Cooling Collar (Cool Collar)

A cooling collar (cool collar or neck cooler) is a fabric wrap worn around the neck to keep a rider cooler in hot weather. It contains absorbent polymer crystals or a special fabric that soaks up water; as the water slowly evaporates in the airflow, it cools the skin over the large blood vessels in the neck.

Soak the collar for the time stated by the maker, usually several minutes, wipe off excess water and wear it under the jacket collar. It works best in dry heat with good airflow and needs re-wetting every few hours.

Cooling collars and cooling vests are useful on summer tours and long enduro days, but they don't replace drinking enough water. Rinse and dry the collar after use so it doesn't go mouldy.