When summer hits hard, cities across Europe feel the burn—literally.
In recent years, heatwaves have pushed temperatures well above 35°C in parts of France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. These aren’t just short spikes. We’re talking about days, sometimes weeks, of relentless heat. Concrete radiates warmth well into the night, fans push around hot air, and even a quick walk outside can leave you drained.
With each year hotter than the last, people are searching for better ways to stay cool—especially when shade or air conditioning isn’t an option.
One solution that’s catching on? Cooling vests.
What Are Cooling Vests—And Why Now?
Cooling vests aren’t high-tech gimmicks. They’re practical garments that help regulate body temperature by using either phase change materials (PCMs) or evaporative cooling fabrics. The idea is simple: cool the skin, ease the stress on the body, and help people feel more comfortable and capable in high heat.
They’ve been used in sports and industrial settings for years—but now they’re moving into everyday life. People are wearing them to run errands, work in the garden, take public transport, or get through a scorching day without feeling wiped out.
As more cities experience extended heatwaves, personal cooling is becoming not just helpful—but necessary.
A Swiss Startup Making It Easy
One standout option comes from Nahtlos AG, a tech spin-off based in St. Gallen. Their Duracool line uses evaporative cooling fabric to provide portable relief without the need for electricity, batteries, or complicated setups.
There’s no noise, no maintenance—just fill with water, seal and wear. The vest stays cool for hours, and it’s reusable, lightweight, and designed with daily life in mind.
Whether you're out walking, commuting, or helping someone else stay safe in the heat, Duracool offers a practical layer of protection when the sun won’t let up.
A Simple Fix for a Hot Summer
Europe’s heatwaves aren’t slowing down—but neither are the people living through them.
Cooling vests like Duracool are gaining ground for a reason: they offer a quiet, simple, and sustainable way to stay cool when the temperature refuses to cooperate.
Learn more and shop the collection at duracoolwear.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cooling vest and how does it work?
A cooling vest is a wearable garment designed to help regulate body temperature. Duracool uses evaporative cooling—activated by water—to draw heat from your body and provide hours of natural, battery-free relief.
Why are cooling vests becoming popular in Europe?
Europe is facing more frequent and intense heatwaves. Many homes and workplaces lack air conditioning, making wearable cooling solutions like Duracool a practical and affordable way to stay comfortable during extreme heat.
Do I need any special equipment to use a Duracool vest?
No special equipment is required. Just fill the vest’s interior with water, seal it, and wear it. The fabric releases water vapor gradually to cool you down—no batteries, charging, or tech needed.
How long does the cooling effect last?
Duracool provides several hours of continuous cooling, depending on humidity and airflow. When it dries out, you can easily refill it with water for extended use.
Is the Duracool vest suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, Duracool is lightweight, discreet, and designed for real-life scenarios—from commuting and caregiving to gardening or walking in the sun. It’s a low-effort, high-impact way to stay cool all day.
Is Duracool environmentally friendly?
Yes. Because it doesn’t rely on electricity, batteries, or refrigerants, Duracool is a sustainable alternative to air conditioning. It’s reusable, energy-free, and helps reduce your carbon footprint.