Systems and methods according to the present invention utilize improved sleeves for insulating fluid (i.e., liquid and/or gas) conduits. For example, some blow dryers are equipped with a flexible conduit to convey heated air from a heater element to a nozzle for such purposes as material handling, material drying, or even hair drying, such as pet or other animal hair drying. An improved insulating tubular sleeve is provided with securing and/or mounting mechanisms to assist in maintaining sleeve position along a conduit and to reduce heat transfer externally from the conduit, such as by preventing direct contact between animal hair or skin or other materials and the conduit.