Parachute Fouta Stripe Towels Review

We purchased the Parachute Fouta Stripe Towels so our expert reviewer could put them to the test in her home. Keep reading for our full product review.

Bath towels are one of those basic necessities that many people put off investing in. But once you do, you’ll realize it’s worth the money. When it comes time to drop some serious dough on quality linens, though, you want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. 

Parachute, which specializes in “premium, accessible essentials,” keeps costs at a minimum through its online-only, direct-to-consumer business model. The brand’s Fouta Stripe Towels are a modern version of the lightweight towels traditionally found in Mediterranean bathhouses. We tested the towel to give you the lowdown on its material, design, texture, absorbency, and more. Keep reading to see if this is the upgrade your linen closet needs. 

Material and Design: Lightweight Turkish cotton 

Parachute’s fouta bath towels are made from 100 percent long-staple Turkish cotton—a material known for its softness and absorbency. “Staple” refers to the length of the fibers the fabric is woven from. Long-staple cotton is, as you’d guess, made from long cotton fibers which are not only superior in quality, but less prone to fraying, pulling, wrinkling, and fading.

Beyond their high-quality construction, the linens also have a sleek, minimalist look that can easily be incorporated into most bathroom décor schemes. Gray stripes add chic detailing to a neutral white towel that may otherwise be boring. That said, gray and white is the only color combination available, which may prove disappointing to some. Additionally, we have to note that the towel isn’t as bright as it appears in Parachute’s product listing; it’s more of an off-white or soft eggshell shade. 

Lastly, purists and eco-conscious consumers will be happy to know that Parachute’s towels are OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, meaning they've been tested for harmful substances.

Texture: Smooth and soft 

The Fouta Stripe Towel has a different texture on each side, but both are pleasant to the touch. The top features a smooth flat weave and the dyed stripe detail, while the bottom—the drying side, presumably—is plain white with a short terry texture. 

This bath towel is relatively lightweight without feeling flimsy, so it’s perfect for summer use, warmer climates, or year-round use for those who simply don’t like thick towels. Conversely, those who prefer plush linens may want to check out competitors like Brooklinen. 

Parachute’s bath towels are big enough for most people to wrap themselves up in comfortably. Measuring 56 x 30 inches, we found them to be large enough for full-body drying and coverage, post-shower. If you’re looking for something a little bigger, Parachute also offers a fouta bath sheet that measures 70 x 40 inches. And if you’re stocking your linen closet, you can also pick up matching washcloths and hand towels while you’re at it. 

Absorbency: Does a decent job 

As far as absorbency goes, the fouta bath towel gets the job done—though it’s nothing to write home about. Unsurprisingly, the terry side is particularly effective at completing the task, plus it feels soft against bare skin.

A major downside for us was that we found the towel slow to dry given how lightweight it is. Despite us hanging it up to air dry, we found that most mornings it was still damp from being used the day before—especially when used on soaking-wet hair. 

Drying time aside, we were able to use the same towel for several days in a row without it developing any musty or moldy odor. For those who cringe at the thought of using a not-quite-dry towel after showering, a quick run through the dryer or a few hours hanging in direct sunlight (if not outdoors) should do the trick to keep towels fresh between washing. 

Washing: Comes out like new

Speaking of washing, the care instructions for these towels are pretty straightforward. As you’ll find written on the tag, you’ll want to machine wash them on cold with like colors and tumble dry on low. The website further instructs to use mild liquid detergent and avoid bleach and fabric softeners. 

We’re happy to report that our towels laundered beautifully, and after several washes and dry cycles, they still looked and felt brand new. We’d even go so far as to say they felt softer than when they’d first arrived. 

Price: On the lower end for luxury towels 

Parachute’s Fouta Stripe Bath Towels go for $29 each. While they’re not cheap, the cost is fair given their quality, and it actually lands them on the lower end of the luxury bath linen price spectrum as some competitors—particularly brands with ultra-plush options—come with price tags upwards of $50. 

Still, a week’s worth of linens for the family will definitely put a dent in your wallet. For reference, the Fouta Stripe Towel Set, which includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths, rings up for $114. Get two of those for a family of four, and it’ll set you back $228. 

Parachute Fouta Stripe Towel vs. Brooklinen Super-Plush Bath Towel

If you’ve researched luxury bath linens, you’ve likely come across Brooklinen’s offerings. The brand’s Super-Plush Bath Towels are more traditional-looking with solid colors and terry material on both sides, but the biggest difference between Brooklinen and Parachute towels is their texture. Brooklinen’s option is thicker, heftier, and plusher; it’s almost like wrapping yourself in a blanket. At $69 for a set of two, these will cost you about $5.50 more per towel, but direct-to-consumer sales also help this brand keep its prices in check. We should note that Brooklinen’s towels are also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified—so you don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals or dyes with either company.