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Much like coffee, cashmere or wine, the quality of cotton varies greatly. Thanks to ideal growing conditions, extra-long staple length and hand harvesting, Peruvian pima cotton is the world’s finest, prized for its exceptional durability, softness and brilliant luster.
In order to grow exceptional cotton, you need exceptional growing conditions. Peruvian pima cotton grows lush and lovely along the northern coastal valleys of Peru. There, the rich soil soaks up just the right amount of moisture at near-perfect equatorial temperatures. The result is cotton with a silky luster and an unbelievably soft hand.
Unlike much commercial cotton, Peruvian pima cotton is harvested entirely by hand. Not only is harvesting by hand more environmentally sound, it’s better for the cotton itself. Industrial harvesting tears the cotton fibers, giving it a yellowed hue and creating a scratchy texture that affect the smoothness of the final garment. The careful hand harvesting of Peruvian pima, however, results in a brilliant white shade of whole cotton, which dyes beautifully and feels soft and smooth against the skin.
With any natural fiber, the longer and smoother the filament, the softer the hand. Because of its exceptionally long, 1-3/8" staple length—ordinary cotton fibers measure between 1/2" to 3/4"— Peruvian pima cotton has unparalleled softness, is extremely durable and highly resistant to pilling. And since it’s hypoallergenic, it’s an excellent choice for people with skin sensitivities.