Do Neck Fans Really Help You Stay Cool?

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

There are a variety of products that claim to help lower the heat for those in the sun, such as the Craftsman misting fan, which can run even longer than advertised. However, one of the most portable and affordable options are neck fans, but do they really work? The body's built-in cooling process involves sweating, which then evaporates as air blows across the skin. So, a fan should conceivably provide some respite during outdoor activities in scorching temperatures, but that doesn't mean your body temperature is actually lowering.

One study published by the National Library of Medicine discovered that after cooling their neck, participants sensed less discomfort, although the actual level of thermal strain remained constant. This can be explained because the neck area contains many receptors that sense temperature changes. Chris Tyler an environmental physiology researcher with the University of Roehampton, explained the effect of neck fans to NPR, "The issue is still there [heat]. It's just that you can't detect it for a little bit."

I live in the humid south, where our temperature index reaches over 100 degrees during the summer. Because I own some acreage, maintaining the property requires a significant investment of time outdoors, prompting me to try the Banzai Wearable, Rechargeable and Personal Cool Fan from Walmart and the SWEETFULL Portable Neck Fan 360° Cooling Bladeless Personal Fan from Amazon.

The Banzai Cool Fan didn't work as well for me, because it uses two small fans on the front, attached to articulating arms. Essentially, I could only feel the breeze on parts of my face, and my beard would sometimes interfere with operation. After two seasons, this fan stopped working entirely, so I looked for something else to replace it. The SWEETFULL product on the other hand, provides airflow around my entire neck, which seems far more effective. It features three different speed settings, and I have yet to run out of battery after using it for several hours outdoors.

I found these products do help maintain some level of comfort even in sweltering conditions, reducing perspiration around my neck. However, these products aren't a substitute for taking frequent breaks in an air-conditioned environment, staying hydrated, or being cognizant of sunstroke symptoms. These fans won't provide cooling on the level of even compact budget-friendly air conditioners, they are merely moving air around the neck and face. You should still heed heat advisories and take common-sense precautions when outdoors in the summer.

For the last five summer seasons, I have been using neck fans primarily while mowing, trimming, and treating the grass. I reside in an area which regularly cautions residents of elevated risks in terms of heat illness. Using two different neck fans over multiple seasons, I have racked up dozens of hours from which to form a knowledgeable opinion on their performance and effectiveness.