Unlike many vinyl backed mats, rubber backed mats can be produced in two formats: smooth and with grippers (also known as kleets). A great example of such a product that is available with both options is the Deluxe Carpet Entrance Mats.
Smooth backed mats are ideal for hard surface including (but not limited to) stone, tile, marble, wood and cement. The smooth surface fully blankets these hard materials, which helps prevent the mat from moving or shifting. A smooth backing cannot, however, be used on a carpeted surface because there is nothing to grip the fibers underneath and the mat will have a tendency to move around.
When placing mats on a carpeted surface, a gripper or kleeted backing is the best option. These little "fingers" penetrate the carpet's surface and help hold the mat in place. Although there is no perfect solution for matting on top of carpet the grippers greatly reduce movement. Please note that although a smooth backed mat cannot be used on a carpeted surface, a gripper backed mat can be used on both hard and carpeted surfaces.
