hold the strap with a wide grip in front of you. Slowly lift your arms overhead and see if you can bring them behind your back without bending your elbows. This "shoulder flossing" is a great way to undo the tension from sitting at a desk all day.
For Balance
In poses like King Dancer (Natarajasana), you can loop the strap around your lifted foot. This allows you to "reach" your foot with your hands behind your head even if your hip and shoulder flexibility is still developing.
Key Takeaway: A yoga strap is a tool for accessibility. Whether you are using it to carry your mat or to bridge the gap between your hands and feet, its purpose is to make the practice more sustainable and comfortable for your body.
Caring for Your Yoga Mat Strap
Since your strap travels with you to the studio, onto the floor, and into your car, it will eventually need cleaning. Care & Cleaning Tips for Yoga Props offers a simple place to start.
- Check the Hardware: Before washing, ensure the D-rings are secure and not rusted.
- Hand Wash Recommended: To preserve the life of the cotton fibers and prevent the metal rings from clanging in your machine, hand wash the strap in cool water with a mild detergent.
- Machine Wash (Optional): If you must use a machine, place the strap inside a mesh laundry bag. This prevents the strap from tangling around the agitator or other clothes. Use a cold, gentle cycle.
- Air Dry: Never put your yoga strap in the dryer. The high heat can shrink the cotton and weaken the fibers. Hang it up to air dry completely before using it to carry your mat again.
Ergonomics: How to Carry Your Mat Comfortably
If you have a long commute or walk to your studio, how you wear the strap matters.
The Shoulder Carry
This is the most common method. Hang the strap over one shoulder so the mat rests against your side or slightly behind your hip. To prevent the strap from digging in, make sure it is laying flat against your shoulder and not twisted.
The Cross-Body Carry
For better stability—especially if you are biking or walking a long distance—wear the strap diagonally across your chest. This keeps the mat from sliding off your shoulder and distributes the weight more evenly across your torso.
Using a Mat Bag as an Alternative
If you find that a strap doesn't offer enough protection from the elements, you might consider a bag. While we love the simplicity of a strap, our Batik Yoga Mat Bag provides full coverage, which is helpful if you frequently practice outdoors or in rainy climates. However, for the minimalist practitioner, the strap remains the most efficient choice.
Why Quality Matters
At Hugger Mugger, we have spent nearly 40 years refining the tools of the trade. While any piece of webbing could technically act as a strap, we focus on using heavy-duty cotton and high-quality hardware. This ensures that when you tighten that D-ring, it stays put. A strap that slips or a buckle that breaks mid-commute is more than an inconvenience; it can lead to dropped gear or a frustrated start to your practice.
Our heritage is rooted in Salt Lake City, where we continue to design products that we use in our own daily practices. For teachers who want dependable gear for class, our Teacher Program is another helpful resource.
"A well-chosen prop doesn't just change the pose; it changes your relationship to the practice by removing the small stressors that get in the way of mindfulness."
Summary of the Setup Process
To ensure you have mastered how to put on a yoga mat strap, keep these four steps in mind:
- Loop: Create a secure loop using the D-rings or cinch hardware.
- Slide: Place the loops over each end of the tightly rolled mat.
- Cinch: Tighten the loops at least 4 inches from the mat's edges.
- Test: Lift the mat by the handle to ensure it is balanced and secure.
By following these steps, you protect your mat and simplify your journey to and from the studio. Whether you are a beginner picking up your first Tapas® Original mat or a seasoned teacher using a Para Rubber Mat, a strap is a small investment that offers long-term convenience.
FAQ
Can I use a regular yoga strap as a mat carrier?
Yes, you can easily use a standard practice strap with D-rings or a cinch buckle as a carrier. Simply create a loop at the hardware end by threading the tail through, then create a second loop at the other end using a basic slip knot or half-hitch. Many practitioners prefer this method because it means they have a prop ready for use during their yoga session without needing to carry extra items.
How do I stop my yoga mat from sliding out of the strap?
The most common reason for a mat sliding out is that the loops are placed too close to the ends of the mat. Ensure your loops are tightened at least 4 to 6 inches away from the edges of the mat. Additionally, make sure you have rolled your mat as tightly as possible before putting the strap on, as a loose roll provides less surface tension for the strap to grip.
Is it better to use a strap or a yoga mat bag?
The choice depends on your lifestyle and how you travel to class. A strap is lightweight, minimalist, and doubles as a practice prop, making it ideal for those who want to carry as little as possible. A bag, such as one from our Mat Carriers collection, offers more protection from rain, dust, and sun, and often includes pockets for your phone, keys, and wallet, which is better for long commutes or outdoor classes.
How long should my yoga strap be for carrying?
Most standard yoga straps are 6 feet, 8 feet, or 10 feet long. For a carrying strap, a 6-foot strap is usually sufficient for most practitioners to create loops and have enough length for a shoulder handle. However, if you are very tall or prefer to wear your mat cross-body, an 8-foot strap provides extra slack to ensure the mat sits comfortably against your back without being too tight against your torso.