Matador NanoDry™ Packable Beach Towel Review

Beach towels can consume a surprising share of a day bag before you add water, sunscreen, and lunch. The Matador NanoDry™ Packable Beach Towel is designed to provide a full-size towel without the usual bulky bundle.

Matador describes quick-drying nanofiber fabric and a zip pocket for small belongings. The pocket is the detail that separates this from a plain travel towel, although I would be careful about what gets left inside when the towel is wet.

A Beach-Specific Detail

• Full-size beach format: Check the actual dimensions for the coverage you want.
• Packable nanofiber: Intended to reduce travel bulk.
• Zipper pocket: A place for keys or other small items.

A Pocket Isn’t a Waterproof Safe

The pocket can keep a key from disappearing into sand or a loose bag. That doesn't mean I would assume a phone stays dry inside it. Unless the exact product specifies otherwise, I would use a separate suitable case for electronics and valuables that cannot get wet.

It is also easy to forget what is in a towel before shaking it out or putting it in the laundry. A quick pocket check should become part of the routine, especially if several people share the towel.

Travel Fabric Feels Different

Compact quick-drying material won't necessarily give the padded feel of a thick cotton beach towel. If you mainly want a soft layer over a rough lounge chair, that difference may be important. If you are carrying everything on foot, the smaller package may be worth it.

I would compare this for trips where a normal towel is regularly left behind because it won't fit. It could also be a useful second towel in a vehicle, provided it gets dried and cleaned afterward.

The best reason to buy the NanoDry Beach Towel is portable coverage. The zip pocket is a welcome convenience when used sensibly, rather than the main reason to trust the towel with everything you brought to the beach.