How One Mylar Inspired A NASA-Technology Jacket
Well if this doesn't make you feel like a star among the stars...
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
13-ONE, named after the half-marathon distance, was founded by entrepreneur, runner and mother of three, Hema Nambiar. Hema was chosen to participate in the prestigious Goldman Sachs/Tory Burch “10,000 Small Businesses” program. The jackets were exhibited at the first White House’s first summit of the United State of Women in Washington this year, and they were proud supporters of the Space Foundation.
But what if space cadet technology could live in your running apparel? Meet the Everest Jacket from 13-ONE, launched on Kickstarter. Its silver lining is technology designed by NASA to protect astronauts in space from extreme temperatures. This special lining retains 90 percent of your body heat, giving you warmth and protection without weight. So basically, if you’re braving the coldest of winters, this jacket is legit.
Where It Came From
But where have we seen this type of technology before? At top marathons in the blankets provided to runners to maintain body heat after the race. This post-run gesture was the inspiration behind Nambiar’s creation. After two massive surgeries, one new synthetic diaphragm and five years of recuperation and inactivity, she had to relearn how to breathe and be active again. To celebrate her recovery and help build up her stamina, she began training for her first half marathon. After crossing the finish line, she was given that coveted silver blanket to keep warm as you exit the finish line.
“That chilly April morning I felt like an elite athlete among all the other runners who had endured the long 13.1 miles with me,” recalls Nambiar. “We all wore our shiny space blankets as proof of our victory. It’s that feeling of triumph I hope to capture in my sportswear collection incorporating the same space technology.”
What’s Available?
At only 8.3 ounces, with a self-storing pocket, it’s easy to keep on hand, making it ideal for athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, travelers or just everyday people on the go. The Everest is warm and water-repellent, shielding you from all sorts of elements.
The Everest Windbreaker ($150) and Full Zip-Up Jacket ($165) are available in unisex sizes from XXS to XXL.
The Trench Coat, in sizes XS to L, is $200.
The brand believes that every day of life is like a marathon–the jackets are meant not only to help you through your running, but also to help you go the extra mile in life.