Pilot Products: Cool down
A two-in-one idea
Sometimes your cockpit’s air vents simply aren’t enough to keep you cool. As a result, a new batch of products is competing to attract pilots with a two-in-one idea. These look like coolers with air hoses at the top—and that’s exactly what they are. While keeping your refreshments cold, these coolers also use the chill from ice inside as an air conditioner. Add cold water and ice to your device, turn it on, and a fan draws cold air that comes out of a hose. AOPA staff writers put two leading brands to the test: Icybreeze and B-Kool.
Icybreeze (left) and B-Kool (right)
Price: B-Kool $299-$429; Icybreeze $249-$432; contact: www.b-kool.net; www.icybreeze.com
The products are similar, with slight variations. B-Kool is slightly smaller, making it easier to store in the airplane. Its hose is also wider, providing a larger stream of air, and it was nice controlling the power with a wireless remote. Icybreeze has no hoses or mechanisms exposed on the interior, unlike B-Kool. There are different power levels, and other nice features—including wheels for transporting, cup holders, and a longer hose.
Do they work? Yes, but with a few caveats. If you think you can close your cockpit’s air vents and just replace them with one of these coolers, you won’t cool down until you reach your destination. Just one hose is providing all the cool air, so spreading air throughout the cockpit takes a time; it’s best to use the cooler as a source of direct air close to you. With this comes a natural conflict: passengers fighting over who gets to hold the hose and enjoy the cool air.
So, which is better: Icybreeze or B-Kool? It really depends on your criteria. If you’re looking for a product specifically for flying, B-Kool with its larger hose may be a better choice. But if you’re looking for a product for flying, camping, picnics, et cetera, then you could probably consider Icybreeze and its myriad features. You can’t lose with either.
