Walked terry

Also known as: Sheared terry, Velour terry

Terry whose loops are sheared open and walked on one face, giving a velvet-soft surface.

~1 min read By Christian Habert Fact-checked by Clubmartin Textile EditorialAI-assisted Last reviewed: October 9, 2026 Sources (2)

Description

Walked terry — also known as velour terry or sheared terry — is a terry quality in which the loops on one face are mechanically cut open (sheared) after weaving to form an upright pile. The sheared face is then walked and brushed, felting the fibres into a velvety surface. The reverse remains a classic loop pile.

Raw material is usually cotton in Ne 12-20 with weights of 380-500 g/m². Walking shortens fibre ends and yields a dense, velvet look. Absorbency on the sheared velour face is slightly lower than on closed loops, but the hand is markedly softer and the appearance more premium.

Uses: premium bath sheets, sauna towels, high-end bathrobes, beach and wellness textiles, harem trousers and sofa cushions. Care: 60 °C, no fabric softener, medium tumble. Drawback: the velour face can felt under heavy use; regular shaking preserves the pile. Colour depth is particularly brilliant thanks to the upright fibres.