Pile Height

How tall the loops (or cut fibres) stand above the base fabric. Affects softness and feel.

Pile height measures how tall the pile (loops or cut fibres) stands above the ground cloth of a towel.

Effects

Taller pile:

  • Softer, more luxurious feel
  • More surface area for absorbency
  • May be less durable
  • Can flatten with use

Shorter pile:

  • Firmer feel
  • Often more durable
  • May dry faster
  • Less plush appearance

Pile Height vs GSM

Both affect towel feel, but differently:

  • GSM measures total fabric weight/density
  • Pile height measures loop length

A towel can have high GSM with short, dense pile, or moderate GSM with tall, sparse pile.

Measuring

Pile height is measured in millimetres from ground cloth to loop top. Typical ranges:

  • Short: 3-5mm
  • Medium: 5-8mm
  • Long: 8-12mm

Related Pages