Thickness: To achieve the kind of support that will prevent fatigue and aches, your mat should be at least ⅜-of-an-inch thick. Anything less may not provide the support and stability to improve standing for long periods of time. Environment: What kind of mat you get is largely determined by where you will use it. You can break one out anywhere from industrial kitchens to personal bathrooms. In any area that’s unsanitary or needs frequent cleaning, you’ll want to avoid a mat with surfaces that are gridded or textured, as they may collect more dirt.Material: You can choose from a variety of materials in a mat, including foam, gel, and rubber. While gel can be more expensive, it can also mimic the feel of comfortable shoe inserts and provide ample support. Foam mats can also function well, but make sure they’re not too soft, as that can lead to further fatigue from balancing and stabilizing while on your feet.
