Nike has unveiled the PreCool Vest, developed specially for the Bejing 2008 Olympics. The vest promises improved performance by cooling the athletes' muscles before they compete. Studies show that muscles perform better when they're not wasting their resources on cooling down.
The PreCool Vest, which is to be used one hour before competitions start, features multiple triangular cavities filled with frozen water. The vest lowers the body temperature, allowing the athlete to last 21% longer.
I wish they will release this to the masses. I could definitely use one in Malaysia's hot and humid weather.
Here is another performance boosting piece of apparel:
Performance-Enhancing Olympic Gear II
Nike PreCool Vest
Trend Themes
1. Athletic Performance Gear - Companies can further develop athletic gear that cools and enhances muscles for improved performance.
2. Temperature-controlled Wearables - There is potential for wearable technology that controls temperature to impact various industries, such as healthcare and construction.
3. Sustainable Cooling Technology - As global temperatures continue to rise, there is a need for sustainable cooling technology that can be utilized in various settings.
Industry Implications
1. Sports Apparel - The sports apparel industry can expand their product lines to include temperature-controlled clothing for optimized performance.
2. Health & Fitness - Wearable technology that cools and enhances muscles could be utilized in the health and fitness industry to enhance workouts and aid in muscle recovery.
3. Construction - Temperature-controlled wearables could be applied in the construction industry to prevent heat-related illness and improve worker productivity.