Milwaukee Women's Heated AXIS Jacket

The Milwaukee Women's Heated AXIS Jacket has been a game-changer for me, particularly during the colder months when staying warm is essential. Upon first glance, the jacket's sleek, quilted design and lightweight build are immediately appealing. It's not bulky, making it easy to wear as an outer layer in milder conditions or as an inner layer under a heavier coat when the temperature drops significantly.

Heating Performance

One of the standout features of this jacket is its heating capability. It utilizes carbon fiber heating elements strategically placed in the chest, back, and shoulders. I found the Quick-Heat function to be particularly impressive, as it warmed up within just a couple of minutes, significantly faster than older models I've tried. The jacket offers three heat settings—high, medium, and low—easily adjustable via two small buttons on the front. This allows for customized comfort depending on the weather conditions.

The heat distribution is primarily focused on the core areas, which makes a noticeable difference in overall warmth. However, I did find myself wishing for heated pockets, especially on extremely cold days. The absence of this feature is a minor drawback, especially since my older heated jacket had them. That said, the jacket's core heating elements do an excellent job of keeping me warm.

Battery Life and Placement

The jacket is powered by a Milwaukee M12™ REDLITHIUM™ CP2.0 Battery, which boasts up to 8 hours of run-time on the lowest setting. In practice, I found that it lasted closer to 6-7 hours, particularly when switching between medium and high settings. The battery pack is stored in a pocket on the back left side of the jacket. While this placement keeps the battery out of the way, I did find it somewhat cumbersome when sitting down, especially in a vehicle. The battery's bulk can press into your back, making it uncomfortable during prolonged periods of sitting.

A notable improvement over older models is the inclusion of the M12 USB power source and charger, which allows for convenient charging on the go. This feature is especially useful for topping off the battery wherever there's a USB port available. However, the lack of internal routing for a USB cord from the battery pocket to the cell phone pocket is a missed opportunity. Having to run a cord externally can be a bit of a hassle.

Fit and Comfort

The fit of the jacket is another area worth discussing. The cut is form-fitting and flattering, but it runs small. I usually wear a medium, but I opted for a large to allow for layering underneath, and it fits just right. If you plan on wearing bulkier clothing beneath the jacket, I recommend going a size up. The jacket is comfortable and lightweight, and the quilted fabric feels durable. Reinforced areas on the sleeves and shoulders add to its longevity, especially in high-wear areas.

The jacket also features multiple pockets, including two front pockets and an inner chest pocket, all with zippers. These pockets are handy for storing small items like keys, a phone, or gloves. However, the absence of heated pockets is a slight letdown, especially for someone like me who often has cold hands.

Weather Resistance

In terms of weather resistance, the jacket performs admirably. It's wind and water-resistant, which helps maintain warmth even in adverse conditions. I wore it during a light rain, and while it didn’t keep me completely dry, it did a good job of repelling most of the water. For more substantial rain, a waterproof outer layer would be necessary.

Maintenance

Maintaining the jacket is straightforward as it is machine washable. This is a significant advantage, especially for those who wear it frequently and want to keep it clean without too much hassle. Just remember to remove the battery before washing.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee Women's Heated AXIS Jacket is a robust piece of gear that excels in providing warmth and comfort in cold weather. Its quick-heating elements, multiple heat settings, and durable design make it a valuable investment for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors in the winter months. The main drawbacks are the battery's bulkiness and the lack of heated pockets. Additionally, the sizing runs small, so it's wise to order a size up if you plan on layering.

Would I recommend this jacket? Absolutely, especially for those who need reliable warmth without the bulk. The convenience of the USB power source and the overall quality of the jacket make it a worthwhile purchase. However, if you require heated pockets or find the idea of an external USB cord routing cumbersome, you might want to explore other options. Despite these minor issues, the jacket's performance in keeping me warm and comfortable makes it a standout product in the heated apparel market.