The mat.
Over the past 15 years of my practice I have spent many miles on sticky mats and though the piece of rubber that you practice on is the least important aspect of the practice I do have some opinions.
Let me share them with you.
Manduka PROlight. This mat comes with a lifetime warranty, I have known very few people that have needed to use it. This is the kind of mat that gets better with age. It will take a few months to wear in but when you do like your favorite pair of Birkenstock you will be beyond happy with it.
Jade Yoga was the first mat that I spent a substantial amount of money on. I was not however a responsible enough mat owner to care for this product. These are made of natural rubber and will be sticky from the moment you bring it home. They will however dry out if left in the sun and begin to peel after some years of use. I love the smell of these when you first unroll them but for some this rubber smell could absolutely be a turn off.
Lifeforme known for their beautiful (but flashy) designs and grip. These mats are heavy for better or worse. I love that every time you roll them out they unravel like you were on them just minutes earlier no more tromping on the end of the mat trying to get it to stay flat.