Cooling Vests

How Cooling Vests Work?

Cooling vests work either through active cooling action or passive cooling action. In the former, electric current or battery is used to provide the cooling. The cooling lasts longer but it is more expensive. Passive cooling action does not depend on an external factor, like battery or current, for the cooling. Its cooling power does not last long and may be from around 30 minutes to four hours. Cooling vests are generally used by athletes, who use cold therapy to cool their body temperature and improve their performance, construction workers and welders, as well as people suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia and other types of sports injuries.

Types of Cooling Vests

We carry five types of high-quality cooling vests which work on varying premises like using ice gel packs, battery/electric current, ice pack vest, etc.

• Evaporative Cooling Vests: This vest, worn outside the clothing, is easy to use, reusable and therefore cost effective. The user just has to soak the vest in cold water for about 1-3 minutes, wring the water out and wear them. When the water reacts with the cooling agents in the vest, it evaporates causing the body temperature to fall. The Evaporative Cooling Vest from Polar Products is good for outdoor activities as it keeps you effectively cool during strenuous activities. It does not require cold packs, coolers or freezers. Evaporative cooling vests work best in low humidity climes.
• Ice-Chilled Cooling Vest: Cooling energy packs are activated in a refrigerator and placed inside the vest’s pockets. Since it is cold to the touch, hence must be worn outside regular clothing.
• Phase Change Cooling Vest: Phase Change Cooling Vests employ a technology of placing cold packs, containing non-toxic oils and fat, into a freezer or ice water for about 35-40 minutes. These packs will freeze or solidify at temperatures generally between 55 and 65 degrees Farenheit. They are then inserted into the garment’s pockets and will continue to remain frozen and maintain this temperature for approximately 2 to 4 hours. The Adjustable Zipper Vest is an example of such a vest from Polar which is suitable for both indoors and outdoors use and ideal for MS heat sensitivity.
• Cool Flow Cooling Vest: In this type, water is used to cool the body temperature. A cooling reservoir is provided which is connected through a hose to the vest which has inbuilt tubes. The reservoir is filled with ice water which is pumped into the vest. The Cool Flow vest from Polar is equipped with more than 50 feet of high flow cooling water lines inside the vest. It is lightweight and weighs just 16 oz with water in the lines.
• Thermoelectric Cooling Vest: This cooling vest is battery powered and cools down the inner surface of the vest.

How to select a Cooling Vest?

• This will depend on your body type and which vest fits you the best. Size is important. When picking a vest, ensure it fits you well around the torso because you will not get the desired result with an ill-fitting vest.
• Your selection will also depend on how much cooling you need and for how long. And where. If you plan to use it at home, you will have quick access to a refrigerator and power source. But if you are planning to use it outdoors you might need frozen packs to keep the temperature consistent.
• Cooling vests can have different levels of impact on different people. So, buying a cooling vest will have to be an informed decision involving your preference and requirement.