Natural Rubber vs. Alternative Mat Materials

Not all mats are made from the same material; different materials determine the texture, durability, and applications of these mats.

When shopping for mats to use in the gym, playground, kitchen or workshop, the following guide compares natural rubber to the most common substitutes in clear language. Natural rubber may not be the most appropriate for some situations.

Answer to Quick Question: Natural rubber is strong, flexible, and provides traction. It is an excellent option for use in the gym. Recycled rubber is cost-effective, EPDM is used for colored outdoor applications, PVC is used for chemically resistant flat areas, and foam is the best for low-traffic zones.

The Main Mat Materials

1. Natural Rubber

Natural rubber is extracted from the latex of rubber trees. It is highly elastic and resilient, bouncing back after compression and able to withstand heavy load.

Advantages

• High elasticity and shock absorption
• Good grip, even in wet conditions
• Very durable against wear and tear
• Natural, organic composition

Disadvantages

• May have a rubber smell when new
• Not resistant to ageing if not compounded and exposed to sunlight or oils for too long
• More expensive than basic recycled rubber

Recommended for: exercise flooring, weightlifting zones, commercial facilities, anti-fatigue and kitchen mats.

2. Recycled Rubber (SBR)

Recycled rubber is often produced by bonding tyre shreds into mats or tiles. This material is inexpensive and sustainable because it uses waste materials.

Advantages

• Low cost
• Good cushioning and durability
• Recycling of waste materials

Disadvantages

• Generally comes in black or speckled colours
• Sometimes has a stronger odour
• Big quality variability across producers

Recommended for: inexpensive flooring, playgrounds, farming and equestrian zones, garages.

3. EPDM Rubber

EPDM is a synthetic rubber resistant to sun, weather, and ozone. This material retains colours well and therefore is widely used in colourful outdoor applications.

Advantages

• Weather and UV resistance
• Color retention
• Outdoor longevity

Disadvantages

• High cost
• Generally

Best for: coloured playground surfaces, outdoor sports areas.

4. PVC (Vinyl)

PVC mats are smooth, easily wipeable, and resistant to many chemicals and moisture.

Advantages

• Easy to clean
• Resistant to chemicals and moisture
• A variety of designs

Disadvantages

• Less cushioning as compared to rubber
• Tends to be slippery when smooth and wet
• Plastic-based, thus not environmentally friendly

Best suited for: Workshops, entryway mats, light commercial spaces

5. Foam (EVA)

Foam mats are soft and inexpensive.

Advantages

• Very lightweight
• Very soft texture
• Inexpensive

Disadvantages

• Gets dented and torn due to weight
• Moisture absorbent and odour absorbing
• Short-lived in commercial use conditions

Best for: kids' indoor play, yoga and light home exercise. Not suited to heavy gym use. Read more in our guide to foam vs rubber gym flooring.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Ratings are general guides. Quality differs between manufacturers, so always check specifications.

Which Material for Which Space?

How to Choose Between Them

Ask yourself five questions:

• How weighty is the usage? Workshops and gyms require dense rubber, while foam will be less resistant.
• Is it indoor or outdoor use? For outdoor use, UV and weather protection should be considered.
• Does it have to be exposed to water? Textured or draining options are preferable.
• How is your budget plan? Cheaper mats which will need replacement after a year will be costlier in the long run.
• Do you care about the environment? Natural and recycled rubber will have an edge over plastic options.

What to Ask Your Supplier

Whatever material you choose, get answers in writing:

• What exactly is the mat made from?
• What are the thickness, density and hardness?
• Which standards or certifications apply?
• Can I test a sample first?
• What is the expected life in my conditions?

A supplier who answers clearly is easier to trust. For help finding one, see our guide to a trusted gym rubber mats supplier.

Where Vikas Rubbers Fits

Vikas Rubbers has manufactured rubber mats in Kottayam, Kerala since 1977. Its gym flooring range is described as 100% natural rubber, including solid top gym mats, interlocking gym tiles and rubber puzzle mats. Its playground flooring is available in recycled and natural rubber options. The company holds ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 certification. Ask the team which material each specific product uses before you order.

FAQs

Is natural rubber superior to synthetic rubber?

No, not always. While natural rubber is excellent in terms of elasticity and adhesion, some synthetic forms like EPDM withstand the sun and retain colour better outdoors.

Is recycled rubber as good as natural rubber?

Recycled rubber is durable and relatively inexpensive. However, the quality of recycled rubber varies; thus, ensure you confirm the density and finish.

What type of mat lasts the longest?

Dense rubber and EPDM generally last the longest due to the intense usage.

Does rubber matting give off a smell?

The newly manufactured rubber smells, and the odour will fade off after airing out. Lower-quality recycled rubber mats give off a more intense smell.

Is customisation of sizes possible?

According to Vikas Rubbers, custom sizes and thickness are possible.