Q. Is the chemical in the phase change material cool packs toxic?

A. The chemical in the phase change material technology coolpacks is completely nontoxic, safe, and environmentally friendly. If swallowed, it acts as a laxative. Should the Cool Pack become punctured and bleed onto your skin, it may cause very minor irritation, so it's important that you scrub with soap and water. If you'd like a Material Safety Data Sheet on this product, just go to our Product Info page, and click on the MSDS page link.

Q. How many times can the phase change material CoolPacks be used?

A. If the CoolPack is not punctured or otherwise damaged, it can be used indefinitely. It has no expiration date.

Q. How long do phase change material technology Cool Packs take to recharge?

A. Typically 20 minutes in ice water, and approx. 35 minutes in a freezer. They recharge more quickly in ice water because of the conductive method of chilling. In a freezer, they chill convectively, which takes slightly longer.

Q. What are the benefits of phase change material Cool Packs over ice or frozen gel packs?

A. There are three key benefits:

• First, phase change material technology Cool Packs operate at a much more comfortable temperature. That means they won't cause skin or tissue damage, or cause extreme discomfort.
• Second, phase change material technology CoolPacks will be effective for a longer period of time between charges. The reason? The difference in temperature between ambient (surrounding) air and the Cool Pack is much less than the difference in temperature between ambient air and ice. That means more cooling is absorbed by the body and less is lost to the air.
• Third, phase change material Cool Packs are cooled to a temperature that is above the dew point. That means they won't condense or sweat against your body or clothing. Ice and frozen gel packs are below the dew point, so they sweat, making them uncomfortable to wear and adding to the weight of the vest or jacket. Condensation also robs the ice pack of efficiency because condensation creates heat, which is absorbed by the pack, further reducing its efficiency.

Q. How do phase change material technology Cool Packs compare with evaporative-type products?

A. Phase change material technology Cool Packs provide much greater efficiency and better performance. Evaporative-type products, by their nature, retain water, so are always wet and can absorb bacteria. This makes them uncomfortable against your skin. And it means they'll mildew quickly over time, since they never dry out. Further, evaporative-type products can't operate in high humidity, because the atmosphere is already saturated with water, so there is no place for the evaporation to go. Phase change material products, on the other hand, are unaffected by humidity.

Q. Will phase change material Cool Packs reduce body core temperature?

A. Yes, they will. But keep in mind that our products are worn to maintain core temperature. The purpose of phase change material cooling technology is to maintain a comfortable core temperature and prevent that temperature from increasing. It's our goal to help you avoid heat stress in the first place.

Q. Isn't water a phase change material, just like the material in your Cool Packs?

A. Yes. A phase change occurs whenever matter changes from one form into another. Water can change from a solid (ice) to a liquid, as well as to a vapor. Water changes into a solid at a specific temperature: 32ºF. But phase change material Cool Packs change into their solid form at 62º F. Since water changes into its solid form at such a low temperature, it loses more of its cooling ability to ambient (surrounding) temperature. It's also below the dew point, so it causes condensation as it warms. Further, it's uncomfortable and requires a freezer to refreeze.

Q. Will phase change material CoolPacks cause vasoconstriction?

A. Not at all. That's a great benefit of phase change material Cool Packs: They function within a comfortable cooling range that doesn't allow vasoconstriction of blood vessels, unlike ice. This benefit is important, as nonconstricted blood vessels allow your circulatory system to freely move blood throughout your body, then release heat at the skin surface. With ice, the body is fooled into thinking it's cold. It reacts by constricting the blood vessels near the skin, limiting the body's natural cooling system. The heart then works harder, expending extra energy in the chest cavity and creating yet more body heat.

Q. During cardiovascular exercise, will phase change material Cool Packs help slow the heart rate?

A. Yes. These products will slow the rise in your heart rate so that you can exercise longer and with more intensity, allowing for higher calorie burn. Of course, it's important that you check with your doctor before undergoing an intensive exercise program.

Q. Where can I purchase phase change material technology?

A. You can purchase products by downloading our order form and mailing a check or money order to CoolSport. (See Ordering Info Page). You may also order CoolSport's products from the individual product pages, by clicking on the "buy now" buttons. Once you've entered our online catalog, simply indicate the desired size, quantities, and colors, and click on the "buy" button(s). Your individual shopping cart will appear with your selections on the left of the screen. Selecting "proceed to checkout" will take you to where you can complete your order. All credit payments from Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover will be processed through PayPal. You do not need your own existing PayPal account to make your purchase. All you need is a valid credit card.

NOTE: When purchasing products through PayPal, you will be asked to enter your name and address information a second time. We regret the inconvenience this may pose to some, and will be happy to assist anybody with their purchase should any questions arise. Questions may be directed to 310-618-1590.