So as a follow-up, these arrived and I tried one out. I like them. They're a lot stronger and more substantial than I expected and are good at soaking up water. The ones I got are the 12" x 24', and I would have no problem using one to dry off after an impromptu swim or whatever. I don't know that I'd expect one to last a long time (though people claim they wash and reuse them a lot). As an "emergency backup towel" though, I think they're pretty nifty, especially for how incredibly compact they are in the original packaging. I've already put one in the vehicle kit, one in the BOB, and one in the EDC and work bag, and I'll likely throw a couple in the glove compartment, and/or actually order a couple of the beach towel sized ones.
