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I had the opportunity to test a SmartCells mat over a few months and I have to tell you that there's a substantial difference between the standard variety anti-fatigue mat and this industrial grade mat. Read on to learn more about this mat review.

Product Despcription

• SmartCells® Anti-Fatigue Mat 2' x 3', Blue color
• Durable rubber (SBR/EPDM/NBR/Natural Rubber) construction with hollow cylinders that function like a spring when compressed

• Provides secure and stable footing
• Energizing responsiveness
• Molded-in rubber edges resist damage and stay flat
• Thickness: .5 inches with beveled edge
• Sweep, vacuum or damp mop
• Available in Black/Green/Blue/Brown/Tan/Grey
• 8-Year warranty
• Made in U.S.A.
• Learn more or Buy Direct from the manufacturer

How the SmartCells Anti-Fatigue Mat Performed

January 12, 2012
When the SmartCells® mat arrived, I had been using an anti-fatigue mat (other brand) so it was easy to see the comparison going from what I would call light duty grade to an industrial strength mat. The difference was like night and day.

Industrial grade anti-fatigue mats have been around for decades in the workplace, it has just been the last few years that these types of mats have moved into residential territory. And why not, when you stand at the counter or sink for hours, the home cook can put as much stress on the feet, knees and back as the industrial worker. And the same goes for those standing at their shop workbench.

I have used some form of kitchen mat for decades, from dime store vinyl-covered foam to the more dense variety and into the anti-fatigue mat category.

Each offered another level of comfort but I soon realized that softness can pose some problems. When a mat is too soft, you have to do the balancing act, something I'm not very good at. And after an hour, it feels like you're walking on sand and though that may sound and feel nice, it is very fatiguing. That also causes weight to shift to other areas and the overall feel is one of incorrect posture and that can pose other problems.

Since I have joint and foot problems, I also tend to wear quality indoor joggers whenever I know I'll be standing for awhile. That's in addition to using a mat at the kitchen counter. You may think this is overkill, but you can never have enough good support and cushioning, whether you're just practicing music or cooking.

During testing of this SmartCells mat, the change to a more dense and stable platform was immediately noticeable. It's much more responsive, while remaining stable and providing the cushioning I needed. I also went back to my previous mat for a few days and and then through another phase without any mat, in order to fully compare the overall effect over time. I say over time, because as I have learned, a mat may feel really good the first day or two (even a week), but it's continued use that really shows what stuff a mat is made of, or lacks.

My hubby watched these trials with interest. An industrial millwright by trade, he was well used to the benefits of industrial grade mats in the workplace, but now in retirement phase in his home shop, he had been relegated to foam blocks - which were better than nothing. It wasn't long before he scooped the SmartCells mat for himself and I just considered this another testing phase. Now that he has bonded with it, he has a hard time parting with it since he loves it at his assembly workstation.

Which would I rather use in the kitchen? The SmartCells mat provides the best comfort level overall. It also was less of a tripping hazard since the edges are more tapered and flat, than my other mat. I have to admit that an industrial mat is not as pretty as anti-fatigue mats that are marketed strictly for home use. But it really depends on how much you need the support and cushioning.

The SmartCells mat reviewed was a 2 x 3 ft mat, they also make a 3' x 5' mat as well as runners. It does vacuum and wash up fine, but retains its industrial look. But looks aside, it's really a matter of what feels better for you. As for durability, I would expect the SmartCells mat to outlast any other mat I've used, plus it has a long warranty.

Overall Impression

When it comes to relieving foot, ankle, knee or back pain, you need some kind of cushioning especially if you spend quite a bit of time at the kitchen counter or sink, or elsewhere in the home. Only you can determine what best meets your needs and budget. A dense anti-fatigue mat can provide some relief, but if you want maximum support and cushioning, you may have to do away with the decor notion that a mat should look nice and go for an industrial strength mat like a SmartCells® mat.

We highly recommend the SmartCells mat, it really made a difference for both of us in terms of a more comfortable, stable and better responsive mat that does not compress and bottom out over time. If you need a serious anti-fatigue mat, this is it.
Read my Before You Buy an Anti-Fatigue Mat for helpful buying tips.

If you're an employer, you can make your employees more comfortable and productive as they work, with a mat that provides optimum support and cushioning. This would be a proactive approach and preventative maintenance that is well worth the cost.

More seniors are remaining in their homes and many need the added protection so they can safely enjoy the independence this affords. For those with balance or mobility issues, SmartCells makes bedside fall prevention mats, as well as mats specially designed for use in bathrooms and showers.

About the Company and Related Resources

SmartCells® mats and fall protection floor coverings are manufactured in the U.S.A. by Seamless Attenuating Technologies (SATECH) and are marketed for a wide range of applications including for industries and care facilities where stress, fatigue and falls are a concern.

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Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.