What is Pima Cotton? Premium Basics Start Here

What is Pima Cotton? Premium Basics Start Here

If your brand is all about quality — especially in everyday essentials like tees, polos, or underwear — chances are you've heard of Pima cotton.

At HEM APPAREL, we work with Pima cotton and Supima® fabrics to help brands elevate their basics. Here's why this fabric is worth considering.


🧵 What is Pima Cotton?

Pima cotton is a type of extra-long staple (ELS) cotton originally grown in Peru and the southwestern U.S.

Compared to regular cotton, it has:

  • Longer fibers → smoother and stronger yarn

  • Softer handfeel → less irritation on skin

  • Better durability → resists pilling and fraying

✅ It’s often used in luxury basics, thanks to its comfort and clean finish


🆚 Pima vs. Regular Cotton

Feature Regular Cotton Pima Cotton
Fiber Length Short to medium Extra-long staple (ELS)
Softness Varies (coarse to soft) ✅ Silky smooth
Durability Can pill or wear out ✅ Stronger, lasts longer
Price Lower ✅ Higher (but worth it)

🌿 Is Pima Cotton Sustainable?

  • Grows with fewer pesticides (especially Peruvian pima)

  • Longer lifespan = fewer replacements

  • Often hand-picked → less fiber damage, higher quality

✅ Not organic by default — but a good sustainable step up from standard cotton


👕 Best Use Cases

  • Premium T-shirts & polos

  • Babywear and sensitive-skin clothing

  • Luxury sleepwear or casual basics

  • Undergarments or fitted wear (smooth against skin)


⚠️ Notes Before You Use

  • It’s more expensive than regular cotton — plan pricing carefully

  • Requires proper labeling if using Supima® (trademarked U.S. version)

  • Not ideal for distressed or raw streetwear aesthetics


🧠 HEM APPAREL’s Tip:

If you're positioning your brand in the mid to high-end basicwear segment, Pima gives a clear tactile upgrade without reinventing your fit or design.

We help brands test GSM, dye absorption, and shrinkage before moving to full production.

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