Portwest Cooling Helmet Neck Shade

Stay cool, stay protected, stay productive. The Portwest Cooling Helmet Neck Shade (CV26) is a simple, effective accessory that shields the neck and ears from direct sun exposure — helping to reduce heat stress and keep workers comfortable during the hottest days on site.

Designed to attach quickly and securely to most standard hard hats and safety helmets, the CV26 adds critical sun protection without requiring a change of headgear. An elasticated band with a rubberised grip ensures the shade stays firmly in place throughout the working day, even during physical activity, while a button front closure allows the wearer to secure the shade neatly around the helmet brim when full coverage is needed.

The shell fabric is constructed from a 92% polyester, 8% elastane blend at 180g, providing a lightweight, flexible feel with built-in stretch that moves naturally with the wearer. The moisture-wicking properties of the fabric actively draw sweat away from the skin, helping to keep the neck and head area cool and dry — exactly where heat builds up fastest under a helmet.

A contrast panel in 80% cotton, 20% nylon adds a comfortable, breathable layer where it matters most, combining the natural softness of cotton with the durability and abrasion resistance of nylon for a shade that holds up to daily use in demanding environments.

The neck and ears are among the most vulnerable areas for sunburn and heat-related illness on outdoor worksites, yet they're often overlooked. The CV26 addresses this gap directly — a low-cost, high-impact addition to any PPE setup that helps employers meet their duty of care for workers exposed to UV and high temperatures.

Lightweight enough to forget you're wearing it, effective enough that you'll notice the difference immediately.

Key Features

• Neck and ear sun protection – Shields the most UV-vulnerable areas left exposed by standard hard hats
• Compatible with most helmets – Universal fit attaches to the majority of safety helmets and hard hats
• Elasticated band with rubberised grip – Secure, non-slip attachment that stays in place all day
• Button front closure – Allows the shade to be fastened neatly around the helmet brim
• Moisture-wicking shell fabric – 92% polyester, 8% elastane blend draws sweat away to keep skin cool and dry
• Cotton-nylon contrast fabric – Soft, durable panel for added comfort and breathability
• Lightweight 180g construction – Minimal added weight for comfortable extended wear
• Helps reduce heat stress – Supports worker welfare in hot outdoor environments

What helmets is the Portwest CV26 compatible with? The Cooling Helmet Neck Shade is designed to fit most standard safety helmets and hard hats. The elasticated band with rubberised grip provides a universal, secure attachment that accommodates a wide range of helmet styles and sizes.

How does the CV26 help reduce heat stress? The neck shade shields the neck and ears from direct sun exposure — two areas highly vulnerable to heat absorption. The moisture-wicking polyester-elastane fabric also actively draws sweat away from the skin, helping to regulate temperature and keep the wearer cool and dry.

How do you attach the neck shade to a helmet? Simply stretch the elasticated band over the base of your hard hat. The rubberised grip holds it securely in place, and the button front closure allows you to fasten the shade neatly around the brim. No tools or permanent modifications to the helmet are required.

What fabric is the Portwest Cooling Helmet Neck Shade made from? The CV26 uses two fabrics: the shell is a 92% polyester, 8% elastane moisture-wicking blend at 180g, and the contrast panel is an 80% cotton, 20% nylon blend for added softness and durability.

Is the CV26 suitable for all-day wear? Yes. At just 180g, the neck shade adds minimal weight to your helmet setup. The lightweight, stretchy fabric and moisture-wicking properties make it comfortable for extended wear in hot conditions.

Why is neck protection important for outdoor workers? The back of the neck and ears are among the areas most commonly affected by sunburn and long-term UV damage on outdoor worksites. Standard hard hats protect the top of the head but leave these areas fully exposed. The CV26 closes that gap, supporting both worker comfort and employer duty-of-care requirements.

Can the Portwest CV26 be washed? Yes. The polyester-elastane and cotton-nylon fabrics are machine washable, allowing the neck shade to be cleaned regularly and maintained in hygienic condition throughout the season.