I have tried many of the "name" brand yoga mats (including Manduka). They all have their weaknesses. And everyone has their own body, yoga style, and preferences. That said, this mat comes closest to meeting all my needs. I particularly like the extra length. It's not enough to get in the way in the yoga studio, but it is enough keep me from stepping off on those wide stances. And I am considered average height for a man. I have bony knees and I would have preferred a little more cushioning, but the thicker version of this mat (which I also own) I find to have too much give for balancing poses.

At the studio, they have some Jades that are over a year old, and they have a great grip. There must be some factory coating on this, because it does get a little slippery at times...but nowhere near as much as the other mat's I've tried. I just purchased this mat as I started Yoga Teacher Training to be my main mat and I am very satisfied.

Generally, this mat is pricey, but an Amazon seller had a great price and it arrived really fast.