Betabrand Germinator Transit Jacket

Germophobes take note. This jacket may go some way to ending your fears of contracting an infection on your daily commute. Although germs are an obsession for some people, a growing body of evidence shows public transport contains enough harmful microbes we should all consider taking precautions.

© Betabrand | Germinator Transit Jacket

Instead of compulsively rubbing alcohol gel into your hands during your journey, try out this stealthier way of staying clean and healthy. Innovation consultancy Gravitytank and apparel company Betabrand joined forces to create what they call the Germinator Transit Jacket.

A jacket made of breathable, water-resistant, softshell fleece may not sound remarkable, but a number of specific features make the Germinator stand out from the crowd. The jacket has a high-collar which features an anti-microbial liner designed to block germs, while a transit pass pocket on the lower arm means you can get around without touching the machines with your exposed skin. Anti-microbial fold-out cuffs cover your hand when you need to hang on to a strap, and can be removed for washing once the germ gauntlet has been run.

© Betabrand | Germinator Transit Jacket

Everyone knows how stuffy public transport can get, and with that in mind the Germinator features extra-large cooling vents so you don’t have to remove the jacket inside a high-risk area, while a chest pocket allows easy access to your smartphone. Despite its anti-microbial focus, the Germinator avoids looking like a HAZMAT suit, and is designed so no one need know about its special properties.

At $248 from the Betabrand website, it is a relatively affordable way of minimizing the health risks presented by public transport.