Let’s be honest, a gym towel has got a very tough job to do. It needs to absorb sweat and keep you cool while you’re working out, so you can put maximum effort into your training and get the best results.

That said, it’s difficult to find a gym towel that’s just right. Some of them are too large, some are made from poor-quality materials that don’t feel soft on the skin — and don’t get us started on the ones that are so heavy that it feels like you’re carrying a brick in your gym bag.

Sigh. The struggle is real!

Lucky for you, we’ve done all the legwork so you don’t have to. (No pun intended!) Here’s exactly what to look for in the ultimate gym towel so you can make an investment that lasts the test of time.

Absorbency and Material

A good gym towel will keep you dry during your workout, no matter how much you sweat. As well as being highly absorbent, the material should be quick-drying and lightweight.

Enter, cotton, which is classed as one of the best materials even though microfibre gym towels don’t take as long to dry and become as heavy when wet. Bamboo and linen are also popular gym towel materials.

Durability and Ease of Care

Speaking of material, you want your gym towel to be durable enough to withstand multiple washes. You don’t want to have to replace it after just a couple of uses, right?

Likewise, it helps if your gym towel is machine washable and easy to care for. Having to hand wash your towel or use special detergents would be too much hassle when your schedule is already so busy!

Antimicrobial and Cooling Properties

If you're concerned about germs (who isn’t nowadays?), look for a towel that has antimicrobial properties. This will prevent the growth of bacteria and odours so you can stay healthy and hygienic at the gym.

Some gym towels use revolutionary fabric technology that cools the temperature down by up to 30%, such as the Fat Burners Only Cooling Towel. 

To activate the technology, all you have to do is wring out and “snap” the towel to circulate the airflow and stimulate cooling in an instant. And the best part? It will stay cool for hours!

Size and Portability

In this case, size does matter. Your gym towel needs to be large enough to cover your body or drape over your equipment during use. If it’s too small it won’t be as effective. If it’s too large it can be difficult to carry.

When you’re on the go, you want a towel that is compact and comes with a carrying case or has a hook for hanging. This means it’s easily accessible whenever you may need it.

Zip and Hood Features

A zippered gym towel allows you to store your valuables, such as your keys, phone or wallet, inside the towel while you exercise. This means that you don’t need a separate bag or storage place and your belongings are always within reach, offering both security and convenience.

Similarly, a gym towel with a hood that can attach to a bench can be very useful. As well as keeping your workout space clear and clutter-free, the towel can absorb sweat and reduce the spread of dirt and bacteria. Needless to say, you don’t want to catch an infection or pass one along to anyone else.

Final Thoughts on What to Look For in the Ultimate Gym Towel

Working out can be hard enough without having to deal with a poorly designed gym towel. Not only can this be uncomfortable, but it can also be unhygienic and affect your performance. That’s why having a high-quality gym towel is an essential item for any serious gym-goer.