Warmth and protection for wheelchair users

The Vilber’s ThermoShell Mermaid is a dedicated leg cover designed to provide high-performance warmth and protection for wheelchair users during cold winter conditions. Designed for active wheelchairs, where feet on the footrest are positioned close together. Crafted with technical precision and care, this cover helps maintain independence and comfort when navigating snow or chilly environments. It covers legs and top of the feet over the shoes.

We understand that equipment should work with you, not against you. The ThermoShell Mermaid is designed for quick, independent use or easy assistance from a caregiver:

• Magnetic Zippers: The zippers feature a magnetic base that clicks together effortlessly, allowing for easy closure even with limited dexterity.
  Easy On/Off: The wrap-around design ensures the cover can be put on or removed without significant effort.
• Secure Fit: An integrated rubber band prevents the cover from sliding down during movement.
• Modular Compatibility: For comprehensive coverage, it can be paired with the ThermoShell/ Combi Base, creating a modular system that protects both the spine and bottom.

What's included:

The ThermoShell Mermaid cover over legs and an elastic strap for securing around waist. 

The product can be paired with ThermoShell/ Combi Base (sold separately), that can be found here: Thermoshell / Combi Base | Warm spine and bottom wrap

Technical Specifications

This is a 3-ply item. Following rigorous standards, the materials are selected for durability and thermal efficiency:

Outer Shell (Oxford PU 200gsm):
Material: 100% Polyester with a PU/WD finish.

• Durability:Highly resistant to creases, tearing, and rubbing.
• Water Repellency: This fabric is water-resistant and designed to withstand snow and light rain. Please note it is not 100% waterproof under high pressure (such as heavy rain or pressure washing).
• Safety: Certified under OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, ensuring it is tested for harmful substances.

Insulation (3M™ Thinsulate™ Type J250):

• Warmth: Uses 3M™ Thinsulate™ Water-Resistant Insulation (Type J), providing exceptional warmth without unnecessary bulk.
• Efficiency: The J250 grade offers a high thermal resistance (R-value of 3.9).
• Safety & Ethics: The insulation meets bluesign® criteria for environmental safety and is hypoallergenic.

Inner Lining:

Comfort: Lined with 100% Polyester Polar Fleece for a soft, luxurious feel against the legs. Fast drying after wash.

Understanding Thermal Resistance (R-value).

The R-value of 3.9 is a measurement of the material's ability to resist heat flow. Higher is Warmer: The higher the R-value, the better the material is at trapping your body heat inside the cover.

Insulation Efficiency: A rating of 3.9 indicates very high thermal resistance for synthetic insulation, designed to keep the wearer warm even when they are not generating much body heat through movement.

Comfortable Temperature Range: While specific comfort temperatures depend on personal circulation and what layers are worn underneath, the Vilber’s ThermoShell Mermaid is engineered for true winter conditions.

Freezing Conditions: With 250g Thinsulate, this product is designed for temperatures well below 0°C and is specifically intended for use in snow and ice.

Deep Cold: Based on the high R-value of 3.9 and the added wind protection of the Oxford outer shell, this cover is suitable for "deep winter" (typically -10°C to -20°C), provided the user is wearing appropriate base layers. For warmth in extra cold conditions we suggest our Combi sacks with doubled 3M Thinsulate 250J insulation and additional layer of neoprene under feet and bottom. The product can be found here: Wheelchair warm Combi 

Static Warmth: Because wheelchair users often have reduced leg movement to generate heat, this high-density insulation is vital for maintaining a safe body temperature during extended periods outdoors in the cold. All our ThermoShells and Combi sacks can be paired with warm electrical blanket from Belieff. The product can be found here: Heat pad including power bank https://vilbers.com/products/heat-pad-including-power-bank

Key Performance Factors

Water Resistance: The individual fibers of inner insulation absorb less than 1% of their weight in water, meaning the insulation maintains its "loft" and warmth even in damp, snowy conditions.

Wind Protection: The 200gsm Oxford fabric acts as a barrier against wind chill, which is often the primary cause of heat loss when moving in a wheelchair. 

Sizing and Colors

The ThermoShell Mermaid is available in two lengths and multiple sizes to ensure a proper fit:

Normal length: Optimized for user heights between 158–175 cm.
Long length: Optimized for user heights between 176–190 cm.

Available sizes from S to 4XL. Find your size according our sizing table for clothing.
Available Colors: Classic Black and Vibrant Pink.

Care and Maintenance

To maintain the integrity of the technical fabrics and insulation, please follow these guidelines based on the material data sheets:

Washing: Machine wash warm (40 C) on a delicate cycle. Use mild detergents; avoid chlorine bleach. Do not tumble dry, hang to dry. 

Ironing: Do not steam press. Use a cool iron or steam only if necessary.

General Use: This is a performance garment designed for winter weather. To maintain its longevity, avoid submerging it in deep mud or using abrasive cleaning methods like pressure washing.