A "shammy" (also spelled "shammie") is a type of absorbent cloth or towel originally made from the skin of the chamois, a goat-antelope native to Europe. Today, most shammies are made from synthetic materials rather than animal skin. They are highly valued for their water-absorbing qualities and are commonly used for drying and polishing surfaces, such as cars or body surfaces. In particular, in diving and water sports, a shammy is a small, fast-drying towel that helps divers dry off quickly and stay comfortable between dives. It absorbs a large amount of water, can be wrung out easily to dry again, and replaces bulky cotton towels. The modern shammy is made of poly-vinyl or synthetic material and is portable and convenient for athletes. Historically, shammies were made from the actual skin of the chamois animal and were prized for their absorbency and softness. Today, they are used by water athletes, divers, and automotive detailers for drying and polishing because they are gentle and efficient. In summary, a shammy is:
- A soft, absorbent towel or cloth originally made from chamois leather but now often synthetic.
- Used to quickly absorb water, dry surfaces, and polish without scratching.
- Popular with divers, swimmers, and car care enthusiasts as a practical drying tool.
The term "shammy" is essentially a nickname for chamois leather or cloth, and many modern versions are synthetic recreations of the original material.
