As we roll into the hottest month of the summer, you’re probably looking for ways to cope with the heat. Yes, that chilly AC feels great, but you’re an outdoorsy person! You’re looking for ways to go on adventures and not die of heat stroke. Evaporative cooling is the answer!
Evaporative cooling has been around for thousands of years. What is it? Well, when a liquid evaporates from a surface it brings the latent heat with it, resulting in a cooling of that surface. You’re experiencing this right now in the form of sweat. When your body overheats you start to sweat, which in turn evaporates and takes heat with it. You can multiply this effect by wetting a hat or headband, but this works best if the article of clothing stays wet for a longer period of time. Luckily for you, there are now a wide variety of products and clothes designed solely for this purpose.
Cooling neck wraps have been around for several years. The best ones, like the Kafka Kool Tie, have polymer crystals that retain moisture all day. You’ll be noticeably cooler and won’t have to keep applying water.
Another great option is a cooling hat, such as the Frogg Toggs Chilly Bean Hat. The cooling material on top stays wet for hours and pulls heat away from your noggin the whole time, keeping you cool and comfortable. The low-rider style keeps the hat tight to your head, which is necessary to keep drawing the heat off.
A cooling towel is also a great option that adds versatility. You can wrap it around your neck, drape it over your head, or use it as a headband. They also stay wet for several hours so you can focus on that game of cornhole.
If you think about it, evaporative cooling is your only option to beat the heat anyway. You’re not going to carry an air conditioner around, so it pays to pick up the next best option when confronted with the dog days of summer.
