Buying Guide for the Best Beach Towels
When choosing the perfect beach towel, think about how and where you’ll use it. A good beach towel isn’t just for drying off; it can also provide a comfortable space to lounge, shield you from the sun, or wrap around you after a swim. Pay attention to aspects like size, material, thickness, and design to ensure your towel fits both your practical needs and personal style. Remember, the best beach towel is one that feels great, suits your activities, and stands up to repeated use.MaterialThe material of a beach towel greatly affects how it feels and works. Most beach towels are made from cotton, microfiber, or a blend. Cotton towels are soft and absorbent, making them comfortable for drying off and lounging. Microfiber towels tend to be lighter, dry quickly, and are less likely to hold onto sand, which is great if you plan on moving around or have limited packing space. If you prioritize softness and plushness, opt for thick cotton. For quick-drying and compact storage, microfiber is a better fit. Think of how you’ll use your towel most to guide your choice.
SizeBeach towels come in various sizes, from compact to extra-large. A standard towel usually covers just enough space for one person to lie on, while oversized versions provide more room for relaxing or for sharing with kids. If you prefer stretching out fully or like having space for your belongings, go bigger. If you’re mainly looking for something easy to carry and quick to dry, a smaller towel may suffice. Consider your usual beach activities and whether you value portability over lounging space.
ThicknessThickness, often indicated as GSM (grams per square meter), affects how plush and absorbent a towel feels. Thicker towels (higher GSM) are luxurious and absorb a lot of water, making them great for comfort and warmth. Thinner towels dry faster and are easier to pack but may not feel as cushy to sit or lie on. If you prioritize softness and absorbency, choose thicker towels. If you prefer easy packing and faster drying, go for thinner options. Match thickness to the need for luxury versus practicality.
AbsorbencyAbsorbency determines how well a towel dries you off. Cotton towels generally soak up more moisture, while microfiber provides quick wicking with less bulk. High absorbency is ideal if you swim a lot or need to dry off frequently. If your towel is mostly for lounging or sunbathing, absorbency may be less critical. Identify how often you’ll use the towel for drying versus sitting to help decide what level of absorbency is best.
Sand ResistanceSome materials or weaves are better at resisting sand, which means the towel won’t trap as much grit and is easier to shake clean. Microfiber and some tightly woven cotton towels excel here, while thick, looped cotton may pick up more sand. If you dislike the feeling of sand everywhere or want easy clean-up, look for a towel that advertises sand resistance. If you don't mind some sand or usually use a chair, this feature might be less important.
Design and ColorBeach towels are available in a huge variety of colors and patterns. While looks are a personal preference, brighter colors are not just fun—they're also easier to spot on a crowded beach. Choosing a design that you love can make your beach trips more enjoyable, and unique or bold patterns can help you keep track of your space. Pick a style that matches your personality and makes finding your towel simple.