via Adidas

The best players in the world will be giving everything they've got in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on Thursday, June 12, as Brazil takes on Croatia. Some of the world-class athletes will have an extra weapon at their disposal.

Per Adidas:

Adidas today launched its new pioneering adiPower pre-cooling vest and sleeves ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™, which will be worn exclusively by players from nine adidas federations at the tournament including Germany, Spain, Argentina and Colombia.



Designed to help leading football players prepare for games in warm climates—environmental temperatures of 24°C and over—by reducing body temperatures and delaying the onset of heat-induced fatigue, the adiPower pre-cooling vest and sleeves will be worn as players warm up for matches or during half time intervals.





via Adidas

Seeing as many athletes play in Europe or cooler climates, this technology may help them deal with the heat of South America. Adidas elaborates:

Designed so that there is no direct ice in contact with the skin, the garments are stored in a freezer to maintain a temperature of close to freezing for 15 - 20 minutes, allowing players a suitable cooling period whilst playing in Brazil.

Will these vests and sleeves give players an edge? We'll find out soon enough.

[Adidas, h/t Portland Business Journal]