subject: Guide To Buying New Grappling Mats [print this page] If you are in the market for new grappling mats, there are a few basics that are good to know. Grappling mats are constructed out of a material called polyvinyl chloride foam. This foam is sealed within a protective covering that looks a lot like vinyl leather. More expensive models of such mats are often constructed from polyethylene foam. Polyethylene foam allows for much better support but is also lighter in weight then grappling mats made of polyvinyl chloride foam. Standard grappling mats usually vary in thickness from one to two inches. Regulations size for a mat is forty-two square feet in dimension. A large circle is drawn onto the outer material of the mat to show the designated fighting area. This circle has a diameter of thirty-six feet on a standard grappling mat.
Higher end mats from national brands can cost anywhere from $3-4 per square foot. Cheaper, more generic mats can seel for as little as $1.50-2 per square foot. The Dollamur Ultra-Light Flexi Roll is one of the more popular of branded grappling mats. The mat is substantially lighter then other mats on the market which makes them much easier to carry and to set up. Dollamur mats have exceptional support and never shrink or have the outer material harden. This can save substantial costs on mat reconditioning.
Their light weight material also means that they can be rolled and stored easily. The outer surface is specially treated to protect against odor from bacteria that can grow in the material. Depending on the specific model as well as the size of the mat, they can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. Resilite brand mats are on one of the more popular brands. They are constructed from polyvinyl chloride rubber nitrile foam. This material absorbs impacts much better then others on the market. Resilite brand mats are covered with a special formula that allows them more flexibility and makes them last longer then other mats.
Like other mats they are also protected against bacteria that may cause odor as well as against staining. Depending on the mat model as well as its size, these mats can sell starting at $500 and go as high as $10,000. These mats are available in many brands, models, sizes and materials. Advancements in technology allow for a more comfortable and safer experience for both basic and advanced grapplers.
