What is Supima Cotton?
Most cotton looks the same. But not all cotton is created equal.
Supima® cotton represents less than 1% of the cotton grown worldwide and is regarded as one of the finest cottons available. Its extra-long staple fibres produce fabric that’s exceptionally soft, remarkably durable, and retains its colour beautifully over time.
At SHAPE, every tee begins with certified Supima® cotton because we believe exceptional garments begin with exceptional materials.
What is Supima Cotton?
Supima® is a premium cotton grown exclusively in the United States. The name combines “Superior” and “Pima,” reflecting its higher quality compared to conventional cotton.
What makes Supima special is its extra-long staple (ELS) fibres. These fibres are significantly longer than regular cotton, allowing smoother, stronger yarns to be spun. The result is a fabric that feels softer, lasts longer, and maintains its appearance through repeated wear and washing.
Although Supima accounts for less than 1% of the world’s cotton production, it has become the benchmark for premium cotton used by leading brands worldwide.
Why is Supima Cotton Different?
The difference begins at the fibre.
Longer fibres create smoother yarns with fewer loose ends. This improves the overall quality of the fabric in several ways:
- Exceptional softness against the skin
- Greater durability for everyday wear
- Better resistance to pilling
- Superior colour retention after repeated washing
- A smoother, more refined finish
These qualities don’t just improve the first wear—they help the tee look and feel better over time.