Those looking for the best drum mat should consider how well the mats will support a drum kit, as well as how they plan to transport and use these accessories. A drum mat’s main purpose is to keep drum pieces in the same place during a high-intensity set, but not all of these models are created equal. Musicians frequently consult one another to determine which materials and products to use in order to properly outfit their various sizes of drum kits.
The materials that a drum mat is made of are one issue. Several musicians have suggested Turkish rugs or heavy carpets as attractive solutions to the problem of drum pieces moving during practice or performance. Rubber bottom pieces or other materials that grip a floor surface well can be found on other models of effective drum mats.
The musician’s weight and size are also concerns. Many people do not want the drum mat to be too heavy, as this could make transporting it and all of the other pieces and accessories needed to set up a drum set at a venue difficult. The drum mat should be large enough to accommodate the entire drum set. That is, this single piece of matting should be enough to cover the bass drum, snare, and hi hat, as well as any other elements that may move during play, such as the drummer chair, without crowding the play area or forcing the drummer into an uncomfortable position.
Some of the best drum mat models include pre-installed attachments for securing them to the floor. Other models can be attached with gaffer tape, duct tape, or similar materials, but some of these materials adhere better than others, so this is an important factor to consider when selecting the best drum mat for a particular musician’s carrying kit. Compatibility with a traditional practice environment can also be a problem.
Drum mats should be visually appealing in addition to being functional and form-oriented. Some musicians select these items based on how they appear in a practice or performance space. Some drum mats, for example, feature attractive imagery printed on the surface to match the color schemes and overall design of a band’s entire set area. This varies depending on the band’s reliance on image and visuals, as well as the logistics of setting up for various types of performances or gigs. Some people may even prefer a mat that doesn’t stand out or draw attention so that listeners can concentrate on the music rather than the performer or equipment.