DeWalt Lightweight Soft-Shell Heated Jacket Kit

The DeWalt DCHJ072D1, a lightweight soft-shell heated jacket, has quickly become one of my most used pieces of gear this winter. As someone who spends significant time outdoors, whether on job sites or recreational activities, staying warm and comfortable is crucial. This jacket delivers on both fronts with some room for improvement.

Design and Build Quality

Straight out of the box, the jacket impresses with its design. The outer shell is made from a water- and wind-resistant polyester soft shell material, which gives it a sturdy yet flexible feel. The inner lining is a warm polyester fleece that adds a layer of coziness. I appreciate the reflective piping and trim, which are small but thoughtful details that increase visibility in low-light conditions—a nice touch for those early morning or late evening tasks.

The jacket features three heating zones—left and right chest, and mid-back. This layout effectively distributes warmth across the upper body, ensuring that you stay warm without any cold spots. The adjustable hook and loop cuffs are another practical feature, helping to block wind and water from seeping in through the sleeves.

Heating Performance

The heating system is customizable with an LED controller offering three temperature settings (high, medium, and low) plus a pre-heat function. In my experience, the jacket heats up quickly, providing noticeable warmth within a few minutes. Most days, I find myself using the medium setting, which strikes a good balance between warmth and battery life. On the coldest days, the high setting is a blessing, but I rarely need to go beyond medium, even in windy conditions.

The battery pocket is designed to accept DeWalt's 20V MAX* XR Li-ion batteries, which are known for their longevity and reliability. With a compact 1.5Ah battery, I typically get around 5.5 hours of warmth on the low setting, slightly less on medium. This is more than enough for a full day of activities or work shifts, and the ability to swap out batteries means you can extend this even further if needed.

Comfort and Fit

The fit of the jacket is a critical aspect, and I found it to be true to size. It’s essential to get the sizing right to maximize the heating effect; an oversized jacket may have air gaps that reduce the warming efficiency. I usually wear it over a long-sleeve T-shirt, and it fits snugly without feeling tight. One downside, however, is that the battery pack can feel bulky and cumbersome, particularly if you're moving around a lot. While it didn't bother me much, it's something to consider if you're very active or working in tight spaces.

Practicality and Usage

In terms of practicality, the jacket comes with five multi-function pockets. These add a lot of convenience, allowing you to store tools, your phone, or other essentials without needing an additional bag. One of the pockets even includes a USB port for charging your devices, which is a handy feature for those long days outdoors.

Despite its numerous advantages, the jacket isn't without its flaws. The battery pack, while long-lasting, is undeniably bulky. This can be a drawback for some users, and it’s worth noting that some would prefer a more streamlined solution. Additionally, while the jacket is warm, it’s not designed for extreme cold. If you're in an environment where temperatures routinely drop below zero, you might find that the heating element alone isn't sufficient.

Durability

On the durability front, the DeWalt heated jacket stands up well to the elements and the rigors of daily use. The material feels robust, and the stitching is solid. Even though I've used it in various harsh conditions, from heavy rain to biting wind, it has held up admirably without any noticeable wear and tear. This makes it a reliable choice for anyone who needs dependable outdoor gear.

User Experience

One of the things I love about this jacket is how it integrates well into my daily routine. Whether I'm heading to a job site early in the morning when the temperatures are at their lowest, or staying out late into the evening, the jacket provides consistent warmth. The quick heating feature means I don’t have to wait long to start feeling comfortable, which is a significant plus.

While some users might find the heating element to be less intense than expected, I find it to be more than adequate for most conditions. This jacket excels in providing a balanced warmth that is both practical and comfortable. It’s not designed to be a heavy-duty winter coat, but rather a versatile layer that can adapt to various weather conditions, making it a fantastic addition to your winter wardrobe.

Conclusion

Overall, the DeWalt lightweight soft-shell heated jacket is an excellent investment for anyone who spends extended periods outside in cooler weather. Its design, build quality, and heating performance make it a standout product in the heated apparel market. While the bulky battery pack and limited heating in extreme cold are minor drawbacks, they don’t overshadow the many benefits this jacket offers.

Would I recommend this jacket? Absolutely. Its thoughtful design, effective heating zones, and practical features like multi-function pockets and adjustable cuffs make it a versatile and reliable choice for a range of activities. Whether you're a professional working outdoors, an avid winter hiker, or simply someone who dislikes the cold, this jacket is well worth considering.