<p>The present disclosure provides a mat including a compressible first layer, openings formed through one or more first portions and columns disposed in/proximate to the openings. One or more second portions, or at least one column, or both may be configured to be depressed to provide support and traction. The present disclosure further provides a towel including an absorption layer and a compressible region of flexible fiber disposed on one or more first portions of a top surface of the absorption layer. The towel may further include one or more columns disposed either on one or more second portions or in/proximate to openings formed through the one or more second portions. The compressible region of flexible fiber may be configured to be depressed in a compressed configuration to provide support and traction. The mat or the towel may be further adapted to form a grip apparatus.</p>
