DeWalt Black Soft Shell Heated Work Jacket

DeWalt's reputation in the tool industry is nearly legendary, known for producing robust, reliable, and innovative products. With that in mind, I was eager to try out their Soft Shell Heated Work Jacket (model DCHJ060ABB-S). Designed to keep workers warm in cold conditions, this jacket promises to combine comfort, durability, and cutting-edge heating technology. Here's my comprehensive take on whether it lives up to the high expectations set by its branding.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Upon unboxing, the jacket impressed me with its overall build quality. The outer shell is crafted from an insulated woven fabric, which immediately felt durable and well-suited for rough job site conditions. The fleece polyester lining adds a layer of comfort that’s noticeable from the first wear. The jacket comes with multiple pockets, including 2 zippered slash pockets, an external zippered accessory pocket, and several internal pockets for added convenience. This array of storage options is practical for carrying small tools or personal items.

The jacket's design is functional yet stylish, with a smooth finish polyester sleeve lining and a front zipper paired with an internal wind guard. It’s clear that DeWalt aimed to make a jacket that’s not just warm but also capable of handling the elements.

Heating Performance

The primary selling point of this jacket is its heating capability. Featuring 5 heating zones (left chest, right chest, arms, and mid-back), the jacket is designed to provide comprehensive warmth. The heating elements are controlled via an LED controller with three temperature settings: high, medium, and low, plus a pre-heat function.

Using a 20V MAX compact 1.5 Ah battery, the jacket can run for up to 9 hours on the low setting. While testing the jacket, I found the heating elements to warm up quickly and distribute heat evenly across the targeted zones. On particularly cold days, setting the jacket to high provided substantial warmth, making outdoor tasks far more bearable. Even on the medium setting, I found the warmth adequate for most conditions.

However, one notable drawback is the battery's size. The standard DeWalt battery pack fits into a designated pocket, but its bulkiness can be cumbersome. Sitting down or bending over can cause discomfort, and I often wished the jacket came with a more streamlined battery option.

Comfort and Fit

The jacket fits true to size, which is a welcome change from some of DeWalt's previous models that ran small. As someone who often layers up during winter, the jacket provided ample room for movement without feeling restrictive. However, it’s worth noting that the cut seems to accommodate a broader midsection, which might not be ideal for everyone.

Despite the slightly bulky battery, the jacket is generally comfortable to wear over extended periods. The low funnel neck with a chin guard adds an extra layer of comfort, especially if you’re working in windy conditions.

Practical Use and Versatility

One of the standout features of this jacket is its versatility. The multiple heating zones and adjustable temperature settings make it suitable for a wide range of activities, from job site tasks to outdoor recreational activities. The jacket's water and wind-resistant outer shell held up well during light rain and windy conditions, ensuring I stayed dry and warm.

The jacket also includes a USB power port for charging portable electronic devices, which is a handy feature for anyone who relies on their gadgets throughout the day. However, the placement of the power switch inside the jacket could be improved. I found myself accidentally turning off the jacket multiple times when reaching into my pockets or adjusting my layers.

Durability Concerns

While the jacket excels in many areas, durability is where it falls short. After using the jacket for a season, I noticed some wear and tear on the heating elements. The wiring seems to be prone to damage, particularly if the jacket is worn daily in rigorous conditions. Additionally, the main zipper showed signs of wear, losing teeth and occasionally separating from the bottom. Given the premium price tag, these issues are concerning and detract from the overall value.

Customer Support and Warranty

An area where DeWalt could significantly improve is customer support. Unfortunately, my experience with their service was less than satisfactory. When I encountered issues with the jacket's heating elements and battery, the process of getting assistance was frustratingly slow. DeWalt's decision to outsource their heated gear to a third-party manufacturer, Radians, further complicates matters. The back-and-forth between the two companies made resolving issues cumbersome and time-consuming.

Conclusion

After thoroughly testing the DeWalt Soft Shell Heated Work Jacket, I find myself with mixed feelings. On one hand, the jacket excels in providing warmth and comfort, making it an excellent choice for cold-weather work and outdoor activities. Its multiple heating zones, adjustable temperature settings, and durable outer shell offer substantial benefits.

However, the jacket's durability issues and cumbersome battery design are significant drawbacks. The less-than-stellar customer support also leaves much to be desired, especially given the jacket's premium price point.

If you’re in the market for a heated jacket and are a loyal DeWalt user, this jacket might still be worth considering due to its excellent heating performance and overall comfort. However, if durability and hassle-free customer support are top priorities, you might want to explore other options. The DeWalt Soft Shell Heated Work Jacket has potential, but it falls short of being a must-have due to its notable flaws.