Milwaukee Heated QUIETSHELL Jacket Kit

As someone who spends a considerable amount of time outdoors, whether for work or recreation, I've always been on the lookout for gear that can keep me warm and comfortable. The Milwaukee Heated QUIETSHELL Jacket Kit (model 222-21) piqued my interest with its promise of warmth through carbon fiber heating elements and a host of other features designed to combat the cold. After putting this jacket through its paces in various conditions, here's my comprehensive take on it.

First and foremost, the heating functionality of this jacket is impressive—up to a point. The jacket uses carbon fiber heating elements strategically placed in the chest, back, and pockets. This setup is controlled via a one-touch LED controller that allows you to toggle between three heat settings: high, medium, and low. The Quick-Heat function is particularly noteworthy, as it significantly reduces the time it takes for the jacket to start warming up, making those initial moments in the cold far more bearable.

However, I did find that the heating effectiveness varies depending on the external temperature and your activity level. On milder days, the medium and low settings are more than adequate. But on those bone-chilling days where the temperature dips below 15 degrees, the high setting is necessary, and even then, it might not be enough for everyone. The heating elements provide a consistent warmth, but they are more concentrated in specific areas rather than spreading uniformly across the jacket.

One of the unique aspects of this jacket is its QuietShell Stretch Polyester material, which is designed to reduce noise. For hunters or anyone needing to move stealthily, this is a great feature. The material is both wind and water-resistant, which adds an extra layer of protection against the elements. I found the jacket to be quite durable and well-suited for outdoor activities like hunting, construction work, and even casual wear.

The jacket's design also considers mobility, featuring FreeFlex™ Mobility Gussets that make it easier to move around without feeling restricted. This is especially beneficial when you're engaged in activities that require a lot of arm movement. The high loft insulation further helps in retaining heat, making the jacket warm even without the heating elements activated.

One area that could use improvement is the battery placement. The battery sits in a pocket located in the back lower portion of the jacket. While this design keeps the battery out of the way, it can become uncomfortable when sitting down. Whether you're driving, sitting in a tree stand, or taking a break on a bench, the battery can press against your lower back. This is a minor inconvenience but one that could be easily addressed in future iterations.

Battery life is another consideration. The M12™ REDLITHIUM™ 2.0 Compact Battery offers up to eight hours of runtime, but this is heavily dependent on the heat setting you use. On the high setting, the battery lasts around two hours, which is considerably less than the advertised eight hours. On the low setting, you can expect around four hours of heat. For extended periods outdoors, carrying extra batteries or investing in a higher capacity battery is advisable.

The jacket is also washer and dryer safe, which is a huge plus for those who use it regularly. This makes maintenance relatively hassle-free, allowing you to keep the jacket clean and in good condition without much effort.

In terms of fit, the jacket runs a bit small. I typically wear a large, but I found that an extra-large fit more comfortably, especially considering the added bulk of the battery pack. If you're planning to layer underneath, it might be wise to go up a size to ensure a comfortable fit.

The jacket comes equipped with multiple zip pockets, including inner and low-profile battery pockets. These provide ample storage for essentials like your phone, keys, and wallet, making it convenient to carry everything you need without additional bags or pouches.

Overall, the Milwaukee Heated QUIETSHELL Jacket Kit is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable warmth and weather resistance. It excels in durability, ease of use, and the innovative features it offers. However, the battery life and placement are areas that could benefit from some refinement. The jacket performs best in moderately cold conditions but may require additional measures (like extra batteries) for extreme cold.

Would I recommend this jacket? Yes, with some caveats. If you spend a lot of time outdoors in cold but not extreme conditions, and you value the convenience of built-in heating elements, this jacket is an excellent investment. Its durability, ease of cleaning, and overall functionality make it a worthwhile addition to your cold-weather gear. However, if you often find yourself in extremely cold environments or need prolonged heating, be prepared to manage the battery limitations accordingly.