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