NASA Invented Technology

Imagine a personal cooling system that maintains a comfortable 65º F temperature. That’s the technology behind the phase change material that was developed for our Cooling Vests Cool Packs.

Until now, the only answer to heat stress was to wear an ice- or gel-cooled vest. That meant having a freezing cold pack against your body–too cold to be comfortable. To alleviate the discomfort, undergarments were needed as a barrier, defeating the very purpose of the vest. With phase change material technology, you’ll stay cool and comfortable at a temperature that feels natural to your skin and body. So comfortable, in fact, that our products can be worn directly against your skin for optimal cooling — without the fear of frostbite!

Washable, non-shrink outer shell made from Supplex®, fire-retardant Banox®or Poly Cotton Twill is the first layer of shielding from ambient heat. Insulating layer minimizes the absorption of ambient heat by the phase change material cooling packs. Using phase change material technology, the Cool Packs literally pull heat from the body, while maintaining a comfortable temperature of 65º F. The packs expand to resist bursting, absorb shock, and maintain mobility. The cooling vests are designed to hold the Cool Packs securely in place, while absorbing moisture away from the wearer.

As the phase change cooling pack absorbs heat, it will begin to phase change from a solid to a liquid. Because of the constant temperature behavior of phase change material technology, the Cool Packs maintain 65º F during the transition. The process can take hours and varies with ambient temperatures, workload, and individual physiology.

The phase change Cooling Packs can be quickly recharged; simply place them in ice water for 20 minutes, or in a conventional refrigerator for around 60 minutes. The Cool Packs also may be placed in a conventional freezer to be recharged without the fear of any damage to the packs!