Pima cotton is an extra-long staple cotton variety developed in the American Southwest. Named after the Pima people who historically cultivated cotton in the region.
Characteristics
Pima cotton has:
- Extra-long staple fibres (1.4 inches+)
- Softness comparable to Egyptian cotton
- Strong, durable fibres
- Good lustre
- American-grown traceability
vs Egyptian Cotton
| Aspect | Pima | Egyptian |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Americas | Egypt |
| Staple | Extra-long | Extra-long |
| Quality | Premium | Premium |
| Price | Slightly lower | Highest |
| Traceability | Better (Supima) | Variable |
Both are premium extra-long staple varieties producing similar quality towels.
Supima
Supima is trademarked certification for American-grown Pima cotton meeting specific quality standards. The name combines "Superior" and "Pima."
Supima certification provides:
- Verified American origin
- Quality standards enforcement
- Supply chain traceability
Products labelled "Supima" are more reliably genuine than generic "Pima" claims.
Where It's Grown
Primarily:
- California
- Arizona
- Texas
- New Mexico
Also grown in Peru and Australia under similar conditions.
In Towels
Pima cotton produces towels with:
- Exceptional softness
- Good absorbency
- Long durability
- Similar quality to Egyptian cotton
- Often better value than Egyptian
Related Terms
- Supima - Certified American Pima
- Egyptian cotton - Comparable premium
- Long-staple cotton - Category