What do hardness and density mean for EVA mats?

Hardness and density describe different properties of an EVA foam mat. Both are useful when comparing mats, but neither number tells you everything about how a mat will perform.

What is hardness?

Hardness describes how firm the mat feels when pressure is applied to its surface. Our mats list this as a Shore C measurement: a lower number feels softer, while a higher number feels firmer. For example, a Shore C 35 mat will generally feel softer than a Shore C 45 mat.

A higher hardness number does not automatically mean a better mat. The right firmness depends on how you plan to use it.

What is density?

Density describes how much a given volume of foam weighs. It is measured in kilograms per cubic metre (kg/m³). For example, our Basic jigsaw mats are listed at 90–100kg/m³, while our Premium jigsaw mats are listed at 120kg/m³.

For mats of the same size and thickness, the denser mat will generally weigh more. Density can also affect how the foam responds to pressure, but density alone does not establish impact protection, durability or overall quality. Thickness, firmness, construction and the intended activity matter too.

Which mat should I choose?

Our Basic jigsaw mats offer a lower cost option for home training. For regular club or commercial use, we recommend our Premium jigsaw mats.

If you’re comparing mats from different suppliers, ask for the density, thickness and hardness, and check that they are measured on the same basis. A sample can help you compare how the mats actually feel. If you tell us how you intend to use your floor, we can help you choose the most suitable option.