Find the best fabrics to keep you cool in hot weather. Learn how to reactivate cooling clothing & enjoy relief from heat with cooling technology.

Staying cool in hot weather can be a real challenge, especially when you’re active or working outdoors. Fortunately, there’s a range of cooling products designed to keep you cool, from cooling towels to lightweight hats, t-shirt options, and more. If you’ve ever wondered how does MISSION cooling gear keeps you cool and comfortable, or you need a refresher on how to use any product with our cooling technology, then read on! We'll walk you through safe usage tips, including how often and when to reactivate your evaporative cooling accessories.

Why Reactivation Matters

Evaporative cooling products rely on moisture to regulate temperature. Over time, the towel or garment will dry out, reducing its effectiveness as a body cooler. Reactivating involves adding water and “resetting” the cooling effect so you can continue to enjoy a refreshing break from the heat.

• Prolonged Comfort: Reactivation ensures the fabric maintains its moisture for a sustained cooling sensation.

• Consistent Performance: By regularly reactivating, you optimize airflow and evaporation, which helps absorb the moisture from your skin and use it for evaporative cooling.

• Safety & Health: In extreme heat, maintaining a stable body temperature reduces your risk of overheating or heat-related illnesses.

How Does MISSION Cooling Gear Work?

MISSION uses specialized technology and innovative cooling fabrics in its cooling clothing for extreme heat, including neck gaiters, hats, and towels. When you wet a MISSION product, the fibers activate, beginning the process of evaporative cooling.

1. Soak the accessory (e.g., towel or gaiter).

2. Wring out the excess water.

3. Snap or wave the product to encourage evaporation.

This creates a fast, lasting cooling effect. If you’re curious how MISSION cooling gear works compared to other brands, it’s all about innovative fabrics that retain water without feeling heavy or sticky, delivering quick relief when you need it most.

How Often Should You Reactivate Your Cooling Accessories?

Many factors influence how often you’ll need to re-wet or reactivate your gear:

• Temperature & Humidity: In dry, hot environments, the towel or garment will evaporate moisture faster, requiring more frequent reactivation.

• Intensity of Activity: If you’re engaged in strenuous physical activity or sweating heavily, your accessories will lose moisture more quickly.

• Personal Preference: Some individuals enjoy a very pronounced cooling effect, while others prefer a mild sensation.

Rule of Thumb: Reactivate whenever the fabric starts to feel warm or dry against your skin. Most of our cooling products stay cool for up to 2 hours. Select products with premium cooling power can stay cool for up to 3 or 6 hours. 

How to Use a Cooling Towel: Step-by-Step

You’ve probably seen various methods on how to use cooling towel accessories, but let’s break down the standard approach to maximize results.

1. Soak Thoroughly

• Fill a sink or water bottle with cool water.

• Dip or wet the towel until it’s fully saturated.

2. Wring Out Excess

• Remove the towel from the water and gently wring out extra moisture.

• This helps prevent dripping and prepares the fabric for snapping.

3. Snap or Wave

• Hold each end and snap the towel 3-4 times to activate the cooling fibers.

• Alternatively, wave it in the air for a few seconds.

4. Place for Comfort

• For a cooling towel for the neck, drape the towel around your neck or shoulders.

• If you’re targeting a specific area—like an elbow or knee—wrap it there for targeted relief.

5. Reactivation

• Once you notice the towel drying or losing its cooling effect, simply repeat the soaking or spraying process.

• This straightforward routine is the same for all variations, from how to use a cooling towel in general to how to use the cooling towel for the neck specifically.

Safe Usage Tips & Best Practices

• Avoid Over-Tightening: Especially around the neck, ensure the towel or gaiter is secure but not restrictive.

• Clean Regularly: Wash your cooling accessories according to the care instructions. This prolongs their effectiveness and keeps them hygienic.

• Stay Hydrated: Cooling products can help maintain a comfortable body temperature, but always drink plenty of water—especially in high heat.

• Store Properly: After use, allow the towel to dry partially before storing it in a breathable bag or container.

Additional Cooling Clothing for Extreme Heat

Beyond cooling towels, brands like MISSION offer cooling gaiters, hats, and arm sleeves. These items use similar evaporative technology, giving you multiple ways to stay cool in scorching climates. Outdoor enthusiasts often rely on a full set of cooling clothing for extreme heat to stay safe and comfortable during sports, hikes, or any extended time in direct sunlight.

Conclusion

Understanding how to use a cooling towel and reactivating it properly can make a big difference in your ability to handle extreme heat safely. Whether you’re learning how to use the cooling towel for the first time or you’ve been curious about how MISSION cooling gear works, the key takeaway is consistent reactivation. By following these safe usage tips, you’ll get the most out of your cooling products, ensuring you stay comfortable, hydrated, and protected in hot conditions.

Ready to upgrade your body cooler strategy? Check out MISSION’s lineup of cooling clothing for extreme heat for a full range of accessories that will help keep you refreshed and energized, no matter how high the mercury climbs.