Milwaukee Heated Hoodie

Milwaukee has long been a name synonymous with rugged, reliable tools, and their Heated Hoodie, model number 2384, aims to extend that legacy into the realm of wearable technology. Leveraging their M12 battery technology, this hoodie promises to deliver warmth without the bulk of traditional outerwear. Over the past few weeks, I had the chance to put this hoodie through its paces in various conditions, and here's my detailed take on it.

Design and Comfort

First impressions matter, and the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie makes a strong one. The exterior is constructed from water-resistant polyester, which offers a decent barrier against light rain and wind. The camouflage pattern is a nice touch for those who prefer an outdoorsy aesthetic, though it might not be everyone's cup of tea. The inner lining uses a waffle weave thermal polyester, which is soft to the touch and adds an additional layer of warmth.

However, the fit is a mixed bag. I found the hoodie to be comfortable overall, but the sizing seems inconsistent. The sleeves were a tad short for my liking, and the elastic cuffs sat awkwardly higher on my forearm. The torso length is another area of concern; it barely covered my belt line, making it ride up with any significant arm movement. While the hood itself is functional, it’s a bit too baggy and thin, not offering much in terms of warmth or wind protection.

Heating Performance

The real draw of this hoodie is the integrated heating elements. Milwaukee uses carbon fiber elements placed strategically in the chest and back areas. The hoodie features three heat settings, easily adjustable via a button on the chest that lights up to indicate the current setting. I found the heating elements to warm up quickly, providing noticeable warmth within a minute or so of activation.

On high, the heat is palpable and quite comforting, particularly in the chest area. The back heating element, however, felt less effective unless I was leaning against a surface. On medium and low settings, the heat is subtler but still provides a noticeable difference compared to a regular hoodie. The battery life varies with the setting used, offering up to 6 hours on low, 3.5 hours on medium, and around 2.5 hours on high. I recommend carrying an extra battery if you plan to rely on the high setting for extended periods.

Practicality and Durability

The hoodie includes a battery holder, but it’s just that—a holder. It doesn't feature any indicators to show the remaining battery life, which means you’ll need to keep a separate M12 charger handy. The battery itself fits into a zippered pocket near the kidney area, which can be slightly uncomfortable if you’re sitting for long periods.

One of my main concerns is the durability of the heating elements and internal wiring, especially since Milwaukee claims the hoodie is machine washable. While I haven’t had any issues yet, I’m cautious about frequent wash cycles potentially damaging the electrical components. To mitigate this, I recommend air drying the hoodie rather than using a dryer.

Use Cases

While the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie isn’t a replacement for a heavy winter coat, it excels as a mid-layer option. It's ideal for those transitional seasons—fall and spring—where the weather can be unpredictable. The hoodie is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, or even attending outdoor events. It’s also a great option for tradespeople who work in cold, indoor environments where a bulky coat would be too cumbersome.

Areas for Improvement

The fit and sizing issues are the most significant drawbacks. The hoodie could benefit from more generous sleeve lengths and a longer torso. Additionally, the hood could use some redesigning to offer better coverage and warmth. Another area for improvement is the battery holder; incorporating a battery level indicator would be a practical upgrade.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee Heated Hoodie offers a unique blend of comfort and technology, providing a convenient way to stay warm without the bulk of traditional outerwear. Its heating elements perform well, and the overall build quality is in line with what you’d expect from Milwaukee. However, the inconsistent sizing and some design quirks hold it back from being a must-have.

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie? Yes, but with reservations. If you can find a size that fits you well and are willing to carry an extra battery for extended use, this hoodie can be a fantastic addition to your cold-weather gear. However, if you’re looking for a standalone solution for harsh winter conditions, you might want to consider other options or use this hoodie as a layering piece under a more substantial coat.

In summary, the Milwaukee Heated Hoodie is a well-made, innovative piece of gear that offers real benefits for staying warm in cooler conditions. Just be mindful of the sizing and the limitations of the heating elements, and you’ll likely find it to be a valuable addition to your wardrobe.