A shammy (also spelled "shammie") is a type of soft, absorbent cloth originally made from the skin of the chamois, a goat-like animal native to Europe. Today, shammy is commonly made from synthetic materials or sheepskin leather that is tanned with fish oils. The key characteristics of a shammy are its excellent water absorption, softness, and quick-drying properties. Shammies are widely used for drying and polishing surfaces without leaving streaks or scratches. They have been popular in activities like diving, where divers use a shammy towel (also called an aqua-towel) to quickly dry off and stay warm between dives. It is also frequently used for drying cars, windows, and other delicate surfaces. In cycling apparel, "chamois" or shammy refers to the soft cushioning inside padded cycling shorts, designed to provide comfort and moisture-wicking while riding. In summary, a shammy is an absorbent, soft cloth or leather material used for drying or polishing, valued for its ability to absorb water quickly and dry surfaces effectively without damage. The term can also refer to the cushioning in cycling shorts. This material can be natural leather from sheepskin or synthetic fabric designed to mimic the original chamois leather's qualities.
