Milwaukee Cordless Heated Jacket

As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors during the colder months, I was intrigued by the promise of Milwaukee's Cordless Heated Jacket. The idea of a jacket that not only insulates but also actively heats appealed to me, especially for those early morning tasks or late-night outings when the chill can be particularly biting. Over the past few weeks, I've had the opportunity to test out this jacket extensively, and here’s what I discovered.

First off, the jacket's outer material is a water and wind-resistant polyester, which is immediately noticeable upon touch. It feels durable and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions, yet it's surprisingly lightweight. This combination of durability and lightness makes it an excellent choice for various outdoor activities without feeling cumbersome.

One of the standout features of this jacket is its heating system, which utilizes carbon fiber heating elements. These elements are strategically placed in key zones: the right and left chest, the back, and the lower pockets. The heating zones can be adjusted independently, allowing for customization depending on where you feel the cold the most. With three heat settings (high, medium, low), you can tailor the warmth to your personal comfort level. I found this particularly useful when transitioning between different environments, such as moving from a heated car to the outdoors.

Activating the heat is straightforward. A simple press of the M12 button on the chest turns the system on, and subsequent presses cycle through the heat settings. The jacket heats up impressively fast—within about two minutes, I could feel a noticeable warmth spreading across my chest and back. This rapid heating is a game-changer, especially when you’re stepping out into the cold and need immediate relief.

The battery, a rechargeable M12 lithium-ion unit, is stored in a pocket designed to minimize its bulk. However, I did find the battery to be somewhat bulky, akin to carrying a small wallet or phone in your pocket. While it's not overly intrusive, it's something to be aware of, especially if you’re engaging in activities that require a lot of movement. The battery life is quite satisfactory, providing up to six hours of warmth on a single charge. This duration is adequate for most outings, but for extended use, you might want to consider carrying a spare battery.

Comfort-wise, the jacket excels. It’s not overly heavy, which makes it easy to wear for extended periods. The interior storm flap and thermal fleece lining add an extra layer of insulation, making the jacket warm even without the heating elements activated. The fit is generally true to size, though I did notice that it might run a bit large, allowing for layering underneath. If you plan to wear thick layers, you might want to stick to your regular size; otherwise, consider sizing down.

In terms of style, the jacket is quite sleek and can easily pass as everyday outerwear. It doesn’t have the bulky appearance that some heated jackets suffer from, which is a definite plus if you’re concerned about aesthetics. The design is practical yet stylish enough to wear in non-work settings, blending functionality with a modern look.

One downside I encountered was the charging system. The jacket comes with a USB cable for charging the battery, but no wall plug is included. This means you’ll need to use your own USB wall adapter, which might not be a big deal for some, but it’s an inconvenience worth mentioning. Additionally, the charging time can be quite lengthy if you’re not using a rapid charger, so it's worth investing in a good quality charger if you plan on using the jacket frequently.

Another point to consider is the pocket design. While the jacket features multiple pockets, including two heated hand pockets and a chest pocket for devices, some users might find the lack of interior pockets limiting. The exterior pockets are functional, but having additional storage options inside the jacket would have been a nice touch, especially for keeping smaller items secure.

The overall build quality of the jacket is impressive. The zippers are robust, and the seams are well-stitched, suggesting that the jacket will hold up well over time. It’s also machine washable, which is a significant advantage for maintenance. Just remember to remove the battery before washing, and follow the care instructions to ensure the heating elements aren’t damaged.

In conclusion, Milwaukee's Cordless Heated Jacket is a solid investment for anyone who spends a considerable amount of time in cold environments. Its combination of durable materials, effective heating elements, and practical design make it a versatile piece of gear. While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the bulky battery and the lack of a wall plug for charging, these are outweighed by the jacket’s overall performance and comfort.

Would I recommend this jacket? Absolutely. It provides reliable warmth, is built to last, and looks good while doing so. Whether you’re working outdoors, attending a cold-weather event, or just need something to keep you warm on those chilly days, this jacket has you covered. Just be prepared to manage the battery charging aspects, and you’ll find it to be an invaluable addition to your winter wardrobe.