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Best Cooling Towels in 2021

Ben Coleman
Your guide to this article today is by fitness expert Ben Coleman
Published June 21, 2018
Support us! GearHungry may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn more

Chances are if you are a dedicated runner then you already know what a Cooling towel is and probably never leave home for a long summers run without one. For the rest of you, who prefer to do your workouts on the couch at home, you will no doubt have seen your favorite tennis player or golfer nonchalantly wrapping one around their neck in an attempt to stop them from getting too hot under the collar! In more ways than one we might add. Competitive spirits and soaring temperatures make for an explosive combination. There is only so much that a cooling towel can do to diffuse a heated and tense situation. Chill you down a bit though it most certainly can! So whether you are an outdoors seasonal worker, or a very fair weather athlete, let’s take a look at some of the best cooling towels currently available.

The Best Cooling Towel

1
Mission Enduracool Microfiber Cooling Towel

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The Mission Enduracool Microfiber Cooling Towel is our best choice and by the time this is done, you will see why. It is extremely affordable and comes in an array of unique colors, this makes it a viable option for a wide range of people with various preferences and budgets. Most (Up to 90%) of its material is made of polyester which means it is stretchy and flexible enough to serve various purposes and the remaining 10% of its material is nylon – the blend of these two fabrics is processed into long-lasting brushed microfibers using the best technology and the end product is a soft and smooth cooling towel that you can comfortably use for as long as you care for it.

Speaking of its care, the towel can be easily machine washed and can be reused over and over again. Now here’s the good part, the usability of this Enduracool towel is extremely vast. Whether you are on vacation with the love of your life on a tropical island or hosting a barbeque, a fitness enthusiast or an athlete, you work under the sun or are attending a festival, this handy towel is the perfect key to staying refreshed. Irrespective of the amount of sweat you work up, this bad boy can bring your temperature down to up to 30 degrees below the average human body temperature in less than half a minute. Furthermore, you can easily carry it around like a regular scarf and when the need for it arises, activate in three easy steps. Get it wet, wring the water out of the towel and give it three swift snaps to activate the cooling and you are good to go. The cooling begins instantly and can last for up to two hours. When the cooling reduces, simply reactivate and you’re good for hours. For the best experience, keep the fabric in contact with the skin. You may also like some of the best yoga towels from our list, so check them out.

Key Features:

Available in one size

Up to 20 custom colors

Can cool for hours

Made in the US

Specification:
  • BrandMission
  • Model107166-P
  • Weight7.8 ounces
Pros

Multi-purpose

Versatile

UV Protection

Chemical Free

Range of colors

Super breathable

Instantly cooling

Soft and lightweight

Easy to use

Easily folds

Super absorbent

Stay cooler for longer

Cons

Super absorbency might mean you need to frequently re-wet

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

2
Alfamo Cooling Towel

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A top contender with our best choice is the Alfamo Cooling Towels. It is made of lightweight, pliable and silky soft material that not only improves its breathability but also makes it easily foldable into a travel pack or gym bag, irrespective of the size you buy. Speaking of size, what you want to use your towel for should determine the size you buy as far as the Alfamo is concerned. The available sizes are small, medium, large and extra-large. The smallest available size measures 33 x 11 inches, and the largest is 60 x 29 inches. Depending on the size you go for, it is perfect for use during hot flashes, as a neck scarf, a bandana, a golf club head cover, a mini blanket, all while enjoying its great cooling effect which can last up to three hours without reactivation.

It can be used for post-surgery cold therapies or if you catch a fever as it decreases your temperature up to 30 degrees instantaneously. And if you like to spend time outdoors under the sun, this towel is for you, as it also offers UPF50 sunscreen protection, as well as its amazing cooling effect.

It goes without saying that the Alfamo towel was designed for sportspeople and fitness enthusiasts alike. And despite the fact that the prices vary according to size, these cooling towels are still highly affordable plus you get a free carrying pouch for every towel you buy. This pouch is equally waterproof and it comes with carabiner clips. Altogether, this feature makes taking your towel with you on a climb or during training convenient. With the clips, one can just as easily attach the towel to a backpack belt.

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Key Features:

Breathable material

Fun different sizes

Multiple fun colors

Soak, wring, and snap – activation.

Specification:
  • BrandAlfamo
Pros

Multi-purpose

Versatile

Range of sizes

Range of colors

Breathable construction

Instantly cooling

Soft and silky

Easy to use

Easily folds

UPF sunscreen protection

Super absorbent

Quality stitching

Bonus carry case

Cons

Super absorbency might mean you need to frequently re-wet

Color can run when washed

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

3
Chill Pal Original Cooling Towel

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All the same great cooling comfort but in brand new packaging. Gone is the tube design and instead this multi-purpose and incredibly versatile towel is presented in a handy carry pouch for even more convenience. In one handy size measuring in at 32 x 12 inches, Chill Pal Original Cooling Towel also happens to be thicker than many of the other PVA style towels available today. That means that it can deliver longer lasting heat relief. No complicated instructions to follow in order to activate your Chill Pal, just soak it in water, wring out the excess moisture, give it a quick “snap” and it’s ready to wear around your neck. Perfect for keeping you cool whilst you are gardening, hunting, fishing or hiking for example. Manufactured from high quality, extra thick PVA it retains water and moisture for longer which means the cooling effects also last for longer. Durable, reliable and designed to deliver instant cooling relief. If you are looking to upgrade your gym equipement, then make sure you read our gym bag review or our gym shorts review.

Key Features:

One Size – 32 x 12 inches

Extra-thick PVA material

Great for sweat relief

It looks like cardboard when dry

Specification:
  • BrandChill Pal
  • Weight7.2 ounces
Pros

Multi-purpose

Versatile

Multiple colors

Breathable construction

Thick PVA material

Super absorbent

No chemicals or cooling agents

Now available in a carry pouch

Cons

One size only

Bit on the short side

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

4
Tough Outdoors Cooling Towel

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As a great cooling towel, its primary purpose is to guarantee an amazing chilling experience as soon as you activate it, which it does. But beyond that, Tough Outdoors Cooling Towel also serves as a sunscreen against ultraviolet rays from the sun which makes it safe for activities that take place under direct sunlight.

This towel can keep your skin protected and refreshed for several hours. The towel is able to keep you cool that long because of the hyper-evaporative and absorbent mesh fabric it is made from. This enables it to absorb moisture and retain it in itself for as long as possible, depending on the environmental humidity.

What’s more, the breathability of its mesh materials prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria and mold on it, hence reducing the chances of it smelling funky. Furthermore, the fabric also makes it foldable whether wet or dry, and it comes packaged with a portable pouch it can be easily carried around in. It is also available in PVA fabrics and about a dozen different colors but comes in only one size (38.5in x 12 inches); nevertheless, it is big enough to work just fine, regardless of the size of your neck. And for the best cooling experience, try to maintain contact between the towel and your skin. Like many other good cooling towels, this tough outdoors’ towel is extremely easy to use. Simply wet with water for about a minute, bring it out and twist it to get excess water out, and then give it a tap. This towel fits all budgets as it is extremely affordable and it is easy to use as it is durable.

Key Features:

Made from mesh and PVA fabrics

Available in only one size

Lightweight

Instant and lasting cool relief

Specification:
  • BrandTough Outdoors
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

5
Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad Cooling Towel

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Frogg Toggs is all about the ability to stay cool no matter how hot and bothered you might get. They are an undisputed leader in the provision of lightweight, breathable and affordable products. They’ve designed a range of products that are made from a unique and technically superior super evaporative material which is still soft to the touch and feel. When wet, the Chilly pad works to very quickly and effectively deliver a burst of much needed cooling hydration. Whether you’ve worked up a sweat in the gym or home gym, a hot yoga class or on a challenging cycle, you can count on this cooling towel to deliver instant relief. You can ever store your Chilly Pad in the fridge so that its ready to grab and go next time your head out for a gruelling run in the scorching sun. It’s the perfect size to wear over your shoulders and around your neck. Machine washable, if you look after your Frogg Toggs towel properly it will help you to chill out for years to come.

Key Features:

Available in 1 handy size but in multiple colorways

S: 33 x 13 inches

Breathable hyper evaporative material construction

Simply soak, wring, then snap to activate or wet again to re-activate

Provides hours of cooling relief

Cools up to 30 degrees and provides UPF 50 sun protection

Reinforced with athletic mesh to last for years

Specification:
  • BrandFrogg Toggs
  • ModelMGT910-LIME
  • Weight5.6 ounces
Pros

Multi-purpose

Versatile

Hours of relief

Range of colors

Breathable construction

Instantly cooling

Soft to the touch

UPF sunscreen protection

Organic and durable

Machine washable

Cons

One size only

No portable carry case included

Some complaints the towel develops a strange smell

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

6
SYourself Cooling Relief Towel

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For instant cooling relief on the spot and on the go, this SYourself takes some beating. It quickly gets to work cooling you down and the effects of the towel when activated can last for hours. All you need to do is soak, wring, snap and repeat to have hours of cooling refreshment for you or even for your pet! Dogs get hot on a summers day too and yours will love you all the more for keeping them cool when they literally start to get too hot under the collar. It’s soft and gentle and comes in a wide range of attractive colors. At 40 x 12 inches it should be large enough to meet all your needs yet still a good size for travelling with. Use it as a towel, a neck scarf, headband or even bandana style. It’s all certified eco-friendly too so good for you but great for the environment. Perfect for all you outdoors adventuring types, make sure to pack your SYourself cooling towel next time you head out on a run, bike ride or for a long weekend hike.

Key Features:

Softcool, breathable and smooth material construction

Light weight and portable; folds into a small, waterproof carry pack

Lots of great fresh and fashionable color options

Superb water absorption and water holding capacity

Anti-bacterial, anti-mite, anti-static and anti-UV

Adopt Core technology for advanced physical cooling

Specification:
  • BrandSYOURSELF
  • ModelSYNCHKG128964
  • Weight2.4 ounces
Pros

Multi-purpose

Versatile

Range of colors

Breathable construction

Instantly cooling

Soft and lightweight

Easy to use

Easily folds

UPF sunscreen protection

Anti-bacterial and Anti-mite

Super absorbent

Machine washable

Bonus carry case

Cons

One size only

No iron, no bleach, no softener

Requires several “snaps” to activate

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

7
Chill It’s Cooling Towel

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The Chill It range was originally developed to product a line of workwear gear designed to keep construction workers and the like cool under pressure (and soaring heat temperatures of course). Hot conditions can be a killer to productivity whether you are working or competing so if you need to get you core temperature down so you can take a breath and get back on with the job in hand, then this is the perfect technology. Made from super absorbent PVA material, the Chill It cooling towel has been designed to keep you cooler for longer. Fight heat, fatigue and keep yourself very much in the game with this fantastic towel. The results last for hours and you can use it for all kinds of outdoor and indoor sports, active pursuits, work situations and generally just any time you need to cool down a notch or two.

Key Features:

Advanced cooling super evaporative material construction

Simply run under water for 1 minute then snap to activate

One single soak can last up to 4 hours

Durable and re-useable, time and time again

Machine washable and treated with antimicrobial agents

Specification:
  • BrandErgodyne
  • Model6602
  • Weight6.4 ounces
Pros

Multi-purpose

Versatile

Range of colors

Breathable construction

Instantly cooling

Soft and lightweight

Easy to use

Easily folds

Anti-bacterial

Super absorbent

Machine washable

Stores in original case

Cons

One size only

Requires several vigorous “snaps” to activate

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

8
Chill Pal Ultimate Mesh Cooling Towel

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Stay actively cooler for longer with this mesh designed towel from Chill Pal. This presents a new and unique way of keeping the heat at bay when you are out and about doing all of the activities that you love. It’s thinner, comfier and more breathable than ever before which means you can beat the heat! If you love to golf, run, hike or bike then this is the perfect, transportable, instant cooling system. The mesh fabric is soft against the skin but has superior built in evaporative technology that helps to keep the cloth cooler for longer. This also features something called “dry-soft” technology which means it folds away and snap back so that you can pack it up when you’re not using it any longer. Easy to carry, easy to use and easy to maintain for on-going on the spot heat relief. Plenty of cool colors and pattern choices too.

Key Features:

Thinner and comfier mesh fabric for advanced breathability

So simple to use; soak, wring and snap

Bigger and better surface area for even more cooling action

Advanced evaporative technology

Dry fold design for each fold and pack away

Specification:
  • BrandChill Pal
  • Weight2.4 ounces
Pros

Multi-purpose

Versatile

Range of colors and patterns

Super breathable

Instantly cooling

Soft and lightweight

Easy to use

Easily folds

Super absorbent

Stay cooler for longer

Dry-soft mesh technology

Carry pouch for easy transport

Cons

One size only

Requires several vigorous “snaps” to activate

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

9
Way 2 Cool Mesh Cooling Towel

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Measuring in at 38 x 12 inches, this is the perfect size to pop in your gym or golf bag to provide on the spot cooling relief when you need it the most. The perfect choice for anyone who likes to keep active and wants to stay cool! Whether you are participating in a sporting activity or perhaps outside gardening, a Cooling towel is a genius way to bring your temperature quickly down when you are working up a sweat! Way 2 Cool Mesh also provides that all important UPF 50+ sun protection so kiss goodbye to sun stroke too. The unique mesh design fabric provides super flexibility, versatility and ensure its light-weight. Available in all the colors of the rainbow (and then some!) there’s a Cooling towel that’s just right for you.

Key Features:

Mesh design technology keeps you cooler for longer

Re-useable and fully machine washable

Available in a choice of vibrant and stylish colors

Offers UPF 50 Sun Protection

Chemical free

Soft, dry and super absorbent

Specification:
  • BrandWay 2 Cool
  • Weight2.2 ounces
Pros

Multi-purpose

Versatile

UV Protection

Mesh fabric design

Chemical Free

Range of colors

Super breathable

Instantly cooling

Soft and lightweight

Easy to use

Easily folds

Super absorbent

Stay cooler for longer

Cons

Just the one size only

Moisten regularly to keep wet

Complaints the fabric prone to fraying

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

10
Way 2 Cool Elite Microfiber Cooling Towel

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Using Way 2 Cool Elite Microfiber Cooling Towel really couldn’t be easier. All you need to do is soak it through, ring it, wrap it then re-wet it! It retains water like a dream keeping you cool and fresh when you need it the most. It’s also super soft and what’s more, it also dry’s lovely and soft too. Not stiff at all like some brands of cooling towel too. It has UPF 50+ protection and has a supreme level of absorbency which makes it incredible at holding water. Perfect for when you’ve worked up a sweat but also gentle enough for you to use on babies and pets too.

Key Features:

Easy to activate – simply soak, ring, wrap then re-wet

Guaranteed to dry soft so that its always comfortable

Super absorbent with highest levels of water retention

Totally multipurpose and versatile and attractive color range

Stay up to 30 degrees cooler during intense heat

Specification:
  • BrandWay 2 Cool
  • Weight4.8 ounces
Pros

Multi-purpose

Versatile

UPF 50+ Protection

Attractive range of colors

Super breathable

Instantly cooling

Soft and lightweight

Easy to use

Super absorbent

Stay cooler for longer

Machine washable

Dry’s soft

Cons

No iron, no bleach, no softener

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

11
Cooling Towel Sports Towel

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Easily carried in its own container for on the go portability, this Cooling towel is convenient, versatile and totally dependable. Whether you are at work, the gym or in the garden, if you start to feel a bit hot and uncomfortable, this towel will soon have you chilling out! It stays cool for hours and has a hyper-absorbent wicking that soaks up sweat. Whether you are walking, running, cycling or working out, the Cooling Towel will be your best buddy when it comes to heat prevention.

Key Features:

Completely eco-friendly, PVA construction

Super absorbent and moisture wicking

Your ideal sports companion

Works for hours to provide targeting cooling relief

Totally multipurpose and versatile and attractive color range

Specification:
  • BrandMagic Touches Making Life Magical
  • Weight5.6 ounces
Pros

Multi-purpose

Versatile

UV Protection

Mesh fabric design

Range of colors

Super breathable

Instantly cooling

Soft and lightweight

Easy to use

Easily folds

Hyper absorbent

Stay cooler for longer

Own carry container

Cons

Just the one size only

Moisten regularly to keep wet

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Cooling Towel Buying Guide & FAQs

What to consider when purchasing a cooling towel:

The below are a couple of things we recommend you consider before you purchase your next (or first) cooling towel

  • Material
  • Size
  • Weight
  • Portability
  • Durability

In particular, the material they are made from is important, as it needs to be able to effectively evaporate over time and hold on to plenty of moisture. Ideally you don’t want something that has been chemically treated either so look out for a special breathable mesh design. You also want your towel to be made from soft material too so that its comfortable to wrap around you and won’t go rigid when it dries out. The size and weight is down to you, depending upon when and where you intend using it. They can come in a range of sizes from a small bandana size right up to a larger more traditional towel size that can be draped around the body. Do your research and decide what you want first.

Cooling Towel FAQ

Q: What are cooling towels?

A: A cooling towel is pretty much as the name suggests. Think of it rather like a cold compress, rather than as a full on bath towel. It’s functional rather than fluffy!It’s designed to keep you cool when the temperature soars and is best used around the neck to bring some instant, temporary relief. You’ll no doubt have seen sports stars and athletes with their dampened cooling towels, casually draped around them. You know, in between a tennis set for example, or just as they’ve completed the latest hole in a round of golf.

Whereas with a normal towel you might just be able to wipe away the sweat from all that physical exertion, a cooling towel can be dampened to bring more targeted and effective relief. You might also have heard them referred to as “snap towels”. That’s because the action of activating your cooling towel is to dampen it with water, wring it out, then “snap” it in the air vigorously to activate. Rather than just drying you off, a cooling towel will help to bring your temperature down. Great if you’ve just run a gruelling marathon in the scorching midday sun! A cooling towel is also re-useable, will most probably be machine-washable and should be able to cool the skin for hours whilst it’s still damp. If it’s dried out, simply bring it back to life by moistening it.

best cooling towel

Q: When do you need a cooling towel?

A: When the going gets tough but you very much still need to get going! That’s when you’ll be glad you packed your cooling towel. If you’ve worked up a sweat and need to bring some instant relief to the situation, then a cooling towel is a bit more socially acceptable than throwing a bucket of water over your head! When the weather heats up, if you work or exercise outdoors, then you will find immediate relief from the instant refreshment of a cooling towel. They’re also really handy to pack for the gym post workout or for a beach holiday. They also are regularly used by first responders too who might need to act quickly to bring down someone’s core temperature a notch.

Q: Do cooling towels really work?

A: Yes, they work! We wouldn’t have written a guide recommending the best ones around otherwise. Do you really need one though? Well, that’s down to you. If you are one of those “all the gear, no idea types” then you will want one in your arsenal of gym kit. Just because! If you work outdoors or regularly do endurance style exercise where you work up a regular sweat, then you will totally benefit from the chilling effects of an instant cooling towel Could something else deliver a similar function? Quite possibly but not with as much function, finesse or versatility. So yes, a cooling towel is a nifty and ingenious little invention for helping you quickly cool off. Doesn’t work though on hot tempers!

Q: How long does the towel stay cool?

A: The answer to that question depends upon what material your cooling towel is manufactured from. Some of the more popular brands on the market are refutably made from a proprietary blend of fibres so we can’t even be entirely sure what they are made of! Sorry! However, as a general rule of thumb, as long as you can keep the towel damp, it should also help keep it cool. As long as you properly look after your cooling towel too, it should last you literally for years to come.

Q: How to wash a cooling towel?

A: You should just be able to pop your towel into the washing machine like you would any of your workout or general bathroom towels.

Ben Coleman
Ben Coleman
Ben Coleman is our resident sports and fitness product expert who offers a wide range of information in this field. Ben speaks fluently in the language of nutrition, training, and health - with a Fitness and Personal Training B.A (Hon) gained from the prestigious Southampton University in the UK.
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