Key Takeaways
- NASA-developed phase-change materials help cyclists regulate body temperature during races.
- Ekoï’s Outlast line was launched during the 2022 Tour de France and enhances performance in fluctuating temperatures.
- Outlast materials are now widely used in various cycling apparel, boosting comfort and aerodynamics.
Innovative Temperature Control for Cyclists
Cycling during events like the Tour de France introduces athletes to extreme temperature variations, from sweltering heat to chilly rain. To tackle these challenges, a company has introduced an innovative material designed to keep cyclists comfortable. This material, known as phase-change material, has roots in NASA’s research on temperature regulation.
The science behind phase-change materials involves the ability to absorb and release heat as a substance transitions between solid and liquid states. This technology was initially explored by Triangle Research Corporation in the 1980s, which received support from NASA to integrate these materials into textiles, particularly for temperature management in spacesuit gloves. Although not used in actual NASA missions, this research laid the groundwork for the Outlast fabric line.
Since its inception, Outlast has evolved into a widely utilized fabric known for its temperature-regulating properties in bedding, loungewear, and particularly activewear. Its application in sportswear caters to everything from casual jogging outfits to high-performance cycling gear.
Ekoï, a French company founded in 2001, specializes in clothing and accessories for competitive cyclists. The company first discovered Outlast at the Performance Days fabric trade fair in Munich and was immediately impressed by the technology’s potential and its NASA origins. Celine Milan, Ekoï’s textile director, noted the significance of the NASA connection, stating, “When you say NASA, it’s always impressive.”
The Outlast product line was officially launched in July 2022 during the Tour de France, where it proved its effectiveness. Feedback from cyclists indicated improved performance during mountain stages of the race, which presented substantial temperature fluctuations due to elevation changes. The fabric’s properties enhanced aerodynamics as cyclists could keep their jerseys closed in warmer conditions instead of opening them to let in cooler air.
Today, Ekoï offers a range of cycling products featuring Outlast materials, including jerseys, gloves, and socks. The incorporation of this technology underscores Ekoï’s commitment to providing high-quality apparel backed by NASA’s reputation for innovation. As they enhance comfort for both astronauts and athletes, phase-change materials stand at the forefront of advancements in performance gear.
For further information about NASA’s contributions to spinoff technologies, interested individuals can visit NASA’s official resources on the subject.
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