When shopping for cotton shirts, it’s important to be informed about the distinction between two popular types of cotton, Supima and Egyptian Cotton. Although their names sound similar, they are two distinct fabrics which have distinct benefits. Here’s a breakdown of both to help you make an informed choice.
Overview of Supima Cotton
Supima cotton is grown in the United States, primarily in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. It is an extra-long staple, or ‘ELS’, cotton, meaning that the fibers are longer than fibers found in other varieties of cotton. This longer staple length allows for an incredibly soft, lightweight yet strong fabric. The fibers are also highly resistant to pilling – a common issue with cotton shirts that is caused by surface fibers becoming intertwined with each other.
Supima cotton is also known for its vibrant colors and excellent colorfastness. This means that the colors of Supima cotton fabrics will remain vibrant and true even after multiple washes. Additionally, Supima cotton is highly breathable and moisture-wicking, making it an ideal choice for clothing that needs to be comfortable and breathable.
Overview of Egyptian Cotton
Egyptian cotton also has staple fibers that are longer than those found in other varieties of cotton. This gives the fabric added strength and makes it highly durable and resistant to pilling. However, because the production of Egyptian cotton is largely centralized in the Nile Delta region, its supply can be unreliable and its quality can be inconsistent. Additionally, because Egyptian cotton requires a lot of manual labor and needs to be grown in a highly specific climate, its cost is typically much higher than other types of cotton.
Egyptian cotton is also known for its softness and luxurious feel, making it a popular choice for high-end bedding and clothing. It is also highly absorbent, making it ideal for towels and other items that need to be able to absorb moisture quickly. Despite its higher cost, many people find that the quality and durability of Egyptian cotton make it worth the investment.
Differences in Fibers
When comparing Supima and Egyptian Cotton fiber lengths, it becomes apparent that Supima has fibers that tend to be a bit longer. This provides the fabric with greater strength and softness. Additionally, it allows for a fabric that is less prone to pilling and wrinkling, as well as one that is more breathable.
Supima cotton is also known for its superior color retention, meaning that the fabric will not fade or discolor over time. This makes it an ideal choice for clothing that needs to look its best for a long period of time. Furthermore, Supima cotton is also known for its luxurious feel, making it a popular choice for high-end clothing.
Differences in Durability
When it comes to durability, both Supima and Egyptian Cotton are strong and highly resistant to pilling. However, because Supima has longer fibers, it tends to be more durable overall. Additionally, its fibers are more tightly woven, meaning that it will last longer over time.
Differences in Quality
When evaluating quality, Supima and Egyptian Cotton are both considered to be high-end cottons. Supima tends to have a brighter and softer luster than Egyptian Cotton, making it more appealing to the eye. Additionally, its fabric can be more tightly woven for a finer drape and feel. The quality of Egyptian Cotton, however, can vary greatly depending on the supply chain of the fabric.
Differences in Cost
Because the production of Egyptian Cotton requires intensive manual labor, it tends to be much more expensive than Supima Cotton. Thus, the cost of a garment made from one type of cotton may vary greatly from the cost of one made from the other. It’s important to keep this in mind when making a purchase decision.
Benefits of Supima Cotton
Supima Cotton provides several benefits when compared to other cottons. As previously mentioned, it is an extra-long staple cotton with tightly woven fibers for excellent durability and drape. Additionally, because it is grown in the United States, its production is consistent and its cost is comparatively low. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish yet cost-effective garment.
Benefits of Egyptian Cotton
Although more expensive and less reliable than Supima Cotton, Egyptian Cotton also offers several benefits. Its extra-long staple fibers provide a soft and luxurious feel that is highly sought after amongst fashion-lovers. Additionally, when handled properly, it can retain its original vibrancy and lustrous sheen even after multiple washes. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to make a statement.
Tips for Choosing the Right Cotton Shirt
When deciding between Supima and Egyptian Cotton shirts, there are several factors to consider. It’s important to research the cost and quality of both fabrics before selecting one. Additionally, consider your budget and how often you plan on wearing the shirt before making your purchase decision. Ultimately, no matter which type of shirt you choose, a cotton shirt will provide you with long-lasting comfort and style.
