Athletic Works · Yoga & Exercise Mats
Athletic Works 68x24 inch 5mm TPE Warm Aluminium Yoga Mat with Carry Strap
Lower concern. The material as recorded is not linked to PFAS.
This yoga mat is made from TPE, a material not associated with PFAS. No water-repellent or non-stick coating is on record. The brand has no PFAS statement on record.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) with aluminium base
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
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What Athletic Works 68x24 inch 5mm Carry Strap is made of, ingredients and materials
This mat uses TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) as the top surface bonded to an aluminum base layer. TPE is a synthetic rubber-plastic hybrid that does not require Teflon-type coating or PVC, making it chemically more stable than older PVC yoga mats. The aluminum substrate adds structural support and durability but introduces a potential for metal leaching if the TPE coating degrades or is abraded over time. Unlike natural rubber mats, TPE is less prone to degradation from heat and UV exposure.
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) off-gassing from TPE
New TPE mats typically emit low levels of volatile monomers and processing residues during the first weeks of use. No specific emissions testing for this Walmart model has been published; typical TPE off-gassing is mild but detectable as a plastic odor and may cause respiratory or eye irritation in poorly ventilated spaces.
Aluminum leaching if TPE coating degrades
The aluminum substrate is intended to remain sealed by the TPE layer. If the TPE surface cracks, peels, or is abraded through repeated use, direct contact with aluminum is possible, creating potential for trace aluminum migration if the mat contacts acidic foods or sweat accumulation (though not a primary food-contact scenario).
Microplastic shedding from TPE surface wear
TPE mats shed fine polymer particles during normal use, especially if the surface texture is rough or if the mat is cleaned aggressively. While not hazardous during surface contact, inhalation of shed microparticles is a theoretical concern in enclosed studios with heavy daily use and poor ventilation.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Heavy metals
No specific test results or recalls document heavy metal contamination (lead, cadmium) in Athletic Works TPE yoga mats. Standard food-contact regulations do not apply to fitness equipment, so manufacturer testing rigor is unknown.
Source, FDA ↗Flame retardants
Yoga mats are not subject to furniture flammability standards in most U.S. jurisdictions, so brominated or phosphorus-based flame retardants are unlikely but unconfirmed for this product. TPE base material does not inherently require such additives.
Source, EPA ↗How is this PFAS grade calculated?
The brand's record and disclosure
Walmart (Athletic Works) has not published detailed material safety certifications or third-party testing results for this product line. The brand maintains a general commitment to consumer safety compliance but does not publicly disclose formulations, heavy metal limits, or volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions testing. No recalls or safety controversies specific to this model have been established in public records. Transparency on chemical composition beyond material type remains limited.
How it compares in its category
TPE yoga mats occupy a middle ground between budget PVC mats and premium natural rubber or cork alternatives. This product's aluminum base is less common than foam or rubber underlayers, offering better heat dissipation but less environmental breakdown. Compared to typical Walmart fitness accessories, the 5mm thickness and carry strap suggest mid-range consumer positioning; no evidence suggests this line uses problematic flame retardants or antimony-heavy polyester components typical of some budget sportswear.
If you buy it
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to slow TPE degradation and avoid accelerated off-gassing of residual monomers. Inspect the TPE surface regularly for cracks, peeling, or separation from the aluminum base, as damage exposes the metal layer. Clean with mild soap and water only; avoid harsh solvents that can degrade TPE and increase leaching potential. Replace the mat if cracks appear or the surface becomes sticky, which signals polymer breakdown.
What is not known about PFAS in this product?
- Basis
- Model estimate, 72% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Athletic Works has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
What are the PFAS-free alternatives to Athletic Works 68x24 inch 5mm TPE Warm Aluminium Yoga Mat with Carry Strap?
- closed-cell PVC-free foam, rubber top
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Formaldehyde / VOCs
3 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
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- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from natural rubber
More yoga & exercise mats grades
How we score, every product runs through the same public 0-100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.