Buying guide for Best anti-fatigue mats
Whether it’s behind a workbench, standing desk, or your kitchen counter, spending long hours on your feet every day can be tough on your body. To stay comfortable and reduce pain when you have to stand for long periods, you'll want to use an anti-fatigue mat.
These rectangular floor coverings reduce fatigue by preventing the muscles in your legs from staying static, which keeps your blood flowing, even while you stand on hard floors. Anti-fatigue mats cause the leg muscles to lightly contract in response to the mat's slightly flexible surface. If you want real relief, choosing the right anti-fatigue mat is key. That means determining what type of mat you prefer, what material will best suit your needs, and what other features will help you stay most comfortable on your feet.
Key considerations
Design
- Flat anti-fatigue mats are the most common option. If you’ve never used an anti-fatigue mat before, this is an ideal entry-level choice. They are flat all over, rectangular in shape, and are usually a half an inch to 1 inch thick, but they offer just enough cushioning and flexibility to prevent your muscles from becoming static as you stand.
Non-flat active mats feature a series of bumps or ridges on the surface and come in different shapes. The textured mat promotes the shifting and stretching of your legs while you stand to keep your muscles loose and encourage effective blood circulation.
Full active mats are mats that encourage you to actively move to prevent muscle fatigue and strain. These mats may have massaging balls that you can move around a track or a design that allows you to rock your feet or swing your legs.
Material
Foam anti-fatigue mats are usually the most affordable, but they aren’t particularly durable. Foam isn’t as effective at cushioning and preventing fatigue either, so they work best for use in the kitchen or other areas where you won’t necessarily be standing all day.
Foam rubber anti-fatigue mats feature a foam core that’s covered with rubber. The rubber coating allows these mats to last longer and prevents them from becoming compressed with regular use. They’re an ideal option for workshops, factories, and offices.
Hard rubber anti-fatigue mats are the most durable and easy to maintain. They hold up well to repeated use, though they aren’t always the most effective for preventing fatigue. They are a great choice for workshops, factories, and other industrial settings.
- Gel anti-fatigue mats are usually the most comfortable and effective option. They contain a gel core that provides cushioning and helps keep your leg muscles engaged to prevent fatigue. They can be too delicate for industrial settings, but they’re ideal for office and home use.
Did you know?
Studies have shown that anti-fatigue mats can reduce leg pain and fatigue by approximately 50%.
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Features
Size
You can find anti-fatigue mats in a wide range of sizes but, in most cases, the larger the mat is, the more relief you’ll get. Measure the area where you plan to place the mat so you can be sure exactly how large of a mat you need.
The smallest mats are usually 2 x 3 feet, while the largest are typically 6 x 60 feet. Other common sizes include 3 x 5 feet, 3 x 12 feet, and 3 x 60 feet.
Thickness
The thickness of an anti-fatigue mat can be a key factor in determining how comfortable and effective it is. Most mats range from a half an inch to 1 inch in thickness. Any mat that you choose should be at least three-quarters of an inch thick to provide the proper cushioning. If you opt for a thinner mat, it likely won’t last as long either.
Non-slip underside
The top surface of an anti-fatigue mat has a nonslip surface, but it’s also important to consider the underside. If there isn’t an anti-slip texture on the bottom of the mat, it can easily slide around on concrete, wood, tile, or even carpeted flooring, which can pose a safety risk.
Beveled edge
If you opt for a flat anti-fatigue mat, choose a model with a beveled edge. That allows the mat to sit flush with the floor, so it doesn’t curl up over time. A beveled edge also increases the mat’s safety because there’s less risk of tripping over it.
Ease of cleaning
Since you’ll usually stand on an anti-fatigue mat while wearing shoes, it’s likely that it will get dirty over time. Choose a mat that can easily be washed with hot water and dish detergent, so you don’t have to spend too much time cleaning it.
Anti-fatigue mat prices
Inexpensive: The most affordable anti-fatigue mats are usually less than 2 x 3 feet in size and less than three-quarters of an inch thick. They usually cost between $14 and $37 and work best for areas where you won’t necessarily be standing all day, such as the kitchen or bathroom.
Mid-range: Anti-fatigue mats that are at least three-quarters of an inch thick and are between 2 x 3 feet and 2 x 6 feet in size typically range from $37 to $90. Mats that are between 2 x 6 feet and 3 x 12 feet are slightly more expensive, ranging from $90 to $245.
Expensive: The most expensive anti-fatigue mats are at least three quarters of an inch thick and cover a significant portion of the floor. Mats that are between 3 x 12 feet and 6 x 12 feet usually cost between $245 and $615. Mats that are between 4 x 60 feet and 6 x 60 feet typically range from $615 to $1,040.
"Many anti-fatigue mats include a warranty to protect your investment. Some mats offer as many as five years of warranty coverage."
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Tips
Never attempt to clean an anti-fatigue mat in a washing machine. Most mats require gentle hand washing.
Vacuuming or sweeping an anti-fatigue mat several times a week can help it stay clean and last longer.
When you do a deep cleaning of an anti-fatigue mat, avoid using an abrasive brush or cleaning tool, which can damage the mat’s surface.
To amplify the effects of an anti-fatigue mat, always wear supportive shoes with adequate cushioning when you stand on it for prolonged periods.
While an anti-fatigue mat can reduce fatigue and discomfort, it’s still a good idea not to stand on the mat for more than 90 minutes at a time. Aim to walk for a few minutes to get your muscles working and blood flowing periodically.
FAQ
Q. Where can I use an anti-fatigue mat?
A. An anti-fatigue mat can be used in any spot where you might find yourself standing for prolonged periods. Many people use them in work settings, such as a workshop, factory floor, or behind a standing desk. However, you can also use an anti-fatigue mat around the house — you can place one in your kitchen, in front of your grill, in your home gym, or in your laundry room to protect your feet and joints.
Q. What kind of shoes should I wear on an anti-fatigue mat?
A. You’ll be more comfortable if you wear shoes with effective cushioning and strong arch support. However, if you have a gel anti-fatigue mat, it’s important to choose shoes with a flat bottom. Shoes with heels, particularly those with thin sharp heels, may damage the mat’s surface.
Q. How long does an anti-fatigue mat usually last?
A. It depends on the quality of the mat, how thick it is, how often it’s used, and how well you care for it. On average, most mats last between one and four years. However, if you opt for a mat that’s made of foam or is less than three-quarters of an inch thick, it may last as little as six months.
