Nike Reveals 'Cooling Hood Prototype' for Ashton Eaton

Nike Reveals 'Cooling Hood Prototype' for Ashton Eaton

Jul 27, 2015 by Karsten Kaufmann
Nike Reveals 'Cooling Hood Prototype' for Ashton Eaton


Maggie Vessey needs to step her game up.

While Vessey is typically known for unique and original racing garmets, Olympic Gold Medalist Ashton Eaton just made a new fashion statement in the track and field world.


The "cooling hood prototype" looks like some sort of medieval jousting mask. Unfortunately, Eaton won't be slaying any dragons in the near future (probably). As indicated by the swoosh, this is in fact a product from the folks over at Nike.

"A perfect scenario would be to feel like you've just started on every event. The more you do, the more attrition you experience. Rather than realizing immediate physiological gain, the challenge is more about reducing the mental attrition from the two days to maximize each event. After asking questions about current recovery techniques, the conversation prompted me to ask myself: Why does it feel good, after running, to pour a bottle of water over your head? I don’t know the physiological answer, but the fact that it does feel better makes me perform better. ” said Eaton in the official press release.

So here it is: the bottomless bottle of water Eaton can pour on his head, while still being environmentally friendly.

The concept is pretty simple. Simply chill the mask and place it on the head. Sandy Bodecker, VP of Special Projects explains the science behind the mechanism.

"The inner layers of the mask are constructed to contain water, while the structural frame around the eyes keep cold portions in place and close to the face maintaining a secure fit... Simply put, the hood concentrates a cold mass out of an icebox, covering the face, head and neck, and allows a gradual and effective cooling of the head"

As much as people would love to see him compete in the hood, the press release mentions it is only for recovery in between events.