Judo mats

What is a judo mat made of?

Judo mats usually consist of three components: top surface, core and underside. The top surface typically has a special coating to keep out dirt and sweat – often an easy-to-clean PVC finish. Inside the martial arts mat is the heart of the mat: the core! This is made of foam and provides excellent shock absorption for throws and falls, most commonly using polyethylene foam. The underside of the judo mat is just as important for maximum safety. It’s made from non-slip materials that prevent the mat from sliding during practice or competition.

What size should a judo mat be?

Judo mats cover both the contest area and the safety zone. The required area varies depending on competition type and age group. Adults need a contest area of at least 7 x 7 m, while 5 x 5 m is sufficient for children. For schools and clubs, smaller interlocking mats are ideal, as they can be combined into a larger surface when needed. Mats without connectors are also a great choice: thanks to their high dead weight, they stay securely in place as well.

Longer durability with the right cleaning

Judo mats are naturally exposed to dust, sweat and saliva. Here are some tips for gentle cleaning without harsh chemicals. Remove loose dirt such as dust with a dry cloth. If that’s not enough, you can slightly dampen the cloth. It’s important to let the martial arts mat dry completely afterwards. Another option is to use a steam cleaner. This not only cleans thoroughly, but also ensures a hygienic, germ-free mat – without any disinfectants.