Foam Vs. Cork Wedge

Yoga proves a popular form of relaxation for many.

While yoga is a simple art that involves oneness with nature, there are some tools of the yoga trade that you may want to employ. One of these tools is a wedge. Wedges make it easier for novice yoga participants to get into, and stay in, an assortment of positions, including the popular downward facing dog. When deciding what type of wedge you would like to purchase, the first choice you will have to make is between a natural cork or a synthetic foam wedge.

Nature Friendly

People who value nature and the preservation of the planet often choose cork wedges as these wedges are natural and come from a renewable resource. Foam wedges, on the other hand, are synthetic and take more energy to create, potentially having a larger effect on planetary health. In addition, cork wedges contribute less to the planet’s landfills at the end of their lives, as they are biodegradable, unlike synthetic foam wedges which, like Styrofoam, take an excessively long time to break down.

Easy to Clean

Foam wedges generally win the prize for ease of cleaning. Because these wedges often have a non-porous outer layer, it is easier to wipe them off should they get dirt or moisture on them. Cork wedges, on the other hand, are more absorbent and may prove more difficult to clean.

Softness Variations

Because foam is a synthetic material, it can be made as hard or soft as the user prefers, allowing manufacturers to create various levels of softness for their wedges. Cork, on the other hand, comes from the tree as is and little can be done to make it any harder or softer than it already is, leaving consumers with fewer choices for density.

Slip Resistance

Cork wedges may be a better choice for those prone to accidents, as they are naturally slip resistant. While some manufacturers of foam wedges seek to make these wedges slip resistant, they are often a bit slicker than their cork counterparts, potentially leading to some slips and falls as yoga participants try to contort their bodies into yoga poses.

References

• Rollings and Harmony: Why should I buy a Cork Yoga Block
• Your Yoga Mat: Foam Wedge