Water-Activated Cooling for Hot-Weather Work
The Portwest CV09 Evaporative Cooling Vest uses superabsorbent fibers and breathable mesh to provide lightweight, water-activated cooling for outdoor crews and employees working in warm indoor facilities. Soak the vest in water to activate it; no ice packs, batteries, pumps, or fans are required.
Portwest states that the cooling effect can last up to eight hours. Actual duration varies with temperature, humidity, airflow, activity level, and activation conditions.
Quick Buying Details
Water-Activated Cooling Features
- Soaks in water to activate the evaporative cooling system
- Superabsorbent fibers retain water for extended cooling
- Breathable mesh supports airflow and evaporation
- Wicking, cooling, and drying properties
- Lightweight construction supports active work
- Designed to help keep clothing underneath dry
Hot-Weather Work Applications
- Construction, roadwork, and public-works crews
- Utilities and outdoor maintenance
- Landscaping and agricultural work
- Warehouses and loading areas
- Manufacturing and facility maintenance
- Transportation and delivery operations
Heat-Stress and Visibility Limits
This vest supports worker comfort but does not prevent heat illness by itself. Use it within a complete hot-weather program that addresses hydration, rest, shade, acclimatization, training, supervision, and applicable employer procedures.
Portwest lists EN 17353 Type A for the CV09. This is not an ANSI/ISEA 107 Class 2 or Class 3 safety vest and should not replace compliant high-visibility apparel when that protection is required. Evaporative performance generally decreases as humidity rises or airflow becomes limited.
FAQ - Portwest CV09 Evaporative Cooling Vest
How do I activate the Portwest CV09 cooling vest?
Soak the vest in clean water and remove excess water according to the garment instructions before wearing it. Soak it again when the cooling effect decreases.
How long does the evaporative cooling last?
Portwest states that the vest can keep the wearer cool for up to eight hours. Actual duration depends on temperature, humidity, airflow, activity, and how the vest was activated.
Does the CV09 require ice packs or batteries?
No. The CV09 uses water and evaporation rather than ice packs, gel inserts, batteries, pumps, or fans.
Will the cooling vest soak the clothing underneath?
Portwest designed the vest to provide cooling without wetting the clothing underneath. Remove excess water as directed before use; results can vary with activation and working conditions.
Is this an ANSI Class 2 or Class 3 high-visibility vest?
No. Portwest lists EN 17353 Type A for the CV09, but the vest is not represented as ANSI/ISEA 107 Class 2 or Class 3 apparel. Use separately selected compliant high-visibility apparel when required.
What sizes does ASA currently offer?
The current ASA listing offers L/XL and 2X/3X. Select the required size before adding the vest to the cart.
Does evaporative cooling work in high humidity?
Evaporative cooling can still provide comfort, but performance generally decreases as humidity rises or airflow becomes limited. Conditions at the worksite should guide the cooling method selected.
Can this vest prevent heat illness by itself?
No. A cooling vest is one comfort measure and does not replace hydration, rest, shade, acclimatization, training, supervision, medical response procedures, or other controls required for the work.
