2BKOOL products grew from a fortuitous meeting between a scientist and a New Zealand fabric engineer.  A group of  U.S. scientists pioneered a unique phase-change process and patented the concept.  When Grant Ellwood heard about it, he recognized it as a possible solution to one of the worst problems racecar drivers face – extreme heat and its effects.  He researched and successfully implemented a method of applying the concept to fabric. 

From a young age, New Zealander Ellwood was fascinated with all aspects of motorsports.  He started club racing in a 1960’s Harry Potter-style Ford Anglia which didn’t fly as controllably as the movie version, finally barrel-rolling its way to extinction.  Ellwood woke up in the rear section of the car after the harness collapsed and that episode firmly focused his attention on better safety products.  Moving up to open wheel cars Ellwood ran in Formula Ford, Vees and Atlantics as business and family commitments allowed. 

He started a business, Flamecrusher Products, in New Zealand in the 1970’s, recognizing the need for safer apparel to protect racecar drivers.  Over the years he experimented with fabrics and the construction of driver’s uniforms and set the industry standard for safe uniforms, to the point that Kiwis called all driver suits “Flamecrushers,” much to the chagrin of his competition. 

After 30 years of running his business successfully in New Zealand, he decided to move to the United States, committed to producing high quality “Made in the USA” gear for racing.  His focus was on improving flame-retardant and body temperature maintenance clothing. 

Grant Ellwood moved his business to South Boston in 2004, the first company to relocate as part of Virginia’s Motorsports Initiative.  Ellwood was delighted to find himself in Halifax County, Virginia, which boasts two fine motorsport facilities: South Boston Speedway and Virginia International Raceway.  And the home of the NASCAR Burton brothers! 

His move brought him in contact with the scientists who developed the phase-change technology.  He immediately saw the potential to apply the process to fabric to produce cooling, lightweight and fire-safe garments.  A new company, Performance Apparel Group, was formed to research, develop, manufacture, and market the new 2BKOOL products.  After several years of experimentation, Ellwood found the best formula to apply the cooling technology to Nomex blend fabrics, required for hazardous fire applications.  In 2010 he formulated a less costly polyester range of 2BKOOL products which are ideal for sports and activities where fire safety is not an issue. 

The Old Rochester Button Building - Current home of 2BKOOL