What Inspired Us to Create the Ultimate Beach Mat

What Inspired Us to Create the Ultimate Beach Mat

Beach days are at the heart of Will and Wind. They are where families gather, kids play freely and simple moments stretch into long afternoons. They are also, if we are being honest, where things spill. Drinks tip over, snacks end up everywhere and towels soak through far too easily.

The idea for the Will and Wind Beach Mat did not come from a product brainstorm. It came from real beach days, real mess and one too many moments where a relaxing afternoon turned into damage control. We wanted to create something that genuinely made beach life easier, not just for families with young kids, but for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.

Designed for families and loved by everyone

Our original focus was families. We wanted to give parents a clean, comfortable space where kids could sit, snack and sprawl without everything instantly becoming sandy or damp. A mat that could handle real life mess without stress.

As we tested and refined the design, it became clear that this mat was just as useful for adults. Beach days do not suddenly become mess free once kids grow up. Drinks get knocked over. Bags tip. Someone always sets something down in the wrong place.

We realised this product needed to support real beach behaviour, not an idealised version of it.

The moment we knew this mat needed to exist

One of the defining moments during development happened in the most ordinary way. A glass of red wine was accidentally knocked over on the mat. Normally, that would have meant panic, stains and a very fast pack up.

Instead, we watched as the liquid pooled neatly on the surface without seeping through. No soaking. No damage. Just a simple roll off and wipe clean with the cloth we include.

That moment confirmed exactly why this product mattered. If it could handle that, it could handle pretty much anything a beach day could throw at it.

Built to handle spills without stress

Spills are inevitable, especially outdoors. Kids drop snacks. Drinks tip. Water bottles leak. The difference with our beach mats is how they respond.

The surface is water repellent, which means liquids bead up and roll off instead of soaking in. Whether it is juice, water or wine, the mat stays dry underneath and looks great after use. No stains. No lingering smells. No ruined afternoons.

This single feature has changed how people relax at the beach, because there is no longer a need to hover nervously over every drink or snack.

Space for the whole family without the bulk

Size was non negotiable for us. We wanted a mat that comfortably fit the whole family without anyone feeling cramped. The large family size allows kids to lie down, snacks to be spread out and adults to relax properly.

Despite its generous size, the mat remains lightweight and easy to manage. That balance between comfort and portability was essential.

For longer beach days, our Beach Mats provide a comfortable base that works just as well for picnics, park stops and sunset snacks.

Designed to be compact and easy to live with

A great beach product needs to pack away easily. Our mats roll back into themselves neatly and secure with a built in carry handle and metal pegs. No awkward folding. No wrestling it back into shape.

They are compact enough to live in the car, sliding neatly under the front passenger seat so they are always on hand when a spontaneous beach stop or picnic opportunity appears.

Thoughtful materials and a sustainability focus

Sustainability is a core consideration across Will and Wind products. We design items to be durable, long lasting and used often, because products that stay in rotation are better than those that need replacing regularly.

The beach mats are made with performance materials chosen for longevity and ease of care. They are designed to handle repeated use, spills and outdoor conditions without losing their functionality or appearance.

They pair perfectly with our quick drying Travel Towels , creating a beach setup that is practical, compact and easy to manage.

Designed for real beach life

The Will and Wind Beach Mat exists because we wanted beach days to feel simpler. No wet bottoms. No stained rugs. No packing up early because something spilled.

It is designed for real families, real relaxation and real outdoor living. If you are looking for a beach setup that supports how you actually spend time outside, you can explore the full Will and Wind collection and see how small upgrades can make a big difference.

Sometimes the best products come from simple frustration. Ours came from one too many spills and the belief that beach days should be enjoyed, not managed.

See the Will and Wind waterproof beach mats in action here.

Last updated January 2026

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