Today, we are proud to announce our latest collaboration with a performance brand. Together with EZ Gains, we have developed the EZ Hydro-Glide, a novel solution designed to help swimmers improve performance in the water through enhanced thermoregulation. EZ Gains is a well-known brand focused on developing science- and data-driven sports performance solutions.
The problem the EZ Hydro-Glide addresses is well known.
Thermoregulation in the water is notoriously difficult, as the body’s regular cooling mechanism, based on evaporative cooling, simply does not work underwater. As a result, swimmers tend to overheat quickly. When overheating occurs in the brain, it can trigger Central Fatigue, a protective mechanism in which the brain forces the muscles to slow down to prevent further overheating. At the same time, cold water can also trigger a Cold Shock Response, where sudden cooling on the forehead causes a gasp reflex and a significant spike in heart rate. This can lead to swim failure and other serious issues.
EZ Gains and Ultra Cool Tech recognized the opportunity to work together to deliver a meaningful solution for swimmers. EZ Gains’ expertise in performance-focused solutions, combined with Ultra Cool Tech’s experience in sports thermoregulation, came together in the development of the EZ Hydro-Glide, a device designed to work in both warm and cold water conditions. Working side by side, the teams explored different Phase Change Material (PCM) formulations, tested heat absorption profiles, and refined the integration to ensure the device does not add bulk or disrupt hydrodynamics.
The device is a lightweight, non-buoyant insert that fits comfortably under a swimming cap. It holds either a heated or cooled gel pack, helping regulate temperature accordingly, delaying fatigue, and allowing swimmers to maintain form and peak performance for longer periods. It also includes a GPS tracking device, allowing swimmers to be located at any time. Finally, the insert is made from a soft lattice rubber structure capable of absorbing and dissipating energy from impacts to the swimmer’s head.
The EZ Hydro-Glide has been tested with the support of both professional and amateur swimmers. All of them reported improved performance from maintaining lower head temperatures in the water. The device also improved head hydrodynamics, with tests reporting gains of up to 2 seconds per 100 meters. Swimmers additionally reported improved head position and better leg positioning closer to the surface.
The EZ Hydro-Glide can be purchased through the EZ Gains website, where you can also find more information about the device.
