Based on this research, we determined that cooling efficiency (how long towels stay cool), average cooling time, ease of use, and material were the most important factors when considering a cooling towel. Durability and reusability: A high-quality towel should be reusable and withstand multiple uses and washes without losing its cooling properties or falling apart. It's designed to draw sweat away from your skin and stay cool for up to three hours, depending on conditions. Unlike some other products that utilize alcohol-based materials, no chemicals are used in its manufacturing, making it safe and suitable for even kids and pets. Storage: If you plan to use the cooling towel on the go or during outdoor activities, consider its portability and how easily it can be folded or stored. Some towels come with compact carrying cases or pouches for convenient storage and transportation that keeps them clean and protected when not in use. For the following locations next day delivery may take up to two working days: Aberdeen (AB 30-35, 41-54), Northern Highlands (AB 36-38, 55-56), FK (17-21), HS (1-8), IV (All), KW (0-14), PH (15-32, 34-48), Eire (Republic of Ireland) (EI (ZZ75) (All)), Glasgow (G 83), Guernsey (GY 9), Oban (HS 9, KA 28, PA 20-99, PH 33, 49-99), Isle of Man (IM (All)), Arran (KA 27), Orkney Shetland (KW 15-99, ZE (All)) and Cornwall (TR 21-25).

Unless it’s completely soaked, PVA is dry to the touch and won’t get your clothes wet. Like most cooling towel fabrics, it’s machine washable. Unlike other fabrics, it has an unusual leathery feel when it’s wet and is very stiff when it’s dry. So it’s not the first choice for those who also want a soft texture for wiping sweat or cleaning their glasses. Microfibre Measuring 33" x 13", this towel provides generous coverage for maximum cooling relief and sun protection. You can even cut it to create smaller towels to suit your needs. The brand doesn't recommend freezing these towels, but it can be refrigerated for an added chill. Plus, its internal mesh reinforcing material allows you to cut it into any shape you fancy, making it customizable and versatile.

We favored options that were durable but lightweight, made with polyvinyl acetate (PVA) material, and machine washable. Because some towels have different price points, we then weighed the cost against the strengths of the towels to determine which options offered the best value at different price points. Additional features: Some cooling towels may offer extra features such as UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) sun protection, antimicrobial properties, or the ability to cut or customize the towel's size to fit your needs. For a highly effective, dependable, and versatile cooling towel, we recommend the Mission Max Plus Original Cooling Towel as an excellent choice for cooling relief. Made of soft and soothing material, it starts cooling instantly and can last for up to two hours. It’s also extremely affordable and works for a wide range of activities and needs. How We Selected the Best Cooling Towels The evaporative cooling process that makes cooling towels work actually uses the same principles and processes your body employs to cool itself when you sweat. Key considerations Materials

While cooling towels don't provide hydration or full-body sun protection—two other hot-weather essentials—they can be a helpful tool to have on hand when you are spending time outdoors in hot and humid weather (especially if you are also elevating your body temperature with exercise). We selected cooling towels for our list based on the material, care instructions, size, and affordability.We also had an RRCA- and USATF-certified running coach from our Review Board review this article for what to look for in cooling towels, how they work, and the best ways to use them.