The Best Cooling Towels: Summer Helper 2023

Cooling towels are the game-changers you need to conquer the heat and stay cool in any situation. Whether you’re facing scorching summer temperatures, engaging in intense physical activities, or simply seeking relief from the sweltering weather, cooling towels are the ultimate solution. Designed with innovative technology, these towels provide instant and refreshing cooling effects to keep you comfortable and revitalized.

What is a cooling towel?

A cooling towel is a specialized fabric designed to provide instant relief from the heat and help lower body temperature. These towels are typically made from a blend of moisture-wicking and quick-drying materials, such as microfiber or synthetic fabrics, which have cooling properties when wet.

To use a cooling towel, you wet it with water, wring out any excess moisture, and then snap or wave it in the air to activate the cooling effect. As the water evaporates from the towel, it creates a cooling sensation on your skin, helping to reduce body heat and provide a refreshing experience.

Cooling towels are popular among athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals living in hot climates. They offer a portable and convenient way to stay cool during intense workouts, sports activities, or any situation where you may be exposed to high temperatures. Additionally, they can provide temporary relief from symptoms of heat-related conditions like heatstroke or heat exhaustion.

These towels come in various sizes and styles, from small hand towels to larger body wraps, allowing you to choose the best option. They are reusable and often machine washable, making them a practical, eco-friendly cooling solution.

Benefits of Cooling Towels

Helps lower body temperature: Cooling towels are specifically designed to aid in lowering body temperature. By activating them with water and applying them to the skin, they promote evaporation, which helps dissipate heat and provides a cooling effect.

Prevents heat exhaustion or stroke: Cooling towels effectively prevent heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke. By regulating body temperature and keeping you cool, they reduce the risk of overheating during physical activities or exposure to high temperatures.

Easy to use: Cooling towels are incredibly user-friendly. Wet the towel with water, wring out any excess moisture, and drape it around your neck, forehead, or desired area. No complicated instructions or additional equipment are required.

Lightweight and portable: Cooling towels are lightweight and highly portable. They can be easily folded or rolled up, making them convenient to carry in your gym bag, backpack, or pocket. Their compact size ensures you can have instant cooling relief wherever you go.

VersatileCooling towels are suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re engaged in sports, hiking, gardening, or simply lounging at the beach, cooling towels provide a refreshing and comfortable experience in hot weather.

How do cooling towels work?

Cooling towels are ingeniously designed to provide a refreshing and cooling experience by harnessing the power of water evaporation. When activated with water, these towels work as effective temperature regulators, helping to draw heat away from the body and lower body temperature, ultimately preventing the onset of heatstroke and exhaustion.

To use a cooling towel, you begin by immersing it in water for about two to three minutes, allowing it to absorb and retain moisture. Once saturated, you gently wring out the excess water, ensuring that the towel is damp but not dripping. This careful preparation ensures optimal effectiveness.

Draping

As you drape or wrap the cooling towel around your neck, forehead, or any desired area, the water within the fabric begins to evaporate. Evaporation is a process in which water transforms from a liquid to a vapor state, consuming heat energy from its surroundings. As the moisture on the towel’s surface evaporates, it absorbs heat from your body, resulting in a cooling sensation.

The towel’s evaporative cooling helps lower your body temperature, relieving the sweltering heat. By mimicking the body’s natural cooling mechanism through evaporation, cooling towels actively prevent heat-related symptoms and create a more comfortable environment, particularly during intense physical activities or in hot weather conditions.

Cooling towels offer a convenient and portable solution to combat heat stress, allowing you to stay cool and refreshed even when your body’s natural temperature regulation mechanisms may be struggling. By regulating body temperature and providing a refreshing escape from excessive heat, these innovative towels help ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience in hot environments.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Cooling Towel

When selecting a cooling towel, it’s important to consider several features to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider:

Material: Opt for a cooling towel made from high-quality performance microfiber fabric. This material is designed to offer immediate and long-lasting cooling when wet and activated. It should have excellent moisture-wicking properties to absorb and hold water efficiently.

Size: Consider the size of the cooling towel. Choose one that is suitable for your intended use. A smaller towel may suffice if you plan to use it personally. However, a larger towel would be more appropriate if you need to cool down a larger area or multiple people.

Durability: Look for a cooling towel that is durable and built to last. It should withstand repeated use and regular washing without losing effectiveness or shape. Check if the towel is machine washable for convenience and hygiene.

Chemical-Free: Select a cooling towel that is free of chemicals; This ensures that you are using a safe and natural cooling solution. Chemical-free towels are better for your skin and more environmentally friendly.

Additional Features: Consider any additional features that may enhance your cooling experience. Some cooling towels may have special antimicrobial properties to prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Others may come with carrying cases or attachments for easy storage and transport.

Top 5 Best Cooling Towels

Mission max plus cooling towel

Mission max plus cooling towel

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

The Mission Max Plus Cooling Towel is designed to provide enhanced cooling and comfort during physical activities or hot weather. Here are some key features and benefits of the Mission Max Plus Cooling Towel:

Maximum Cooling: The towel offers 30% more cooling capacity than the original cooling towel from Mission, providing even more effective cooling relief when activated.

Instant Cooling: When activated with water, the towel instantly cools and reaches temperatures up to 30 degrees below the average body temperature in under 30 seconds. This immediate cooling effect helps lower body temperature and provides immediate relief.

Easy Activation: The towel can be activated in three simple steps: moisten, wring, and click into place. Once activated, it starts cooling and stays cool for up to 3 hours, allowing you to stay active and comfortable for an extended period.

Versatile Use: The Mission Max Plus Cooling Towel is ideal for various activities such as wearing around your neck, hot yoga, running, jogging, hiking, sports, golf, workouts, and outdoor events. It can be used in a wide range of settings to help you feel cooler instantly.

Cool and Soft Fabric: The towel is made from a patented knit fabric with an excellent finish. It offers a smooth texture with no seams, ensuring optimal comfort against the skin. Whether wet or dry, the Mission Max Plus Cooling Towel remains soft and gentle on the skin.

Chemical-Free and UV Protection: The towel provides chemical-free cooling, ensuring a safe and natural cooling experience. Additionally, it offers UPF 50 protection from the sun, shielding you from harmful UV rays during outdoor activities.

Reusable and Odor Control: The towel is reusable and features antimicrobial properties for odor control. It can be machine washed, and its permanent cooling fabric technology will not wash out over time, ensuring long-lasting effectiveness.

Frogg toggs cooling towel

Frogg toggs cooling towel

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

The Frogg Toggs Cooling Towel is designed to offer effective cooling and comfort in hot weather conditions or during physical activities. Here are some key features and benefits of the Frogg Toggs Cooling Towel:

Hyper-Evaporative Fabric: The towel is made from an exclusive hyper-evaporative fabric that can lock in the water while remaining dry to the touch. This fabric technology facilitates optimal evaporation and cooling.

Quick Activation: Wetting the towel in water quickly activates and cools it up to 30 degrees below the ambient temperature. This rapid cooling effect provides immediate relief and helps regulate body temperature.

Prolonged Cooling Duration: The Frogg Toggs Cooling Towel offers 3 to 4 hours of cooling (duration may vary depending on conditions). This extended cooling duration makes it suitable for prolonged outdoor heat exposure or intense physical activities.

Versatile Use: The cooling towel adds a cooling comfort factor to various activities, including sports, amusement parks, yoga, construction work, firefighting, and more. It can be used in a wide range of settings to help keep you cool and comfortable.

Frogg Toggs Brand: Frogg Toggs has been a trusted name in providing high-quality rainwear, waders, cooling products, footwear, and accessories since 1996. The brand strives to offer premium products at competitive prices.

How to wash frogg toggs cooling towel

To wash your Frogg Toggs cooling towel, follow these general guidelines:

  • Fill a sink or basin with cold or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which may damage the fabric or affect its cooling properties.
  • Mix a small amount of mild detergent into the water gently to create a soapy solution.
  • Immerse the cooling towel in the soapy water and agitate it gently. Allow the towel to soak for a few minutes to loosen any dirt or residue.
  • After soaking, rinse the towel thoroughly under cold running water to remove all the detergent.
  • Squeeze out the excess water from the towel gently. Avoid wringing or twisting the towel too vigorously, as it may damage the fabric.
  • Hang the towel up or lay it flat to air dry. Avoid high heat or direct sunlight, as excessive heat can degrade the fabric or affect its cooling properties. Allow the towel to dry completely before storing it.

Note: It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s specific care instructions. Some Frogg Toggs cooling towels may have additional care requirements or restrictions. If the product packaging or label provides particular washing instructions, it’s best to adhere to those guidelines.

How to use frogg toggs cooling towel

To use a Frogg Toggs cooling towel, follow these steps:

Pre-soak the towel: Before using the cooling towel for the first time, it is recommended to pre-soak it in water. Submerge the towel entirely in cold water or place it under a running faucet for a few minutes. This step helps activate the cooling properties of the fabric.

Wring out excess water: After pre-soaking, gently wring out the excess water from the towel. Make sure the towel is damp but not dripping wet.

Activate cooling: To activate the cooling effect, snap or shake the towel a few times; This helps distribute the moisture throughout the fabric and enhances the evaporative cooling process.

Apply to the desired area: Place the cooling towel on the desired area of your body for instant cooling relief. It can be draped around your neck, wrapped around your head, or applied to any other body part that needs cooling.

Reactivate as needed: If the cooling effect starts to diminish, or if you want to refresh the towel, you can reactivate it by re-wetting it with water. Repeat the process of soaking, wringing, and snapping/shaking to restore its cooling properties.

Store and re-use: After use, hang the towel up or lay it flat to air dry. Once completely dry, it can be folded or rolled and stored in a clean, dry place.

Chill pal mesh cooling towel

Chill pal mesh cooling towel

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

The Chill Pal Mesh Cooling Towel offers sweet relief from hot temperatures and provides a quick and effective way to stay cool. Here are some key features and benefits of the Chill Pal Mesh Cooling Towel:

Quick Soak and Snap: When faced with hot situations, soak the towel in water and give it a quick snap to activate its cooling properties. It provides instant relief from the heat, whether you’re running, experiencing a broken AC, or any other hot scenario.

Superior Cooling Towel: Chill Pal is a reliable and effective cooling towel among the many imitations and accessories. It is 24″ x 16″, making it larger and thicker than most PVA towels on the market; This ensures long-lasting heat relief and makes it the better choice for enduring cooling comfort.

Easy to Use: There are no complicated instructions to follow. Just remove the Chill Pal towel, dip it in cold water, wring out the excess, and give it a quick snap. It’s then ready to be draped around your neck or used in any desired way. If it starts to warm up, rinse and repeat the process to stay cool during activities like fishing, hunting, hiking, or even while working.

High-Quality Construction: The Chill Pal Cooling Towel is made from high-quality, extra-thick PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) material with evaporative technology. It can hold a significant amount of water, translating into longer-lasting cooling. The towel’s durable design and scientifically-proven process ensure you get the best cooling experience for your investment.

Reliable Brand: Chill Pal is committed to providing excellent customer service and satisfaction. They stand behind their product, offering reliable support from summer to summer so that you can trust their cooling towels’ quality and performance.

Fit-Flip cooling towel 

Fit-Flip cooling towel 

The Fit-Flip Cooling Towel offers natural cooling without the need for chemicals. Here are some key features and benefits of the Fit-Flip Cooling Towel:

ChemicalFree Cooling: This cooling towel utilizes a specially woven mesh structure that creates a substantial cooling effect through evaporative cooling. It does not require any chemicals to activate the cooling effect. Wet the towel, wring it out, and give it a vigorous shake 1-2 times to activate the cooling properties.

HighQuality Material Composition: The Fit-Flip Cooling Towel is made from 55% polyamide and 45% polyester. The high proportion of polyamide makes the towel incredibly soft and enhances its cooling effect. Additionally, the towel is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 tested, ensuring its high quality and safety standards. Unlike 100% polyester cooling towels, the Fit-Flip towel has no unpleasant odor.

Versatile Application: Whether indoors or outdoors, the Fit-Flip Cooling Towel is a must-have for any activity that causes sweating. It is perfect for hiking, jogging, fitness, cycling, and various ball sports like tennis, golf, volleyball, soccer, and basketball. It’s also great for cooling off on hot days in the office, on construction sites, while working in the garden, or during travel.

Waterproof Bag: The cooling towel comes with a waterproof bag that allows you to transport it easily, even when wet. The bag is designed to be space-saving, ensuring the cooling towel is always ready for use anytime and anywhere.

Care instructions: The Fit-Flip Cooling Towel is machine washable, making it convenient to clean and maintain.

YQXCC cooling towel

YQXCC cooling towel

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

The YQXCC Cooling Towel is designed to provide instant cooling and comfort. Here are the key features and benefits of the YQXCC Cooling Towel:

Instant Cooling: The towel is made of hyper-vapor breathable mesh material with a unique cooling system. It uses the moisture from the towel to pull sweat away from your skin, keeping you cool and refreshed.

Cooling Effect: The YQXCC Cooling Towel offers a magical instant cooling experience. Soak the towel, wring out the excess water, and give it a shake. Within seconds, you will feel the cooling effect. The towel continues to cool for a few hours, and you can reactivate the cooling by repeating the soaking and shaking process.

Quality Material: This cooling towel is made of premium microfiber with a mesh pattern. It is chemical-free, durable, soft, and skin-friendly. The towel is breathable, super absorbent, and dries quickly, providing maximum comfort. It is suitable for sports activities, travel, and various outdoor adventures.

Multipurpose: The YQXCC Cooling Towel serves multiple purposes. It is perfect for relieving hot flashes, outdoor activities, indoor exercises, vacationing in hot places, fever or headache therapy, heat stroke prevention, sun protection, and cooling down and absorbing sweat on hot summer days. It is also ideal for use in the gym, fitness activities, and more.

Easy to Carry and Clean: Each towel has a carry bag and a carabiner clip, making it easy to store, carry, and hang. You can conveniently attach it to sports bags and travel backpacks. The towel can be hand-washed or machine-washed, allowing easy cleaning and maintenance.

Types of cooling towels

Neck cooling towels

Cooling towel for neck are specifically designed to provide a targeted cooling relief to the neck area, which can help cool down the entire body. These towels are crafted from specialized materials that are highly effective in absorbing water and promoting gradual evaporation, resulting in a sustained cooling effect.

When wearing a neck cooling towel, wet it with water and gently wring out any excess moisture. The towel is then wrapped or draped around the neck, ensuring it covers the back and sides. As the water within the fabric slowly evaporates, it draws heat away from the neck area, creating a refreshing and cooling sensation.

The materials used in neck cooling towels are carefully selected for their ability to retain moisture and release it slowly, allowing for an extended cooling experience. This design ensures the towel remains cool for an extended period, providing ongoing relief from heat and discomfort.

Neck cooling towels are popular among athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals working or exercising in hot environments. They offer a convenient, portable solution to beat the heat and stay comfortable. Whether you’re engaged in sports activities, running, hiking, or simply enjoying outdoor events, neck cooling towels provide a practical and effective way to keep cool and regulate body temperature in a specific area.

Sports cooling towels

Sports cooling towels are specifically engineered to meet the demands of athletes and individuals engaged in physical activities. These towels are crafted from specialized materials that absorb water and facilitate gradual evaporation, resulting in an effective and long-lasting cooling effect.

When using a sports cooling towel, you typically wet it with water and wring out any excess moisture. The towel is then used to wipe or pat the body, focusing on areas prone to heat buildup, such as the forehead, neck, and arms. As the water within the fabric evaporates slowly, it actively cools down the skin, providing a refreshing sensation and helping to regulate body temperature.

Sport cooling towels often feature lightweight and breathable designs. They are made from materials that allow for proper airflow and ventilation, enhancing comfort during intense physical activities. The towels are engineered to quickly wick away sweat and moisture from the skin, keeping you dry and cool.

Instant cooling towels

Instant cooling towels are crafted from specialized performance microfiber fabric, specifically engineered to deliver rapid and long-lasting cooling effects. These towels are designed to provide immediate relief from the heat and remain cool for an extended period when wet and activated.

To use an instant cooling towel, you need to soak it in water for a few seconds. Once saturated, gently wring out any excess water. The towel is then ready to use, and you can drape it over your body, wrap it around your neck, or apply it to any desired area. The moisture within the fabric initiates the cooling process.

The unique microfiber fabric used in instant cooling towels is highly effective in absorbing and retaining water, ensuring optimal cooling performance. When activated, the water within the fabric evaporates, actively drawing heat away from the body and creating an instant cooling sensation.

One of the notable features of instant cooling towels is their ability to remain cool for an extended period, typically up to two hours, depending on the environmental conditions. This extended cooling duration allows for prolonged comfort and relief, making them ideal for outdoor activities, sports, workouts, or hot weather conditions.

The convenience and ease of use of instant cooling towels make them popular among individuals seeking immediate and refreshing cooling. Their compact and lightweight design makes them portable and convenient to carry in bags or pockets, ensuring instant relief from heat whenever and wherever you need it.

Evaporative cooling towels

Evaporative cooling towels are designed to harness the power of evaporation to create a cooling effect. These towels are constructed from specialized materials that absorb water and facilitate gradual evaporation, resulting in a refreshing and cooling sensation.

To activate an evaporative cooling towel, you soak it in water for a few minutes; This allows the towel’s fabric to absorb and retain a significant amount of water. After soaking, gently wring out any excess moisture, ensuring that the towel is damp but not dripping.

Once activated, the evaporative cooling towel is ready to use. You can drape it over your body, wrap it around your neck, or apply it to any desired area. As the water within the fabric evaporates, it draws heat away from your skin, creating a natural cooling effect.

The gradual evaporation continues as the towel’s moisture evaporates into the surrounding air, continuously cooling down the fabric and providing ongoing relief from the heat. This cooling effect can last for an extended period, depending on the environmental conditions and the towel’s design.

Evaporative cooling towels are popular among individuals who engage in outdoor activities, sports, or intense workouts, as they offer a convenient and effective way to combat heat stress. They can help regulate body temperature, minimize overheating, and enhance comfort.

These towels are often lightweight, portable, and easy to carry, making them suitable for outdoor adventures or travel. They are designed to be reusable, allowing you to reactivate them by simply soaking them in the water again whenever needed.

Cooling towels maintenance

Maintaining cooling towels is relatively simple. Here are some guidelines to help you keep your cooling towels in good condition:

Washing: Most cooling towels are machine washable, but following the manufacturer’s instructions is essential. Typically, you can wash them in cold or lukewarm water with a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the towel’s fabric or reduce its effectiveness.

Drying: Allow the cooling towels to air dry after washing. Avoid high heat or direct sunlight, as excessive heat can degrade the fabric or affect its cooling properties. Hang them up or lay them flat to dry in a well-ventilated area.

Storage: When not in use, ensure that the cooling towels are completely dry before storing them. Folding or rolling them neatly can save space and prevent any potential damage. Please keep them in a clean and dry place to avoid any mold or mildew growth.

Hygiene: Regularly washing your cooling towels helps maintain their cleanliness and hygiene. If you use them frequently during intense physical activities or in hot and humid conditions, consider washing them after each use to remove sweat, dirt, and bacteria.

Avoid sharp objects: Avoid contact with sharp objects or rough surfaces that may cause tears or damage to the cooling towel. Handle them gently to ensure their longevity.

Replace when necessary: Over time, the cooling properties of the towel may diminish. If you notice a significant decrease in its cooling effect or if it becomes worn out or damaged, it may be time to replace the towel with a new one for optimal performance.

Last Thoughts

Cooling towels are a great way to beat the heat and stay cool during outdoor activities or work in hot environments. They are easy to use, lightweight, and portable. Consider the material, size, durability, and chemical-free options when choosing a cooling towel. The top five best cooling towels are Mission Max Plus Original Cooling Towel, Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad Cooling Towel, Chill Pal Mesh Cooling Towel, Ergodyne Chill-Its 6602 Evaporative Cooling Towel, and Uvoider Instant Cooling Towel. 

Remember to properly maintain your cooling towel by machine washing and air drying or tumble drying on low heat. Cooling towels have many health benefits, including helping to lower body temperature, preventing heat exhaustion or stroke, and improving athletic performance.

Jenny Fischer
Jenny Fischer
Articles: 179

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