Thickness: Consider your workout type and equipment to choose the right thickness. For heavy weight drops, opt for thicker mats (15mm or more) for better floor and equipment protection.
Quality: Look for high-density rubber compounds with good bonding to avoid crumbling or chipping. Some cheaper mats may have a strong odor or an oily surface finish.
Installation: Many 1m x 1m mats are designed for a simple, glue-free, DIY installation. They are often heavy enough to stay in place once laid down.
Odor: While most rubber mats have an initial smell, some higher-quality mats are made with non-toxic binders to reduce odor. Be sure to ventilate the area during and after installation.