ErgodyneChill Its 6602 Cooling Towel, Long Lasting Cooling Relief

Q: Does it need to actually be run under water? If I'm out running in hot weather will perspiration be enough?

Yes. You'll want to run it under water to make it more pliable and "activate" the cooling. Whatever sweat it absorbs is not like thoroughly rinsing it in water.

Q: Can you put this in freezer after wetting then dampen a bit to soften for use?

I don't recommend freezing it at all. This doesn't work that well. I purchased it after hearing a friend explain that you wet the towel, ring it out and use to keep cool but you take it and snap it when it gets warm to recool it. This does Not work that way. It's as hard as cardboard when dry, even if you restore in container it comes with. I cannot really use this that much because it works for a little while to keep my neck or forehead cool at night but after a little while it's just a warm wet uncomfortable texture on my skin. I was very disappointed in this product and after speaking to other people like golfers who use this type of product, I was told they purchase them at Walmart or sporting good stores. I'm going to purchase a simple one from Walmart because 9 times out of 10, the simpler the product the better.