Update:
I bought a Vacmaster cardio (UK Lasko) and have played around with positioning. I thought it might be significantly more powerful than the Headwind but it definitely isn’t. Or at least the shape of the air column is such that the Headwind is functionally more effective. I’d say it does the job of about 2 of the Vacmasters, and HR function really is a lot more convenient. If mine dies at some point I’ll probably pony up the cash for a replacement rather than switching to something less expensive.
I’m glad to have the second fan though, and you’re right that there is a lot of cooling to be had from the back. Thanks for that tip @mcneese.chad. Also really helpful to have for drying wet shoes here in Scotland (easier to position and no faff of trying to figure out which bluetooth setting it’s on)!
Flash forward a couple weeks and it seems like the overheating issue that started all this was actually about new medication, poor sleep, and fatigue rather than airflow, but I guess I’m glad I did the upgrade anyway. Certainly doesn’t hurt! ( https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/adhd-meds-impact-on-training-recovery )