'Air-conditioned' vests keep cops cool

Swiss technology company Empa has developed a vest that regulates its own temperature

By PoliceOne Staff

Researchers are developing "air-conditioned" protective vests for police officers.

The heavy-duty Kevlar used in body armor tends to trap heat as it protects against bullets, but sweaty, uncomfortable officers are less likely to perform at their peak.

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Swiss technology company Empa has developed a vest that regulates its own temperature using Coolpads, which were originally designed for use in medical garments, according to LiveScience. 

The devices are filled with water, cooling down its surroundings as it evaporates through the membrane. A tiny fan behind the pad sends air through a fabric spacer, refreshing the wearer even further.

Officers from Zurich City tested the innovation over several warm days and gave it their approval, Empa said.