Developed by five designers as part of Samsung Design Membership, Hissy, a conceptual outerwear piece that integrates a CO₂-powered cooling system into a lightweight technical jacket. Designed with a compact cartridge positioned at the wrist, the technical garment uses high-pressure liquid carbon dioxide, which vaporises to generate a stream of cold air reportedly reaching around -30°C. The cooling technology is built into the outerwear through an internal tubular system called ‘Air Path’. Airpath’s tubular system spirals around the body, to distribute cool air through strategically positioned perforations. Thermal mapping and heat-distribution testing were used to determine where these openings should be placed, targeting areas of the body where the most heat is generated. A magnetic docking system allows cartridges to be securely attached and easily replaced.
Hissy employs a circular approach to the consumable CO₂ cartridges. The concept proposes capturing carbon dioxide from industrial processes, then collecting, inspecting, refilling and returning the cartridges to circulation. The designers envision adapting the cooling system for footwear, portable outdoor equipment and eventually machines such as delivery robots and drones. Hissy designed as an exploration of the future of clothing as an active layer of climate infrastructure, helping people adapt to hotter environments through design, engineering and materials.
