In this review, we will look at the Manduka Yoga Bag that goes by the name of the Manduka MatSak.
I’ve been using one of these bags for the past two years and I love it. It’s a perfect size and very durable. The strap of my previous yoga bag frayed, but the strap on my Manduka looks as good as it did on the day I bought it.
Not sure you need a yoga bag? Read on to find out more about this one and how it can make your yoga sessions more enjoyable, then decide for yourself.
NB This yoga mat bag is not currently available on Amazon.
Do I Really Need a Yoga Bag?
While yoga doesn’t require as much equipment as a lot of other forms of exercise, there are some necessities including a yoga mat and a yoga towel. Some people may disagree that a yoga towel is essential, but once I got one, I wondered why I’d waited so long. I feel the same way about my yoga bag. Finding a regular bag that will fit a yoga towel is easy, but finding a bag that will accommodate a yoga mat can be difficult.
So if you, too, are tired of carrying your yoga mat tucked under your arm or in a bag that’s not a good fit, I highly recommend investing in a yoga bag. A yoga bag will enable you to store and comfortably carry all of your yoga essentials. The better yoga bags come with a separate compartment for holding extras such as a wallet, keys, and cell phone.
One such bag is the Manduka Yoga Bag, AKA the Manduka MatSak Yoga Bag. This great looking and conveniently sized bag will allow you to tote your yoga mat, towel, and everyday essentials in style.
Keep reading to find out the specs, pros, and cons of the Manduka Yoga Mat Bag.
Manduka Yoga Bag Specs & Overview
The Manduka Yoga Bag is available in three chic colors; graphite, sage, and rustic. It comes in two sizes; small and large.
Measuring 26″ x 6″, the small MatSak will hold a mat with a width of 24″, while the large MatSak, which measures 28″ x 6 1/2″, will hold a mat up to 26″ wide.
Both are made out of environmentally-friendly unbleached cotton canvas with recycled PET mesh detailing. While soft to the touch, the fabric is thick and durable, making for a bag that will hold up to years of regular use.
There are two main compartments; one large enough to fit a yoga mat, and a smaller side zippered one which will hold a towel and any other bits and pieces you may need to take to your yoga class such as a strap, a water bottle and a light change of clothing. There’s also a small zippered pocket suitable for storing items such as your keys, wallet and cell phone.
Another great feature of this bag is the row of ventilation holes along either side. This ventilation means you can throw in a damp towel or yoga mat after working out and be confident knowing you won’t end up with a musty smelling or moldy bag,
The Manduka Yoga Bag is very light, therefore easy to carry. It has a fully adjustable and removable padded shoulder strap for your comfort and handles on either end for those who prefer a carry bag to a shoulder bag.
In the next section of this review, we will look at the pros and cons of the Manduka Yoga Mat Bag, to give you a better idea of whether or not it will suit your needs.
Manduka Yoga Bag Pros
- Ventilation
The Manduka Yoga Bag has a row of air holes along the sides. These enable moisture to evaporate, preventing the bag and its contents from developing an unpleasant odor.
- Durability
Manufactured from high-quality fabrics, the bag will withstand plenty of use. Its shoulder strap is exceptionally strong and its hardware is robust.
- Washability
Unlike most sports and yoga bags, the Manduka Yoga Bag is machine washable. Simply throw it into your washing machine, wash it on the regular cycle, take it out, then let it air dry. Your bag will come up looking as good as new, with no shrinkage or loss of color.
- External Pocket
The bag has a handy external pocket, ideal for placing any little extras you may want to locate without having to rummage through the bag itself such as your water bottle, keys, or a clean top or socks.
Most other brands of yoga mat bag do not come with this extra pocket. When they do it is usually internal, which doesn’t make for convenient access if the bag is full.
Manduka Yoga Bag Cons
- Very Compact Fit
Most people who have left reviews of the Manduka Yoga Bag are happy with its size. Some said it has room to spare, but a few noted that the main compartment could be a little roomier. According to the latter group, they have to roll their yoga mat well to get it fully into the bag and be able to close the zipper.
Manduka Yoga Bag MatSak Summary
If you’re seeking a premium quality yoga bag, you’ve found it in the Manduka Yoga Bag. It’s not the cheapest yoga bag on the market, but considering its superior quality and convenient features, I’m sure you’ll agree it’s worth paying that little bit extra for it.
Being able to wash the bag is a big plus, and if you’ve ever left damp yoga gear in your bag for any length of time, you’ll appreciate the ventilation system.
If you find the main compartment a little tight, after you’ve used the bag a few times you will know how to roll your yoga mat to fit in perfectly.
