A rubber mat is a generic term for a piece of flat rubber, generally placed on a floor or other flat surface, which serves a range of purposes including:
- Providing a regular or flat surface, such as a mousepad.
- Protecting that which is beneath the mat, such as a place mat or the matting used in archival framing and preservation of documents and paintings.
- Protecting that which is above the mat, such as a wrestling or gymnastics mat, or an anti-vibration mat.
- Changing the state of that which passes above it, such as a doormat attracting dirt from shoes.
Using rubber mats for flooring and matting provide the benefits of safety, being environmentally friendly, and comfort. Rubber mats are for outdoor and indoor activities for children. They are synonymous with overall flexibility, resilience and sturdiness.