When the temperature climbs, staying cool isn’t just about comfort, it is about safety and performance. That is where cooling apparel comes in. From athletes and outdoor workers to everyday wearers in warm climates, more people are turning to high-tech clothing designed to regulate body temperature and fight heat stress. But how exactly does cooling apparel work, and what should you look for?
Cooling apparel refers to clothing engineered to reduce or regulate body temperature in hot conditions. The goal is to wick away sweat, increase ventilation, reflect sunlight, and in some cases, actively lower the wearer’s skin temperature.
Heat stress occurs when the body is unable to regulate its internal temperature due to excessive heat exposure. It results from a combination of environmental conditions, physical activity, and clothing that impair heat dissipation.
Key Cooling Technologies
- 1. Moisture-Wicking Fabrics
Most modern cooling apparel starts with moisture-wicking materials. These fabrics pull sweat away from the skin to the outer surface of the garment, where it can evaporate quickly. This natural evaporation process cools the skin. Polyester and nylons are top wicking fabrications.
- Phase Change Materials (PCMs)
Some high-end cooling garments use phase change materials, compounds that absorb and release heat as they change from solid to liquid and back. These materials can be built into vests or liners and help maintain a steady body temperature, particularly in extreme heat. Some examples of PCMs are Outlast® and ThermoShield®.
- Ventilation and Mesh Panels
Strategic ventilation zones like mesh underarms or back panels are built into many cooling shirts and jackets. These zones allow heat to escape and air to circulate, reducing sweat buildup and skin temperature.
- Chemical Cooling Treatments
Some clothing is treated with proprietary chemical coatings that feel cool against the skin or activate when exposed to moisture. These can create a noticeable cooling sensation for short bursts, often used in sports or outdoor workwear.
- Ice or Water-Activated Cooling
Evaporative cooling garments like vests, towels, and headbands can be soaked in water and worn. As the water evaporates, it cools the body. These are popular for athletes or workers in direct sunlight.
Several innovative brands are pushing cooling apparel forward with proprietary technologies:
- Freezetech (Liberta USA Inc.): Known for garments that activate a cooling effect upon contact with sweat or water. Popular among outdoor athletes and motorcycle riders in hot climates. NAUMD Member.
- 37.5® Technology: Used by various outdoor and athletic brands, 37.5 tech embeds volcanic mineral particles in fabric to capture and release moisture vapor before it turns to sweat helping maintain the body’s ideal core temperature.
- Coolcore®: This chemical-free technology relies on fabric structure to achieve moisture-wicking, moisture transportation, and regulated evaporation, making it durable and effective through repeated washes.
- Mission®: Specializes in evaporative cooling gear like towels, neck gaiters, hats, and shirts. Mission products are often activated by soaking in water and are used widely by athletes and outdoor workers.
What are some of the top industries that would need this type of product due to the work and climates they are in?
- Outdoor workers: Construction crews, landscapers, and factory workers rely on cooling apparel to prevent heat stress.
- Airline baggage handlers: Working on the tarmac, cooling garments are a necessity.
- Military and emergency services: Tactical cooling vests help reduce core temperature during long hours in hot conditions.
When shopping for cooling apparel, consider:
- Fit and comfort: It should be breathable and allow a full range of motion.
- Durability: Frequent washing shouldn’t ruin its cooling effect.
- Purpose: Choose active-cooling gear for intense conditions, and passive-cooling materials for casual or daily use.
- Tech behind the product: Look for proven technologies like those from Freezetech, 37.5, Coolcore, or Mission.
Cooling apparel is not a gimmick, it is a smart solution for staying comfortable and safe in hot weather. Whether you’re pushing your limits in sport, working outdoors, or just trying to make a summer day bearable, the right clothing can make a real difference. STAY COOL!!!!!!
