UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 Review

Let’s Dive into UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0

The UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0, manufactured by UST, is a compact and lightweight solution for personal hygiene needs during outdoor adventures. Its super-absorbent microfiber material and included zippered pouch make it a seemingly ideal companion for camping, hiking, and other activities where space and weight are at a premium.

I found myself constantly frustrated with lugging bulky cotton towels on backpacking trips. They took forever to dry and added unnecessary weight. I was looking for something lightweight, quick-drying, and compact, leading me to the promise of microfiber towels, and eventually, the UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0.

Upon unboxing, the UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 feels incredibly light. The orange color is vibrant, and the included zippered pouch seems durable enough to withstand some abuse. The texture of the microfiber is soft, although slightly thinner than some other microfiber towels I’ve handled.

I considered the Sea to Summit DryLite Towel and the PackTowl Personal Towel before settling on the UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0. The UST towel’s price point was significantly lower, making it an attractive option for a first foray into microfiber towels. I hoped the UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 would deliver on its promise of absorbency and quick-drying capabilities, despite the lower price.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The lightness and packability were impressive. I was eager to put it to the test in real-world conditions to see if it could truly replace my trusty old cotton towel.

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Real-World Testing: Putting UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 on a three-day backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and unpredictable. The towel was used primarily for drying off after washing up in streams and wiping down condensation inside the tent.

The UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 performed adequately in wet conditions, absorbing a decent amount of water. It definitely dried faster than a cotton towel would have in the same situation. It was easy to use, requiring no special techniques or adjustments from a traditional towel.

One initial issue I noticed was that the towel felt slightly “clingy” when used on bare skin. It also seemed to retain a slight dampness even after being wrung out thoroughly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use on various camping and hiking trips, the UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 has held up reasonably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, though the zippered pouch shows some minor abrasion from rubbing against other gear in my pack. The towel has been washed several times according to the care instructions, and its absorbency seems to have remained consistent.

The durability is acceptable for the price point, but I don’t expect it to last forever. Cleaning the towel is simple; it can be machine washed and dried on low heat. Compared to my old cotton towel, the UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 is a significant improvement in terms of weight and drying time. It outperforms the cotton towel in nearly every aspect except for that initial “clingy” feeling on the skin.

Breaking Down the Features of UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0

Specifications

The UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 boasts the following specifications:

• *Manufacturer: UST
• Additional Features: Zippered pouch for storage.
• Color: Orange (high visibility).
• Size: Large.
• Fabric/Material: Polyester/Polymide blend.
• Weight: 5.1 oz.

The inclusion of a zippered pouch is a great feature. It helps keep the towel clean and separate from other items in your pack. The large size provides ample surface area for drying, while the lightweight construction ensures it won’t weigh you down.

Performance & Functionality

The UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 performs its primary function of absorbing water adequately. It’s not the most absorbent microfiber towel I’ve used, but it’s certainly sufficient for basic hygiene needs in the outdoors. The quick-drying capability is a major advantage, preventing the build-up of mildew and odors.

The towel’s strengths lie in its packability, light weight, and reasonable absorbency for its size and price. Its main weakness is that slight “clingy” feeling and its tendency to retain a bit of moisture. It meets my basic expectations for a lightweight travel towel, but doesn’t necessarily exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 is decent for its price range. The materials feel adequate, though not exceptionally high-end. The light weight is a major selling point, and the Orange color is a plus for visibility, making it easier to spot in your pack or around the campsite.

The towel is user-friendly, requiring no special techniques or adjustments. There’s no learning curve associated with using it.

Durability & Maintenance

The UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. Machine washing and drying on low heat will help prolong its lifespan. Repairs are unlikely to be feasible if the towel is damaged.

Accessories and Customization Options

The UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0 comes with a zippered pouch for storage and transport. There are no other accessories included, and there are no customization options available. The towel is compatible with most standard laundry detergents and fabric softeners, though it’s generally recommended to avoid using fabric softeners with microfiber materials as they can reduce absorbency.

Pros and Cons of UST MicroFiber Towel 2.0