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When Team USA entered the stadium to the tune “Gangnam Style” during the 2018 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony in Pyeongchang, South Korea, they didn’t have to give a second thought to the frigid temps. The record-number 242 athletes were certain to stay warm and cozy with jackets outfitted with a special heating component.
Designed by Ralph Lauren, the official outfitter of the U.S. Olympic team, each red, white and blue parka featured a heating system made from electronic-printed carbon and silver conductive inks. Bonded to the interior of the jacket, the conductive inks, printed in the shape of an American flag, are connected to a battery pack with three settings. The system heats up quickly and stays warm for 11 hours at full charge.
Because the heating panel is flat, flexible and stretchable, it is incorporated seamlessly into the jacket. Except for the warming comfort, the wearer doesn’t know it’s there. The battery pack is connected by a thin cord and stays out of sight in a pocket.
In addition to the parka, the Ralph Lauren-designed bomber jacket worn in the closing ceremony also included the heating element. Both items are water repellent and made in the U.S.A.
The limited edition outerwear represents a next step in the designer’s interest in incorporating wearable technology into fashionable, useable clothing. For additional information, visit www.ralphlauren.com.