Who Should Get An Anti
According to our experts, there are two main groups of people who should consider anti-fatigue mats. The first? People who stand for long periods of time. “If you career involves standing for an hour or more at a time, you should consider using an anti-fatigue mat,” Dr. Radermacher says.
The second group includes people who experience discomfort while standing, even if they’re not standing for very long. ” mats can also be helpful within certain parts of the home,” Dr. Ferri says, adding that many people use them while cooking or cleaning. “They can still be helpful for short periods of timeâespecially if someone has arthritis, back problems, or is experiencing discomfort in that spot.”
Gorilla Grip Original Premium Anti
With its heavy-duty design, it is clear that this anti-fatigue kitchen mat means business. However, you will not have to compromise on style in order to reap the benefits of this model. This is because it is available in more than a dozen different colors and patterns.
Getting a good gorilla-style grip
The GORILLA GRIP Original 3/4 Premium Anti-Fatigue Comfort Mat has been set with beveled edges. This prevents the edges from rising so that you wont ever have to worry about tripping over them. There is also a slip-resistant backing that is designed to cling to different types of flooring.
The thick padding helps to relieve aches and pains when you are standing for a long time. And, you can be sure that you will receive the correct support you need. Although the mat is slightly springy, the surface is also suitably hard and durable.
Prop 65 compliant and phthalate-free
You wont have to worry about any nasty chemical smells when you choose this product. The GORILLA GRIP Original 3/4 Premium Anti-Fatigue Comfort Mat is Prop 65 compliant and phthalate-free. The textured surface is also very easy to clean with a damp cloth.
Our rating:
- Not ideal for use on carpeted floors.
Also Great: Imprint Cumuluspro
Note: The original rectangular CumulusPRO we tested isnt available but Imprint is still selling this mat with rounded corners out of the same commercial quality grippy material we love. Weve updated all the CumulusPRO links to this new item.
At a quick glance, the Imprint CumulusPRO Commercial Grade mat looks deceivingly like the other mats, but the experience on this mat is on another level.
Its also important to know that the manufacturer, Imprint, also has a non-commercial version of this mat called the CumulusPRO Professional, which we did not test. This anti-fatigue mat is the only one we tested thats sold as a commercial product. And for what its worth, all products from the Imprint brand are tested and certified by the National Floor Safety Institute and a partner of the American Chiropractic Association. This particular product comes at an extra cost, but the differences were easily spotted during testing.
Runner up: Imprint CumulusPRO Commercial Grade
The Imprint CumulusPRO is a commercial-grade mat that is denser and firmer than lesser-grade mats. It remains securely in place, and its beveled edges help prevent tripping.
Like most of the other mats, its edges are beveled to help reduce the chances of users tripping over the mat when walking by. And it was one of the few mats that didnt shift beneath our feet during testing saving you the trouble of having to reposition every so often.
Key takeaways:
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Best Color Selection: Kangaroo Original Anti
Courtesy of Amazon
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Creases from shipping may not come out
Your anti-fatigue mat doesnt have to be a boring black or brown. The Kangaroo Original Premium Anti-Fatigue Comfort Standing Mat comes in a variety of colors, including green, blue, and red, allowing you to choose a product that matches your decor perfectly and still provides the comfort you need.
This highly rated mat is 0.75 inches thick and made from high-quality foam. It features beveled edges and a textured surface to ensure you dont trip or slip on it. The Kangaroo mat wont break down over time and can easily be vacuumed or wiped down if it gets dirty. Our Lab testers did note that the raised diamond pattern on the mat made it a bit of a challenge to clean.
This anti-fatigue mat is lightweight and very comfortable to stand on. The Kangaroo mat holds up well over time, making it a worthwhile investment to protect your feet and legs. Lab testers reported that it was just firm enough and the weight of their feet felt evenly distributed. This is key to preventing the aching and soreness of joints that occurs when you stand for prolonged periods of time.
Price at time of publish: $43
The Spruce Eats / Fred Hardy
Sizes: 17 x 24 inches, 20 x 32 inches, 20 x 39 inches, 20 x 48 inches, 20 x 60 inches, 24 x 70 inches | Weight: 3.14 pounds | Material: Rubber | Colors: Beige, Black, Brown, Charcoal, Gray, Hunter Green, Mocha, Navy, Quatrefoil , Red, Sand, Sky Blue
How Do You Clean An Anti
Some mats differ from brand to brand, but most mats can easily be wiped clean with a wet dish towel. Just fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of dish soap, dip the towel in the water, and wipe the mat off. For more trough cleaning or sanitizing, try an antibacterial cleaner and a scrubbing cloth. Most mats can also be hosed off if you’re dealing with a fresh spill or just want a quick rinse.
Also Check: Cute Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mats
New Study Confirms Benefits Of Anti
Two professors at Loughborough University, George Havenith and Lucy Dorman, conducted a study of anti-fatigue mats in a special laboratory created for the test. They published the results earlier this summer.
The study involved 14 participants who were instructed to arrive at the laboratory for the tests at the same time each day. They were asked to stand on a concrete floor or on anti-fatigue mats for 90-minute sessions over a 5-day period.
The researchers used a variety of methods to measure any pain, discomfort, tiredness and fatigue that might develop after standing for prolonged periods these included infrared thermal imaging, body temperature sensors placed on the participants, and infrared photographs. Participants also filled out a questionnaire after each session.
This is similar to other research conducted on this subject, says JoAnne Boston, business development manager for Crown Mats.
After evaluating the results, the researchers found that to the feet, legs and back of the study participants. The researchers also found it caused stiffness to the neck and shoulders.
Other studies have gone a step further and found that standing for periods longer than 90 minutes can result in even more serious conditions such as circulatory problems that can, in some cases, be irreversible, adds Boston.
Reducing Impact On Joints
Standing for hours can cause strain and pressure on your joints because they feel temporarily stuck. Over time, this could even lead to tissue and tendon damage.
However, the cushioned surface of an anti-fatigue mat helps you stretch your calves, stand with a wider stance, and reduce the overall pressure on joints.
Read Also: Heavy Duty Anti Fatigue Mat
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Best Overall: Sky Solutions Sky Mat 075
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Thick cushion provides necessary support
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Softness creates an ultra-comfortable surface
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Available in nine colors and three sizes
Who else recommends it? TechRadar, BestReviews, and Forbes all picked the Sky Solutions Sky Mat Comfort Anti-Fatigue Mat.
What do buyers say? 92% of 30,300+ Amazon reviewers rated this product 4 stars or above.
For a simple yet effective anti-fatigue mat, consider the Sky Mat. This reasonably priced option comes in three sizes and several colors, letting you choose the best fit for your kitchen. The anti-fatigue mat is 0.75 inches thick and made from the companys patented foam, which is described as the perfect blend of support and softness for standing all day.” The mat has a beveled edge to prevent tripping, as well as a nonslip bottom.
Further, the Sky Mat is designed to be durable and is easy to wipe clean if you spill anything on it. Our Lab testers experimented with spilling flour and molasses on the mat and confirmed that it easily rinsed right off without issues. However, they do recommend choosing the black color over the other options so that it’s less likely to show any unsightly dirt. Even after hours of being on their feet in the Lab, testers noted that the mat still felt quite firm and supportive, thanks to its plush memory foam construction.
Price at time of publish: $55
The Spruce Eats / Fred Hardy
The Goldilocks Of Anti
Rachel is a writer for The Spruce Eats. She is passionate about all things fashion and home and takes pride in helping readers make informed consumer decisions.
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the bestproductslearn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
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Why Trust The Spruce Eats
Camryn Rabideau is a lifestyle writer specializing in all things home products. She’s reviewed everything from the latest and greatest kitchen gifts to the must-have cookware essentials for your kitchen. She’s also taken several interior design courses, which has given her an additional angle when it comes to home products.
, who wrote the buying guide for this roundup, is a self-taught home chef who has interviewed and learned from famous chefs along the way. However, her real passion is for making home cooking accessible, fun, and comfortable. As part of her research on the more technical aspects of anti-fatigue mats for the kitchen, she interviewed Dr. Kevin Lees, DC, manager of auditing and quality for The Joint Chiropractic.
Our Associate Commerce Editor Rachel Lee assessed testing insights from our Lab and researched each product’s qualities to determine the top picks to recommend in this updated roundup.
Nuva Premium Standing Floor Mat
With its beautifully textured surface, this anti-fatigue kitchen mat really stands out from the crowd. The NUVA Premium Standing Floor Mat boasts a bright and bold design that will add a touch of fun to any kitchen.
This mat is especially thick and luxurious and promises to make standing for long periods a breeze.
Massages your feet while you work wonderful
The grooves and ridges on the surface of this mat help to massage your feet while you are standing. The mat has been made of PU elastomer material that is highly stretchy whilst also being fully supportive. No matter how long you stand for, you are unlikely to suffer from aches and pains with this model.
Although this mat is relatively thick, you wont have to worry about tripping over the edges, since the beautifully beveled design keeps the edges of the mat from rising up. There is also a non-slip backing and waterproof surface that is very easy to clean.
May arrive with a few creases but thats easy enough to sort out
Due to the shipping processes, you may find that this mat has a few creases in it when it arrives. However, these creases can be removed very quickly and easily. Simply hang out the mat for an hour or two and the creases should fall right out.
Our rating:
- May be shipped with some creases.
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Who This Is For
A standing desk mat is for anyone who wants to make standing while working more comfortable. Though theyre typically used at a standing desk or a standing desk converter, standing desk mats are also known as anti-fatigue mats, and they can be used in any situation where youll be standing and performing a task for a while: food prep, dishwashing, workbench projects, and the like. Standing on a well-made mat relieves pressure on your entire body and makes standing feel like less of a chore. And the best standing desk mats enable or even encourage you to move. If youre going to be standing while working for more than a few minutes at a time, youll feel an almost immediate difference and benefit from having a mat under your feet.
A standing desk mat is for anyone who wants to make standing while working more comfortable.
If you feel discomfort or fatigue in your legs or feet when you stand, Cornell Universitys Human Factors and Ergonomics Research Group recommends that you either use an anti-fatigue mat, wear more comfortable footwear, use an angled foot rest, or sit down.
But sitting all day isnt the solution, either. Research has associated prolonged sitting with a higher risk of a host of problems, including heart disease and diabetes, certain cancers, and premature death.
Can You Put A Chair On An Anti
Most anti-fatigue mats are designed for standing and would be difficult to wheel an office chair on. Regular chair legs may also puncture or damage the cover on a mat. If you want a mat for an office desk or other area where you may sit and stand, look for a small mat that can go in front of your chair.
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Imprint Cumuluspro Commercial Standing Desk Anti
With its thick cushioning and beveled edges, this anti-fatigue floor mat really delivers the goods.
The Imprint CumulusPRO Commercial Standing Desk Anti-Fatigue Mat has been created using an environmentally friendly process. It is completely free from phthalate and features a waterproof surface that is easy to clean.
Going the distance
Once you have chosen the perfect anti-fatigue floor mat for you, you will want to make sure that it lasts. After all, your new mat is likely to receive a lot of use. Fortunately, the Imprint CumulusPRO Commercial Standing Desk Anti-Fatigue Mat is supplied with a comprehensive lifetime warranty!
A bit hard for the hippies
Although this mat provides you with support, it should be noted that the surface is rather hard. This means that it may be rather uncomfortable, particularly if you are standing barefoot. However, the hard surface helps to correct your posture while you are standing and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Its black, black or black though
If black is your color, you are in luck. This is the only color that this special floor mat is available in. However, if you prefer something a bit more colorful you are likely to want to continue your search.
Our rating:
- The surface of the mat is rather hard.
- Only available in one color.
What Is The Best Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mats
I’m sorry if I’ve confused you. My sympathies go out to you! Even yet, it is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. If youre still unsure which type of best anti fatigue kitchen mats is best for you, I recommend comparing the characteristics and functionalities of the best anti fatigue kitchen mats listed above. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
Recommended Reading: Heart Disease And Extreme Fatigue
Thickness Density & Elements
A dense rubber mat is less tiring than a soft mat and will provide better support. But there’s more to consider when it comes to density, and a well-designed anti-fatigue mat will be engineered based on key elements that are known to alleviate foot fatigue. Adding a vinyl cover to a foam construction may be fine for a comfy feel, but when you want to reduce foot fatigue, it’s just not enough.
A foam mat that is too soft may look and feel nice at the first step, but you will constantly be balancing on the mat, similar to walking on sand. That can be extremely fatiguing in the long run. This balancing act also improperly shifts the weight, and that can lead to misalignment health issues. For chefs who spend hours cooking or baking, this type is too light to provide a good cushioning.
Mats that are at least 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, or closer to 1 inch thick would be best, but not too high to create a tripping hazard. The best mats will also have a tapered edge to prevent tripping hazards and the wider the taper, the better.
The bottom line: If you’ve already experienced foot, knee, or back pain and you stand for hours, a lightweight mat will probably be inadequate. Go for an industrial-grade mat with essential features to reduce foot strain.
Flaws But Not Dealbreakers
Most anti-fatigue mats are flat for good reason: trip prevention, ease of storage, and to facilitate a range of tasks at a workstation. If you want to pace or work at different ends of your desk without raised surfaces getting in your wayor to use it for other tasks where movement is important, such as cookingyoull want to stick with a flat mat like the ComfiLife Anti Fatigue Floor Mat we recommend.
Ergodriven states in its product FAQ that the Topo provides an almost perfect performance up to user weights of 240 pounds. Both the FAQ and an Ergodriven representative clarified that the Topo can still work for people who weigh more than 240 pounds. Even so, wed suggest that anyone significantly over that weight keep the return policy in mind .
A few testers who generally liked the Topos movement-inducing design thought the central button was too squishy. It seems to be meant more as an occasional foot stop, or a spot to press and stretch foot muscles, but it does have a different feel from the contoured, firmer edges.
The Topos $100 asking price may be too high if youve just started using a standing desk and arent sure youll stick with it. In that case, you may be better off starting out with a more affordable flat mat, which you can repurpose in the kitchen if the habit doesnt stick or you decide to upgrade to the Topo later.
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