KENMORE, N.Y. (WKBW) — Inside a factory in Kenmore, refugees are sewing Luanne DiBernardo's latest Coolture products. The products in the athletic line are designed to prevent athletes from overheating.
“Precooling is becoming the buzz word and how to improve endurance in sports especially in warm environments,” said Coolture Co-Founder and CEO, Luanne DiBernardo.
Each of the headbands and gloves come with special coolant packs that are lighter, dryer and colder than most on the market. “Polymers soak up water. So, when the coolants are shipped, they're perfectly flat, and you freeze them over and over.
The company’s first product was a vest designed for patients with MS. It’s meant to help control their body temperature. “We decided to go a little higher end for people who didn't want to look like they were wearing an industrial garment,” DiBernardo said.
All Coolture products are primarily sold online.The headbands sell for $21.99. The vests retail for around $250.
“We aren't making money. But, we're still here,” she said.
The endurance sports products help make the business more marketable. She's hoping to land some well-known investors in the new year. Until then, the business owner is keeping her cool.
“I get up every day, and I get to do what I do, and for me, that's currency.”
