Ralph Lauren unveils U.S. team uniforms – and they come with air-conditioned jackets

Olympians concerned about the oppressive heat and humidity of summers in Japan can relax – Ralph Lauren has a solution for that.

The iconic American brand unveiled the Team USA Opening Ceremony parade uniform on Wednesday, featuring new wearable technology called “RL Cooling.” The team’s jackets are designed with a self-regulating temperature cooling device – basically, a personal air conditioner to wear during what is set to be one of the hottest Games ever.

The yet to be announced flag bearers will wear a unique white denim jacket fitted with cooling technology during the Olympic and Paralympic Opening Ceremonies, which will feature few athletes and no fans as Japan continues to fight the pandemic. All Olympic and Paralympic athletes on the US team will eventually receive the cooling jackets after the ceremony.

“Through the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Ralph Lauren celebrates the pioneering spirit and tradition of America, while embracing modernity and innovation. Lauren. “Recognizing the summer heat of Tokyo, we set out to develop a solution for Team USA that combines fashion and functionality, making them feel better on one of the biggest stages in the world.

According to the brand, the device monitors and optimizes the wearer’s temperature, activating a system when the wearer is overheated that creates a “cool feeling” that lasts a long time, regardless of the temperature outside. The battery-powered device is placed on the back of the jacket, blowing the wearer’s neck with cold air in a manner similar to how computers are kept cool.

Personal thermal management systems could potentially reduce the need for mass cooling units, which are extremely energy-intensive and environmentally destructive, according to researchers from the US Department of Energy. Ralph Lauren began exploring technology for the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, where athletes wore heated jackets.

As for the rest of the Team USA gear, Ralph Lauren calls the red, white and blue uniforms “all-American classics.”

The opening ceremony outfits include a navy blazer, striped t-shirt, printed scarf, striped belt, denim pants and matching shoes. The closing ceremony look includes a white drawstring jacket, a white polo shirt, and white denim pants.

Both outfits come with face masks.

Each item is made in the USA and uses sustainable processes and materials, including a dyeing process that uses less water, chemicals and energy and fabrics made from plastic water bottles recycled.

“After a year marked by isolation and conflict, this summer’s Games are a true testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the universal power of sport to energize and unite the world,” said Lauren. “As we come together to celebrate and compete, we must also live up to our responsibility to protect the planet we all call our home.”