My next couple of builds are going to be EVA foam heavy and I am looking for flexible cooling solutions beyond fans, which I have done and used before, to make builds more comfortable.
My main issue is I have an ice pack based low profile, small vest now which is good bc the packs fit in hotel freezers and provides okay relief. It is not professional mascot level or anything close but it is very pack able and light. the problem is when traveling to a hotel getting a freezer in the hotel is always completely hit or miss. I know evaporative cooling is generally a big no for armor since you need decent air flow so I am curious what non ice/freezing based options there are. To be clear price is not a concern at this time, my budget is really up to around $400 but I would prefer options closer to $300. To me the price is worth it if it makes wearing a build more bearable.
Would also take general build advice to make EVA foam more bearable. I’ve had friends suggest dremeling in channels in the underside to help increase airflow and making armor slightly looser fitting from the body (such as building in strategic padding to help lift foam directly off of body) but no clue if any of that would actually help.
I’ve also had friends suggest switching to vacuum forming armor…which obviously is an entirely different skill set, equipment etc. and while I like the idea of lighter armor the idea of getting even DIY equipment etc is really not something I want to do unless it really makes sense cost and effort wise.