K-25

The bath towel is not usually a design problem anyone thinks about, but the K-25 project treats it as one. Instead of the looped pile found on most towels, K-25 uses a 3D waffle weave. According to the maker, this structure increases the fiber surface area so the towel absorbs water quickly and then dries fast, because the raised waffle pattern lets air circulate rather than leaving fibers matted together and damp.

What the maker claims

• Absorbency and quick drying from the 3D waffle weave, intended to stay fresher even in humid bathrooms
• An anti-odor treatment that the maker says suppresses bacterial growth, helped by the weave releasing moisture
• Lighter than conventional towels and foldable into a compact size for travel, outdoor use or the gym
• Softness that the maker says holds up through repeated washing, with a structure described as durable and resistant to fraying and pilling
• Eco-friendly materials, plus claims that it can be washed effectively with less water and dries quickly, reducing water and energy use

The intended use cases follow from those claims: everyday use at home, where the maker suggests faster drying and odor resistance could mean fewer washes; gym and yoga sessions, where a light towel that dries quickly after sweaty use is handy; and travel or camping, where bulk in a backpack or suitcase matters.

On Kickstarter

K-25 was presented as a Kickstarter project, which according to the source raised more than $84,880 from 875 backers, well beyond its goal. The source also quotes backer comments praising its drying speed, though these are unverified testimonials and Modern-G has not evaluated the towel.