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Everyone knows how hard it can be to stand in one place for hours. Your legs become heavy and tense, your muscles get tired, and your body begins to hurt.
If you have ever experienced back pain due to standing for long periods of time, or aches and pains the following day, you should consider a solution. Your best friend from now on could just be the comfort standing mat, or anti-fatigue mat.
We’ll review the reasons why you might want to consider an anti-fatigue mat for your home or office, and provide our recommendations on the best anti fatigue mat.
Contents
Selecting A Great Anti-Fatigue Mat
In our best anti fatigue mat reviews, we found that you need to find a combination of comfort and durability. You need a mat that will relieve your foot pain, minimizing the challenges that come with being on your feet all day. You also need a mat that will last, standing up to the rigors of consistent, every day use.
We’ve broken down the best anti-fatigue mat reviews into two sections: the best standing desk mat and the best anti fatigue kitchen mat.
When it comes to the best standing mat, these anti fatigue mats have been designed specifically to fit under your desk. Many of the options listed here have special designs to massage and circulate blood flow in your feet while you work.
The best anti fatigue kitchen mat is made to be durable and long lasting, as they have to handle a lot of foot traffic. They are typically larger in size, but don’t have the contoured shape and design that the best standing mat design will have.
Our Standing Desk Mat Reviews
Best Standing Desk Anti Fatigue Mat: Ergodriven Topo Anti Fatigue Standing Desk Mat
The Ergodriven Topo is one of the best mats for standing desk, and comes with a number of amazing features. With this standing desk mat, you will be able to stand comfortable throughout the entire day, as the cushioned terrain of the mat encourages natural foot movement. This unique ergonomic design is what sets the Ergodriven Topo Anti-Fatigue Mat apart from all the others.
This anti-fatigue mat is specifically designed for the standing desk user. The “calculated terrain” of this mat indirectly makes your muscles expand and contract throughout the day, which promotes healthy blood flow. It is actually a little hard to describe, and a lot of anti fatigue mats claim to do this, but no brand does it like the Topo mat in our experience.
Here is another key distinguishing factor: the Topo mat is easy to move around under your desk with your feet. This means you don’t have to bend down to adjust it, which is what you have to do with every other anti fatigue mat. We really really appreciated the convenience of this, especially as you go throughout your working day.
Another advantage of this anti-fatigue mat is that it is very easy to clean. The Topo mat is made from environmentally-conscious polyurethane, which allows you to easily clean off dirt that builds up. Many other mats struggle with cleaning, but we found the Topo anti-fatigue mat the easiest of all to clean.
The Ergodriven Topo Anti-Fatigue Mat can easily fit under your working desk and is resistant to puncture. The surface of this mat is covered with special bumps, which are strategically placed to relieve pain and discomfort in your feet.
Fun fact: the creators of the Topo mat got the idea from nature. As they explain it, when you walk through nature, the natural landscape is sloped and filled with irregular terrain. Rocks, hills, branches, and other natural factors cause our feet to naturally adapt and excel at different terrains.
At work, though, we walk and stand on entirely flat surfaces. The Topo mat is named after a topographical map, which is the type of map that outlines the hills and elevation changes that naturally happen in nature.
This mat allows your feet to embrace their natural state, while you’re standing at work all day. It’s fans would consider it the best desk pad for your feet.
In addition to all the above mentioned, this mat lasts for a long time. The Topo mat was created specifically for those who stand for a long period of time at their desk. As such, it has been designed to last, unlike some of it’s cheaper counterparts.
This mat is a little smaller than its counterparts, coming in at 26″x29″. Many actually find this attractive, though, as it fits better under your desk and is easier to move around. When you’re looking at the best standing mat, it doesn’t necessarily have to be large and wide, like you would need in a kitchen or open area.
The bottom line: the Ergodriven Topo Anti-Fatigue Mat gets our vote for the best standing desk mat on the market. Here is a summary of the key characteristics of the Topo Not-Flat Standing Desk Anti-Fatigue Mat with Calculated Terrain:
Specifications
- Brand/Model: Ergodriven Topo Anti-Fatigue Mat
- Sizes: 26″x29″
- Colors: Black, Grey, Blue, and Purple
- Weight: 8 lb
- Material: 100% Polyurethane
- Warranty: 7 year
Highlights
- High durability – A long lasting mat
- High level of support from the 100% polyurethane
- Reduces fatigue through unique, ergonomic design
- Special terrain surface design to mimic nature
- Simple and easy to position with just one foot
Most Versatile Anti Fatigue Mat: Comfort Mat CumulusPRO Anti-Fatigue Standing Desk Mat
The CumulusPRO Commercial Anti-Fatigue Mat is the perfect anti fatigue floor mat for those who want an extremely high quality anti fatigue mat that seamlessly blends in with their environment.
You’ll want to read our review of the Ergodriven Topo Anti Fatigue Mat below, as the CumulusPRO was designed as a similar but lower price option. Each of these two mats are specifically designed for under your standing desk, but the CumulusPRO has a little more flexibility.
Unlike the Topo mat, this anti fatigue mat can be used a lot of places around your house besides your desk. Place one in front of your kitchen sink, or at other high-traffic areas that you stand at frequently. It’s stylish design lets it blend in very nicely, and it’s low profile keep it from being a tripping hazard.
This model’s competitive advantage is its ecosmart anti-fatigue cushioning system. This technology adds extra cushioning comfort that lasts all day. The standing mat is highly supportive and solid enough to withstand the pressure over time.
Just like the Topo mat, this CumulusPRO Commercial Mat is made from 100% polyurethane. However, unlike the Topo mat we reviewed previously, the commercial grade materials used given this mat more firmness. The CumulusPRO also comes with a lifetime warranty, which outperfoms the Topo 7 year warranty.
This mat features no-curl edges and stay-flat memory technology, which significantly decrease the trip hazard. The nonslip underside of the mat works really well to keep the CumulusPRO Mat in one place. Compared to the Topo, this mat stays in one place a lot easier and represents much less of a tripping hazard.
The key features of this Cumulus Pro ergonomic mat are:
Specifications
- Brand/Model: Imprint CumulusPro Anti-Fatigue Mat
- Sizes: 24″ x 36″
- Colors: Black and Espresso
- Weight: 6.5 lb
- Material: 100% Polyurethane
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Best Use: Kitchen Mat
Highlights
- Cushion-Core Technology to reduce fatigue and increase comfort and productivity
- Stylish design
- Environmentally friendly and non-toxic
- No-curl edges reduce trip hazard
- Non-slip bottom keeps mat in place
- Lifelong 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Tested and certified by the National Floor Safety Institute American Chiropractic Association (ACA) Partner
- Flexible 100% polyurethane construction
- High-density core high level of consistent support over time
- Waterproof surface
Best Cheap Anti Fatigue Mat: Kangaroo Non-Slip Anti Fatigue Mat
Let’s start off by saying that the Kangaroo Anti Fatigue Comfort Standing Mat gets our vote for the best inexpensive anti fatigue mat. It gets over 4 stars from thousands of reviews on Amazon.
The Kangaroo brand is long lasting and highly durable. This mat also comes in 3 sizes and 10 colors. There is so much to love about this anti fatigue mat.
Also, while we put the Kangaroo Anti Fatigue Mat in the best mat for standing desk section, it is truly a multi-purpose anti-fatigue mat. You could just as easily use this mat in your kitchen, depending on the size selection you made.
At 3/4 thickness, the Kangaroo Anti Fatigue Comfort Standing Mat has the typical depth that most mats on the market do. It features a beveled edge and a non-slip bottom.
The Kangaroo features the typical 20″x32″ size, along with two others. It features the most robust selection of colors, covering the range of palettes.
The foam material of this Kangaroo mat is actually pretty high in quality. It is non toxic and phthalate free, meaning that it is safe to use with your bare feet and to be around your pets.
We found this mat to be remarkably easy to clean, given it’s price point. It also comes in a wide variety of sizes and colors, similar to the Sky mat.
For the price, the Kangaroo Anti Fatigue Comfort Standing Mat is a fantastic starter anti fatigue mat. To sum up the key features of the Kangaroo Non-Slip Anti Fatigue Comfort Mat:
Specifications
- Brand & Model: The Kangaroo Anti-Fatigue Comfort Mat
- Sizes: 32 x 20 inches
- Colours: Black, Brown, Gray, Navy, Red, Sand
- Weight:3.2 lb
- Material: Non toxic, phthalate free foam
- Warranty: 10 year
- Best Use: All Around Mat
Highlights
- Right thickness of the mat
- High-quality foam to eliminate pressure
- Non-toxic, phthalate free materials
- Grooved underside
- Textured surface and advanced beveled edge design
- Strong, durable support for high traffic areas
- Easy to clean
- 10-year guarantee
Sky Mat Standing Desk Mat
The Sky Mat Comfort Anti Fatigue Mat is another fantastic anti fatigue mat on the market. Available in 6 colors and 3 sizes, this anti fatigue mat will work well all over, whether under your desk, in your kitchen, or in your garage.
It is made from a polyurethane PVC blend, which is common for mats in this price range.
The mat also comes with a lifetime warranty, which should alleviate some concerns with purchasing a cheaper mat like this one.
The Sky Solutions mat is your standard 3/4″ height and comes with a beveled edge.
We found its non-slip bottom coating to work really well, and this anti fatigue mat stays in one place as you move.
In addition, the material of this Sky mat is eco-friendly. As such, a lot of reviewers report using it with bare feet quite often. Its rubberized material is also very easy to clean and it dries quickly.
The lifetime guarantee is a nice addition to the Sky Mat Comfort Anti Fatigue Mat features.
Like the Kangaroo mat, the Sky mat is multi-purposeful and can be used all over your house and under your desk.
Summing up the key characteristics of the Sky Solutions Anti Fatigue Mat:
Specifications
- Brand & Model: Sky Anti-Fatigue Mat
- Sizes: 20 x 39 x 3/4 Colors: Midnight Black, Dark Maple Brown, Desert Khaki, Indigo Blue, Wine Red
- Weight: 3.2 lb
- Material: Polyurethane / PVC blend
- Warranty: Money Back Guarantee
- Best Use: All Around Mat
Highlights
- High quality foam construction
- Beveled edge design prevents tripping and slippage hazard
- Easy to clean and dry
- Lifelong durability
- Eco-friendly material of the highest quality
- Beautiful modern style
Sky Mat vs Kangaroo Mat
When it comes to the best cheap standing desk mat, our two recommendations boil down to the Kangaroo and Sky mat. Both are great all-purpose mats that can actually be used all over the house. So why do we recommend the Kangaroo Anti Fatigue Comfort Standing Mat out of the two of them. It was a close call…
Well, for starters, they are virtually the same price, and offer the exact same size options. So those factors don’t offer any distinction.
The Kangaroo mat has 10 different color options vs the Sky mat with 6 color options. When you are putting the anti fatigue mat in a high traffic area like your kitchen, you want to have a color that fits nicely with your decor, and Kangaroo certainly has more color options.
However, the Kangaroo mat has a 10 year warranty, while Sky offers a lifetime warranty. Lets be honest – both of those warranties are amazing. But Sky does have the edge with the better guarantee.
All things being equal, our vote is the Kangaroo Anti Fatigue Comfort Standing Mat. We think a 10 year warranty is plenty, and we love the extra color options that Kangaroo offers.
Butterfly Ergonomic Non-Flat Anti-Fatigue Standing Desk Mat
The Butterfly Ergonomic Anti Fatigue Standing Desk Mat is a good option for those wanting a lot of the same features of the Topo Mat but made by the strong Butterfly brand name.
This model of anti-fatigue mat features the calculated terrain shape that supports healthy movement. The special surface of the mat has special bumps which create a soothing effect for tired soles. The central teardrop of the mat along with mounds across the mat encourages a variety of standing postures, and increase blood flow in your feet.
Cutting to the chase, the Butterfly anti-fatigue mat is a similar but cheaper version of the Topo anti fatigue mat. They have the same focus on a calculated terrain design.
However, the Butterfly Standing Desk Mat is made from a mix of polyurethane and PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride). The mixture of material does not make it quite as durable, nor is the mat as firm. The size of the mat is perfect for the stand working desks. In addition, the beveled edge design of the mat and no-curl edges prevent a tripping hazard, which is a nice feature.
The Butterfly mat offers a 100% money back guarantee, but no warranty.
This Butterfly Ergonomic Anti Fatigue Standing Desk Mat was created for people who look for an affordable option to support their posture and reduce the fatigue levels at the workplace.
At the end of the day, Butterfly has a strong brand name and makes very high quality products. Their Ergonomic Standing Desk Mat is larger than the Topo Mat, they’ve matched the easy-to-move feature that Topo was known for. But, we strongly prefer Topo’s design and build, and would recommend it as the better of the two. However, you really can’t go wrong with either.
Butterfly Ergonomic Non-Flat Anti Fatigue Standing Desk Mat key features include:
Specifications
- Brand/Model: Butterfly Ergonomic Anti-Fatigue Mat
- Sizes: 36″x24″ (1.4″ thick)
- Colors: Blue, Black and Purple
- Weight: 6.8 lb
- Material: Polyurethane / PVC blend
- Warranty: Money Back Guarantee
Highlights
- Calculated terrain mat layout
- Environmentally-friendly supportive foam
- Special design prevents tripping hazard
- Mat “teardrop” center promotes foot movement
- Non-slip
- Ergonomic design for comfort standing
- Budget friendly
Each of these five anti fatigue mats are fantastic options, and they each have their upsides. Both Kangaroo and Sky make inexpensive, versatile anti fatigue mats with plenty of size and color options. While we give the slight edge to the Kangaroo Standing Mat, you’ll love either of these mats. They work well as the best anti fatigue mat for standing desks, kitchens, or office settings.
At the high end, we give the edge to the Ergodriven Topo Anti-Fatigue Mat as the best floor mat for standing desk use, for its amazing design, durability, and convenience.
Looking for an option in between the CumulusPRO Commercial Anti-Fatigue Mat is flatter and better shaped, making it highly versatile. And, it’s commercial grade construction make it perfectly suited for higher traffic areas.
Our Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat Reviews
Everyone wants their experience in the kitchen to be easier and simpler. Cooking should be a relaxing process, not a stressful or painful one. That is why purchasing the proper anti fatigue mat for your kitchen is so important.
Anti fatigue mats for the kitchen reduce pressure between the feet and the floor. The surface becomes cushioned, and the impact between your feet and the floor becomes less severe. They also encourage small movements throughout the body, which makes it easier for blood to reach the limbs.
That is why the purchase of your kitchen anti-fatigue mat should be made carefully. Getting the best anti fatigue kitchen mat can change your kitchen experience and even your health! The great thing about these kitchen floor mats is that they come in a wide range of types, and each of the options listed here are very affordable.
- Make sure the mat you choose is in the correct place for the set up of your kitchen. You want the mat to go in the place you stand the most.
- Measure your kitchen area first to determine what size mat will fit properly.
- If style is a priority, decorative anti fatigue kitchen mats are available, so don’t settle until you find the right one.
Best Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat: AMCOMFY Kitchen Anti Fatigue Mat
AMCOMFY is a brand that prioritizes the comfort and well-being of its customers. They design their mats to perfectly suit the needs of the people who require them most. This brand is one you can trust, and is one of the best rated anti fatigue kitchen mats on the market.
The AMCOMFY Kitchen Anti Fatigue Mat has incredible reviews on Amazon, with owners raving about its solid construction. It is decorative, large, and durable. This mat is incredibly affordable and, for the size, material, and decoration of the mat, we find it to be a steal.
The AMCOMFY Kitchen Anti Fatigue Mat is quality certified by the TuV Rheinland agency. This company tests products for their quality and safety and this has ensured this product ranks highly in both.
One of the biggest perks of this anti fatigue mat is that it is decorative. Many anti fatigue mats work well but lack the style to fit in with home decor perfectly. However, this mat has a vintage and antique feel that will brighten up any home space. The mat looks expensive and unique.
This mat is thick, which means that it provides the perfect balance of softness and security. The mat is soft and comfortable, but it’s not something you will sink into. It still provides sturdiness and reliability while giving you the utmost support.
The way the AMCOMFY Kitchen Anti Fatigue Mat is designed gives the consumer a high-quality experience. This mat is ergonomically engineered, which means that it was specifically created to even out your body’s pressure on the feet so that you can experience both comfort and pain relief.
The surface of the mat is designed with a textured pattern, which helps keeps shoes and feet from slipping, preventing any potential accidents. The beveled edge around the mat serves the same purpose. There is also a grippy bottom under the mat to keep it from sliding around the floor.
This anti fatigue kitchen mat is extremely durable. For one, it is resistant to mold and mildew. It is also stain resistant. This makes it incredibly easy to clean. It can just be vacuumed or wiped for a squeaky clean finish.
Second, this mat is made of a non-toxic phthalate-free material that is designed to keep from curling, cracking, breaking, or chipping. This mat can withstand the test of time. That is why the manufacturer also offers an unlimited warranty on the product. If any issues are to occur, customer service can easily be contacted for a replacement.
The AMCOMFY Kitchen Anti Fatigue Mat comes in one piece, making it extremely convenient. All you do is put it in your desired location, and it is fully ready to be used!
All in all, we vote the AMCOMFY as the best anti fatigue kitchen mat.
Specifications
- Brand/Model: Amcomfy Kitchen Anti Fatigue Comfort Mat
- Sizes: 20″x32″, 20″x39″, 24″x70″
- Colors: Light, Dark, Flower, Beige, Black, Blue, Brown, Green, Red
- Weight: 7.5 lbs
- Material: Non-toxic phthalate-free material
- Warranty: Lifetime Warranty
Highlights
- Unique flower pattern surface
- Antique design
- Certified by TuV Agency
- Stain, mold, and mildew resistant
- Soft yet supportive
- Ergonomically engineered
- Easy to clean
- Lifetime warranty
Best for the Money: Butterfly Anti Fatigue Kitchen Comfort Mat
The Butterfly Anti-Fatigue Quatrefoil Kitchen Comfort Mat is a popular kitchen mat brand that is loved by its users. It is extremely affordable, highly rated, stylish, and convenient. This brand is confident in their products and shares that confidence with their consumers.
This anti fatigue mat is a rectangle shape, which is perfect for the surrounding kitchen area. You have four different sizes to choose from, making this the most diverse of all the anti fatigue kitchen mats we recommend. This can be important depending on the size and shape of your kitchen.
This anti fatigue kitchen mat is a unique antique-style decorative mat for the kitchen area. It will look fabulous in your kitchen while providing a high level of functionality for you and your guests. Nine different color options make the Butterfly Anti-Fatigue Quatrefoil Kitchen Comfort Mat easy to blend in with your kitchen’s environment.
This mat has a unique pattern that gives off an exquisite antique design. The pattern is an elegant Quatrefoil design that is made to look inviting. Of all the anti fatigue mats, this one probably looks the most classy and unique.
This mat provides extreme comfort for its users. It has also been ergonomically designed to ensure the body’s weight is evenly distributed between the feet for the best experience possible. This mat provides long term pain relief for users as well, especially those with limb and foot problems, ranking it high as one of the best kitchen mats for back pain.
The Butterfly Anti-Fatigue Quatrefoil Kitchen Comfort Mat has been designed to be extremely safe for usage in the household. It contains no-curl edges that keep the mat from turning up or folding. It also has a grippy underside to keep the mat from moving out from under you.
This mat is extremely convenient to clean and maintain. It can be wiped with a wet towel. It is waterproof and oil resistant, meaning it won’t get wet or sticky in the kitchen environment, preventing unnecessary dirt from accumulating and hazards from occurring.
This home piece also has a lifetime warranty. The customer service at Butterfly can be contacted directly for any issues, complaints, or replacements regarding the purchase. The brand also has a full money back guarantee if the product isn’t as it should be.
This product can help relieve hip, back, and joint pain. Although it was initially meant for the kitchen, it can also be moved around and used in other parts of the house for improved versatility. It can be utilized in the office, garage, laundry room, bathroom, and in any workspace.
In addition to these great perks, Butterfly Anti-Fatigue Quatrefoil Kitchen Comfort Mat is manufactured without any harsh chemicals that can be damaging to the body or environment. It doesn’t have the bad chemical smell of many other mats for this reason!
Specifications
- Brand/Model: Butterfly Anti Fatigue Kitchen Comfort Mat
- Sizes: 20″x32″, 20″x39″, 22″ x 36″, 24″x70″
- Colors: Bronze, Beige, Brown, Dark Brown, Gray, Dark Gray, Coffee, Antique, Dark Antique
- Weight: 8 lbs
- Material: Commercial grade memory foam materials
- Warranty: Money Back Guarantee
Highlights
- Decorative Quatrefoil design
- Ergonomically engineered
- Anti-skid bottom for safety
- Durable and waterproof
- Soft yet oil resistant
Best Cheap Pick: Cook N Home Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat
Cook N Home is a decent quality brand that designs products specifically for the kitchen. Their specialty is creating items that make daily life in the kitchen more comfortable and practical. They are a reputable brand that is trusted by many consumers.
This Cook N Home Anti Fatigue Comfort Mat comes in at well under $50, making it very affordable for all of its specs and design choices. This mat is rather dynamic and offers a broad range of features, given how inexpensive it is.
This mat only has one size option, which might be a bit limiting. For many, 39″ is too narrow for their kitchen, and they prefer some of the larger options that other anti fatigue mats in our review offer.
Although this mat is the standard 3/4″ thickness, it has a slim and modern look to it. The design is subtle, but it is there. The design of this mat is one of its biggest perks. It has a design etched into the material, and it comes in 2 colors: faux leather and faux woven.
The Cook N Home Anti Fatigue Comfort Mat feels incredibly soft, but it is also very supportive. The top of it gives a soft feeling to your feet, while the base is firm and supportive to keep the pressure of your weight even.
The mat is great for relieving pain in the joints, hips, limbs, feet, and back. It is particularly useful for those who are older or have any conditions that cause painful symptoms. This mat is also used to relieve bodily tension and stress while standing for extended periods of time.
The Cook N Home Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat is designed to prevent any accidents in the home. Its edge is beveled at 20 degrees at a low profile to prevent tripping or curling of the edges. The mat also has a grippy surface that keeps the user from slipping and the mat from moving around unexpectedly.
The materials used to make this product are eco-friendly and good for you. The mat is of decent quality and does not contain a toxic smell. The mat is built of high-density polyurethane, which ensures durability. It is also protective against heat and flames.
Due to its material, this mat is very easy to clean. It can just be wiped over with a damp cloth or paper towel for a good-as-new finish. You can also just use basic household cleaner to wash the mat. Because it is stain resistant, messes don’t tend to collect on this mat anyway, even though it sits in the kitchen.
Because of its thickness, the Cook N Home Anti Fatigue Comfort Mat doesn’t wear down over time or get thinner. The points in the mat stay high and undamaged by use, for maximum comfort all of the time. This mat can bear weight over long periods of time, so it will remain intact through proper usage and provide constant relief for as long as you need it to.
Specifications
- Brand/Model: Cook N Home Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat
- Sizes: 20″x39″
- Colors: Faux Leather and Faux Woven
- Weight: 3.9 lbs
- Material: Thick foam
- Warranty: Unknown
Highlights
- 20-degree beveled edge
- High-density Polyurethane foam
- Firm supportive base and non-slip surface
- Stain resistant and easy to clean
Your Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat Warranty
Most of the best anti fatigue kitchen mats offer fantastic warranties. Your kitchen comfort mat will get a lot of use. And, while the product shouldn’t deteriorate quickly, make sure to utilize the warranty.
The warranty is there for you should the mat break down, peel apart, or deteriorate quicker than anticipated. We’ve selected products that have a fantastic warranty to back up their anti fatigue mat.
Final Votes
Best Standing Desk Anti Fatigue Mat:
This Ergodriven Topo Mat is the best choice for your office and under your standing desk. The massage bumps really help your feet through a long day (hint: try slipping your shoes off under your desk to take maximum advantage of them). The teardrop design works really well for a desk scenario, and it is built to last you a very long time.
Best Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat:
This mat would perfectly fit in your kitchen, as it is slippage safe, waterproof and stain resistant. The mat is certified by TuV Agency, and comes in a variety of stylish colors and shapes, with enough options to fit in any kitchen. The nonslip underside of the mat keeps the AMCOMFY mat in place, which is key in a kitchen environment where the floor can get wet at times.
We have this model right below our sink, and highly recommend it as the best kitchen anti fatigue mat.
Best Cheap Anti Fatigue Mat:
As mentioned previously, Kangaroo mats are the complete package for a very reasonable price. They come in a wide variety of sizes and colors, which is important when you’re trying to work this into your home. The mats utilize a very high quality material and stand up over time.
Most Versatile Anti Fatigue Mat:
In many ways, the CumulusPRO offers the best of both words. This commercial grade anti fatigue mat will last you an incredibly long time, and yet is versatile enough to be used in your kitchen or under your standing desk.
Why Consider an Anti Fatigue Mat?
Anti fatigue mats were designed with one purpose in mind: to minimize the adverse effects of standing in one place for a long period of time. Whether in the kitchen or the office, an anti-fatigue mat is ergonomically designed to keep your body in good condition. The anti-fatigue mat is crucial for people who spend long hours standing in one place without moving around much.
When you spend prolonged amounts of time standing in one place, it can take a toll on your
- legs
- feet
- lower back
Standing on an anti-fatigue mat, is not just standing on a softer surface. The anti-fatigue mat is an unstable surface, that forces your feet to not be flat and still. Instead the mat works your feet very subtly by forcing them to find balance while you are standing. It’s not a noticeable unstable surface, in fact you really won’t feel your body being forced to find balance.
To you, it will simply feel like you are standing on a more cushioned surface. But what is really happening is that your feet and calves are compressing and releasing while you are standing on this surface.
Also while you are standing on this unstable surface, you are working your hips and core subtly. This will help alleviate any back pain that you may be experience from standing still for long hours at a time.
While using these mats, you can fully focus on the task you are doing and forget about the pain in legs, back, shoulders and head. Anti-fatigue mats are usually used in offices, kitchens, and other settings that require prolonged standing and walking.
The anti fatigue mats come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to match your needs and the environment. Moreover, different kinds of materials are used for the production anti-fatigue mats: rubber, foam, gel being the most common. Each of the types has a different level of softness, flexibility, and support.
As stated above, one of the key reasons to purchase an anti-fatigue mat is your health. Standing for long periods of time without rest breaks can cause both mild and serious health problems.
These health problems include headaches, backaches, sore feet, slouching, swelling of the legs, varicose veins, cardiovascular disorders, general muscular fatigue, lower back pain, and stiffness in the neck and shoulders.
In worse cases, standing for too long can start to have adverse effects on your circulation. This is because it is harder for the heart to pump blood all the way down to your feet and then back up again when you are standing still and not using the muscles in your legs to help power the blood flow along.
However, when it comes to choosing the best anti-fatigue mat, how do you know which ones make the cut. Read below, as we share the best anti fatigue mats reviews for both the home and the office.
What Makes Up a Top Rated Anti Fatigue Mat?
Your anti-fatigue mat is going to be used in high traffic areas. Whether you purchase it for your kitchen or your office, the entire reason you are purchasing one is because you spent a lot of time standing in one place.
Because of this, it is really important to learn and understand what goes into the best anti-fatigue mat. Ergonomical design and quality materials are vital so that your anti fatigue mat doesn’t fall apart too soon.
You all need to pay attention to quality design. Poor design indicators are things like large mat lips that cause tripping, and quick and rapid deterioration of the mat. You want your mat to last so you don’t need to replace it quickly.
Durability
Your anti-fatigue mat is going to be used quite a bit, and you need to pick a model that will last. Luckily, all of the models in our review are highly durable. Be careful, as there are quite a few cheap, low quality anti fatigue mats on the market.
Anti fatigue mats endure are lot of wear and tear, as they are constantly being stepped on. They need to be durable and highly resistant to tearing, staining, and puncture.
You also want an anti fatigue mat that cleans well. If a mat is completely sealed, this means that there are no visible seams, then that will make sure that water or any other cleaning agent is absorbed into the mat. Keeping your anti-fatigue mat dry and free from any moisture will ensure that it doesn’t break down or rot.
Most of the anti fatigue mats in our reviews clean up in a similar fashion.
Price
More than likely, one of your first questions when looking into the best anti-fatigue mat is price. You can find the best cheap anti fatigue mats on the market for under $75. There are models available under $50, but we’ve found the sweet spot of both quality and affordability to be in the $50-$75 range.
Barring an incredible sale, this is the typical range for a quality and affordable mat. Don’t go below this, otherwise you suffer the risk of low quality.
In this recommended price range though, you’ll typically get a high quality foam mat that is meant for lower traffic areas like your kitchen or under your desk.
For the best anti fatigue mats on the market, you’ll spend more than $75. But, you’ll get a lot of improvements for the spend. For starters, you’ll be getting a higher quality product, made for more durable and sustainable construction.
You’ll also find models that work in industrial and commercial settings, like factories and restaurants. If you need an anti fatigue mat for a high traffic area, you need to purchase a more expensive anti-fatigue mat.
Thickness
Almost all anti fatigue mats on the market are thick. This thickness appears to provide the right amount of support without significantly raising the height that the mat sits off your floor.
If you have a unique situation in your home, you might consider a thinner mat, but they are harder to find. And, typically these thinner anti fatigue mats are lightweight and don’t have the same amount of support.
More important than the thickness, though, is what material the mat is made of.
Materials
Anti fatigue mats come in a variety of materials, such as rubber, foam, gel, and vinyl. Believe it or not, the material makes a huge difference in both the quality and effectiveness of the mat.
- Foam anti fatigue mats are the most common, and are generally also the cheapest. Foam mats work really well in your home or under your desk. The foam cushions your feet throughout the day, and will help keep you from sore and stiff.
- Foam mats tend to break down easier, since they don’t have a durable rubber coating. They don’t have the same ergonomic properties of their gel counterparts either. But, they more than make up for all of this by being a very affordable anti fatigue mat.
- Rubber anti fatigue mats are much more durable, and perfect for higher traffic areas or industrial locations. You can purchase straight rubber mats, or foam mats covered in rubber. The rubber coated foam anti-fatigue mat will provide more comfort, but will be thicker and more expensive.
- Gel anti fatigue mats provide the most support that is available on the market. They maximize fatigue prevention and have the best ergonomic effects on your body. Naturally, they are the most expensive. However, if you suffer pain from being on your feet for long periods, they are worth their weight in gold.
Foam Mat
Due to it’s overall more affordable price and availability, foam mats have become the normal in most workplaces. While this is a great option for your wallet, it may not be the best option for your feet, legs and lower back.
When foam is compressed by large amounts of weight, then it pushes down to create a very hard surface. This is not ideal when it comes to an anti-fatigue mat since it doesn’t offer much more in support an comfort than the cement it is set upon.
Foam mats also lack the durable coating. This aids in keeping your mat clean and dry from any moisture as well as retains it from developing cracks. Cracks will separate the foam and make it uneven to stand on, thus rendering it no longer safe or effective to use.
Foam Rubber Mat
A foam rubber mat is a step up from the simple foam anti-fatigue mat. These mats offer a very durable rubber coating over the foam inner layer. This coating will seal the foam based mat and protect it from the elements and any other damage that it could incur with daily wear and tear.
The rubber coating also adds to it’s resistance layers, giving it a less like standing on softer concrete feeling and creates a more anti fatigue mat environment that will help ease the pain you feel from standing for long periods on your feet.
Hard Rubber Mat
These anti-fatigue mats offer the highest level of durability thanks to their strong rubber structuring and support. The downfall is that the rubber will not always offer you the most comfortable surface to stand on for hours and hours. However, the rubber is a more effective and comfortable anti-fatigue mat than the simple foam option.
The hard rubber mats will also retain their shape and effectiveness for years. Limiting how often you will need to replace it, even in high traffic areas where it is not just used for standing, but also as a comfortable plain for walking across or onto.
Gel Mat
When it comes to the top of the line in comfort and support, the gel anti-fatigue mats are the best of the best. This is due to the fact that the mat is filled with gel that allows equal parts give and take when you are standing still on the mat.
This type of anti-fatigue mat tends to run at a higher price point than the other material anti-fatigue mats. It is also not suited for high traffic and industrial environments like the hard rubber mat is better suited for. Instead a gel mat is preferred for an at home placement, such as in-front of the sink or behind your desk at work, where it will not be in a high traffic walkway.
Gel mats do not lack in durability, if you have one that is properly taken care of and cleaned as needed, then it can last for quite a while. These mats are just not suited for rough environments where they will be walked across and stomped on with heavy shoes on a daily basis.
Size
Anti fatigue mats come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from the common square and rectangular shapes, to more obscure circles and triangles. The typical anti fatigue mat is a couple feet wide and tall, and most come in rectangular or square shapes.
Typically speaking, you will most likely want a rectangular anti fatigue mat for your kitchen. And, if you’re selecting the best desk mat for standing on, most opt for a smaller, square size.
Make sure to measure the space you’ll be using the mat, in order to get the correct size. In your kitchen, don’t skimp on the size you don’t want to be stepping on and off the mat every time you move around. It becomes really annoying, and can actually be bad for posture. You want a mat that fully covers the area you’ll be standing.
Likewise, when selecting a size for under your desk, carefully measure the size to ensure that it adequately covers the space you’ll be covering. Again don’t shortchange yourself on the size, as you will probably be moving around your desk as you work. Lastly, make sure that the size you select will fit and not run into the desk legs.
Style And Design
Gone are the days of simple mats with simple designs. While many anti fatigue mats maintain the ability to easily blend in with their surroundings, there are also quite a few that blend both ergonomic and stylistic design characteristics.
Kitchen anti fatigue mats tend to be simpler, maintaining a minimal presence. Play close attention to the edging, as you want something that is tapered. This will minimize the amount that you catch the edge of the mat as you transition to and from it.
Many anti fatigue mats that go under your desk incorporate a teardrop design. The teardrop design has been proven to encourage movement and increase blood flow in your feet, reducing the pain associated with standing for long periods.