First Impressions of Coghlans Microfiber Towel
The Coghlans Microfiber Towel arrives promising convenience and portability for the outdoor enthusiast. Marketed as highly absorbent and ultra-comfortable, Coghlans is aiming this at anyone from beachgoers to park athletes. The inclusion of sewn-in pockets and cinching loops immediately piqued my interest, promising features beyond the standard microfiber towel.
I was drawn to this product by my constant struggle to pack efficiently for multi-day hikes. I needed a quick-drying towel that wouldn’t take up valuable space and could potentially serve multiple purposes. Standard cotton towels are bulky and slow to dry, making them impractical for backpacking.
Upon unboxing, the Coghlans Microfiber Towel feels surprisingly lightweight. The blue microfiber is soft to the touch, and the stitching appears well-executed. The sewn-in pockets on either end are a clever addition, and the cinching loops offer potential for hands-free carrying or makeshift clothing.
Compared to other microfiber towels I’ve used, like the Sea to Summit DryLite Towel or the PackTowl Personal Towel, the Coghlans Microfiber Towel stands out with its added features. While those towels focus solely on absorbency and packability, Coghlans attempts to offer versatility with the pockets and loops. This attempt at versatility is what made me choose it over the minimalist alternatives.
My initial impression is cautiously optimistic. While the materials seem decent, the true test will be its performance in the field. I am eager to see if the added features prove genuinely useful or just gimmicks.
Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans Microfiber Towel to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Coghlans Microfiber Towel on a three-day backpacking trip in the Smoky Mountains. This environment presented varying conditions, from humid mornings to dry afternoons, offering a good range for assessing its performance. I used it primarily for drying off after creek crossings and wiping down gear.
The towel proved remarkably absorbent, quickly wicking away moisture. Even when soaked, it remained relatively lightweight and didn’t feel overly bulky. The cinching loops were helpful for attaching the towel to my pack while hiking, allowing it to dry in the sun.
However, the sewn-in pockets were less useful than anticipated. While they could theoretically hold soap or goggles, I found them too small and awkward to access while on the trail. The pockets ended up unused, adding unnecessary bulk to the ends of the towel.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Coghlans Microfiber Towel has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the stitching remains intact. The microfiber material has retained its softness and absorbency despite multiple washes.
Cleaning the towel is simple: a quick wash in the washing machine followed by air drying. It dries incredibly fast, often ready to pack away within an hour. This quick-drying capability is a major advantage over traditional cotton towels.
Compared to past experiences with other microfiber towels, the Coghlans Microfiber Towel offers similar performance in terms of absorbency and drying speed. However, the added features don’t necessarily elevate it above the competition. While the cinching loops are genuinely useful, the pockets feel like a poorly-executed add-on.
Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans Microfiber Towel
Specifications
The Coghlans Microfiber Towel, manufactured by Coghlans, is designed for outdoor use and portability. The dimensions of the packaged product are approximately 10 mm in length, 7 inches in width, and 1.1 inches in height, with a weight of 0.77 lb. It is specifically designed for adults.
The towel is made from a blue microfiber material and features sewn-in pockets on either end. These pockets are intended for carrying small items. Cinching loops are located on the sides for attaching the towel to gear or wearing it around the waist or chest.
An elastic loop is attached to each towel for convenient hanging or rolling. These specifications suggest a product that prioritizes packability and versatility, aiming to be more than just a simple towel. However, the practicality of these features needs to be critically examined.
Performance & Functionality
The Coghlans Microfiber Towel performs its primary function of absorbing moisture effectively. It dries quickly, making it ideal for situations where space and weight are critical. The microfiber material is soft and comfortable against the skin.
The cinching loops provide a useful way to secure the towel to a backpack or use it as a makeshift garment. However, the sewn-in pockets are a design flaw. They are too small to hold anything of significant value and add unnecessary bulk.
Overall, the towel meets expectations as a quick-drying and absorbent towel. The added features are a mixed bag, with the cinching loops proving useful and the pockets falling short. The primary function is well-executed, but the added features detract slightly from the overall experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The Coghlans Microfiber Towel features a simple, functional design. The blue color is unobtrusive, and the microfiber material feels pleasant to the touch. The inclusion of pockets and loops adds a layer of versatility, though not all of it is successful.
The weight of 0.77 lb makes it easily packable for any outdoor adventure. There is no learning curve; it functions like any other towel. However, the poorly-designed pockets negatively impact the overall ergonomics.
The build quality appears solid, with well-executed stitching and durable materials. The microfiber is resistant to tearing and fraying, suggesting a reasonable lifespan.
Durability & Maintenance
The Coghlans Microfiber Towel is designed to withstand regular use and washing. The microfiber material is resistant to wear and tear, and the stitching is reinforced in key areas. It dries quickly and is easy to clean, requiring only a simple machine wash.
Proper care, such as avoiding harsh chemicals and high heat, will extend the towel’s lifespan. Based on my testing, the towel should last for several years with proper maintenance. The simple design and durable materials contribute to its longevity.
No specific repairs are needed, as the design is straightforward. Replacing the entire towel is likely the most cost-effective option if damage occurs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Coghlans Microfiber Towel does not come with any additional accessories. There are no official customization options available.
However, users could potentially add aftermarket straps or clips to further enhance the cinching loop functionality. The basic design allows for limited DIY customization, but no major modifications are recommended. The focus is on providing a ready-to-use product with a few built-in features.
The towel is compatible with standard washing and drying procedures, allowing for easy integration into existing laundry routines. Beyond that, customization is limited.
Pros and Cons of Coghlans Microfiber Towel
Pros
- Highly absorbent and quick-drying, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Cinching loops provide a useful method for attaching the towel to gear or wearing it.
- Lightweight and packable, saving valuable space in a backpack.
- Durable microfiber material that is resistant to wear and tear.
- Simple to clean and maintain, requiring only a machine wash.
Cons
- The sewn-in pockets are poorly designed and add unnecessary bulk.
- The pockets are too small to hold anything of practical use.
Who Should Buy Coghlans Microfiber Towel?
The Coghlans Microfiber Towel is perfect for budget-conscious backpackers and campers looking for a quick-drying and absorbent towel. Hikers who appreciate the cinching loops for attaching the towel to their pack will also find it useful. It’s also good for casual gym-goers or swimmers needing a lightweight option.
Those seeking a minimalist and ultra-lightweight towel should skip this product. Individuals who require practical storage solutions in their towel should also look elsewhere, as the pockets are underwhelming. Anyone prioritizing sleek design over added features might find other microfiber towels more appealing.
A small carabiner clip could be a must-have accessory for maximizing the cinching loop functionality. A mesh bag for storage and transportation is also advisable.
Conclusion on Coghlans Microfiber Towel
The Coghlans Microfiber Towel offers a decent value proposition for those seeking a quick-drying and absorbent towel for outdoor activities. The inclusion of cinching loops provides a useful feature for securing the towel to gear, but the sewn-in pockets are a significant drawback.
The price of $33.99 is reasonable, considering the towel’s performance and durability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limitations of the pockets before making a purchase.
I would cautiously recommend the Coghlans Microfiber Towel to those who prioritize absorbency, drying speed, and the cinching loop functionality. The pockets are a design flaw that detracts from the overall experience. If you can overlook this flaw, the towel offers good value for its price. Consider whether you really need the advertised pockets before purchasing.