DeWalt Heavy Duty Black Heated Work Jacket

As someone who spends a considerable amount of time working outdoors, especially during the colder months, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of a reliable, heated work jacket. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out the DeWalt Heavy Duty Black Heated Work Jacket (DCHJ076ABB-S), and it has left quite an impression on me.

The first thing that struck me about this jacket is its construction. The outer shell is made from durable, water- and wind-resistant duck fabric. This material not only stands up to the elements but also feels rugged enough to handle the wear and tear of a job site. Despite its toughness, the jacket doesn’t feel overly stiff, which is a common issue with other heavy-duty workwear. The gusseted underarms provide a full range of movement, making it easy to perform tasks without feeling restricted.

Inside, the jacket is lined with warm fleece polyester, which adds a layer of comfort and insulation. The fleece lining feels soft against the skin and does an excellent job of retaining heat even when the heating elements are turned off. This means that the jacket can still keep you warm in moderately cold conditions without relying on the battery power.

Speaking of heating, the DeWalt jacket features five heating zones: left chest, right chest, both arms, and mid-back. This distribution of heating elements is a significant advantage, especially for someone who needs comprehensive warmth. The heating elements warm up quickly and can be controlled via an LED controller with multiple heat settings. This allows you to adjust the heat according to your preference and the weather conditions.

One of the standout features of this jacket is its compatibility with DeWalt’s 20V MAX battery system. If you’re already invested in DeWalt tools, this is a huge plus since you can use the same batteries and chargers. The battery pocket is conveniently placed and comes with multiple wire routing options, making it easy to store the battery without it getting in the way. While the battery does add some weight, it’s not overly burdensome, and the jacket includes an extension cord that allows you to position the battery in various pockets for better balance and comfort.

The jacket also includes a USB power source with a USB port for charging portable devices, which is a handy feature for those long days on the job site. The numerous pockets are another practical addition, providing ample storage for tools, accessories, and personal items. There are two large fleece-lined front pouch pockets, two exterior tool/accessory pockets, one internal hook-and-loop pocket, and two zipper pockets (one internal and one external).

Despite its many strengths, the DeWalt heated jacket does have a few areas that could be improved. For one, the material, while durable, is not immune to snags and tears. This is somewhat expected with heavy-duty fabrics, but it’s something to keep in mind if you work in environments with sharp or abrasive materials. Additionally, the jacket’s insulation relies heavily on the heating elements. When the battery runs out, the jacket’s warmth is significantly reduced, which means you’ll need to carry spare batteries for extended use in very cold conditions.

The placement of the on/off button inside the jacket is another minor inconvenience. While it keeps the button discreet and prevents accidental activation, it does require you to open the jacket to adjust the settings, which can release some of the retained heat. Some users might find this a bit cumbersome, especially in extremely cold weather.

Sizing seems to be another point of contention. The jacket runs a bit small, so it’s advisable to try it on before purchasing or consider ordering a size up for a more comfortable fit, especially if you plan to layer underneath.

Overall, the DeWalt Heavy Duty Black Heated Work Jacket is a solid investment for anyone who works outdoors in cold weather. Its durable construction, comprehensive heating zones, and compatibility with DeWalt’s 20V MAX battery system make it a practical and reliable choice. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as potential durability issues and the need for spare batteries, its benefits far outweigh these concerns.

I would recommend this jacket to anyone looking for a heated work jacket that offers both warmth and functionality. It’s particularly well-suited for those who are already using DeWalt tools and can take advantage of the battery compatibility. Whether you’re working on a construction site, doing outdoor maintenance, or simply need a reliable jacket for cold weather, the DeWalt heated jacket is a worthwhile addition to your workwear arsenal.