Having spent a fair amount of time encumbered (yet appreciative) in full battle-rattle, I can say that full armor, especially full military body armor is hot. The coverage required to keep one safe from high-velocity fragmentation also keeps the body from being able to exhaust heat in its normal ways. I can remember vividly, taking armor off with salt lines all over my utilities from where armor coverage met air.

Looking to help cool one in armor is Qore Performance with their IcePlate armor hydro-insert. The concept is basic yet entirely appreciated. Freeze water in the IcePlate, don armor with IcePlate installed, and simultaneously cool oneself and get fresh drinking water. Per Qore Performance:

Fill IcePlate with 50 ounces of water. Freeze IcePlate overnight. Wear IcePlate under your body armor for 3-4 hours (70+ watts per plate) of conductive + evaporative cooling and a full shift of hydration. As your body heat melts the ice in the container, you’ll have ice-cold water to drink.

The IcePlate is 12 ounces, empty and when filled is capable of carrying up to 50 ounces of water. IcePlate is 1″ thick. Construction is rugged, using thermopolymers to absorb impact. Note, it’s not quite ballistically rated, but can help when used in conjunction with standard armors (see video below).

For additional details, check out Qore Performance directly. IcePlate is available today, priced at $39 for either the front or back plates (only differences are the hoses at 21″ and 32″, respectively) or available as a pair for $77. Current colors include Wolf Grey and White, with Tan available soon.

Curious about its ballistic capability?

Details from Qore Performance:

Cooling + Hydration + Protection under your Body Armor.

Quick Specs: Full Spec Sheet | Breakroom Flyer

• Weight: About 12 oz.
• Capacity: 50 oz (1.5 L)
• Dimensions: 10′ by 12′
• Duration: Lasts 2-4 hours, freeze overnight (6-8 hours)
• NTOA Member Tested & Recommended

Comes with Soft Armor Velcro Straps for External Armor
Zipties can be used for Hard Armor / Thin Shoulder Straps

Recommended Configuration

• Front: for users who spend a majority of their time in vehicles and those who prefer a little bit more protection up front
• Rear: for users who spend a majority of their time dismounted, outside of vehicles on foot, ATV, motorcycle, horseback, aircraft (crew or passenger) or boats, this is the recommended configuration
• Pair: for users on extended, dismounted patrols where maximum cooling/heating and hydration are required
• Order Industrial QD strap system (below) to wear IcePlate as a standalone backpack

Recommended Accessories: