Buyer's Guide: Choosing Mats for Martial Arts and Grappling

Choosing the right mat for martial arts and grappling is a safety decision. Whether you're setting up a home corner or outfitting a commercial dojo, you must balance shock absorption, stability and durability. This guide breaks down mat types and what to look for.

Key performance characteristics

• Shock absorption: Enough give to protect joints during falls without bottoming out.
• Density and firmness: A core that returns quickly keeps athletes stable for pivots and takedowns.
• Seam behaviour: Interlocking mats or stitched seams should be low-profile to prevent foot catching.
• Surface texture: Slight texture improves traction without snagging clothing.

Primary mat types

1. Tatami-style (EVA foam with textured surface)

Common in judo and karate, these mats provide a firm, grippy surface with moderate shock absorption. High-density EVA offers durability and is easy to clean.

2. Puzzle interlocking mats

Affordable and scalable, these are common in home gyms. Look for thicker tiles (25–40 mm) and tight interlocks. They perform well for grappling surfaces if properly bonded or taped to prevent separation.

3. Rolled wrestling mats

Used in competition, rolled mats offer consistent surface characteristics across large areas and are usually vinyl-covered foam. They require professional installation for seams and anchoring.

Thickness recommendations

Thickness varies by discipline and athlete size:

• Grappling (jiu-jitsu): 20–40 mm with medium-high density
• Judo: 40–60 mm with a more cushioned surface for throws
• Striking arts: 8–20 mm with firmer surface for balance and footwork

Installation tips

For permanent spaces, professional installation ensures seams are flush and the surface is anchored. For temporary or multi-use spaces, use high-strength seam tape and anti-slip adhesives under tiles to avoid shifts.

Cleaning and maintenance

Vinyl-covered mats should be disinfected between classes with a gym-safe cleaner. Foam puzzle tiles can be lifted for occasional deep cleaning. Replace any mats with cracks or tears promptly; compromised turf can increase injury risk.

Budgeting and lifecycle

Commercial-grade rolled mats and high-density tiles are more expensive upfront but last longer under heavy use. Expect commercial mats to be a multi-year investment; plan for replacement cycles based on weekly usage hours.

Safety standards and certifications

Look for mats designed to meet sport-specific standards. Facilities and competitive organisations may require certified mat surfaces for sanctioned events.

"For contact sports, the mat is as important as coaching. Invest in the right surface and maintain it — the return is fewer injuries and better training outcomes."

Final checklist

1. Match mat type to your sport and athlete size.
2. Prioritise density and thickness for shock absorption.
3. Ensure seams are flush and secure.
4. Implement a cleaning schedule and replacement plan.

Need personalised recommendations for your space and budget? Contact our gear team at mats.live/consult and include square footage, preferred discipline and usage hours.