ColdAvenger® Health Science
Cold Avenger

The ColdAvenger® is a technologically advanced cold weather protection mask designed to achieve four functional goals:

(1) Thermal comfort for warmth

(2) Ease of breathing

(3) Moisture control to keep the face dry

(4) Humidification of inhaled cold air

These criteria were selected because cold air exposure is a form of chronic trauma to the airway, and keeping the air around the face warm and humidified helps mitigate against cold weather related health effects. Technical studies and science-based evidence support the efficacy of ColdAvenger® at temperatures as low as -40°F. The plastic ventilation face piece is composed of medical-grade material selected for safety and cold weather endurance. ColdAvenger comes in four models: the Classic, the Pro, the Hunter and the Expedition Balaclava.

How Does The ColdAvenger® Work?

The ColdAvenger® mechanically mixes inhaled cold air with exhaled warm air to achieve a dynamic balance of warmth and humidity while keeping the face dry. The ventilation design allows for easy breathing, a critical feature during high endurance outdoor winter activities. Moisture in exhaled air either exits through the valve or binds to the plastic, keeping moisture away from the face and serving as a source of humidity for inhaled air. The ventilation grate and ventilation slots are designed to cause air turbulence while breathing, thus mixing warm air with water vapor. Technical studies confirm the achievement of functional goals:

  • Ventilation: A real-time probe measured percent C02 and O2 inside and outside the mask. Percent CO2 and O2 during inhalation and exhalation were similar to the normal control without the mask, indicating no accumulation of CO2. The O2 during simulated exercise varied from 21-18% and the CO2 varied from 0.03% - 3.23%, which are normal values.
  • Breathing Resistance: Ease of breathing was tested using a Dwyer Series 477 digital manometer to measure in mask pressure during simulated light, medium, and heavy breathing.Fluctuations in pressure were ± 0.5 inches of water, indicating minimal resistance under heavy breathing imposed by the air chamber of the mask. Ease of breathing is a critical feature during high performance outdoor activities.
  • Temperature: Digital thermometry during skiing, walking, and standing demonstrated inside mask temperatures 40°F to 60°F higher than outside.
  • Humidity: Humidity inside the chamber varied from 70 to 80% with a temperature of 66°F inside compared to an outside temperature of 5°F and 15% relative humidity.

 

Safety and Biocompatibility of Plastic Face Piece

The plastic piece is constructed of medical-grade polyurethane and meets human biocompatibility specifications of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)  ISO 10993 and is plasticizer free. The plastic is flexible and enduring and has natural microbial resistance. The interior valve is adjustable and removable. Turning the valve clock-wise or counter clock-wise will reduce the air flow as much as 67%. The interior valve can be removed for cleaning. An optional nose foam pad is enclosed with each mask for extra comfort if needed.

Cleaning and Care

Hand wash with mild detergent and air dry. The plastic can be cleaned with detergents used to clean skin and clothes. The inside valve can be removed for cleaning. The plastic can be cleaned with common disinfectants. However, disinfectants are respiratory irritants and if used, follow with a water wipe and drying to remove residual before wearing the mask.

 

At Talus Outdoor Technologies, LLC, we are determined to make the best products for your outdoor adventure experience. ColdAvenger® is an example of our quality and performance products. Our company is owned by outdoor enthusiasts who develop, test, and use our products. No other cold weather mask has undergone such extensive R&D field testing.